State Taxes
Education Benefits
Employment Benefits
Unemployment Insurance
Motor Vehicle Division Benefits
Health Insurance Benefits
Parks and Recreation Benefits
Miscellaneous Benefits
Montana Military Resource Locator
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Facilities Located in Montana
Resources
Summary of Montana Military and Veterans Benefits: Montana offers special benefits for service members, Veterans and their families including property tax exemptions, Montana National Guard Tuition Waiver Program, education and tuition assistance, Veteran preference in hiring for public and private employment, vehicle license plates, as well as hunting and fishing license privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component, and Veteran disability status.
Montana Veterans Affairs Division, Veteran Service Offices: The Montana Veterans Affairs Division has nine Veteran Service Offices located throughout Montana that can assist Veterans, retired service members and their families find and apply for Veterans benefits under federal, state and local laws. All their services are provided free of charge.
Montana Veterans Affairs Division, Veteran Service Offices Directory
Learn more about Montana Veterans Affairs Division, Veteran Service Offices
Montana Military and Veterans State Benefits Highlights and Eligibility
What are my Montana Military and Veterans State Tax Benefits?
Montana Military Pay Exemption for Active Duty Service Members: The following military pay can be excluded from Montana Income tax:
- Base pay, special pay and incentive pay received by service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces
- Pay received by National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve service members serving on state or federal active duty orders
- All combat zone pay including:
-
- Combat zone pay received by officers in the U.S. Armed Forces who did not receive a complete tax exemption from the federal government
- Pay received by hospitalized service members as a result of service in a combat zone
Service members claiming this exemption must provide verification of their military status, such as a copy of their military orders with their income tax return.
Learn more about Montana Military Pay Exemption for Active Duty Service Members
Montana Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) Premium Reimbursement: Reserve component service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces in support of Contingency Operations can receive a reimbursement for SGLI premiums paid when they file their Montana Taxes. The maximum reimbursement amount they can receive is $17.50 per month for each month they serve on active duty during a Contingency Operation.
Learn more about Montana Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Premium Reimbursement
Montana Military Retired Pay Income Taxes: New January 2024 -Beginning in the 2024 tax year, Montana resident retired service members who are working in the state may be eligible for an exemption of part of their military retired pay.
This exemption is available for working retired service members who become Montana residents after June 30, 2023, or were a Montana resident before they began receiving military retired pay. The exemption is equal to the lesser of half of the taxpayer’s military retirement income or the amount of Montana source wage income. This exemption is for five consecutive years after meeting eligibility requirements and is scheduled to expire in tax year 2033.
Montana Department of Revenue, Military Retired Pay Exemption
Montana Working Military Retirement Exemption Fact Sheet
For the 2023 tax year Montana taxes all pension, annuities, and retirement income that is taxable on their federal return. Montana does offer a partial exemption for those eligible.
Taxpayers must complete the Montana Department of Revenue, Partial Pension and Annuity Income Exemption Worksheet, Form 2, Page 6 to see if they qualify for an exemption.
This retirement exemption is subject to two limitations:
- Cannot exclude more than $5,060 per taxpayer for the 2023 tax year
- Exclusion is reduced by $2 for every dollar their 2023 federal adjusted gross income that exceeds $42,140, regardless of filing status
Montana Individual Income Tax Instructions
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.
Learn more about Montana Military Retired Pay Income Taxes
Montana Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs 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:
- Disability compensation and pension payments for disabilities paid to Veterans or their families
- Grants for homes designed for wheelchair living
- Grants for motor vehicles for Veterans who lost their sight or the use of limbs, or
- Benefits under a dependent-care assistance program
See IRS Publication 525 for more information.
Montana 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.
Montana Income Tax Subtraction for Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP), and Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Annuities: New January 2024 - Beginning in the 2024 tax year, Montana residents receiving military survivor benefits can subtract 50% of the survivor annuities.
This exemption is available for beneficiaries who become Montana residents after June 30, 2023, or who were a Montana resident before they began receiving survivor annuities. The exemption is equal to the lesser of half of the taxpayer’s survivor annuity or the amount of Montana source wage income. This exemption is for five consecutive years after meeting eligibility requirements and is scheduled to expire in tax year 2033.
Montana Department of Revenue, Military Retired Pay Exemption
Montana Working Military Retirement Exemption Fact Sheet
For the 2023 tax year Montana taxes all pension, annuities, and retirement income if it is taxable on their federal return. Montana does offer a partial exemption for those eligible.
Taxpayers must complete the Montana Department of Revenue, Partial Pension and Annuity Income Exemption Worksheet, Form 2, Page 6 to see if they qualify for an exemption.
This retirement exemption is subject to two limitations:
- Cannot exclude more than $5,060 per taxpayer for the 2023 tax year
- Exclusion is reduced by $2 for every dollar their 2023 federal adjusted gross income that exceeds $42,140, regardless of filing status
Montana Individual Income Tax Instructions
Montana Income Exemption for Nonresident Military Spouses: A nonresident service member’s spouse may be exempt from paying Montana taxes on income earned while stationed in Montana.
Who is eligible for Montana Income Exemption for Nonresident Military Spouses? A nonresident military spouse must meet the following requirements to be exempt from Montana income tax :
- Service member must be a resident of another state or territory
- Service member is in Montana in compliance with military orders
- Spouse is in Montana only to be with the service member
- Spouse is a resident of the same state or territory as the service member
Learn more about the Montana Income Exemption for Nonresident Military Spouses
Montana Disabled Veteran Assistance Program (MDV), Property Tax Reduction: MDV reduces the property tax rate on the homes of disabled Veterans or their unremarried surviving spouse.
