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Summary of Indiana Military and Veterans Benefits: Indiana offers special benefits for service members, Veterans and their families including state income tax exemptions, military retired pay and property tax exemptions, education and tuition assistance, special military vehicle tags, as well as hunting and fishing license and state park privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component and Veteran disability status.
Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs, County Veterans Service Offices (CVSO): Indiana CVSOs are a local point of contact who can assist Veterans, retired service members and their families find and apply for Veteran’s benefits under federal, state and local laws. All their services are provided free of charge.
Indiana State Military and Veterans Benefit Highlights and Eligibility
What are my Indiana Military and Veterans State Tax Benefits?
Indiana Income Tax on Military Pay: Indiana resident service members serving in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for an income tax deduction of $5000 for their military pay.
Service members on duty outside of the U.S. and Puerto Rico, filling Indiana income tax, are authorized an automatic 60 day extension to file taxes. Those assigned to a combat zone have 180 days after redeployment to file their Indiana income taxes.
Military pay earned while in a combat zone is exempt from Indiana income tax.
*Recent Legislative Changes* Beginning in the 2024 tax year military pay received by an Indiana resident service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces is exempt from state income tax.
Beginning in the 2023 tax year military pay received by an Indiana resident service members serving in the National Guard, or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves is exempt from state income tax, regardless of mobilization status. This exemption also applies to wages earned as a military technician (dual status).
Indiana Department of Revenue, Income Tax Information Bulletin #27
Indiana National Guard and Reserve Component Service Member Pay Income Tax Deduction: Resident service members serving in the Indiana National Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves are eligible to deduct all military pay from their Indiana Income tax if they are called to federal active duty.
Indiana Department of Revenue, Information Bulletin #27, Indiana Adjusted Gross Income Tax Applicable to Military
Indiana Income Tax on Military Retired Pay: Military retired pay is exempt from Indiana Income tax.
Indiana Nonresident Military Spouse Earned Income Deduction: Nonresident military spouses do not have to pay Indiana income tax for wages earned in Indiana.
Who is eligible for the Indiana Nonresident Military Spouse Earned Income Deduction? To be eligible nonresident military spouses must meet the following requirements:
To claim this deduction the military spouse must file a completed Indiana Department of Revenue, Nonresident Military Spouse Earned Income Deduction, Schedule IN-2058SP. The military spouse will still be required to file income taxes in their state of residence, if required.
Indiana Taxes on Military Disability Retirement Pay: Military Disability Retirement Pay received as a pension, annuity or similar allowance for personal injury or sickness resulting from active service in the U.S. Armed Forces should not be included in taxable income. Some of the payments which are considered disability benefits include:
Indiana State Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): DIC is a tax-free monetary benefit paid to eligible survivors of U.S. Armed Forces service members who died in the line of duty or eligible survivors of Veterans whose death was the result of a service-connected injury or disease.
Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP), Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Indiana State Tax Benefits: Military survivor annuities are exempt from Indiana Income tax.
Indiana Disabled Veterans Property Tax Deductions: Indiana offers three property tax deductions for resident disabled Veterans.
Deduction for Totally Disabled Veteran, Partially Disabled Veteran over age 62 and Spouses: A $14,000 deduction for Veterans and surviving spouses who meet the following requirements:
This deduction is not available if the assessed value of the property is greater than $200,000.
Indiana Code 6-1.1-12-14
Deduction for Veteran with Partial Disability: A $24,960 tax deduction is available for Veterans and their surviving spouses who meet the following requirements:
Deduction for Property Received from a Tax Exempt Organization: Indiana offers a property tax deduction on the assessed value of property given to disabled Veterans by charitable organizations. The property tax deduction is equal to the percentage of service-connected disability the VA has awarded the Veteran. Veterans must have served at least 90 days and received an honorable discharge and have a service-connected disability rating of at least 50%.
Percentages of property tax deductions:
Vehicle Excise Tax Deduction for Disabled Veterans: Veterans or their spouse who are eligible for any of the deductions above, but the assessed value of their property is less than the deduction can apply the overage toward the excise tax on up to two vehicles. Veterans and their eligible spouse can receive $2 credit to be applied toward the excise tax for every $100 of remaining property tax deduction. An individual cannot claim a vehicle credit and a property tax credit at the same time.
