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Summary of Maine Military and Veterans Benefits: Maine offers special benefits for service members, Veterans and their families including property tax exemptions, tax exemptions, employment assistance, employment preference, tuition assistance, state parks and campground reduced fees, special vehicle license plates, as well as hunting and fishing privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component and disability status.
Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services, Veterans’ Services Offices: The Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services has Veterans’ Services Offices located throughout the state that can assist Veterans, and their families find and apply for benefits under federal, state, and local laws. All their services are provided free of charge.
Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services, Veterans’ Services Offices Directory
Maine Military and Veterans State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility
What are my Maine Military and Veterans State Tax Benefits?
Maine Military Retired Pay Income Taxes: Maine does not tax military retired pay.
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) does not withhold taxes for state or local income tax, but it is reported annually on IRS Form 1099-R. All TSP distributions are subject to state taxes and early distributions may incur higher taxes
Maine Income Taxes on Military Pay:Military pay received by a Maine resident service member serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces who is stationed outside of Maine is exempt from state income tax.
Maine Nonresident Military Spouse Income Tax Exemption: Eligible nonresident military spouses do not have to pay Maine income tax for wages earned in Maine.
Who is eligible for the Indiana Nonresident Military Spouse Earned Income Deduction? To be eligible nonresident military spouses must meet the following requirements:
Maine Income Tax 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:
Maine 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 service members who died in the line of duty or eligible survivors of Veterans whose death resulted from a service-connected injury or disease.
Maine State Tax Exemption for Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP), and Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Annuities: SBP, RCSBP and RSFPP annuities are not taxed in Maine.
Maine State Tax Benefits for Service Members Serving in a Combat Zone: Maine follows many of the federal tax rules for pay received by a service member who is serving in a combat zone (receiving hostile fire and imminent danger pay).
In addition to the 180 day extension, the deadline is extended by the number of days that were left to file or pay taxes when service member entered a combat zone.
Maine Veterans Property Tax Exemptions: Maine offers a $6,000 property tax exemption to eligible Veterans, disabled Veterans, surviving spouses, surviving minor children and surviving parents. Paraplegic Veterans and their family members may be eligible for a $50,000 property tax exemption if they meet eligibility requirements.
Maine Revised Statutes 36-2, 105-4, Section 653
Applicants must notify in writing and provide official documentation as proof of eligibility to their tax assessors; this notification is only required with the first application.
Maine Municipal Assessors Directory
Veteran Property Tax Exemption: Maine resident Veterans who received a discharge other than dishonorable and meet one of the following requirements are eligible for a $6000 property tax exemption:
Paraplegic Veterans who received a discharge other than dishonorable and received a grant from the VA for specially adapted housing to accommodate their disabilities are eligible for a $50,000 tax exemption. 38 U.S. Code, Section 2101
Maine Veteran Property Tax Exemption Application
Maine Veteran's Property Tax Exemption, Qualifications Flow Chart
Surviving Spouse Property Tax Exemption: An unremarried surviving spouse of a Veteran who was eligible for an exemption and meets the following requirements are eligible for a property tax exemption:
Minor Child Eligibility: The surviving minor child of an eligible Veteran must be a Maine resident, under the age of 18 and receiving a pension or compensation from the U.S. Government to be eligible.
Widowed Parent Property Tax Exemption: The widowed parent of a deceased Veteran who meets the following requirements are eligible for a property tax exemption:
Maine Tax Exemption on Social Security Benefits: Maine does not tax Social Security benefits.
What are my Maine Military and Veterans Education Benefits?
Maine Veterans Upward Bound Program (VUB): VUB is a federally funded program that provides free assistance to eligible Veterans interested in pursuing a post-secondary education. VUB is designed to develop the academic and personal skills necessary for admission and success in a post-secondary education program.
VUB services include:
VUB Services
Who is eligible for the Maine VUB? To be eligible, Veterans must have served at least 181 consecutive days on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, or reserve component service members who were activated for federal service for 30 or more days. Veterans must have received a discharge other than dishonorable and not have a bachelor’s degree.