For homes on agricultural or forest land, the benefit applies to the home and the one-acre homes site.
Depending on the marital status and income of the homeowner, the tax rate is reduced by 100%, 80%, 70% or 50% of the normal tax rate. The income ranges are updated each year for inflation.
|
Income Guidelines |
|||
|
Single |
Married or Head of Household |
Surviving Spouse |
Reduction |
|
$0 - $ 45,803 |
$0 - $54,963 |
$0 - $38,169 |
100% |
|
$45,804- $50,384 |
$54,964 - $59,544 |
$38,170- $42,750 |
80% |
|
$50,385 - $54,963 |
$59,545 - $64,124 |
$42,751 - $47,330 |
70% |
|
$54,964 - $59,554 |
$64,125 - $68,705 |
$47,331 - $51,911 |
50% |
Who is eligible for the MDV, Property Tax Reduction? To qualify for the MDV property tax reduction Veterans must meet the following requirements:
- Own a home or currently under a contract to purchase a home
- Live in the home as their primary residence for at least seven months of the year
- Have a 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA (must provide a VA Benefit Summary Letter verifying eligibility)
- Have a Federal Adjusted Gross Income (FAGI)—excluding capital income or loss—below the following thresholds:
- Single - $59,554
- Married or Head of Household - $68,705
- Unremarried surviving spouse - $51,911
A surviving spouse must meet the following requirements to be eligible:
- Owner occupant of the home
- Unremarried
- Surviving spouse of a Veteran who died while serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces, or
- Surviving spouse of a Veteran who was 100% disabled, or was paid at the 100% disabled rate by the VA for a service-connected disability at the time of death, or
- Surviving spouse of a Veteran who died as a result of a service-connected disability
Surviving spouses must provide a VA Benefit Summary Letter verifying the circumstances of their Veteran spouse’s death. Applicants whose only income is from social security, Veterans’ benefits or other nontaxable sources,should include a copy of their social security statement and any other income documentation when they apply.
To apply for MDV, applicants must complete the MDV Property Tax Relief Application and return it and any other required documentation to the nearest Montana Department of Revenue field office. Applications must be post marked or hand-delivered by April 15. Late applications will be considered in the following year.
Montana Department of Revenue, Field Office Locations
Learn more about the Montana Disabled Veteran Assistance Program, Property Tax Reduction
Montana Veterans' Clubhouse Tax Exemption - Incompetent Veterans' Trusts: Property owned by a Veteran’s organization that is used primarily for educational, fraternal, benevolent, or purely public charitable purposes rather than for gain or profit, and any personal property used in the building, is exempt from taxes.
All property, real or personal, under the control of a legal guardian for an incompetent U.S. Armed Forces Veteran or minor dependents of a Veteran, is exempt from all taxes. To be considered eligible for a tax exemption the property must have been paid for with funds received from the U.S. Government as a pension, compensation, insurance, adjusted compensation, or gratuity.
Learn more about the Montana Veterans' Clubhouse Tax Exemption - Incompetent Veterans' Trusts
Montana National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service Members can Deduct Travel Expenses from their Income Tax: Montana National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve service members can deduct travel expenses if they are required to travel more than 100 miles for military duty.
This deduction is taken on Schedule 1, Line 11 of the federal Form 1040 and on Schedule 1, Line 11 of the Montana Form 2. Service members must include a copy of your federal Form 2106 or 2106-EZ with their return to claim this deduction.
What are my Montana Military and Veterans Education Benefits?
Montana Board of Regents of Higher Education Tuition Waivers for Service Members, Veterans and War Orphans: The Montana Board of Regents of Higher Education offers tuition waivers for Veterans, National Guard service members and war orphans at 
campuses of the Montana University System. Waivers only apply toward tuition and does not apply to any required fees.
Students are eligible for continuation of a waiver, from year to year, unless otherwise limited and provided they make satisfactory academic progress according to their campus. No combination of waivers or discounts can exceed the total tuition charged by the campus.
Montana National Guard Tuition Waiver:Montana National Guard service members must meet the following requirements to be eligible for a tuition waiver:
- Serving in the Montana National Guard at the start of the semester for which they are requesting a waiver
- Certified as a Montana National Guard service member in good standing and has completed Initial Entry Training
- Meets all admission requirements of the institution
- Waivers are available for undergraduate and graduate degrees
Waivers will be applied as a last dollar award, after all federal, state, and private grants and scholarships have been applied toward a student’s tuition fees.
Montana National Guard Tuition Waiver Eligibility, Instructions, and Award Guidelines
Award Montana Online Application Webpage
Montana War Orphans Tuition Waiver: Children aged 25 or younger, of a service member who served on active duty in the U.S. 
Armed Forces and was killed in action or died as a result of a combat related injury, disease, or other disability are eligible for a tuition waiver. The service member must have been a Montana resident at the time of entry into the U.S. Armed Forces and served during World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq or Afghanistan conflicts. This waiver can be used up to a bachelor’s degree and cannot be used with other tuition waivers. To apply go to the Award Montana online application webpage.
Montana Honorably Discharged Veteran Tuition Waiver: The Montana Honorably Discharged Veterans Waiver offer tuition waivers to eligible resident wartime Veterans. Veterans who served during the Vietnam era and before are eligible for a waiver for undergraduate and graduate degrees. Veterans who served after the Vietnam era are only eligible for a waiver up to their first certificate, associate, or bachelor’s degrees.