After receiving their certificate of eligibility applicants can apply at their local county auditor.
Indiana County Auditor Directory
What are my Indiana Military and Veterans Education Benefits?
Indiana Wartime Veterans High School Diploma Program:Indiana offers high school diplomas to Veterans who left high school prior to graduation to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces during the following war time periods:
Who is eligible for the Indiana Wartime Veterans High School Diploma Program? Veterans must meet these requirements to be eligible:
Indiana Financial Aid for Service Members and Families: Indiana offers several educational benefits to resident service members, Veterans and eligible family members.
Eligibility and application instructions can be found at the links below.
All students except those eligible for the Supplemental Grant for children or spouse of Indiana National Guard Service members should contact Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs at 317-232-3910 or 800-400-4520 for more information. Those eligible for the Supplemental Grant should contact the Indiana National Guard Education Services Office at 317-964-7023.
Indiana National Guard Supplemental Grant (NGSG): The Indiana NGSG will pay 100% of tuition and regularly assessed fees at an Indiana public higher education institution, and up to $5,000 (annually) at an Indiana private, non-profit college or university for service members serving in the Indiana National Guard. Service members can attend either full-time or part-time during.
Participating Indiana Colleges and Universities
Who is eligible for the NGSG?
In addition, service members must meet the following requirements:
To apply for the NGSG service members must contact their unit commander.
ING Scholarship Extension Program: The Indiana National Guard Scholarship Extension Program is available to former service members who were unable to complete their degree due to an active duty deployment. Former service members must have used the NGSG in the past, served on active duty overseas after Sept. 10, 2001, and received an honorable discharge. Students can attend either full time or part time.
Former Service members who believe they qualify for this program may review their application and rules at the ScholarTrack website. First time users will have to create an account. Or they may contact the Indiana National Guard, Education Services Office at:
Indiana National Guard
ATTN: Education Services Office
2002 South Holt Road
Indianapolis, IN 46241
Phone: 317-964-7023, 317-964-7017
Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA), State Approving Agency (SAA), Apprenticeships and On the Job Training (OJT) for Veterans and Reserve Component Service Members: Indiana SAA approves OJT and apprenticeship training programs for Veterans and eligible service members using their VA education benefits. These programs allow participants to learn a trade or skill through training on the job rather than attending formal classroom instruction.
Apprenticeship programs can be both union and non-union and normally last two to five years. Indiana has over 860 occupations that are eligible for apprenticeships. Some examples of apprenticeship programs are:
OJT programs can be from a minimum of six months to a maximum of two years. Some examples of OJT programs are:
Generally, Veterans have 10 years after separation from active duty to use their VA educational benefits. To determine eligibility, please call the VA Regional Processing Office at 888-442-4551.
National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service members who served on active duty for at least 90 days after September 11, 2001, may also be eligible. Service members should contact their unit to determine eligibility.
For more information, please contact the IDVA, SAA at:
Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs
State Approving Agency
302 W. Washington Street, Room W-469
Indianapolis, IN 46204-2738
Phone: 317-234-6062 / 800-400-4520, ext. 6062
Email: SAA@DVA.IN.GOV
Indiana Resident Tuition Rates for Indiana National Guard Service Members, Active Duty Service Members and Dependents: Nonresident service members and their dependents may be eligible for resident tuition rates at Indiana public colleges and universities.
Who is eligible for Indiana Resident Tuition Rates for Indiana National Guard Service Members, Active Duty Service Members and Dependents? Nonresident students who attend an Indiana public college or university must meet he is following requirements to be eligible for resident tuition rates:
Indiana Resident Tuition for Veterans: Nonresident Veterans and former Indiana National Guard Service members who enroll in a Indiana public college or university, within 12 months after receiving an honorable discharge are eligible for resident tuition rates.