Veterans must also meet one of the following requirements:
Maine Veterans Dependents Educational Benefits Program: Maine provides a 100% waiver of tuition and all related fees for the eligible spouse and dependents of a Veteran or service member at a University of Maine System Institution, Maine Community Colleges, and the Maine Maritime Academy.
A spouse may be admitted to certificate programs, associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree programs. Spouses are eligible for 10 consecutive years from their date of enrollment.
Children may use the benefit for a certificate program, associate, or bachelor’s program and must enroll and be receiving benefits prior to their 22 nd birthday. Children are eligible for six consecutive years from their date of enrollment
Students must maintain at least a 2.0 or "C" grade point average to continue receiving educational benefits.
Who is eligible for Maine Veterans Dependents Educational Benefits Program? The Veteran must have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and entered service from Maine or was a resident for five years immediately before their dependent’s application for aid. If living, the Veteran must continue to live in Maine throughout the duration of benefits. Veterans must also meet one of the following criteria:
Maine National Guard Education Assistance Program: The Maine National Guard Education Assistance Program offers full tuition at a state college or university for eligible Maine National Guard service members. The benefit includes both part-time and full-time enrollment up to 130 credits and may be used to earn a bachelor’s degree, associate degree, certificate, or license. This does not include books, housing, lab fees, or other mandatory fees.
Who is eligible for the Maine National Guard Education Assistance Program? Service members must meet the following requirements to be eligible:
The Maine National Guard Education Assistance Program will only cover the cost of tuition after all other educational financial assistance is used
Service members are not eligible if they:
For more information, please contact the Maine National Guard Education Office at 207-430-5922.
Maine Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children (MIC3): Thepurpose 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:
Primary Point of Contact
Phone: 207-446-8792
Maine Purple Star School Program for Military-Friendly Schools: Recent legislation has authorized the Maine Purple Star School Program to recognize schools that show a major commitment to students and families connected to the U.S. Armed Forces.
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 Maine Military and Veterans Employment Benefits?
Maine CareerCenter Veterans Employment Assistance: Maine CareerCenters offer specializedemployment and training services for service members leaving the U.S. Armed Forces, Veterans and their spouses to help them find a job, obtain new skills, or access other available state or federal resources.
Job Seeker Services:
Maine CareerCenters offers priority of service for certain Department of Labor employment and job-training programs for eligible Veterans and spouses. Priority of service means that Veterans and eligible spouses are entitled to preference over others for a service either earlier in time or, if the resource is limited, they receive access instead of those not eligible.
Veteran Priority of Service Eligibility: Veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and were discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. Active duty includes full-time duty in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserves, other than for training.
Spouse Priority of Service Eligibility: The spouse or unremarried spouse of the following is eligible:
Veterans or service members who meet any of the following requirements can receive direct assistance from a Maine CareerCenter Veterans’ Representative:
Those eligible for Veterans’ Representative assistance can find a directory of contact information for Maine CareerCenter Veterans' Representative at the “Learn more…” link below.
Maine CareerCenter Directory
Maine CareerCenter Priority of Service Eligibility
Maine Professional and Occupational Licensing Initiative: Maine's Office of Professional and Occupational Regulation (OPOR) offers an accelerated professional licensing process for eligible service members, Veterans and spouses.
Veterans can receive credit for their military training and experience when applying for an occupational license. This program allows for quicker, easier licensing for Veterans in various career fields.
In addition, active duty service members, recently separated service members, or their spouse, who are licensed in good standing in another state can receive a temporary Maine License while they apply for their full Maine license. This temporary license is available for any profession or occupation licensed by OPOR.