Veteran must meet the following requirements to be eligible:
- Montana resident
- Received an Honorable Discharge (General, Under Honorable Conditions does not qualify) for service on active duty, other than for training
- VA educational benefits have been used or have expired
- Served on active duty prior to May 7, 1975, during World War II, Korea, or Vietnam, or
- Awarded the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal after May 7, 1975, or
- Served in a combat theater during the Persian Gulf War, August 2, 1990, through April 11, 1991, or
- Awarded the Kosovo Campaign Medal, or
- Served in a combat theater in Afghanistan or Iraq after September 11, 2001, and received (or is eligible for) one of the following:
- Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
- Afghanistan Campaign Medal
- Iraq Campaign Medal
Waivers will be applied as a last dollar award, after all federal, state, and private grants and scholarships have been applied toward a student’s tuition fees.
Award Montana Online Application Webpage
Montana Honorably Discharged Veteran Tuition Waiver Eligibility, Instructions and Award Guidelines
Surviving Dependents of Montana National Guard Service Member Tuition Waiver: The surviving spouse or child of any Montana National Guard service member who was killed due to an injury, disease, or other disability they received in the line of duty while serving on state active duty are eligible for a tuition waiver at campuses of the Montana University System. Students are not eligible for this waiver if they have comparable educational financial assistance from any government or private benefit program. For more information contact the financial aid office at the campus they plan to attend.
Learn more about the Surviving Dependents of Montana National Guard Service Member Tuition Waiver
Montana 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:
- Facilitating the prompt enrollment of children of military families and ensuring that they are not placed at a disadvantage due to difficulty in the transfer of educational records from the previous school district or variations in entrance or age requirements
- Facilitating the student placement process through which children of military families are not disadvantaged by variations in attendance requirements, scheduling, sequencing, grading, course content or assessment. Facilitating the qualification and eligibility for enrollment, educational programs and participation in extracurricular academic, athletic and social activities
- Facilitating the on-time graduation of children of military families
- Providing for the enforcement of administrative rules implementing the provisions of this compact
- Providing for the uniform collection and sharing of information between and among member states, schools and military families under this compact
- Promoting coordination between this compact and other compacts affecting military children
- Promoting flexibility and cooperation between the educational system, parents and the student in order to achieve educational success for the student
Points of Contact
Phone: 406-842-5039 / 406-596-5039 / 406-217-1173
Learn more about the Montana Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children
Purple Star School Designation for Montana Military-Friendly Schools: The Montana 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. Schools that earn the award will receive a special Purple Star recognition to display on site.
For a school to qualify for the Purple Star Designation 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
Learn more about the Purple Star School Designation for Montana Military-Friendly Schools
What are my Montana Military and Veterans Employment Benefits?
Montana Veterans’ Employment Preference Policy:Montana offers Veterans’ Employment Preference when hiring for public employment. Preference is granted by adding points to scored hiring processes or by guaranteeing an interview.
When a public employer uses a scored procedure, an eligible applicant will have the following percentage points of the total possible points added to the scored procedure:
- 5 percentage points if the applicant is a Veteran
- 10 percentage points if the applicant is a disabled Veteran or an eligible relative
When a public employer uses a selection procedure other than a scored procedure, they will give preference to a disabled Veteran, disabled applicant, a Veteran, an eligible family member (in that order), over an applicant who is not eligible for preference and has equal qualifications. This preference may include a guaranteed job interview for those eligible.
Who is eligible for Montana Veterans’ Employment Preference? To be eligible for preference applicants must meet the following requirements:
- U.S. citizen
- Meets the minimum qualifications required for the position
Veterans must meet one of the following requirements:
- Served on active duty for 180 days or more (other than for training) in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge, or
- Reserve component service member who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during a time of war or when a Campaign or Expeditionary medal was awarded and received an honorable discharge, or
- Montana National Guard service member who has successfully completed six years of Service in the U.S. Armed Forces (three of which must have been in the Montana National Guard)
Disabled Veterans must have received an honorable discharge and meet one of the following requirements:
- Has a service-connected disability rating from the VA or their branch of service and is receiving disability retirement benefits or a pension
- Purple Heart recipient
Family members of Veterans must meet one of the following requirements:
- Unremarried surviving spouse of a Veteran or disabled Veteran
- Spouse of a disabled Veteran whose disability prevents them from working
- Mother of a service member who died under honorable conditions while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces or a Veteran who has a permanent and total service-connected disability, if:
- Mother’s spouse is totally and permanently disabled
- Mother is the unremarried surviving spouse of the Veteran’s father
In addition, employees who are eligible for Montana Veterans’ Employment Preference are eligible for preference in retention during a reduction in force. Employers must keep Veterans, disabled Veterans, or eligible family members over other employees with similar job duties, qualifications and same length of service.
Montana Code 39-29
Montana Administrative Rules, Veterans' Preference
Learn more about Montana Veterans’ Employment Preference
Montana Veteran Hiring Preference for Private Employers: AMontana private sector employers may adopt an employment policy that gives preference in hiring to a Veteran. A private sector employer includes for-profit and not-for-profit employers.
Learn more about Montana Veteran Hiring Preference for Private Employers
Paid Military Leave for Montana Public Employees: Montana State employees who are service members serving in a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for 120 hours of paid military leave per year and can rollover unused military leave for a total of 240 hours. Military leave can be used for state or federal active duty, federally funded training, drill and annual training.