Who is eligible for Indiana Resident Tuition for Veterans? A Veteran or former Indiana National Guard Service member who received an honorable discharge within 12 months of enrolling in an Indiana public college or university.
Within one year of enrollment the Veteran or former service member must take steps to establish Indiana residency, such as:
Indiana Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children (MIC3): The purpose of this compact is to remove barriers to educational success imposed on children of military families because of frequent moves and deployment of their parents by:
Points of Contact
Phone: 513-235-1113 / 847-688-3440 ext. 129
Indiana Purple Star School Designation for Military-Friendly Schools: The Indiana Purple Star School Designation for military-friendly schools recognizes schools that show a major commitment to students and families connected to the U.S. Armed Forces. Designated schools also offe r a guaranteed a job interview for service members and their immediate family members, who meet the minimum qualifications for job openings within the school.
For a school to qualify for the Purple Star Award they must appoint a school liaison who is specially trained to handle the unique challenges experienced by military families. This liaison will ensure that other teachers at their school are aware of special considerations that students from military families can benefit from. Each school will also have a dedicated page on their school website featuring resources for military families.
Military Child Education Coalition Purple Star School Program
What are my Indiana Military and Veterans Employment Benefits?
Military Leave for Indiana National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service Members: Indiana National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service members are eligible for 15 days military leave per calendar year for required military training. This leave may be granted, with or without pay, at the discretion of the employer.
Who is eligible Leave for Indiana National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service Members Military Training? Indiana National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service members are eligible for military leave. Upon return the service member must be returned to their previous or a similar position.
Indiana Military Family Leave: Indiana employers must grant 10 days unpaid leave for family members of service members who have received deployment orders. The leave can be taken in the 30 day period before the deployment, while the service member is on leave during the deployment, or within 30 days at the end of their deployment.
Who is eligible for Indiana Military Family Leave? Indiana employers that have more than 50 employees must grant military family leave to the family members of a service member who is ordered on an active duty deployment. The spouse, parent, grandparent, child or sibling who have been employed for 12 months are eligible.
Indiana Voluntary Veterans' Hiring Preference Policy for Private Employers: A private employer may have a policy granting preference to Veterans regarding hiring, promotion, or retention (during a reduction in force). The policy must be in writing and applied uniformly to all employees.
Indiana State Employment Veterans’ Hiring Preference: Indiana offers Veterans' preference in Indiana civil service employment for Veterans. Preference is given by adding 10% to the scores of Veterans during the hiring process.
Who is eligible for Indiana State Employment Veterans Hiring Preference? To be eligible, Veterans must meet the following requirements:
Indiana Employment Assistance for Veterans: The Indiana Department of Workforce Development provides employment assistance to Indiana Veterans. Assistance is provided through the Disabled Veterans' Outreach program (DVOP), and the Local Veterans' Employment Representative (LVER) Program.
Workforce Development Offices help Veterans transition from the U.S. Armed Forces to civilian life. DVOP’s specialize in tailored training and job placement opportunities for Veterans with service-connected disabilities and barriers to employment. LVER’s coordinate services provided to Veterans including counseling, testing, and identifying training and employment opportunities. Please go to the link below for a list of Indiana Workforce Development Offices that have Veterans' representatives.
Federal Employment Veteran's Hiring Preferences: By Federal law, Veterans who are disabled or who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during certain specified time periods or in military campaigns are entitled to preference over non-Veterans in hiring into the Federal civil service and in retention during reduction in force. Veterans may be entitled to 5 or 10 points included in any scoring process for examination or interviews.
5-point Hiring Preference: Five points are added to the examination score or rating of a Veteran who served:
10-point Compensable Disability (CP) Preference: 10 points are added to the examination score or rating of a Veteran who served at any time and who has a compensable service-connected disability rating of at least 10% but less than 30% .
10-Point 30% Compensable Disability Preference (CPS): 10 points are added to the passing examination score or rating of a Veteran who served at any time and who has a compensable service-connected disability rating of 30% or more.
