Veterans Benefit Guide Minnesota: 2026 Complete Guide
Minnesota offers veterans a market value exclusion of up to $350,000** for 100% permanently disabled veterans, a **$10,000 lifetime MN GI Bill benefit for education or employment, resident tuition at public colleges regardless of address, free annual state park permits for service-connected disabled veterans, and free hunting and fishing licenses for 100% disabled veterans. The state is home to approximately 300,000 veterans.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Key State Benefit | Disabled Veterans Market Value Exclusion (up to $350,000 for 100% P&T) |
| Eligibility | Honorable discharge; Minnesota resident; 70%+ service-connected disability rating for property tax exclusion |
| Application (Property Tax) | Apply through your County Assessor’s Office |
| Application (VA Benefits) | VA Form 10-10EZ for healthcare; VA Form 21-526EZ for disability compensation |
| Official State Agency | Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) |
| Required Forms | DD214; VA rating decision; Form PS2000 (vehicle tax exemption) |
| VA Healthcare System | Minneapolis VAMC, St. Cloud VAMC, and 13 community clinics |
| State Veterans Homes | Fergus Falls, Hastings, Luverne, Minneapolis, Silver Bay, Bemidji, Montevideo, and Preston |
| State Veterans Cemeteries | Duluth, Little Falls, Preston, and Redwood Falls |
| Updated For | 2026 |
Minnesota Veteran Population and Overview
Minnesota is home to approximately 300,000 veterans, with a significant population of retired military personnel, National Guard members, and their families. The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) administers state-level veteran programs through its central office in St. Paul and supports County Veterans Service Offices (CVSOs) in every county across the state.
The MDVA’s mission is to connect veterans with the benefits they earned through service. Every county in Minnesota is required by statute to have a County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) who provides free assistance with VA claims, appeals, and benefit applications. CVSOs collaborate with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, MDVA, and Veterans Service Organizations to secure benefits for veterans and their families.
In addition to CVSOs, the MDVA operates a St. Paul Claims Office dedicated to helping veterans navigate the federal VA system, including representation for compensation, pension, and survivor benefits claims.
Why it matters: Minnesota’s network of CVSOs ensures that every veteran has access to free benefits assistance within their own county, regardless of where they live in the state.
What veterans should do next: Contact your local County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) for free assistance. MDVA’s LinkVet line is available seven days a week at 1-888-546-5838 (1-888-LinkVet).
Minnesota Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exclusion
Minnesota offers a market value exclusion on homestead property for veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 70% or higher. For veterans with a total (100%) and permanent disability, the exclusion increases to $350,000 for assessment year 2025 and thereafter.
Property Tax Exclusion Tiers (Assessment Year 2025+)
| Disability Rating | Maximum Market Value Exclusion |
|---|---|
| 70% or greater | $175,000 (increased from $150,000) |
| Total (100%) and permanent | $350,000 (increased from $300,000) |
| Surviving spouse | Continues to receive the exclusion |
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityThe exclusion reduces the taxable market value of the veteran’s homestead, lowering the property tax bill. The veteran must be an owner on the deed to qualify for the market value exclusion.
Who Qualifies
Veteran must have a service-connected disability rating of 70% or more as certified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
The property must serve as the veteran’s homestead (primary residence)
The veteran must own the property and be listed on the deed
How to Apply for the Property Tax Exclusion
Step 1: Obtain proof of your VA service-connected disability rating (your VA rating decision letter).
Step 2: Contact your County Assessor’s Office to obtain the application form.
Step 3: Complete the application and provide documentation, including:
DD214 or other discharge documents
VA rating decision showing 70%+ disability rating
Proof of homestead status
Step 4: Submit the application to your County Assessor’s Office.
Common mistake: Many eligible veterans do not claim this exclusion because they assume it is automatic. It is not. You must apply through your County Assessor’s Office.
Minnesota GI Bill Program
The Minnesota GI Bill provides veterans, service members, and eligible dependents a $10,000 lifetime benefit for education or employment. Administered by MDVA, the program defrays a portion of the education and training costs required to secure a career.