OPOR, Application and Affidavit for a Temporary License for Active Duty Service Members, Veterans Recently Separated from Service and their Spouse/Domestic Partners
OPOR, Active and Retired Military and Military Spouses Webpage
Leave for Military Duty for Maine State Employees: State employees who areservice members serving in a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces receive 17 workdays (per calendar year) paid military leave. This leave can be used for state or federal active duty or to participate in training. If the military service exceeds beyond 17 workdays the employee will be placed on unpaid military leave. Employees may use, but are not required to use, accrued vacation, compensatory, or personal leave when entering an unpaid status.
Who is eligible for Paid Leave for Military Duty for Maine State Employees? State employees who are service members serving in the National Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves who are on state or federal active duty or attending training are eligible for military leave.
Pay for Maine National Guard Service Members on State Active Duty: Service members serving in the Maine National Guard who are ordered to state active duty are entitled to receive pay equal to the pay and allowances received by active duty service members serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. This pay cannot be less than pay based on 12 hours a day at the state minimum wage.
Maine Veterans Preference for Retention in State Employment: Veterans and Gold Star Spouses, who are state employees, must be allowed to keep their job during a reduction in force in preference to all other employees in the same classification with equal seniority, status, and performance reviews.
Who is eligible for Maine Veterans Preference for Retention in State Employment? Veterans who have served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, or a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces and received a discharge other than dishonorable are eligible. Veterans must provide a copy of their DD214.
A surviving spouse who is eligible to receive a Gold Star Lapel Button is also eligible for retention during a reduction in force. They must provide a copy of the service member’s DD1300, Report of Casualty as proof of eligibility.
DoD Instructions 1348.36, Gold Star Lapel Button, Service Flag and Service Lapel Button
Maine State Employee Reemployment after Military Service: State employees who enter theU.S. Armed Forces have reemployment rights under both the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) and Maine law.
State employees who enter the U.S. Armed Forces on a short-term basis are generally returned to the position they left. Those who enter the U.S. Armed Forces on a long-term basis would be returned to the position they left, or a position (they are qualified for) of similar status and pay. Employees should contact their agencies human resource representatives for more information or if reemployment is denied.
The time required to return to their state employment varies based on their time in military service. For more information, please see Maine Civil Service Bulletin 11.16C.
Maine Veterans Preference in Hiring: Maine provides a hiring preference for qualified Veterans and Gold Star Spouses who apply for state employment by ensuring they are offered an interview.
In addition, if a Veteran applies for a state job and is not hired, it is the policy of the Bureau of Human Resources to help the Veteran find other state job openings they may be qualified for.
Who is eligible for Maine Veterans Preference in Hiring? Veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, or a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces who received a discharge other than dishonorable are eligible. Veterans must provide a copy of their DD214.
A surviving spouse who is eligible to receive a Gold Star Lapel Button is also eligible for Veterans preference. The surviving spouse must provide a copy of the service member’s DD1300, Report of Casualty as proof of eligibility.
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: Ten 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): Ten 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): Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of:
10-Point Derived Preference (XP): Ten 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.
Ten 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. Code 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 anindividual 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 Reserve 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
Maine Hilton Honors Military Program: The Maine 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 Maine Military and Veterans Unemployment Insurance Benefits?
Maine 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. Employers pay all costs of the UI program.
When applying, applicants will need the following information:
Who is eligible for Maine UI? To be eligible for unemployment, applicants must meet the following requirements:
What are my Maine Military and Veterans Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Benefits?
Maine Military Service Driver's License Designation: Maine offers a Military Service Designation on Maine driver's licenses for eligible service members and Veterans.
Who is eligible for Maine Military Service Driver's License Designation? To be eligible applicants must be a service member currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces or a Veteran who received an honorable discharge.
Veterans must provide a copy of their DD214, certification from the VA, or the U.S. Armed Forces verifying their military service and they received an honorable discharge.
Applicants will also be required to provide documentation verifying Maine residency and legal presence in the U.S., for more information see the Maine Real ID Fact Sheet.
For more information, please contact the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles at 207-624-9000.