10-Point Disability Preference (XP): 10 points are added to the passing examination score or rating of:
10-Point Derived Preference (XP): 10 points are added to the passing examination score or rating of spouses, surviving spouses, or mothers of Veterans. Both a mother and a spouse (including surviving spouse) may be entitled to preference based on the same Veteran's service if they both meet the requirements. However, neither may receive preference if the Veteran is living and is qualified for Federal employment.
10 points are added to the passing examination score or rating of the spouse of a disabled Veteran who is disqualified for a federal position along the general lines of their usual occupation because of a service-connected disability. Such a disqualification may be presumed when the Veteran is unemployed and:
Preference may be allowed in other circumstances but anything less than the above warrants a more careful analysis.
A campaign medal holder or Gulf War Veteran who originally enlisted after September 7, 1980, (or began active duty on or after October 14, 1982, and has not previously completed 24 months of continuous active duty) must have served continuously for 24 months or the full period called or ordered to active duty. The 24-month service requirement does not apply to 10-point preference eligible Veterans separated for disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty, or to Veterans separated for hardship or other reasons under Title 10 U.S.C. 1171 or 1173.
Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA): USERRA protects civilian job rights and benefits for Veterans and members of reserve components. USERRA also protects service member rights and benefits by clarifying the law, improving enforcement mechanisms, and adding Federal Government employees to those employees already eligible to receive Department of Labor assistance in processing claims.
Absence from Work for Military Duty: USERRA establishes the cumulative length of time that an individual may be absent from work for military duty and retain reemployment rights to five years. Exceptions to the five-year limit, include initial enlistments lasting more than five years, periodic National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve training duty, and involuntary active duty extensions and recalls, especially during a time of national emergency. USERRA establishes that reemployment protection does not depend on the timing, frequency, duration, or nature of an individual's service if the basic eligibility criteria are met.
Disability Accommodation: USERRA provides protection for disabled Veterans, requiring employers to make reasonable efforts to accommodate the disability. Service members recovering from injuries received during service or training may have up to two years from the date of completion of service to return to their jobs or apply for reemployment.
Return to Work without Loss of Seniority: USERRA provides that returning service members are reemployed in the job that they would have attained had they not been absent for military service, with the same seniority, status and pay, as well as other rights and benefits determined by seniority. USERRA also requires that reasonable efforts (such as training or retraining) be made to enable returning service members to refresh or upgrade their skills to help them qualify for reemployment. USERRA also provides that while an individual is performing military service, they are deemed to be on a furlough or leave of absence and are entitled to the non-seniority rights accorded other individuals on non-military leaves of absence.
Extension of Health and Pension Plans: Health and pension plan coverage for service members is provided for by USERRA. Individuals performing military duty of more than 30 days may elect to continue employer sponsored health care for up to 24 months; however, they may be required to pay up to102% of the full premium. For military service of less than 31 days, health care coverage is provided as if the service member had remained employed. USERRA clarifies pension plan coverage by making explicit that all pension plans are protected.
Who is eligible for USERRA Benefits?Veterans, U.S. Armed Forces or National Guard Service members who leave a position for training or active military service are eligible.
The Department of Labor, through the Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) helps all who have claims under USERRA, including Federal and Postal Service employees.
employees.
VETS Regional Office Locations
Indiana Hilton Honors Military Program: The Indiana Hilton Honors Military Program helps make the career transition from service in the U.S. Armed Forces to civilian employment easier for current and former service members. The Hilton Honors Military Program will provide hotel accommodations for required travel while they are looking for a new job, training for a new job, or finding housing. Those eligible can receive up to a total of 100,000 hotel points for verifiable employment-related activities. Each state sets its own eligibility and residency requirements. Recipients must have a Hilton Honors account to receive the points. For more information, please email HiltonHonors@naswa.org or contact the nearest American Job Center.
What are my Indiana Military and Veterans Unemployment Insurance Benefits?
Indiana Unemployment Insurance (UI): UI provides temporary financial assistance for workers who are unemployed through no fault of their own. UI is a partial, short-term replacement of lost wages while workers are seeking other work and is not intended to be a permanent source of income. Benefits are not based on financial need. Applicants should file for UI as soon as they become unemployed.
