State Taxes
Education Benefits
Employment Benefits
Unemployment Insurance
Department of Public Safety Benefits
Health and Insurance Benefits
Parks and Recreation Benefits
Miscellaneous Benefits
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Facilities in Oklahoma
Oklahoma Military Resource Locator
Resources
Summary: Oklahoma offers special benefits for Service members, Veterans and their Families including tax exemptions, employment assistance, Veteran's employment preference, tuition assistance, special vehicle license plates, as well as free or reduced prices for hunting and fishing privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component and Veteran disability status.
Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs (ODVA), Veteran Service Representatives: The ODVA has trained Veterans Service Representatives who 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.
The ODVA also offers a registry where Veterans can register to verify eligibility for certain state Veterans benefits. Participation is voluntary but may be required to prove eligibility for some benefits.
Oklahoma Veterans Registry
ODVA Veteran Services Representative Directory
Learn more about the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, Veteran Service Representatives
Oklahoma State Military and Veterans Benefit Highlights and Eligibility
What are my Oklahoma Military and Veterans State Tax Benefits?
Oklahoma Income Tax Exemption for Military Pay: Oklahoma resident Service members serving in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces do not have to pay state income tax on their military pay. Oklahoma Statutes 68-2358v1
Learn more about Oklahoma Income Tax Exemption for Military Pay
Oklahoma Income Tax Exemption for Nonresident Military Spouse: A nonresident Spouse of a nonresident Service member is exempt from Oklahoma income tax on income earned in Oklahoma if they meet the following requirements:
- Service member is stationed in Oklahoma due to military orders
- Spouse is in Oklahoma to be with the Service member
- Spouse must have same state of residency as the Service member
To claim this exemption military Spouses must file an Oklahoma Tax Commission, Annual Withholding Tax Exemption Certification for Military Spouse with their employer.
Learn more about Oklahoma Income Tax Exemption for Nonresident Military Spouse
Oklahoma Income Tax Exemption for Military Retired Pay: Oklahoma does not tax military retired pay. Oklahoma Statutes 68-2358v1
Learn more about the Oklahoma Income Tax Exemption on Military Retired Pay
Oklahoma Income Tax 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.
Oklahoma 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 military Service members who died in the line of duty or eligible survivors of Veterans whose death resulted from a service-connected injury or disease.
Oklahoma State Taxes on Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP), and Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Annuities: Surviving Spouses can exclude up to $10,000 of their survivor benefit annuities from their Oklahoma income taxes (must be included in their federal adjusted gross income).
Oklahoma Income Tax Exemption for Service Members Killed in Action: Any payments made by the Department of Defense as a result of the death of a Service member who was killed in action in a designated combat zone is exempt from Oklahoma income tax during the taxable year that they were killed.
This benefit is extended to the income earned by a Surviving Spouse for the taxable year that their Service member Spouse was killed.
Learn more about the Oklahoma Income Tax Exemption for Service Members Killed in Action
Oklahoma Disabled Veteran and Surviving Spouse Sales Tax Exemption: Oklahoma offers an annual sales tax exemption (including city and county sales tax) to eligible disabled Veterans for up to $25,000 and up to $1000 for Surviving Spouses.
Who is eligible for Oklahoma 100% Disabled Veteran Sales Tax Exemption? To be eligible disabled Veterans must be receiving compensation for a 100% total and permanent service-connected permanent disability rating from the VA. The Surviving Spouse of an eligible Veteran must remain unremarried to qualify.
All new applicants for the Disabled Veteran and Surviving Spouse Sales Tax Exemption are required to first register in the Oklahoma Veterans Registry to verify eligibility. The Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs will mail a letter that can then be uploaded to the Oklahoma Disabled Veteran Sales Tax Exemption Permit, Online Application (select “100% Disabled Veteran Exemption Permit: New” from the “Individuals” column)
Learn more about the Oklahoma 100% Disabled Veteran Sales Tax Exemption
Oklahoma 100% Disabled Veteran Motor Vehicle Tax Exemption: Oklahoma offers a Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Exemption for eligible disabled Veterans. The exemption may be claimed on only one vehicle in a consecutive three-year period. Surviving Spouses are not eligible for this exemption.