Maine Military and Veterans Special Vehicle License Plates: The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles offers 14 distinctive license plate designs to honor the service and sacrifice of service members, Veterans, retired service members and eligible family members. Applicants are required to provide official documentation as proof of eligibility. Those eligible can apply for Maine military and Veteran license plate at Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicle Offices and designated AAA Northern New England Locations.
Maine Medal of Honor License Plate: Veterans who are Medal of Honor recipients are eligible for the Maine Medal of Honor license plate. There is no registration fee for vehicles with a registered weight of less than 10,000 lbs.
Maine Purple Heart License Plate: Veterans who are recipients of the Purple Heart are eligible for two sets of the Maine Purple Heart license plates. There is no registration fee for vehicles with a registered weight of less than 10,000 lbs.
Maine Disabled Veteran License Plate: Maine Disabled Veteran license plates are available to Veterans who have a 100% service-connected (total and permanent) disability rating and are receiving compensation from the VA. There is no registration fee for vehicles with a registered weight of less than 26,000 lbs.
Maine Disabled Veterans who have lost, or loss the use of both legs are also exempt from all motor vehicle related fees to include excise tax, sales tax, registration and title fees for vehicles with a registered weight of less than 26,000 lbs.
Maine Special Veteran License Plate: Veterans who received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces, or a service member who has served for at least three years and continues to serve are eligible for the Maine Special Veteran license plate. Veterans must provide their DD214, certification from the VA or the U.S. Armed Forces verifying their military service and honorable discharge. Registration fees vary based on registered vehicle weight.
Maine offers Commemorative Veteran decals (see the “Maine Veterans Commemorative Decal Program” section below) for display on this license plate.
Maine Gold Star Family License Plate: The immediate family members of a service member who was killed in action or died in a combat theater of operations while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces may be eligible for the Maine Gold Star Family license plate.
Who is eligible for the Maine Gold Star Family License Plate? To be eligible for the Gold Star Family license plate, the resident family member must have received, or be eligible to receive the Gold Star Lapel Button This includes the following family members:
There is a regular registration fee of $35 for this plate. Families who meet eligibility requirements must send a completed Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services, Request for a Gold Star Family License Plate, DD Form 1300 (Report of Casualty) and proof of relationship (listed on the application) to:
Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management
Bureau of Veterans’ Services
117 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0117
Once eligibility has been verified by the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services, they will forward certification to the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles for the issue of the license plates. The license plates are mailed to the address on the application.
DoD Instructions 1348.36, Gold Star Lapel Button, Service Flag and Service Lapel Button Fact Sheet
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services, Gold Star Family License Plate Fact Sheet
Maine Veterans Commemorative Decal Program: The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles offers Veterans commemorative decals for the Maine Special Veteran license plates and the Maine Disability Special Veteran license plate. These decals indicate branch of service, medals for bravery or valor, military campaigns, and military badges.
A Veteran who already has Veterans' plates can get decals by bringing a copy of their DD214 to verify eligibility to any of the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles Branch Offices. The DD214 and fee may also be mailed to:
Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Attention: Registration Unit
29 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0029
If a Veteran did not receive a medal until after discharge, and wants a decal representing this medal, a copy of the military orders or a copy of the award citation may be used as proof of eligibility.
Veterans are eligible for up to three sets of Special Veterans' plates with decals, for $5 per set. For more information, please call 207-624-9000, extension 52149, or email registrations@maine.gov.
Maine Veterans Commemorative Decal Sample Page
Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles Branch Offices Directory
Maine Commercial Driver License (CDL) Test Waivers: Maine offers CDL testing exemptions to service members and former service members based on their military training and experience. Transfer of school bus or passenger endorsements are prohibited under this program.
The even exchange option allows service members who have certain Military Occupational Specialties/Ratings in the U.S. Armed Forces to have their CDL knowledge and skills testing waived. To be eligible service members must have worked in one of the following Military Occupational Specialties/Ratings in the past year:
The skills test waiver option is available to service members who have military commercial driving training and experience but do not have the Military Occupational Specialties/Ratings for the even exchange option. Applicants must have been licensed for at least two years on a military vehicle similar to the commercial vehicle class they are applying for. This option only allows a waiver of the skills testing and does not include the knowledge testing requirement.