Montana Code 10-1-10-1-1009
Who is eligible for Paid Military Leave for Montana Public Employees? Montana public employees who are working full or part time for at least six months and are service members serving in a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for paid military leave.
Learn more about Paid Military Leave for Montana Public Employees
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:
- During a war, or
- During the period April 28, 1952, through July 1, 1955, or
- For more than 180 consecutive days, other than for training, any part of which occurred after January 31, 1955, and before October 15, 1976, or
- During the Gulf War from August 2, 1990, through January 2, 1992, or
- For more than 180 consecutive days, other than for training, any part of which occurred during the period beginning September 11, 2001, and ending on August 31, 2010, the last day of Operation Iraqi Freedom, or
- In a campaign or expedition for which a campaign medal has been authorized. Any Armed Forces Expeditionary medal or campaign badge, including El Salvador, Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, Southwest Asia, Somalia, and Haiti, qualifies for preference
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:
- A Veteran who served at any time and has a present service-connected disability or is receiving compensation, disability retirement benefits, or pension from the military or the VA but does not qualify as a CP or CPS, or
- A Veteran who received a Purple Heart
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:
- Rated by appropriate military or VA authorities to be 100% disabled and/or unemployable, or
- Retired, separated, or resigned from a civil service position because of a disability that is service-connected in origin, or
- Has attempted to obtain a civil service position or other position along the lines of their usual occupation and has failed to qualify because of a service-connected disability
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.
Learn more about Federal Employment Veterans’ Hiring Preferences
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 are 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
Learn more about Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act
Compensation for Enlisted Montana National Guard Service Members Ordered to State Active Duty: Montana National Guard enlisted service members ordered to state active duty will receive twice their base pay for the first 15 days of state active duty.
Montana Hilton Honors Military Program: The Montana 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. 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.
Learn more about the Montana Hilton Honors Military Program
Montana Department of Labor, Veteran Services: Employment Specialists at Montana Job Service Centers assist service members who are leaving the U.S. Armed Forces, Veterans and their spouses, find meaningful careers by offering employment, training and placement services.
Some of the services offered include:
- Work registration
- Resume and cover letter assistance
- Application assistance
- Interview assistance
- Resource center
- On-the-Job training opportunities
Montana Job Service Centers offer priority of service to Veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces or service members serving in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserves who were activated for federal service. Priority of service means:
- Receiving earlier access to a service or resource than those who are not eligible
- When services or resources are limited, receiving access before or instead of others who are not eligible
Disabled Veteran Outreach Program (DVOP) Specialists provide intensive services for Veterans and their eligible spouses who have significant barriers to employment:
- Disabled Veterans who meet the following requirements:
- Entitled to compensation (or who, but for the receipt of military retired pay, would be entitled to compensation), or
- Were discharged or released from active duty because of a service-connected disability
- Homeless Veterans
- Recently-separated service members, who have been unemployed for 27 or more weeks in the previous 12 months
- An offender, who is currently incarcerated or who has been released from incarceration
- Veterans who do not have a high school diploma or equivalent certificate
- Low-income Veterans
- Veteran’s aged 18-24
The following spouses are also eligible for DVOP assistance and priority of service:
- Spouse of a service member who died from a service-connected disability
- Spouse of a service member who has been listed for 90 or more days as:
- Missing in action
- Captured in the line of duty
- Forcibly detained or interned in the line of duty by a foreign government or power
- Spouse of a Veteran who has a total and permanent service-connected disability
- Spouse of a Veteran who died as a result of a service-connected disability
For more information, please contact the nearest Montana Job Service Centers.
Learn more about Montana Department of Labor, Veteran Services
What are my Montana Military and Veterans Unemployment Insurance Benefits?
Montana Unemployment Insurance (UI): UI provides temporary financial assistance for workers that 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. Employers pay all costs of the UI program.
To be eligible for UI applicants must be:
- Physically and mentally able to work
- Available for work
- Actively seeking work
To file for UI applicants must create an account at Montana Department of Labor and Industry, UI Online Claimant Center .
Applicants will need the following information to file a claim:
- Business name, address, and phone number and dates of employment for all employers for the last 18 months
- Account number and bank routing number for direct deposit (if requested)
- DD214, Member Copy 4, for former service members who left the U.S. Armed Forces within the last 18 months
- SF-8 or SF-50 for former federal employee who left federal employment within the last 18 months
- Name and number of union hall, if employed through a union
- Alien registration card number and expiration date if not a U.S. Citizen
For more information, please call the UI Claims Processing at 406-444-2545, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Monday – Friday).
Information Required to File a UI Claim
Montana UI Claimant Handbook
Learn more about Montana Unemployment Insurance
What are my Montana Military and Veterans Motor Vehicle Division Benefits?
Veteran Designation on Montana Driver Licenses and ID Cards: Veterans who received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible to have a Veteran designation on their Montana driver License or ID card. 
Veterans are required to provide a copy of one of the following documents to prove eligibility:
- DD214 or discharge paperwork indicating they received an honorable discharge
- VA Healthcare card
- Retired military ID card
There is no additional cost to add a Veteran designation, however standard renewal or replacement fees will apply
Veterans can add the designation at a Montana Driver License Exam Station or they can mail a completed Montana Motor Vehicle Division, Application to Add Veteran Designation (All Driver License/ID Cards), required documentation and fee to:
Montana Motor Vehicle Division
P.O. Box 201430
Helena, MT 59620-1430
Learn more about Veteran Designation on Montana Driver Licenses and ID Cards
Montana Vehicle Registration Fee and Cemetery Fee Waivers for Veterans, Service Members and Surviving Spouses: Montana motor vehicle registration fees and, in some cases, the Veterans cemetery fee, may be waived for eligible Veterans, service members and surviving spouses who purchase military or Veteran license plates.