Applicants will need the following information to file a claim:
What are my Indiana Military and Veterans Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Benefits?
Active Duty, Veteran and Surviving Spouse Indicator for Indiana Driver’s Licenses and ID Cards: Indiana offers driver’s license or ID card indicators for active duty service members, Veterans and surviving spouses.
The indicators and required documentation are:
If an indicator is added during a new issuance or a renewal transaction, there is no charge. If the indicator is added to an unexpired license or ID card outside the normal renewal period, usual fees will apply.
Indiana Driver's License, Permit and ID Card Expiration Extension for Service Members and their Families: Indiana driver’s licenses, learners permits or ID cards of resident service members serving outside Indiana and their dependents remains valid until 90 days after discharge, or end of deployment regardless of the expiration date. Service members and their dependents must print and carry the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), Military Extension Letter that serves as authorization to operate a motor vehicle with an expired license.
Service members and their families are exempt from the knowledge and driving skills testing requirements if they renew their license within 90 days after discharge. Applicants must provide proof of discharge within 90 days at an Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) branch office.
Indiana Service Member Registration and License Plate Renewal: Indiana resident service members stationed out of state may choose to keep their Indiana license plates, register their vehicle where they are stationed, or renew by mail or online at the MyBMV website.
Service members renewing out of state can have the BMV send their registration renewal notice and their renewed license plates to their home of record address or to a friend or family member living in Indiana, all items must then be forwarded to the service member. Service members must record with the BMV the address they are using in Indiana while they are out of state.
Service members must provide the following documents to be eligible:
Indiana Motorcycle Endorsement for Service Members: Indiana recognizes motorcycle safety courses given in another state or by the U.S. Armed Forces to qualify for an Indiana driver’s license motorcycle endorsement. Service members must provide the following documentation:
Documentation must be emailed to motorcyclesafety@bmv.in.gov.
Indiana Military Commercial Driver License (CDL) Military Skills Waiver Program: The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) will waive the CDL skills test for eligible Veterans and service members. The waiver is available to applicants who have military commercial driving training and experience driving a commercial military vehicle (CMV) similar to the commercial vehicle class they are applying for.
Who is eligible for the Indiana CDL Military Skills Waiver Program? All applicants must pass any required written tests and provide proof that within the past year they were regularly employed in a military position requiring the operation of a CMV.
Applicants must also certify that for the past two years they meet the following requirements:
Completed application packets can be submitted by fax to 317-974-1615, at any Indiana BMV branch office or by mail to:
Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Attn: CDL Programs
100 North Senate Avenue
IGCN, Room N 481
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Indiana Military and Veteran Distinctive License Plates: The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) offers 21 distinctive license plates to honor the service and sacrifice of eligible service members, Veterans, retired service members and eligible family members. All plates may be used on passenger cars, trucks up to 11,000 lbs., motorcycles, auto-cycles and recreational vehicles. The Disabled Veteran License plate may also be registered to a 3,000 lbs. trailer. Specific eligibility and documentation requirements will apply.
Indiana BMV License Plate Designs - select Military tab to view
Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA), Motor Vehicle License Plates Fact Sheet
IDVA, Eligibility for Veteran License Plates Fact Sheet
Indiana BMV, myBMV.com Online Portal
Indiana BMV, Branch Office Directory
Indiana Air Force Veteran License Plates: The Indiana Air Force Veteran license plate is available to Indiana resident Veterans who served in the U.S. Air Force and received an honorable discharge, and to resident service members who are still serving. Air National Guard and Air Reserve Service members who served on active duty for training also are eligible. The cost of this license plate is $15 and may be personalized for an additional $45 fee.