Who is eligible for the Oklahoma 100% Disabled Veteran Motor Vehicle Tax Exemption? Disabled Veterans must be receiving compensation for a 100% total and permanentservice-connected disability rating from the VA. Applicants will be required to provide documentation from the VA as proof of their disability status. Veterans can request an award letter from the VA using the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, Online State Benefit Request Form.
Veterans are required to first register in the Oklahoma Veterans Registry to verify eligibility.
Learn more about the Oklahoma 100% Disabled Veteran Motor Vehicle Tax Exemption
Oklahoma 100% Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption: Oklahoma offers a 100% property tax exemption for eligible disabled Veterans and their Surviving Spouse. This exemption is for the full fair cash value of the homestead.
Who is eligible for the Oklahoma 100% Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption? To be eligible the applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Oklahoma resident
- Applicant is the owner of the homestead
- Veteran who received an honorable discharge from active service in the U.S. Armed Forces or from the Oklahoma National Guard
- Veteran has a 100% total and permanent service-connected disability rating from the VA or is receiving compensation at the 100% rate, or
- Surviving Spouse of an eligible Veteran
Applicants must complete the Oklahoma Tax Commission Form 998, Application for 100% Disabled Veterans Real Property Tax Exemption and provide documentation from the VA specifically for this exemption to their local county assessor. Applicants can request documentation from the VA using the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, Online State Benefit Request Form.
Oklahoma County Assessor Directory
Learn more about the Oklahoma 100% Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption
What are my Oklahoma Military and Veterans Education Benefits?
Oklahoma College Credit for Military Service: Oklahoma colleges, universities and technology centers will award academic credit to Veterans who received an honorable discharge within three years prior to enrollment for any applicable education, training and experience received through the military that pertains to their area of study.
Learn more about Oklahoma College Credit for Military Service
Oklahoma National Guard Educational Assistance Program: The Oklahoma National Guard 
Educational Assistance Program provides a tuition waiver for active Oklahoma National Guard Service members at all Oklahoma public colleges and universities. This waiver also covers all mandatory fees and academic service fees.
Service members can enroll in up to 18 credit hours per semester with a maximum of 120 credit hours for an undergraduate degree and up to 40 credit hours for a graduate program.
Who is eligible for the Oklahoma National Guard Tuition Waiver? Oklahoma National Guard Service members must have at least one year remaining in their current enlistment contract at the beginning of a semester they apply for assistance and must agree to serve actively (in good standing) for 24 months after completing their last academic semester. Service members must maintain satisfactory academic progress and a 2.0 GPA for undergraduate programs and a 3.0 GPA for graduate programs.
Oklahoma National Guard Educational Assistance Act, Press Release
Oklahoma Colleges and Universities Directory
Learn more about the Oklahoma National Guard Educational Assistance Program
Oklahoma Heroes Promise, College Scholarship for Children of Deceased Service Members: Oklahoma’s Heroes Promise college scholarship will help pay tuition at an Oklahoma public college or university for the Children of resident Service members who were killed in the line of duty while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. It will also cover a portion of tuition at an accredited Oklahoma private college or university or for courses at public technology centers.
The scholarship may be used for up to five years or until the student completes a bachelor's degree, whichever comes first.
Who is eligible for the Oklahoma Heroes Promise, College Scholarship for Children of Deceased Service Members? Applicants for the Oklahoma Heroes Promise college scholarship must meet the following requirements to be eligible:
- Child of a Service member who was killed or died as a result of an injury they received in the line of duty while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces after January 1, 2000
- Service member parent must have filed an Oklahoma income tax return for the tax year prior to their death
- Student must be an Oklahoma resident
- Student must enroll before they are 21 years old
For more information, please contact the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education at 800-858-1840 or 405-225-9131, or by email at studentinfo@osrhe.edu.