Who is eligible for Montana Vehicle Registration Fee and Cemetery Fee Waivers? Veterans or service members who meet one of the following requirements are eligible for fee waivers:
- Purple Heart recipients who have a 50% or more service-connected disability rating from the VA (Veterans cemetery fee is not Waived for this license plate)
- 100% disability rating from the VA or is paid at the 100% disabled rate for a service-connected disability
Service members and Veterans must provide a VA Benefit Summary Letter verifying eligibility.
The unremarried surviving spouse of a deceased service member or Veteran who meets one of the following criteria:
- Was a prisoner of war
- Had a 100% disability rating from the VA or is paid at the 100% disabled rate for a service-connected disability
- Had at least a 50% disability rating and was awarded the Purple Heart (Veterans cemetery fee is not waived for this license plate)
- Was killed while serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces
- Died from a service-connected injury or disability
Surviving spouses must provide a VA Benefit Summary Letter verifying eligibility, except for a service member killed on active duty, in which case the surviving spouse must provide a letter from the U.S. Department of Defense. For more information and to apply applicants should contact their local county treasurer.
Montana Couty Treasurer Directory
Montana Motor Vehicle Division, Application for Military Registration
Montana Military and Veteran License Plates: Montana offers 24 distinctive license plate designs to honor the service and sacrifice of eligible service members, Veterans, retired service members, and certain family members. Specific eligibility and documentation requirements apply. All Military and Veteran license plates may be purchased at a Montana County Treasurer Office. Eligibility requirements for all license plates can be found in Montana Code 61-3-458.
Learn more about Montana Military and Veteran License Plates
Montana Disabled Veteran License Plate: The Montana Disabled Veteran license plate is offered to eligible disabled Veterans. Disabled Veterans may be issued up to two sets of this license plate for their vehicles. These license plates authorize disabled parking privileges. This license plate cannot be transferred to a surviving spouse.
Who is eligible for the Montana Disabled Veteran License Plate? Disabled Veterans must have been honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces and meet one of the following requirements:
- Awarded the Purple Heart and has a service-connected disability rating from the VA of 50% or greater (must provide VA Benefit Summary Letter and copy of DD214 to verify eligibility)
- 100% disability rating from the VA or is paid at the 100% disabled rate for a service-connected disability (must provide VA Benefit Summary Letter)
Learn more about the Montana Disabled Veteran License Plate
Montana Gold Star Family License Plate: The Montana Gold Star Family license plate is offered to eligible family members of a service member who was killed in armed conflict while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Who is eligible for the Montana Gold Star Family License Plate? The family members who are eligible for a Gold Star Lapel Button are eligible for the Montana Gold Star Family license plates:
- Surviving spouse
- Parents, foster parents, adoptive parents, and foster parents in loco parentis
- Children, stepchildren and adopted children
- Siblings, half siblings
Applicants must complete the Montana Application for Gold Star Family License Plate and provide the service member’s DD1300 Report of Casualty or Death Notice as well as documentation to prove family relationship.
Learn more about the Montana Gold Star Family License Plate
Montana Air Force Veteran License Plate: Veterans who served on active duty (other than for training) in the U.S. Air Force and received an honorable discharge are eligible for the Montana Veteran license plate. A surviving spouse of a deceased Veteran who was eligible for this license plate are also eligible to apply.
Montana Definition of Veteran
This license plate will have the seal of the Veteran’s branch of service. Veterans will be required to provide a copy of their DD214 or other official documentation to verify their character of discharge and their branch of service.
Learn more about the Montana Army Veteran License Plate
Montana Purple Heart License Plate: Honorably discharged Veterans who received the Purple Heart are eligible for the Montana Purple Heart license plate. Applicants will be required to provide a copy of the DD214, medal certificate, or official orders as proof of eligibility.
Learn more about the Montana Purple Heart Veteran License Plates
Military Vehicle Registration for Montana Resident Service Members Stationed Outside Montana Reduced Fees: A Montana resident who entered active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces from Montana, including National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserve service members, and is stationed outside Montana, may register a motor vehicle, trailer, semi-trailer or pole trailer without paying certain light vehicle registration fees, fees in lieu of property tax, and county option taxes as otherwise required. Service members must file a Montana Motor Vehicles Division, Application for Military Registration with the county treasurer’s office in their county of residence.
Montana County Treasurer Office Directory
Montana License Expiration Exemption for Active Duty Service Members: Active duty service members may apply for a military driver license expiration exemption. This exemption authorizes a service member’s driver license to remain valid until 90 days after receiving an honorable discharge.
Exemptions are indicated by having a 90-day exemption notice printed on the back of the license.
Family members who are stationed with service members are not eligible for a license expiration exemption. Family members are authorized two consecutive mail-in renewals or license replacement by mail.
Montana Department of Justice, Mail in Military Exempt Status Instructions and Application
Learn more about Montana License Expiration Exemption for Active Duty Service Members
Montana Motorcycle Endorsement for Active Duty Service Members Stationed Outside Montana: Active duty service members stationed outside of Montana who complete a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic Rider Course may apply to have a motorcycle endorsement added to their Montana driver license without completing a road skills test at a Montana exam station.