Applicants must provide one of the following documents to prove eligibility:
Indiana Disabled Air Force Veteran License Plate: Indiana Disabled Air Force Veteran license plates are available for resident disabled Air Force Veterans who have a mobility impairment. This license plate is offered free of charge and may be personalized for a $45 fee. Veterans must have one of the following disabilities to be eligible:
A certificate of eligibility from the IDVA is required to apply for this license plate the first time. Veterans must complete the BMV, Certification of Eligibility for Veterans License Plates, State Form 32584 and provide copies of their disability rating letter from the VA (or branch of service) and their military discharge paperwork (in most cases, DD214). Form 32584 and documents may be submitted in person or by mail to:
Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs
777 North Meridian Street, Suite 300
Indianapolis, IN 46204-1421
Phone: 317-232-3910
IDVA will mail back the completed certification form, after which the Veteran can apply at the Indiana BMV, myBMV.com Online portal or at any Indiana BMV, Branch office.
Indiana Purple Heart License Plates: The Indiana Purple Heart license plate is available to resident Purple Heart recipients. This license plate is offered free of charge and may be personalized for a $45 fee.
A certificate of eligibility from the IDVA is required to apply for this license plate. Veterans must complete the Indiana BMV, Certification of Eligibility for Veterans License Plates State Form 32584 and provide a copy of official documentation as proof they received the Purple Heart (orders, certificate, statement of service, or DD214). Form 32584 and documents may be submitted in person or by mail to:
Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs
777 North Meridian Street, Suite 300
Indianapolis, IN 46204-1421
Phone: 317-232-3910
IDVA will mail back the completed certification form, after which the applicant can apply at the Indiana BMV, myBMV.com online portal or at an Indiana BMV, Branch office.
Applicants can request this license plate with the international symbol of accessibility by providing an Indiana BMV, Application for Disability License Plate or Parking Placard, State Form 42070 completed by a healthcare provider certifying a permanent disability.
Indiana Gold Star Family License Plate: The Indiana Gold Star Family license plate is available to the spouse, parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, siblings, and children of a service member who died while serving in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces. This license plate is offered free of charge and may also be personalized free of charge.
Indiana Medal of Honor License Plate: Medal of Honor recipients are eligible for the Indiana Medal of Honor license plate. This license plate is offered free of charge and may be personalized for a $45 fee. To apply for this license plate applicants must contact the IDVA at:
Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs
302 West Washington Street, Room E120
Indianapolis, IN 46204-2738
Phone: 317-232-3910 or 800-400-4522
Importing Vehicle Duty-Free for Military Service Members: U.S. Armed Forces Service members returning from an assignment overseas are allowed to import a vehicle duty-free to the U.S.
If the service member importing the vehicle did not pay 7% sales tax when they purchased the vehicle and did not title the vehicle in their name prior to entry to the U.S., normal sales tax rules apply.
What are my Indiana Military and Veterans Health and Insurance Benefits?
Indiana National Guard Medical Coverage and Compensation for Injury, Illness, Disability and Death: Indiana National Guard service members who are injured, become ill, disabled or die in the line of duty are eligible for medical coverage and compensation. Disabled service members will continue to receive pay and allowances they were entitled to while on duty, plus any expenses for medical care. Indiana Code 10-16-7-18
If an Indiana National Guard Service member dies from their injuries or illness their beneficiaries are eligible for a pension from the state and $8,800 to assist with funeral expenses.
Indiana Code 10-16-7-19
Who is eligible for Indiana National Guard Medical Coverage and Compensation for Injury, Illness, Disability and Death? Indiana National Guard service members who are injured, become ill, disabled, or die in the line of duty are eligible for compensation.
Indiana National Guard State Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI): SSLI offered through the National Guard Association of Indiana to Indiana National Guard Service members is made up of several voluntary group life policies that are designed to help meet the needs of National Guard Service members and their families.
Key Benefits of the SSLI:
Who is eligible Indiana National Guard SSLI? National Guard Service members and their dependents are eligible for SSLI.
Indiana National Guard SSLI Fact Sheet
TRICARE Reserve Select Health Insurance: TRICARE Reserve Select is a premium-based plan, available worldwide for Selected Reserve, (U.S. Armed Forces Reserve and National Guard Service members) and their families who meet the following qualifications:
The plan provides comprehensive health care coverage when service members are not activated and covered by active duty TRICARE benefits.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance: The VA provides valuable life insurance benefits to Veterans, active and reserve component service members and their families to provide financial security given the extraordinary risks involved in military Service. The VA provides the following life insurance benefit programs:
What are my Indiana Military and Veterans Parks and Recreation Benefits?