Applicants must also meet the following requirements:
Applicants must submit their completed Maine Application for Military CDL Test Waiver (including certification by their commanding officer) to:
Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles
CDL Compliance Unit
29 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0029
Fax: 207-624-9339
Email: cdlcompliance.BMV@maine.gov
For more information, please contact the CDL Examination Section at 207-624-9000 ext. 52122.
What are my Maine Military and Veterans Health and Insurance 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:
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:
This plan provides comprehensive health care coverage when a service member is not on active duty and covered by active duty TRICARE benefits.
Maine National Guard Service Members Covered under Workers’ Compensation Laws during State Active Duty: Maine National Guard service members serving on state active duty who are injured, become ill, become disabled, or die in the line of duty are eligible for benefits and compensation under Maine Workers’ Compensation Statutes.
Who is eligible for Maine National Guard Medical covered under Workers’ Compensation Laws during State Active Duty? Maine National Guard service member injured or killed in the line of duty while serving on state active duty are eligible for compensation and benefits.
What are my Maine Military and Veterans Parks and Recreational Benefits?
Maine State Parks and Museum Free Lifetime Pass for Veterans: Veterans are eligible for a free day-use lifetime pass to be used at Maine state parks, museums and historic sites operated by the Maine Department of Conservation.
This pass is not valid for:
Who is eligible for Maine State Parks and Museum Free Lifetime Pass for Veterans? The Veteran must be a resident of Maine and received an Honorable Discharge or General Discharge Under Honorable Conditions to be eligible.
To apply Veterans must complete the Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services, Intake Form and mail the application and a copy of their DD214 to:
Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services
117 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0117
Application processing time is approximately two to three weeks. For more information, please call 207-430-6035, or email mainebvs@maine.gov.
Maine Resident Day Use Park Pass for Active Duty Service Members: Service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces can receive a free day use pass to Maine state parks and historic sites.
The pass authorizes the service member, their spouse and children, (spouse and children must be accompanied by the service member), free admission to state parks and historic sites.
Who is eligible for the Maine Resident Day Use Park Pass for Active Duty Service Members? To be eligible service members must meet the following requirements:
Passes are issued for a calendar year and must be renewed annually. Service members are required to provide proof of active duty service, such as statement of service from their commanding officer or show military ID card, and proof of Maine residency. Service members can apply in person or by mailing their application and documentation to:
Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management
32 State House Station (Attn: TAA)
Camp Keyes
Augusta, ME 04333-0032
Free Maine Hunting, Trapping and Fishing License for Disabled Veterans: Maine resident and nonresident Veterans (if reciprocal privileges exist in their home state) who were honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces or the National Guard and have a service-connected disability rating of 50% or more will be issued a free license to fish, trap, or hunt. This license includes all necessary permits and other permissions, and a guide's license (must meet guide qualifications). Eligible Veterans also qualify for an expanded archery either sex deer permit and one expanded archery antlerless deer permit.
Veterans must still apply for any required deer and moose permits each year. Disabled Veterans can request this license in person at the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services Central Office at Camp Keyes or by email to mainebvs@maine.gov. Applicants can find a list of required documentation on the application.
Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services Central Office
Camp Keyes
194 Winthrop Street
Augusta, ME 04333
Maine Resident Service Members and Dependents Discounted Licenses when Stationed Outside of Maine: Maine resident service members who are serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and permanently stationed outside Maine, then return to Maine are eligible to purchase a combination hunting and fishing license for $3. The spouse and dependent children who live with the service member are authorized a combination license for $20 or hunting license for $10.
Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, License Fees
Nonresident Service Members and Dependents may Purchase Maine Hunting and Fishing Licenses for Resident Price: Nonresident service members serving in the U.S. Armed Forces and permanently stationed in Maine (including spouse and dependent children who live with the service member) may purchase a license to hunt, trap, or fish at resident prices.