To have a motorcycle endorsement added service members must meet the following requirements:
- Contact the Motor Vehicles Division at DriverLicense@mt.gov or 406-444-3933 to request a proctor agreement
- Submit a Montana Motor Vehicles Division, Skills Test Waiver Application (Motorcycle) certifying completion of a Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic Rider Course within the past year
- Pass the Montana motorcycle written test under the supervision of an approved test proctor
Completed applications can be mailed to:
DOJ MVD
ATTN: Mail-in DL
PO Box 201430
Helena, MT 59620-1430
Montana Military Waiver for a Commercial Driver License (CDL): Montanaoffers waivers for CDL testing for service members and former service members based on their military training and experience. This waiver allows a qualified service member to apply for a CDL without taking skills or knowledge tests. Service members cannot transfer school bus or passenger endorsements.
Applicants must also meet the following requirements:
- Not had more than one license (except for a military license) in the past two years
- Not had any license suspended, revoked, or cancelled in the past two years
- Not had any convictions for any type of motor vehicle for the disqualifying offenses (listed on the application)
- Not had more than one conviction for any type of motor vehicle for serious traffic violations (listed on the application)
- Have not had had any conviction for a violation of military, state or local laws relating to motor vehicle traffic control (other than a parking violation) as a result of a traffic accident and has no record of an accident in which they were at fault
To apply for a CDL military waiver applicants must submit a completed Montana Motor Vehicles Division, Application for Military Even Exchange (including certification by their commanding officer) to any Montana Driver License Exam Station.
Learn more about the Montana Military Waiver for a Commercial Driver License
What are my Montana Military and Veterans Health and Insurance Benefits?
Montana National Guard Death Benefit for Death on State Active Duty: The beneficiaries of a Montana National Guard service member who dies in the line of duty while serving on state active duty are eligible for a $50,000 death benefit from the state.
Learn more about Montana National Guard Death Benefit for Death on State Active Duty
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:
- Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI)
- Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI)
- Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI)
- Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection Program (TSGLI)
- Service-Disabled Veterans’ Life Insurance (S-DVI)
- Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI)
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance
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:
- Not on active duty orders
- Not covered under the Transitional Assistance Management Program
- Not eligible for or enrolled in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program or currently covered under FEHB, either under their own eligibility or through a family member
The plan provides comprehensive health care coverage when a service member is not activated and covered by active duty TRICARE benefits.
Learn more about TRICARE Reserve Select Health Insurance
What are my Montana Military and Veterans Parks and Recreation Benefits?
Discounted Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks Licenses for Combat Disabled Veterans: A disabled Veteran or a disabled service member serving in the U.S. Armed Forces who has a permanent, substantial combat-connected disability that 
causes a significant impairment of their functional ability may purchase certain tags or licenses for half price.
Eligible applicants can purchase the following for half price:
- Class A-3 deer A tag
- Class A-4 deer B tag
- Class B-7 deer A tag
- Class B-8 deer B tag
- Special antelope license
Applicants must submit a completed Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Montana Combat Disabled Application and a copy of their DD214 and official documentation they received a Purple Heart to:
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
Licensing Bureau – Combat
1420 East Sixth Avenue
PO Box 200701
Helena, MT 59620-0701
For more information, please call 406-444-2950 or contact the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks Contact Information
Montana Code 87-2-817
Free Montana Conservation License for Reserve Component Service Members: Montana resident service members serving in the Montana National Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves who are ordered to active duty in support of a contingency operation for at least two months outside Montana are eligible for a free resident wildlife conservation license, a Class A resident fishing license, or a Class AAA resident combination sports license, (does not include a Class A-6 black bear tag) for five years.
Service members are eligible in the license year that they return from active duty or in the year following their return, and for the next four years. Applicants must still pay the resident base hunting license fee and purchase the resident aquatic invasive species prevention pass.
To be eligible for the free licenses, service members must provide proof of residency, and their DD214 verifying their release or discharge from active duty. Applicants can apply any regional department office, department headquarters in Helena, or by mail. For more information, please contact the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks Contact Information
Learn more about Free Montana Conservation License for Reserve Component Service Members
Montana Hunting and Fishing Benefits for Purple Heart Recipients and Legion of Valor Members: The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks offers a reduction in licensing requirements for resident Purple Heart recipients or nonresident Veterans who are a member of the Legion of Valor.
Resident Purple Heart recipients can fish and hunt game birds, (not including wild turkeys) and are only required to purchase a Wildlife Conservation License and a Resident Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Pass. Other licenses are not required.
Nonresident Purple Heart recipients are eligible for the same benefits above but only during expeditions arranged by a nonprofit organization that uses fishing and hunting as part of a rehabilitation program for disabled Veterans. Participants will be required to purchase a Wildlife Conservation License and a Nonresident Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Pass.
Resident and Nonresident Legion of Valor members can fish in Montana with only a Wildlife Conservation License. Other licenses are not required.
For more information, please contact the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks Contact Information
Montana Fishing Benefits for Veterans in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Hospitals: Veterans who are patients at a VAHospital can fish without a license in Montana. The Veteran must carry documentation signed by the VA hospital staff indicating they are currently a patient instead of a license. For more information, please contact the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks. 
Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks Contact Information
Donated Montana Hunting Licenses for Disabled Service Members and Veterans: Montana residents can donate hunting licenses to be reissued to a disabled Veteran or disabled service member. Donated license may only be used during hunting expeditions arranged by nonprofit organizations that uses hunting as part of their rehabilitation services.