Oklahoma Colleges and Universities Directory
High School Diplomas for Oklahoma Wartime Veterans: Oklahoma offers high school diplomas to resident Veterans who left high school before graduation to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II, Korea, or Vietnam.
Who is eligible for High School Diplomas for Oklahoma Wartime Veterans? To be eligible the Veteran must have left an Oklahoma high school before graduation to serve on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during one of the following time periods:
- September 16, 1940, through December 31, 1946
- June 27, 1950, through January 31, 1955
- May 13, 1961, through April 29, 1975
Veterans must submit a completed Oklahoma State Department of Education, High School Diploma Application for Veterans and a copy of the Veteran’s DD214 (or equivalent) as proof they received an honorable discharge to:
Oklahoma State Department of Education
Executive Director of Counseling
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, Suite 112
Oklahoma City, OK 73105
For more information, please call 405-522-3263.
Learn more about High School Diplomas for Oklahoma Wartime Veterans
Oklahoma 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: 918-855-8253 / 405-550-5828
Learn more about the Oklahoma Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children
Oklahoma Purple Star School Program for Military-Friendly Schools: The Oklahoma Purple Star 
School Program recognizes schools that show a major commitment to students and Families connected to the U.S. Armed Forces.
For a school to qualify for the Oklahoma Purple Star School Program 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 Oklahoma Purple Star School Program for Military-Friendly Schools
Oklahoma Veterans Entrepreneurship Program (VEP): VEP offers training in entrepreneurship and small business management to Service members who were disabled while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces or demonstrated exemplary military service. The intent of the VEP is to open the door to entrepreneurial opportunities and small business ownership, by developing skills needed to start and sustain a small business.
The VEP is designed around two central elements, focused practical training and a support structure for graduates of the program. All travel, accommodation, meals, materials and instructional costs are covered by the VEP.
The typical program consists of three phases:
- Self-study curriculum
- Eight day residency at Oklahoma State University (OSU) in Stillwater
- Five months of advising and venture development from OSU experts
Who is eligible for the VEP? This program is available to Veterans who meet the following requirements:
- Separated from active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces (or they are currently in the administrative process of separating)
- Demonstrate a strong interest in entrepreneurship and small business ownership/management
- Preference is given to Veterans who have a service-connected disability rating from the VA, or were “service distinguished” based on exemplary military conduct
For more information, please call 405-744-7552 or email vep@okstate.edu.
VEP Online Application
VEP Eligibility Information and Application
Oklahoma VEP Brochure
Learn more about the Oklahoma Veterans Entrepreneurship Program
Oklahoma Technology School Tuition Waiver for Veterans and Children of Certain Service Members: Oklahoma resident Veterans, or the Child of a Service member who is declared missing in action or a prisoner of war can receive a tuition waiver at any state-supported technology center school (not available at Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology-Okmulgee).
Applicants should contact the CareerTech Center they are planning to attend for more information.
Oklahoma CareerTech Student Aid Flyer
Oklahoma Technology Center Directory
Oklahoma CareerTech for Veterans: Oklahoma CareerTech, career and technology schools 
provides a website with information that may be useful to Service members who are separating from the U.S. Armed Forces.
- Benefit Resources
- Certification Resources
- Discharge Resources
- Education Resources
- Oklahoma CareerTech Guide to Career Success After Military Service
For more information, please call 405-880-4415.
Learn more about Oklahoma CareerTech for Veterans
What are my Oklahoma Military and Veterans Employment Benefits?
Oklahoma State Employee Military Leave for National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service Members: State employees who are Service members serving in a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for 30 days of paid military leave per federal fiscal year when they are ordered to active or inactive duty. Employees are authorized military leave without loss of status or seniority.
If the period of military duty extends beyond 30 days the Service member may choose to use accrued holidays, annual leave, or leave without pay. In addition, Service members will receive the difference between their state employee full regular pay and their military base pay
Who is eligible for Oklahoma State Employee Military Leave for National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service Members? Reserve component Service members who are state employees who are ordered to inactive duty training, annual training or active duty are eligible for military leave.