What the MN GI Bill Covers
Education Benefits:
Up to $3,000 per academic year for tuition at approved Minnesota public or private universities, colleges, or career schools
Up to $3,000 per academic year in reimbursements for exam costs, including admission tests, national tests for course credit, and preparatory course costs
Employment Training Benefits:
Up to $5,000 per fiscal year in benefits for on-the-job training or apprenticeships
As an employee: up to $2,000 per fiscal year while being trained
Employer incentive: $1,000** after 6 months of training, plus an additional **$1,000 after 12 consecutive months of employment
Up to $3,000 per fiscal year in reimbursements for license or certification costs
Who Qualifies for the MN GI Bill
| Category | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Veterans | Any Minnesota Veteran under age 62 who honorably served during any era, in any branch |
| National Guard/Reserve | Members who honorably served five or more years |
| Dependents | Eligible spouses and dependent children |
Important: Minnesota’s GI Bill is separate and more inclusive than the Federal GI Bill program. Even if you have exhausted your Federal GI Bill, you may still qualify for funding in the state’s GI Bill program. Additionally, the state’s GI Bill does not affect the benefits available through federal programs.
How to Apply for the MN GI Bill
Contact MDVA’s LinkVet staff at 1-888-LinkVet (1-888-546-5838) or visit a County Veterans Service Office. LinkVet can help you find approved on-the-job training or apprenticeships and identify the licenses and certifications needed.
Minnesota Veteran Education Benefits
Minnesota offers several education benefits beyond the MN GI Bill, including resident tuition rates and credit for military training.
Resident Tuition Regardless of Address
Under Minn. Stat. 197.775, a veteran is entitled to the resident undergraduate tuition rate at Minnesota public institutions regardless of where they live. For graduate programs, the resident rate applies if the veteran was a Minnesota resident on entering service and enrolls within two years of separating.
Credit for Military Training
Minnesota State MUST award academic credit for military training that meets American Council on Education (ACE) standards. This is a mandate, not a courtesy. Military service is also treated as a positive factor in graduate and professional admissions at the University of Minnesota.
Worth knowing: Credit for military training shortens the degree, which is often worth more than the resident tuition rate. Submit your Joint Services Transcript for credit evaluation.
Veteran Education Assistance Grant
A one-time $750 grant for tuition is available to Veterans who have exhausted all GI Bill benefits through use, to assist with completing a bachelor’s degree. The grant is paid by the commissioner to an eligible institution or reimbursed to an eligible veteran.
How to Claim Education Benefits
Step 1: Ask for the resident rate at application, citing Minn. Stat. 197.775. Do not wait for a non-resident bill.
Step 2: Submit your Joint Services Transcript for credit evaluation.
Step 3: If credit is refused, ask which ACE recommendation was reviewed and on what basis it was declined.
Step 4: For a graduate program, check the two-year clock from separation.
Documents needed: DD214. No renewal — once granted it does not need renewing.
VA Minnesota Healthcare System
Minnesota veterans receive healthcare through two VA Medical Centers and 13 VA Community Clinics across Minnesota and western Wisconsin.
VA Medical Centers in Minnesota
| Facility | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis VA Medical Center | One Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN 55417 | 612-725-2000 |
| St. Cloud VA Medical Center | 4801 Veterans Drive, St. Cloud, MN 56303 | 320-252-1670 |
VA Community Clinics in Minnesota
VA clinics are located in Albert Lea, Ely, Hibbing, Mankato, Maplewood, Ramsey, Rochester, Shakopee, and St. James, plus four Wisconsin locations (Chippewa Falls, Hayward, Rice Lake, and Superior).
Minneapolis VA Health Care System Fast Facts
Provides healthcare services at 15 locations in Minnesota and western Wisconsin
Received a 5 of 5-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Overall Hospital Quality Star Ratings
In FY 2025, recorded 1,046,261 outpatient visits
Staff included 4,380 employees in 2025, of whom 736 were Veterans
Home to a Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center — one of only five in the country
Maintains over 90 active affiliations with health professions schools and has worked closely with the University of Minnesota since 1947
Trains approximately 1,500 health professions trainees annually in over 40 disciplines
How to Enroll in VA Health Care
Step 1: Complete VA Form 10-10EZ (Application for Health Benefits).
Step 2: Submit the application online at VA.gov, by phone at 1-877-222-8387, by mail, or in person at a VA Minnesota facility.