Veterans are not required to be a Montana resident or maintain a wildlife conservation license to receive a donated license.
Those eligible for donated licenses are:
- Purple Heart recipients
- Veterans who were medically retired due to wounds or injuries received in a combat and have a 70% or greater disability rating from the VA or a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces
- Service member serving on active duty while receiving medical treatment at a medical facility
For more information, please contact the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks Contact Information
Learn more about Donated Montana Hunting Licenses for Disabled Service Members and Veterans
Nonresident Service Members and Dependents Stationed in Montana may Purchase Hunting, Fishing and Trapping Licenses at Resident Rates: Active duty, nonresident service members and their dependents who have been stationed in Montana for 30 or more days are eligible to purchase hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses at resident prices. The 30 day residence requirement is waived in time of war.
Reassignment out of Montana terminates Montana residency, except when the service member's spouse and dependents continue to live in Montana and the service member continues to meet the residency requirements. Montana Code 87-2-102
For more information, please contact the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks.
Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Contact Information
Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Resident Licenses for Military Members and their Dependents Factsheet
Montana State Parks and Camping Discount for Veterans: Montana resident Veterans receive a discount of 50% off camping fees 
(does not apply to electrical fees) at Montana State Parks. Proof of eligibility to receive the discount includes a DD214, VA ID card or a Montana driver license with a Veteran designation.
In addition, Montana residents who are eligible for an exemption of Montana Motor vehicle registration fees are exempt from Montana State Parks entry fees. See the Montana Vehicle Registration Fee and Cemetery Fee Waivers for Veterans, Service Members and Surviving Spouses section above for more information.
Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Fees, and General Information
Learn more about Montana State Parks Camping Discount for Veterans
What are my Montana Military and Veterans Miscellaneous Benefits?
Montana Military Family Relief Fund (MMFRF): MMFRF provides monetary grants to families of Montana National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve service members who are on federal active duty in support of a contingency operation, on or after April 28, 2007.
MMFRF grants are intended to help Montana families pay for the costs of food, housing, utilities, medical services, and other expenses that become difficult to afford when a wage-earner has temporarily left civilian employment to be placed on active duty.
Status-Based Grant: The status-based grant offers a flat fee of $250 for each eligible dependent to help offset and pay costs related to a deployment.
To be eligible for a status-based grant the recipient must meet the following requirements:
- Montana resident family member of a resident Montana National Guard or a U.S. Armed Forces Reserve service member serving on federal active duty in support of a contingency operation for at least 30 consecutive days
- Service members pay grade is no higher than O-3 or W-3 at the time of application
- Family member is enrolled in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) as a dependent
- Submit a completed and signed application, MMFRF Application, Status-Based Grant
Need-Based Grant: The need-based grant helps families who experience a decrease in household income or a financial hardship during a deployment. If the service member’s military income is at least 30% less than their civilian income or a family has an unexpected or emergency expense MMFRF can provide a grant of up to $2,000.
To be eligible for a need-based grant the recipient must meet the following requirements:
- Meet eligibility requirements for a status based grant
- Provide proof that the service member’s monthly military pay and allowances, combined, are at least 30% less than their monthly civilian wages or income, or
- Provide proof that the service member or a family member is experiencing a significant emergency that warrants financial assistance
- Submit a completed and signed application, MMFRF Application, Need-Based Grant
Casualty-Based Grant: A casualty-based grant offers $2,000 to help offset expenses of a service member who is injured during a contingency operation. The injury must have been sustained during or related to combat.
To be eligible for a casualty-based grant the recipient must meet the following requirements:
- Resident Montana National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserve service member serving on federal active duty in support of a contingency operation for at least 30 consecutive days
- Suffers a nonfatal injury during or related to combat as a direct result of hostile action
- Submit a completed and signed application, MMFRF Application, Casualty-Based Grant
- Provide documentation of receipt of the Purple Heart Medal
To Apply for a Grant:
- Complete appropriate application (signed and dated)
- Attach copies of all required documentation (listed on the application)
- All grants are awarded on first-come, first-served basis (casualty based grants given top priority)
- Timeliness of payment will be determined by amount of funds available at time of application
Applicants must send the original application and required documentation to:
Department of Military Affairs
Attn: Director's Office
1956 Mt Majo Street
PO Box 4789
Fort Harrison, MT 59636
For questions, please call the Montana Department of Military Affairs, Fiscal Officer at 406-324-3333.
Learn more about the Montana Military Family Relief Fund
Montana State Veterans’ Homes: Montana has three Veterans’ homes that offer affordable long-term care to aged and disabled Veterans as well as their eligible spouses.
Veterans’ Homes Amenities:
- Reduced costs for eligible Veterans
- Rehabilitation services – Physical, Occupational and Speech therapies
- Nursing and domiciliary (assisted living) units
- Memory care
- Services, programs, and activities specifically for Veterans
Montana State Veterans’ Homes Locations:
Montana Veterans' Home (MVH), Columbia Falls -105 bed facility 
400 Veteran Drive
Columbia Falls, MT 59912
Phone: 406-892-3256
Fax: 406-892-0256
MVH Admission Information
Eastern Montana Veterans' Home (EMVH), Glendive - 80 bed facility 
2000 Montana Avenue
Glendive, MT 59330
Phone: 406-377-8117
Fax: 406-345-8121
EMVH Admission Information
Southwest Montana Veterans' Home (SWMVH), Butte – 60 bed facility 
65 Veterans Circle
Butte, MT 59701
Phone: 406-792-3100, ext. 3110
Fax: 406-299-8028
Who is eligible for Care in a Montana State Veterans’ Homes? To be eligible for admission to a Montana Veterans' Home applicants must be an honorably discharged Veteran, the spouse or surviving spouse of an eligible Veteran who requires nursing home care. Spouses of Veterans will be admitted on a space-available basis. A Veteran and spouse may be admitted together if they both qualify for nursing home care.