Oklahoma Professional Licensure Benefits for Service Members and their Spouses: The Oklahoma Post-Military Service Occupation, Education and Credentialing Act provides professional licensing benefits to eligible Service members, Veterans and their Spouses.
Automatic extension of professional license or certification: The professional licenses of Service members who are deployed remain valid until the end of their deployment and do not require fees or dues for renewal.
Military education, training and experience may be used for professional licensing and certification requirements: Military education, training and experience a Service member receives while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces can be used to meet Oklahoma licensing and certification requirements.
Military Spouse Applicant - Equivalency: The Spouses of active duty Service members who are assigned to a military installation in Oklahoma and hold a valid professional license or certification from another state can receive expedited processing for an Oklahoma professional license or certification. Spouses may also be granted a temporary license or certification while they continue to work towards Oklahoma licensing requirements.
Those interested in these benefits should contact the professional licensing board or certification authority for their occupation for specific eligibility requirements.
Oklahoma Licensing Agencies, Boards and Commissions Database
Oklahoma Statutes, Title 59, Sections 4100 through 4100.7
Oklahoma Post-Military Service Occupation, Education and Credentialing Act, Governors Press Release
Learn more about Oklahoma Professional Licensure Benefits for Service Members and their Spouses
Oklahoma State Employee Veteran’s Hiring Preference: Veterans, Disabled Veterans and their Spouses may be eligible for Veterans’ hiring preference for state employment. Preference is given by adding points to an applicant’s passing competitive and noncompetitive examination scores.
Five points are added to the following applicant’s final score:
- Veteran who received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces
- Unremarried Surviving Spouse of a Veteran
- Spouse of a Veteran who has a service-connected unemployable rating from the VA (certification letter from the VA must be dated within six months)
Ten points are added to the final grade of a wartime Veteran who has a service-connected disability rating from the VA (certification letter from the VA must be dated within six months).
In addition, a wartime Veteran who has a service-connected disability rating of 30% or higher are considered to be Absolute Preference Veterans. Their names are placed at the top of the list, ranked in order of their examination scores. Absolute Preference Veterans cannot be denied employment without showing cause.
Special Disabled Veterans: Veterans who have a 30% or more service-connected disability rating from the VA are offered an exemption from entrance exams and other hiring procedures. A one-year probationary period will apply.
Oklahoma Statutes, Title 72, Sections 401 through 404
Learn more about Oklahoma State Employee Veterans’ Hiring Preference
Oklahoma Private Sector Voluntary Veterans Hiring Preference: Private-sector employers in Oklahoma are authorized to have a Veterans employment preference policy for honorably discharged Veterans. The preference policy must meet the following requirements:
- Must be in writing
- Applied uniformly to employment decisions regarding hiring, promotion, or retention during a reduction in force
- Veteran must be registered in the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, Oklahoma Veterans Registry
Employers may require applicants to provide their discharge documents to prove eligibility for the preference.
Learn more about the Oklahoma Private Sector Voluntary Veterans Hiring Preference
Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC) Veteran Services: The OSEC has dedicated staff members who help Veterans seeking employment. Veterans can receive reemployment services from trained Disabled Veterans’ Outreach Program Specialists (DVOP) and Local Veteran Employment Representatives (LVER).
A LVER’s principal duties are to:
- Outreach to employers to encourage them to hire Veterans
- Conduct seminars for employers, job search workshops and establishing job search working groups
- Facilitates employment, training, and placement services under state and federal programs
DVOPs provide intensive services and help meet the employment needs of Veterans who have significant barriers to employment.
Veterans who have significant barriers to employment includes the following:
- 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
When Veterans register on OKJOBMATCH.com it will create a system-generated report “Recently Registered” that is reviewed by a DVOP. A DVOP will contact the Veteran and conduct an assessment to determine if they meet eligibility requirements for intensive services.