Indiana Golden Hoosier Passport Half Price for Disabled Veterans and Former Prisoners of War (POWs): Disabled Veterans and Former POWs are eligible to purchase an annual Hoosier Golden Passport for half price. The Hoosier Golden Passport provides unlimited admission to all Indiana state owned parks, recreation areas, reservoirs, and forests. It is not valid for historic sites, museums, or memorials.
Who is eligible for the Indiana Golden Hoosier Passport for Half Price? Resident Veterans who have Indiana Disabled Veteran or POW license plates can purchase the Hoosier Golden Passport at any Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) facility.
Veterans who do not have Indiana Disabled Veteran or POW license plates can submit an Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Certification of Eligibility for Veterans License Plates, State Form 32584 to the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) for approval which can be used as proof of eligibility. Applicants must provide official documentation to prove eligibility in person or by mail to:
Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs
777 North Meridian Street, Suite 300
Indianapolis, IN 46204-1421
Phone: 317-232-3910
IDVA will mail a completed certification with a raised seal that can be presented at a DNR location to purchase their Hoosier Golden Passport. For more information, please call the Indiana DNR at 800-622-4931.
Indiana DNR Locations Directory
Indiana Hunting License Exemption for Service Members on Leave: Indiana resident service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces who are on leave in Indiana can hunt without a license. Service members must carry their leave papers and a valid Indiana driver’s license or voter registration card when hunting.
Indiana Hunting and Fishing Licenses at Resident Prices for Nonresident Service Members: Nonresident active duty service members stationed in Indiana can purchase hunting and fishing licenses for resident prices.
Indiana Disabled Veterans Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Indiana resident disabled Veterans may purchase an annual license to hunt and fish for $2.75, or a 10-year license for $27.50. The Disabled Veteran license is good for small game hunting and fishing only. Waterfowl, Trout, Salmon, deer, and turkey stamps must be purchased at the regular price.
Who is eligible for Indiana Disabled Veterans Reduced Fee, Hunting and Fishing Licenses? Indiana resident U.S. Armed Forces Veterans who have a service-connected disability rating from the VA Affairs are eligible.
To apply Veterans must send a completed Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Application for Indiana Reduced Fee Hunting and Fishing License for Disabled Veterans, State Form 50833, official documentation of their service-connected disability, payment and self-addressed stamped envelope to:
DNR Customer Service Center
402 W. Washington St, Room W160
Indianapolis, IN 46204
For more information, please contact the Indiana DNR at 317-232-4200 or the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs at 317-232-3910.
What are my Indiana Military and Veterans Miscellaneous Benefits?
Indiana Veteran Peddlers, Vendors, or Hawkers License: Veterans who received an honorable discharge can receive peddlers, hawkers or vendors licenses free of charge. To request a license Veterans should contact their County Auditor. Indiana Code 25-25-2-1
Indiana County Auditor Directory
Exemption from Indiana Jury Duty for Service Members: Indiana resident service members serving in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces are exempt from jury duty.
Indiana Veterans' Home (IVH): The IVH, located in in West Lafayette, Indiana offers long-term skilled nursing care, short-term rehabilitation, independent living, and memory care services for Veterans and their eligible family members.
Residents of the Veterans' Home enjoy features such as a library and media center, gardens, crafts, hobbies, chapel services, beauty shop, transportation services and recreation activities.
Specialty Care Provided:
Who is eligible for care at the IVH? The following Veterans and their family members are eligible for admission to the IVH:
Applicants must also pass a criminal background check conducted by the IVH. For more information, please contact the Admissions and Marketing Department at admissions&marketing@ivh.in.gov or call 765-497-8072.
IVH Eligibility Page
IVH Admission Page
IVH Application Packet
Military Service Documents for Indiana Veterans: The Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) and the Indiana State Archives have copies of DD214's on file for many Indiana Veterans who entered the U.S. Armed Forces from Indiana. Copies will be provided upon request when applying for benefits.