Step 3: Bring required documents to your first appointment:
DD214 or other discharge documents
VA disability award letters
Health insurance cards
Income information from the previous calendar year
Important: There are no premiums and no enrollment period for VA healthcare.
Minnesota Veterans Homes
Minnesota operates eight state veterans homes across the state, providing skilled nursing care and domiciliary care for eligible veterans and their spouses.
Veterans Home Locations
| Home | Location |
|---|---|
| Bemidji | 1000 Anne St NW, Bemidji, MN 56601 |
| Fergus Falls | 1821 N Park St, Fergus Falls, MN 56537 |
| Hastings | 1200 E 18th St, Hastings, MN 55033 |
| Luverne | 1300 N Kniss Ave, Luverne, MN 56156 |
| Minneapolis | 5101 Minnehaha Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55417 |
| Montevideo | 2190 William Ave, Montevideo, MN 56265 |
| Preston | 608 Winona St NW, Preston, MN 55965 |
| Silver Bay | 45 Banks Blvd, Silver Bay, MN 55614 |
Note: Bemidji, Montevideo, and Preston homes opened in 2024, allowing Minnesota to serve almost 200 more veterans needing skilled nursing care.
Eligibility Requirements for Minnesota Veterans Homes
To be accepted for admission, residents must be:
Discharged under honorable conditions from any branch of the U.S. armed forces
A current resident of Minnesota
Served 181 consecutive days on active duty, unless discharged earlier because of a disability incurred in the line of duty
Spouse of an eligible veteran who is at least 55 years old and meets residency requirements
Able to demonstrate a medical or clinical need for skilled nursing care
How to Apply for a Minnesota Veterans Home
Step 1: Contact your County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) for assistance with the admission application process.
Step 2: Complete the application and provide required documentation.
Step 3: Email admissions inquiries to NewHomesAdmissions@state.mn.us.
Contact: Call 1-888-LinkVet (1-888-546-5838) for more information.
Minnesota State Veterans Cemeteries
Minnesota operates four State Veterans Cemeteries that provide burial at no cost for eligible veterans.
Cemetery Locations
| Cemetery | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Duluth | 4777 Hwy 53 S, Saginaw, MN 55779 | 218-729-5252 |
| Little Falls | 15550 Hwy 115, Little Falls, MN 56345 | 320-616-2527 |
| Preston | 715 Hwy 52, Preston, MN 55965 | 507-765-7070 |
| Redwood Falls | 2295 Mill Rd, Redwood Falls, MN 56283 | 507-430-1761 |
What’s Provided at No Cost for Veterans
Gravesite or columbarium niche
Headstone or niche cover
Graveliner (casket)
Perpetual care
Committal services
Who Is Eligible for Burial
Veterans discharged from active military service under conditions other than dishonorable
Spouses, minor children, and under certain conditions unmarried adult children
Members of reserve components, National Guard, and ROTC who served 20 years and are eligible for retirement
Pre-Registration
Anyone interested in burial at a Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery is encouraged to complete a pre-registration application or call 1-888-LinkVet (1-888-546-5838).
2026 Legislative Update: 2026 legislation (S.F. 388) removed the burial fee for spouses and dependent children of eligible veterans, effective January 1, 2027.
Minnesota Vehicle Benefits for Veterans
Minnesota offers significant vehicle-related benefits for veterans with a total (100%) service-connected disability.
Motor Vehicle Registration Tax and Fee Exemption
Veterans with a total (100%) service-connected disability are exempt from:
Motor vehicle registration tax
License plate fees
Title fees
Driver’s license and identification card fees
Motor vehicle sales tax (starting July 1, 2024)
The exemption applies to a passenger automobile, one-ton pickup truck, motorcycle, or recreational vehicle. A qualifying veteran may register no more than two motor vehicles at the same time with these exemptions. The exemption also applies to a vehicle jointly registered by a qualifying veteran and a spouse or domestic partner.
Vehicles Purchased with VA Grant Assistance
Any vehicle purchased with grant assistance under U.S. Code, title 38, section 3902 (VA automobile allowance) is exempt from Motor Vehicle Tax. Purchasers must keep on file Form PS2000, Application to Title/Register a Vehicle, showing the exemption code.
How to Apply for Vehicle Exemptions
Visit your local Deputy Registrar or Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) office with proof of your 100% service-connected disability rating from VA. The exemption is applied at the point of registration.