Learn more about the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission Veteran Services
Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, Veterans’ Priority of Service: The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) provides grant funds to the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission to provide employment and training services to eligible residents and workers. As a condition for receiving those funds, priority of service must be given to qualified Veterans when referring individuals to job openings, DOL funded training programs or related services.
Information and assistance are provided by One-Stop and Workforce Center staff regarding available employment programs, training opportunities, services, eligibility requirements, and Veterans’ priority.
Oklahoma One-Stop or Workforce Office Directory
Learn more about Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, Veterans’ Priority of Service
Oklahoma Specific Transition Education Program (OKStep): OKStep combines several programs to help Veterans to transition from service in the U.S. Armed Forces to civilian life.
Employment: Services include:
- Resume assistance
- Interview preparation
- Dressing for success tips
- Career and Job Board resources
Professional Development: Information about available apprenticeship programs and on-the-job training opportunities.
Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, Apprenticeship and On-the-Job Training Information
Entrepreneurship: Assistance starting or growing a business for Veterans and their Family members through the OKVetWorks program. Those interested can fill out the OKVetWorks Client Intake Form to request assistance.
For more information, please call 855-701-6382 or 405-523-4000.
Learn more about Oklahoma Specific Transition Education Program
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:
- Is rated by appropriate military or VA authorities to be 100% disabled and/or unemployable, or
- Has retired, been 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 Veteran's 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 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 to 102% 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 the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act
Oklahoma National Guard Employment Coordination Program (ECP): ECP builds relationships 
with Oklahoma employers to develop employment opportunities for Oklahoma National Guard Service members, Veterans and Family members.
ECP provides:
- Resume assistance
- Civilian job search assistance
- Interview coaching
- Career advice
- Education advice
Who is eligible for ECP? Oklahoma National Guard Service members, Veterans and their Families are eligible for assistance. For more information call please call 405-475-1996.
ECP Online Application
Learn more about the Oklahoma National Guard Employment Coordination Program
What are my Oklahoma Military and Veterans Unemployment Insurance Benefits?
Oklahoma Unemployment Insurance (UI): Oklahoma's Employment Security Commission administers the UI program, that 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
Who is eligible for Oklahoma UI? To qualify for UI applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Monetarily eligible (earned a minimum of $1,500 during their base and have total wages of one and a half times their highest quarter)
- Unemployed through no fault of their own
- Able, available and seeking work
- Registered on OKJobMatch
Applicants will need the following information to apply:
- Social Security number
- Name, mailing address, telephone number and email address
- Alien registration number and expiration date if a non-citizen
- Oklahoma driver's license or state-issued ID card number
- Name and address of the company on paycheck stub or W-2 form
- Employment start and end date
- Wages earned and how paid (hourly, weekly, monthly)
- Form SF8 or SF50 if employed by the federal government in the last 18 months
- DD214 for military service in the previous 18 months
To apply for UI, applicants must use the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, Internet Claim System. To start a claim first time applicants must create an account. For assistance, please call the Unemployment Service Center at 405-525-1500.
Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, Claimant Handbook
Oklahoma UI Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about Oklahoma Unemployment Insurance
What are my Oklahoma Military and Veterans Department of Public Safety Related Benefits?
Free Oklahoma Driver License for 100% Disabled Veterans: Disabled Veterans who have a 100% total and permanent service-connected disability rating (or are receiving compensation at the 100% rate) from the VA are eligible for a waiver of fees for a new, renewed or replacement Oklahoma driver license.
Learn more about Free Oklahoma Driver License for 100% Disabled Veterans
"Veteran" Identifier on Oklahoma Driver Licenses and State ID Cards: Oklahoma offers a “Veteran” identifier for driver licenses and ID cards for eligible Veterans.
Who is eligible for the "Veteran" Identifier on Oklahoma Driver Licenses and ID Cards? To be eligible for the Veteran Identifier Veterans must have received an Honorable or General (Under Honorable Conditions) discharge from active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces (other than for training). Veterans are required to first register in the Oklahoma Veterans Registry to verify eligibility.
