Tennessee State Veterans Benefits: A Comprehensive Guide
CCK Law: Our Vital Role in Veterans Law
In addition to those benefits offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Tennessee veterans can access a wide range of state-provided benefits and services designed to assist veterans and their families with housing, education, employment, and more.
As a national law firm dedicated to serving veterans, including Tennessee-based veterans, we have compiled a list of state benefits for service members that they may find valuable.
Note that even state benefits may only be available for certain VA ratings. If you are having challenges filing the supplemental claims or appeals you need to get the VA rating you deserve, consider contacting a VA-accredited advocate to assist you.
What State Housing Benefits Are Available to Tennessee Veterans?
Tennessee offers several housing benefits to veterans, including state-run veterans homes and various programs aimed at making housing more affordable.
State Veterans Homes
Tennessee operates six homes, providing long-term care to veterans with an honorable discharge. The Arlington home will open in 2025.
These homes are located in:
To be eligible, veterans must have:
- Served on active duty and received an honorable discharge
- A need for skilled nursing care
- A valid Tennessee residency
Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA)
The Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) offers home loans and financial assistance to veterans for purchasing homes. Benefits include competitive interest rates and down payment assistance.
What State Financial Benefits Are Available to Tennessee Veterans?
The state also offers several financial benefits, including tax exemptions and financial aid programs.
Income Tax Relief
Military retirement pay is fully exempt from state income tax in Tennessee. Additionally, all VA disability benefits are exempt from state income tax.
Property Tax Relief
Tennessee provides property tax relief to disabled veterans. Resident veterans with a 100% total service-connected disability rating are eligible for a property tax exemption on their primary residence.
Education Benefits
The Helping Heroes Grant offers financial assistance to veterans and their family members pursuing higher education within the state. This grant provides up to $1,000 per semester for eligible students.
What State Employment Benefits Are Available to Tennessee Veterans?
The state supports veterans in their transition to civilian employment through several programs and initiatives.
Veterans’ Preference in Hiring
Veterans receive preference points on civil service exams for state jobs, which increases their chances of securing employment in state government positions.
Employment Assistance Programs
The Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development provides specialized employment services to veterans, including job search assistance, resume workshops, and training programs.
Additionally, the department offers the Tennessee Reconnect Program, which helps veterans and their family members return to school or training.
What State Recreation Benefits Are Available to Tennessee Veterans?
Tennessee offers numerous recreational benefits to its veterans, making it easier and more affordable for veterans to enjoy the benefits of living in the state.
State Parks and Recreation Passes
Honorably discharged veterans who are residents of Tennessee are eligible for a free Lifetime Sportsman License, which grants access to all state parks, campgrounds, day-use areas, and recreational facilities.
Hunting and Fishing Licenses
Veterans with service-connected disability rating of 30 percent or more are eligible for reduced-fee hunting and fishing licenses.
Additionally, the state offers free lifetime hunting and fishing licenses to Medal of Honor recipients.
What State Burial Benefits Are Available?
Tennessee offers burial benefits to veterans and their families, ensuring that they are honored in their final resting place.
Tennessee State Veterans Cemeteries
The state operates five veterans cemeteries, which provide free burial for veterans and their eligible dependents. These cemeteries are located in:
To be eligible for burial in a Tennessee state veterans cemetery, veterans must have:
- Served on active duty and been discharged under honorable conditions.
- Been a Tennessee resident at the time of death or entry into military service.
Spouses, minor dependent children, and, in certain cases, unmarried adult children with disabilities are eligible for burial.
Additional Benefits for Veterans in Tennessee
Transportation Benefits
Honorably discharged veterans are eligible for a veteran designation on their Tennessee driver’s license or ID card. To apply, veterans must visit a Tennessee Driver Services Center and provide discharge papers.
Tennessee Highways for Heroes, Waiver for Commercial Driver License (CDL) Skills Test
Members and former service members can benefit from the CDL skills test waiver offered by The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. Eligible applicants are required to pass only the written CDL knowledge exam and are not required to take the road skills test.
How Can Veterans Get Help with Their VA Disability Benefits?
If you are a Tennessee veteran who has had your VA disability claim denied, our team at Chisholm Chisholm & Kilpatrick may be able to help. As the nation’s leading veterans law firm, we have extensive experience in compelling VA to follow its rules and have successfully helped thousands of veterans win their appeals for VA disability benefits.
Contact us today for a free case evaluation and to learn more about how we can assist you in obtaining the VA monthly compensation you deserve.