License Plates for Disabled Veterans
Minnesota offers disabled veteran license plates for veterans with a service-connected disability. Contact Driver and Vehicle Services for current requirements and application procedures.
Minnesota Income Tax Benefits for Veterans
Minnesota offers several state income tax benefits for veterans and military retirees, including a subtraction for military retirement pay and a credit for past military service.
Military Retirement Pay Subtraction
Taxpayers may subtract military retirement pay (including pensions) from their Minnesota taxable income on Schedule M1M. The subtraction applies to pension payments or other retirement pay from the federal government for military service that was included in federal taxable income.
Credit for Past Military Service
A nonrefundable credit is allowed against the individual income tax for an individual who:
Is separated from military service
Served in the military for at least 20 years
Has gross income of less than $37,500 (or federal taxable income is less than qualifying military pension or retirement pay)
The credit may be up to $750
Important: Taxpayers may not claim both the subtraction and the credit. The statute requires choosing one. Compare the subtraction against the credit to see which is worth more based on your tax bracket.
Credit for Military Service in a Combat Zone
If you served in a combat zone or qualified hazardous duty area anytime on or after January 1, 2019, you may be eligible for a refundable credit of $120 for each month served.
Active-Duty Military Pay Subtraction
Minnesota residents may exclude active-duty military pay for services performed in Minnesota when determining if they meet the Minnesota income tax filing requirement. Federally taxable active-duty pay and pay for training and certain types of service qualify for a subtraction on Schedule M1M.
How to Claim Income Tax Benefits
File Schedule M1M (Income Additions and Subtractions) with your Minnesota income tax return. Consult the Minnesota Department of Revenue or a tax professional for guidance on your specific situation.
Minnesota Hunting and Fishing Benefits for Veterans
Minnesota offers free hunting and fishing licenses to veterans with 100% service-connected disability ratings, plus license-free hunting and fishing for 24 months after discharge for all veterans.
100% Disabled Veteran Benefits
A disabled veteran can receive:
Permanent fishing license — free from the DNR Central Office
Free annual licenses to hunt deer and small game — from any licensing agent
No trout stamp required for the fishing license
No pleasant stamp or Minnesota waterfowl stamp needed to hunt
Eligibility: Must be a Minnesota resident who is a military veteran with a 100% service-connected disability rating from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
24-Month Post-Discharge License-Free Period
A Minnesota resident discharged from federal active service may take small game and fish without a license for 24 months after discharge. The commissioner shall issue a deer license with no fee. The period opens on discharge and closes 24 months later.
Active Military on Leave
A Minnesota resident serving in the U.S. Armed Forces stationed outside of or returning to Minnesota may hunt and fish in Minnesota without a hunting or fishing license while on leave. The person must keep official military leave papers and/or a current valid military ID card on their person while hunting. Required seals, tags, and coupons must be obtained without charge.
Lottery Preference
The Commissioner of Natural Resources may grant statutorily specified groups of Minnesota resident service members and veterans first preference in drawings for antlerless deer permits and turkey permits.
Firearms Safety Certificate Exemption
A person is exempt from the firearms safety certificate requirement if they have completed military basic training and are serving in active military service. Following active service, the certificate is again required, but anyone who has completed basic military training is exempt from the shooting and field exercise portion and may take the remainder online.
How to Apply for Hunting and Fishing Benefits
Contact the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or visit any licensing agent. Bring proof of your VA disability rating or discharge documents.
Minnesota State Parks Benefits for Veterans
Minnesota offers free annual state park permits to veterans with total and permanent service-connected disabilities and free daily permits to any resident veteran with any level of service-connected disability.
Free Annual Park Permit
An annual park permit is issued at no charge to any veteran with a total and permanent service-connected disability. Present a copy of your VA determination letter or other official validation each year.
Free Daily Park Permit
A daily park permit is issued at no charge to any resident veteran with any level of service-connected disability, as determined by VA. Present your VA determination letter or official validation.
Active Military and Dependents
Active military personnel and their dependents may receive a free annual permit if stationed outside Minnesota during active service and for 90 days immediately thereafter, upon presenting current military orders or qualifying military identification.
How to Claim Park Permits
Present your VA determination letter or official validation to a park attendant or commissioner’s designee at any Minnesota state park.