Montana Code 10-2-403 requires that consideration must also be given to an applicant’s:
- Age
- Physical and mental status
- Ability or inability to find suitable alternative accommodations
- Length of time as a Montana resident
- Gender as it relates to availability of appropriate living space
- Ability of the Montana Veterans' home to meet the applicant’s needs
- Other admission requirements established by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services
Interested applicants should contact the Veterans’ home to determine which amenities are available at a specific home and for application instructions.
Administrative Rules of Montana, Veterans' Facilities
Learn more about the Montana State Veterans' Homes
Montana State Veterans Cemeteries: Montana has three State Veterans Cemeteries and one Tribal Veterans cemetery that offer a dignified final resting place for Veterans and their eligible family members.
Montana State Veterans Cemetery Locations:
Montana State Veterans Cemetery - Fort Harrison (MSVC)
3550 Heroes Road
Helena West Side, MT 59636
Phone: 406-324-4793
Fax: 406-417-3301
Eastern Montana State Veterans Cemetery - Miles City (EMSVC)
Highway 59 and Cemetery Road
Miles City, MT 59301
Phone: 406-721-2945
Fax: 406-417-3291
Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery - Missoula (WMSVC)
1911 Tower Street
Missoula, MT 59804
Phone: 406-218-2945
Apsaalooke Veterans Cemetery (administered by the Crow Tribe of Indians) 
Highway 1 and Xavier Street
Crow Agency, MT 59022
Phone: 406-620-3504
VA Cemetery Locator, Montana
Crow Tribe of Indians Webpage
The cemeteries can accommodate full-size (casket) burials, placement of cremated remains in a columbaria niche or a cremated remains burial. Each cemetery provides a gravesite service, opening and closing of the grave and perpetual care. Headstones or niche covers are provided by the federal government.
Who is Eligible for Burial in a Montana State Veterans Cemetery? Eligibility requirements for the burial at a Montana State 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:
- Discharged from active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces under conditions other than dishonorable, or
- Died while serving on active duty, or
- Served at least 20 years in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserves and qualified for military retired pay (or would have qualified except death occurred before age 60), or
- Reserve component service members if they were activated for federal service, (active duty for training does not qualify)
- Spouses and children (burial of dependent children is limited to unmarried children under 21 years old, or 23 years old if a full-time student at an approved educational institution, or a child who develops a lifelong disability prior to age 21)
- There is no requirement to be a Montana resident
All Veterans are encouraged to complete the Montana State Veterans Cemetery, Pre-Registration Application to establish eligibility prior to need. For more information, please call the cemetery directly or email MVADCemeteries@mt.gov.
Montana State Veterans Cemetery Application for Interment Request
Montana Veterans Cemeteries Brochure
Learn more about the Montana State Veterans Cemeteries
Montana Honor and Remember Medallion: The Montana Honor and Remember Medallion may be awarded to the family members of a service member who was killed or listed as missing in action during a period of armed conflict.
Who is eligible for the Montana Honor and Remember Medallion? For a service member to be eligible for an Honor and Remember Medallion they must meet the following requirements:
- Montana resident
- Was serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces
- Killed in action or declared missing in action on or after September 8, 1939, in an operation recognized by the Department of Defense (listed on the application) under one of the following circumstances:
- Engaged in action against an enemy of the U.S.
- Serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in armed conflict in which the U.S. is not involved against an opposing armed force
- Engaged in armed conflict against an opposing foreign force
Family members eligible to request an Honor and Remember Medallion are:
- Surviving spouse
- Parents, foster parents, adoptive parents, and foster parents in loco parentis
- Children, stepchildren and adopted children
- Siblings, half siblings
Applicants are required to provide official documentation verifying the service members death and proof of family relationship. Montana will award the first Honor and Remember Medallion free of charge, any subsequent medallions will cost $20.
Applicants should mail completed applications and supporting documentation to:
Montana Veterans Affairs Division
Attn: Honor and Remember Medallion
1956 Mt Majo Street, PO Box 5715
Helena, MT 59604-5715
For more information, please call 406-324-3742.
Montana Honor and Remember Act
Montana Application for Honor and Remember Medallion
Learn more about The Montana Honor and Remember Medallion
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Montana
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Montana: The VA has numerous resources available for Veterans and family members. Please see the local location listing for your nearest facility.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Montana
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Montana: The VA National Cemetery Administration maintains two national cemeteries in Montana. Please see the local location listing for the nearest cemetery.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Montana
Military Installations in Montana
Please see the Montana Military Resource Locator for additional information
Active Duty:
Army
No active duty Army installations in Montana.
Air Force
Malmstrom Air Force Base
National Guard:
Montana Department of Military Affairs
Montana Air National Guard
120 th Airlift Wing
U.S. Army Reserve (USAR):
88 th Readiness Division
Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services
Montana Department of Military Affairs
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Montana Facility Directory
Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission, Montana
Montana Board of Regents, Policy and Procedures Manual
U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Veterans' Preference
Montana Motor Vehicle Division, Military and Veteran License Plates
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Service Organization Directory