Maine Hunter Safety Course Exemption of Active Duty Service Members: Maine resident active duty service members serving in the U.S. Armed Forces who are permanently stationed outside of the U.S. and home on leave are exempt from hunter, archery, and crossbow safety course requirements.
Maine Disabled Veterans Controlled Moose Hunt: The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries andWildlife has allocated 25 moose hunting permits to disabled Veterans for a Controlled Moose Hunt in Aroostook County.
This is a one-time hunting opportunity. If a Veteran ever tags a moose in this hunt, they are ineligible to participate again. The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services and its partners will provide logistical support to the selected disabled Veterans during their moose hunt.
Applications for the Maine Disabled Veterans’ Controlled Moose Hunt are available annually at the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services, Maine Disabled Veterans Controlled Moose Hunt webpage . Submission instructions are on the application.
What are my Maine Military and Veterans Miscellaneous Benefits?
Maine National Guard Foundation Fund: The Maine National Guard can award loans and grants for emergencies and other special needs to resident service members serving in the Maine National Guard, or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves and their families. For more information, please contact the Maine National Guard Family Program Office at 888-365-9287, or by email to ng.me.mearng.list.me-mil-fac@army.mil .
Maine National Guard Family Program Office
Confidentiality of Maine Veterans Military Service Records: Official military documents or records, that pertain to a service member’s active duty service, that are filed with any state, county or local government agency are confidential for 62 years following the date they are issued.
Free Copies of Public Record for Maine Veteran’s Claims to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Certified copies of public records required when applying for VA benefits are provided free to Veterans (or those acting on a Veterans behalf).
Military Service Discharge Records Requests: Veterans who need copies of military service documents can use the following resources to find a copy:
Maine Honoring Veterans Recognition Program: Maine has established the "Honoring a Veteran" recognition program to honor Maine Veterans for their honorable military service. The program specifically honors service members who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, prisoners of war, recipients of the Purple Heart and Veterans who honorably served.
Who is eligible for the Maine Honoring Veterans Recognition Program? All Veterans must have entered the U.S. Armed Forces from Maine, or they are a current resident for at least five years prior to applying and meet one of the following requirements to be eligible:
Applications and any required documents (listed on the applications) can be mailed to:
Maine Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management
Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services
117 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0117
Maine Veterans' Homes (MVH): Maine has six Veterans' Homes located throughout the state to that offer rehabilitative and therapy services, as well as long and short term skilled nursing care for honorably discharged Veterans and their eligible family members.
MVH locations:
MVH Augusta – 138 bed facility
35 Heroes Way
Augusta, ME 04330
Phone: 207-622-2454
MVH Bangor – 150 bed facility
44 Hogan Road
Bangor, ME 04401
Phone: 207-942-2333
MVH Caribou – 70 bed facility
163 Van Buren Road, Suite 2
Caribou, ME 04736
Phone: 207-498-6074
MVH Machias – 150 bed facility
32 Veterans Way
Machias, ME 04654
Phone: 207-255-0162
MVH Scarborough – 150 bed facility
290 US Route 1
Scarborough, ME 04074
Phone: 207-883-7184
477 High Street
South Paris, ME 04281
Phone: 207-743-6300
Who is eligible for Care in an MVH? To be eligible for admission, applicants must be honorably discharged Veterans who were residents of Maine at the time of entry into the U.S. Armed Forces or who are residents at the time of application. Veterans must have served one or more days on active duty other than for training purposes, in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces. There is no requirement for the Veteran to have served in combat or have a service-connected disability. The spouse, surviving spouse, and Gold Star Parents of an eligible Veteran may be admitted if there is space available.
MVH Admission Application
MVH Eligibility Information
MVH Online Application
Maine Veterans’ Cemetery System: Maine Veterans’ Cemetery System has four Veterans’ Cemeteries that provide a dignified final resting place for service members, honorably discharged Veterans, and their eligible family members.