Minnesota Dental and Optical Assistance
Minnesota offers income- and asset-tested dental and optical assistance to qualifying veterans and their dependents through the State Soldiers’ Assistance Program (SSAP).
Dental Benefits
| Service | Annual Maximum | Lifetime Authorization |
|---|---|---|
| Routine dental care | $1,500 per person, per year | — |
| Extractions | — | Up to $2,500 |
| Dentures | — | Up to $4,000 |
Optical Benefits
| Service | Annual Maximum |
|---|---|
| Eye exam and/or prescription eyewear | $600 per person, per year |
Income and Asset Limits
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Asset Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,608 | $10,000 |
| 2 | $3,525 | $18,000 |
| 3 | $4,442 | $18,000 |
| 4 | $5,358 | $18,000 |
| 10 | $10,858 | $18,000 |
How to Apply
Step 1: Check the income and asset test first.
Step 2: Apply through your County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO). If your county office cannot assist, MDVA’s Field Operations team will.
Step 3: Choose your own provider. MDVA pays the dentist or optician you pick.
Documents needed: DD214, proof of income, and proof of assets.
Important: The 12-month clock runs from the first date of service MDVA paid for in your previous benefit period, not from the calendar year.
Minnesota Veterans Employment Benefits
Minnesota offers veteran hiring preference for state and local government jobs, plus employment assistance programs through the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs.
Minnesota Veterans Preference Act (VPA)
The VPA grants most veterans a limited preference over non-veterans in hiring and promotion for most Minnesota public employment positions.
| Category | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Nondisabled Veteran | 10 preference points for local government positions |
| Disabled Veteran | 15 preference points for local government positions |
| 30%+ Disabled Veteran | Direct appointment to state jobs authorized |
| Recently Separated Veterans | Top five must be granted an interview for state positions |
Important: Preference applies to initial employment and protects against unfair dismissal or demotion. Veterans may not be removed from positions except for incompetency or misconduct shown after a hearing.
Private Employer Preference
A private, nonpublic employer is allowed, but not required to grant preference to a veteran in hiring and promotion.
How to Claim Veterans Preference
When applying for state or local government positions, indicate your veteran status and provide a copy of your DD214. Contact MDVA’s Veterans Preference Representative at (651) 757-1568 for questions or enforcement.
Minnesota Homeless Veteran Assistance
Minnesota has achieved historic low levels of veteran homelessness, with fewer than 150 veterans remaining homeless through most of March 2026 — the lowest level ever recorded. This represents a 25% decrease from the previous year and a 41% decrease from two years ago.
Homeless Veteran Registry (HVR)
The HVR is a national best practice tool designed to support Minnesota Veterans who need housing and are experiencing homelessness. This by-name database is facilitated by MDVA and authorizes providers to collaborate across agencies to find housing solutions.
To apply: Complete the Homeless Veteran Registry application.
Veterans Supportive Housing Options (VSHO)
MDVA created the VSHO program, which procured 87 supportive housing units for Veterans experiencing homelessness. The Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV) leveraged philanthropic support to create an additional 74 rental units, totaling 161 units.
MNVEST Program
Minnesota’s Veterans Entering Stable Tenancy (MNVEST) program mirrors the successful federal HUD-VASH program model to assist additional Veterans who are unable to access HUD-VASH within Minnesota.
How to Get Help
If you or a Veteran you know is experiencing difficulties with housing, complete the Homeless Veteran Registry (HVR) application. Contact MDVA at 1-888-LinkVet (1-888-546-5838) for assistance.
Minnesota Emergency Financial Assistance
Minnesota offers several programs to provide emergency financial assistance to veterans and their families.
Veteran’s Relief Grant
A discretionary grant paid directly to creditors for rent, mortgage, utilities, home or vehicle repair, medical bills, childcare, or tools. One grant, once in a lifetime.
How to apply: Apply through your County Veterans Service Officer.
Disaster Relief Grant
The State Soldiers Assistance Program (SSAP) Disaster Relief Program provides direct financial relief to veterans and their families facing unexpected hardships due to natural disasters. Assistance may include help with housing, utilities, and other essential needs.
“Support Our Troops” Grants
A statutory account funding direct grants to service members, Guard members, veterans in financial need, and their immediate families. The maximum to any one individual is $4,000 in a calendar year.