The IDVA or a County Veterans Service Officer can assist Veterans and their family members with the paperwork to request other documents from the federal government. In most cases, if the Veteran was discharged from 1989 to present the IDVA has the Veteran’s DD214, copy 6 on file. For discharges prior to 1989 contact the Indiana State Archives at 317-591-5222.
Indiana Veterans Memorial Cemetery: The Indiana Veterans Memorial Cemetery located adjacent to the Madison State Hospital and Clift Falls State Park in Madison, provides a dignified final resting place for Veterans and their eligible family members.
The Indiana Veterans Memorial Cemetery can accommodate casketed burials, cremated remains burials, columbaria niche or scatter garden cremated remains. The cemetery will provide the burial plot, opening and closing of the grave, outer burial container and use of the chapel.
Who is eligible for interment at the Indiana Veterans Memorial Cemetery? Eligibility requirements for burial at the Indiana Veterans Memorial Cemetery are the same as for VA National Cemeteries. Exact eligibility requirements can viewed at the VA National Cemetery Administration Eligibility webpage. The following are the general eligibility requirements:
Indiana Governor's Memorial Certificate: A special certificate, signed by the Governor of Indiana, is available to surviving family members upon the death of an honorably discharged Veteran to commemorate their service. This certificate is available for Veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces, including the National Guard and the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves.
The certificates can be requested through funeral directors, Veterans’ Service Organizations, Indiana County Veterans Service Officer or by completing the application and forwarding it to the Indiana Veterans Memorial Cemetery. A copy of the Veteran’s DD214 or Record of Military Service must accompany the application.
Request for Governor's Memorial Certificate Application
Indiana Veterans Memorial Cemetery
1415 North Gate Road
Madison, IN 47250
Phone: 812-273-9220
Fax: 812-273-9221
Indiana County Veterans Burial Allowances: Honorably discharged Veterans and their spouse or surviving spouse are authorized a burial allowance of $1,000 to be paid to their next of kin to help offset burial expenses. For more information and to apply, applicants should contact their County Auditor.
Indiana County Veteran Burial Allowance Application
Indiana County Auditor Directory
Indiana Military Family Relief Fund (MFRF): MFRF provides a monetary grant to assist Indiana Veterans and their dependents who are experiencing financial hardship. This emergency grant may be used for needs such as housing, utilities, food, medical services, basic transportation (car payments, insurance, and basic emergency car repair) which have become difficult to afford. Grants have a $2,500 lifetime limit; however additional grants may be authorized in exceptional circumstances.
Who is eligible for the MFRF? Applicants must meet the following requirements:
To apply applicants can use the MFRF Online Application or they can print the MFRF Hardcopy Application. Hardcopy applications and required supporting documents (listed on the application) can be submitted by mail, fax or email.
Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs
Attn: Military Family Relief Fund
777 North Meridian Street, Suite 300
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Fax: 317-232-7721
Email: mfrf@dva.IN.gov
For more information, please contact the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs at 317-232-3910, 317-232-3914, 317-234-8648 or by email to mfrf@dva.in.gov.
Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) Women Veterans Webpage: IDVA Women Veterans webpage provides links to resources for women Veterans, their friends and families.
The links refer to federal and state benefits and services. Also included are resources in Indiana communities which may be of interest to all women.
IDVA also has the Hoosier Women Veterans Registry that serves as an informational bridge to connect women Veterans to the numerous resources and benefits that are available. The registry is strictly confidential and used only as a link of information among the Indiana women Veterans. Veterans can register online at the Hoosier Women Veterans Registry.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Indiana
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Indiana: The VA has numerous resources available for Veterans and family members. Please see the local location listing for your nearest facility.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Indiana: The VA National Cemetery Administration maintains five national cemeteries in Indiana. Please see the local location listing for the nearest cemetery.
Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs
302 W. Washington St, Rm E120
Indianapolis, IN 46204-2738
Phone: 317-232-3910
Fax: 317-232-7721
Toll Free (In State): 800-400-4520
Military Installations in Indiana
Active Duty:
Army
No active duty Army installations are located in Indiana.
Resources