Northern Maine Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Caribou
37 Lombard Road
Caribou, ME 04736
Phone: 207-492-0577
Fax: 207-492-0339
Central Maine Veterans' Cemetery at Civic Center Drive
143 Blue Star Avenue
Augusta, ME 04330
Phone: 207-287-3481
Fax: 207-287-3483
Central Maine Veterans' Cemetery at Mt. Vernon Road
163 Mt. Vernon Road
Augusta, ME 04330
Phone: 207-287-3481
Fax: 207-287-3483
Southern Maine Veterans’ Cemetery in Springvale
83 Stanley Road
Springvale, ME 04083
Phone: 207-490-4612
Fax: 207-459-7397
The cemeteries will provide the plot, open and close the grave, and provide perpetual care, at no cost to the family. Maine Veterans Cemeteries provide three types of burials:
The VA will provide a headstone, marker or niche cover for all Veterans and their eligible dependents. Family members will be buried next to or in the same plot as the Veteran.
Maine also has the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians Veterans Cemetery in Littleton Maine. For more information, please call 207-532-4273.
Who is eligible for Burial in Maine Veterans’ Cemetery System? Eligibility requirements for burial at a Maine Veterans’ 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:
Maine Military Funeral Honors: All honorably discharged Veterans are eligible for Military FuneralHonors. Family members of deceased Veterans who would like to have Military Funeral Honors performed during the Veteran’s funeral should notify their Funeral Director. The Funeral Director will contact the appropriate military branch Casualty Assistance Center to make arraignments.
Who is eligible for Maine Military Funeral Honors? Honorably discharged Veterans are eligible for Military Funeral Honors.
Army: 207-430-6210 / Cell: 207-620-6870
Air Force:781-225-5900
Navy: 860-694-3475
Marine Corps: 866-826-3628
Coast Guard: 617-990-6249
Maine Veterans' Emergency Financial Assistance Program (VEFAP): VEFAP was created to help Maine resident Veterans who experience an emergency and do not have the financial means to handle expenses. Grants may be approved for up to $2,000.
Types emergencies eligible to receive financial assistance may include:
For more information, or to request assistance, please contact one of the following organizations:
Maine Veterans Home Loan Programs: MaineHousing offers SaluteME first time mortgages to qualified active duty service members, Veterans, and retired service members at a 0.5% discount of their 30-year fixed interest rate.
MaineHousing will also waive the first-time homebuyer requirement for Veterans who have previously owned a home. This program is called Salute Home Again. A SaluteME or Salute Home Again mortgage cannot be used to refinance a home.
Mortgage loans are available with little or no down payment. Household income and home purchase price limits apply. Limits can vary depending on how many people live in the household and where the home is located. Maine First Home Loan, SaluteME and Salute Home Again Programs, Income and Purchase Price Limits
Homes that qualify for a MaineHousing mortgages, include:
SaluteME can be combined with all MaineHousing insurers:
Salute Home Again can be combined with all insurers except for the United Guaranty Pilot.
Mortgage Options Available:
Who is eligible for the Maine Veterans Home Loan Programs? To be eligible for Maine Veterans Home Loan Programs, Veterans must meet one of the following requirements:
Maine Veterans’ Dental Network (MVDN): MVDN provides free dental care for eligible Veterans. MVDN will cover the following dental procedures:
Services are not provided for dental implants, orthodontics, fixed bridges, telehealth, and personal protection equipment charges.
Who is eligible for Dental Care Through the MDVN?To be eligible Veterans must meet the following requirements:
Veterans will be required to submit a copy of their DD214 as proof of eligibility.
MVDN Request Form
Once the Veteran’s application is received and approved, they will be contacted by a MVDN program manager. For more information, please call 207-287-6836, or email MVDN.mainebvs@maine.gov .
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Maine
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Maine: 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 Maine:The VA National Cemetery Administration maintains three national cemeteries in Maine. Please see the local location listing for the nearest cemetery.
Military Installations in Maine
Active Duty