Voucher Deposit Assistance Program (VDAP)
Assists a Veteran or surviving spouse to obtain permanent housing.
Subsistence
A temporary disability benefit that helps with shelter, utilities, health insurance premiums, and personal needs.
How to Apply
Contact your County Veterans Service Officer or call MDVA at 1-888-LinkVet (1-888-546-5838).
Common Mistakes Minnesota Veterans Make
Avoiding these mistakes can preserve your benefits and save time.
Not Filing for the Property Tax Exclusion
The disabled veterans market value exclusion is not automatic. You must apply through your County Assessor’s Office. Many eligible veterans never claim this benefit.
Missing the Annual State Park Permit Renewal
The free annual state park permit for 100% P&T veterans requires annual renewal with a copy of your VA determination letter.
Assuming the MN GI Bill Is the Same as the Federal GI Bill
Minnesota’s GI Bill is separate and more inclusive than the Federal GI Bill. Even if you have exhausted your Federal GI Bill, you may still qualify for funding in the state’s GI Bill program.
Not Submitting Joint Services Transcript for Credit
Minnesota State MUST award academic credit for military training meeting ACE standards. Many veterans miss this benefit by not submitting their Joint Services Transcript.
Forgetting to Bring DD214
When applying for any state benefit, you must provide proof of military service. Bring your DD214 or other discharge documents.
Not Contacting a CVSO for Free Help
Every county in Minnesota has a County Veterans Service Officer who provides free assistance with VA claims, appeals, and benefit applications. Many veterans try to navigate the system alone and miss out on benefits they’ve earned.
Choosing Both the Subtraction and Credit
Taxpayers may not claim both the military retirement pay subtraction and the credit for past military service. Choosing both can delay your return or trigger an audit.
Common Questions
What is the Minnesota property tax exclusion for disabled veterans?
Minnesota offers a market value exclusion of $175,000 for veterans with a 70%+ disability rating and $350,000 for veterans with a total (100%) and permanent disability. The exclusion reduces the taxable market value of the veteran’s homestead. Apply through your County Assessor’s Office.
What is the Minnesota GI Bill?
The Minnesota GI Bill provides veterans, service members, and eligible dependents a $10,000 lifetime benefit for education or employment. It covers up to $3,000 per academic year for tuition and up to $5,000 per fiscal year for on-the-job training. It is separate from the Federal GI Bill.
Does Minnesota offer free tuition for veterans?
Minnesota offers resident undergraduate tuition rates at public institutions regardless of where the veteran lives. Minnesota State must award academic credit for military training meeting ACE standards, and the University of Minnesota treats military service as a positive factor in graduate admissions.
How do I apply for VA healthcare in Minnesota?
Complete VA Form 10-10EZ online at VA.gov, by phone at 1-877-222-8387, by mail, or in person at a VA Minnesota facility. VA healthcare has no premiums and no enrollment period. Minneapolis VA Health Care System has 15 locations.
What veterans homes are in Minnesota?
Minnesota operates eight state veterans homes in Bemidji, Fergus Falls, Hastings, Luverne, Minneapolis, Montevideo, Preston, and Silver Bay. Contact your CVSO or call 1-888-LinkVet for admission assistance.
Does Minnesota offer free hunting and fishing licenses for disabled veterans?
Yes. Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating can receive a free permanent fishing license and free annual licenses to hunt deer and small game. Contact the Minnesota DNR for details.
What is the Minnesota Veterans Preference Act?
The VPA grants most veterans a limited preference over non-veterans in hiring and promotion for most Minnesota public employment positions. Nondisabled veterans receive 10 points; disabled veterans receive 15 points for local government positions.
How do I contact a Minnesota County Veterans Service Officer?
Every county in Minnesota has a CVSO. Visit the Minnesota Association of County Veterans Service Officers website at macvso.org or call 1-888-LinkVet (1-888-546-5838) for your local CVSO contact information.
What is the Minnesota Homeless Veteran Registry?
The HVR is a by-name database facilitated by MDVA that supports Minnesota Veterans who need housing and are experiencing homelessness. It authorizes providers to collaborate across agencies to find housing solutions. Complete the HVR application to get started.
Does Minnesota offer dental and optical assistance for veterans?
Yes. Minnesota offers up to $1,500 per year for routine dental care and $600 per year for optical care, with separate lifetime authorizations of up to $4,000 for dentures and $2,500 for extractions. Apply through your County Veterans Service Officer.
What is the Minnesota Veterans Relief Grant?
The Veterans Relief Grant is a discretionary grant paid directly to creditors for rent, mortgage, utilities, home or vehicle repair, medical bills, childcare, or tools. It is available once in a lifetime and is applied for through your County Veterans Service Officer.
What state veterans cemeteries are in Minnesota?
Minnesota operates four state veterans cemeteries in Duluth, Little Falls, Preston, and Redwood Falls. Burial is provided at no cost for eligible veterans. Pre-registration is encouraged by calling 1-888-LinkVet.
How do I appeal a VA disability denial in Minnesota?
You have three options: Supplemental Claim (VA Form 20-0995, 1 year), Higher-Level Review (VA Form 20-0996, 1 year), or Board Appeal (VA Form 10182, 60 days). A Minnesota CVSO can help you choose the right option and prepare your appeal at no cost.
Does Minnesota offer free state park passes for veterans?
Yes. Veterans with a total and permanent service-connected disability receive a free annual state park permit. Any resident veteran with any level of service-connected disability can receive a free daily park permit.
What is the St. Paul VA Regional Benefit Office?
The St. Paul VA Regional Benefit Office is located at 1 Federal Drive, Fort Snelling, St. Paul, MN 55111. It is located at the Fort Snelling stop of the Twin Cities Metro Transit Blue Line. Benefits counselors can assist with claims, appeals, and benefit questions.
Key Takeaways
Property tax exclusion: Up to $350,000 market value exclusion for 100% permanently disabled veterans; $175,000 for 70%+ disabled. Apply through your County Assessor’s Office.
Minnesota GI Bill: $10,000 lifetime benefit for education or employment, separate from and more inclusive than the Federal GI Bill.
Resident tuition: Veterans receive resident undergraduate tuition at Minnesota public institutions regardless of where they live. Minnesota State must award credit for military training meeting ACE standards.
VA healthcare: Minneapolis VAMC and St. Cloud VAMC plus 13 community clinics. No premiums, no enrollment period. Minneapolis VA received a 5 of 5-star CMS rating.
State veterans homes: Eight homes across Minnesota. Eligibility: honorable discharge, Minnesota resident, 181 consecutive days active duty, medical need for skilled nursing care.
State veterans cemeteries: Four cemeteries (Duluth, Little Falls, Preston, Redwood Falls). Burial at no cost for eligible veterans. Spouse/dependent burial fees removed effective January 1, 2027.
Vehicle exemption: 100% disabled veterans are exempt from registration tax, license plate fees, title fees, driver’s license fees, and motor vehicle sales tax. Up to two vehicles.
Free hunting and fishing: 100% disabled veterans receive free permanent fishing licenses and free annual deer and small game licenses. All veterans can hunt and fish without a license for 24 months after discharge.
Free state park permits: 100% P&T veterans receive free annual permits; any service-connected disabled veteran receives free daily permits.
Free CVSO assistance: Every Minnesota county has a County Veterans Service Officer providing free help with claims and benefits. Call 1-888-LinkVet (1-888-546-5838).
Official Resources
Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs: mn.gov/mdva
MDVA LinkVet: Call 1-888-546-5838 (1-888-LinkVet) | LinkVet.org
Minnesota Association of County Veterans Service Officers: macvso.org
Minnesota Department of Revenue: revenue.state.mn.us
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources: dnr.state.mn.us
VA Minneapolis Health Care: va.gov/minneapolis-health-care
VA St. Cloud Health Care: va.gov/st-cloud-health-care
St. Paul VA Regional Benefit Office: va.gov/st-paul-va-regional-benefit-office
VA Form 10-10EZ (Health Benefits): va.gov/forms/10-10ez
VA Form 21-526EZ (Disability Compensation): va.gov/forms/21-526ez
Veterans Crisis Line: veteranscrisisline.net | Call 988 (press 1)
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: va.gov
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This site provides general information about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits for educational and informational purposes only.
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📌 Information provided as of June 2026. Always verify current eligibility and rules with official .gov sources.
This site is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency. All information is for educational purposes only. Please visit VA.gov for official information.