After registering Veterans can apply for the identifier at a Service Oklahoma Driving and Auto Location that provides driver license services.
Learn more about "Veteran" Identifier on Oklahoma Driver Licenses and ID Cards
Extension of Oklahoma Driver License for Out of State Resident Service Members and their Dependents: The Oklahoma driver license of a resident Service member serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and their dependents who are stationed outside of Oklahoma remains valid until 60 days after their return to Oklahoma.
Learn more about Extension of Oklahoma Driver License for Resident Service Members and their Spouses
Reduced Fee Oklahoma Vehicle Registration for Active Duty Service Members: Active Duty Service members and their Spouse who are either residents of, or stationed in Oklahoma are eligible for a reduced annual vehicle registration fee. Service member must submit a completed Form 779 U.S. Armed Forces Affidavit.
Learn more about Reduced Fee Oklahoma Vehicle Registration for Active Duty Service Members
Oklahoma Military and Veteran Specialty License Plates: Oklahoma offers 85 distinctive license plates to honor the service and sacrifice of eligible Service members, Veterans, retired Service members, and eligible Family members. Specific eligibility and documentation requirements will apply. A short description of some these license plates is listed below.
Service Oklahoma, Specialty Plates Catalog
Oklahoma Statutes 47-1135.2
Oklahoma Medal of Honor License Plates: Recipients of the Medal of Honor are eligible for the 
Oklahoma Congressional Medal of Honor license plate. There is no charge for this license plate.
This license plate can only be ordered by calling 405-521-3659. Applicants must provide a copy of their Medal of Honor Certificate or other official documentation as proof of eligibility.
Oklahoma Purple Heart Recipient License Plates: Recipients of the Purple Heart are eligible for 
the Oklahoma Purple Heart license plate. The unremarried Surviving Spouse of a deceased Purple Heart recipient can apply for this license plate.
Applicants must provide official documentation from the U.S. Armed Forces or the VA that they were awarded the Purple Heart. This license plate is also available for motorcycles. Applicants can apply at an Service Oklahoma, Driving and Auto location or by mailing their application and required documentation to:
Service Oklahoma
PO Box 26940
Oklahoma City, OK 73126-0940
Oklahoma Purple Heart License Plate Application
Oklahoma Disabled Veteran License Plate: The Oklahoma Disabled Veteran license plate is 
available to Veterans who have a 50% or greater service-connected disability rating from the VA, received a grant from the VA for the purchase or modification of specially adapted vehicle, or who lost a limb or an eye. This license plate qualifies for a reduced annual registration fee.
The unremarried Surviving Spouse of a deceased disabled Veteran, or who is receiving Dependency and Indemnity Compensation from the VA, may apply for a Disabled Veteran license plate. This license plate is also available for motorcycles.
Applicants for this license plate must first complete the online Oklahoma State Benefit Request to request a Reduced Licensing Charge Card, Form 599. First time applicants must provide a copy of Form 599 and a completed application by mail to:
Service Oklahoma
PO Box 26940
Oklahoma City, OK 73126-0940
Subsequent renewals may be processed at a Service Oklahoma office or online at Service Oklahoma, Specialty Plate Request. This license plate may be issued with the International Accessibility Symbol, applicants must first apply for an Oklahoma Disability Placard.
Service Oklahoma, Driving and Auto Location Directory
Oklahoma Application for Disabled American Veteran License Plate
Oklahoma Gold Star License Plates: Oklahoma offers Gold Star license plates to immediate Family members of a Service member who was killed while serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces or an honorably discharged Veteran who died due to service-connected injury, illness or disease. Gold Star license plates are available for the following Family members:
Gold Star Spouse License Plate – Unremarried Surviving Spouse of a deceased Service member or Veteran- Gold Star Family License Plate –Parents, siblings, half siblings, maternal and paternal grandparents of a deceased Service member or Veteran
- Gold Star Parent License Plate – Surviving mother or father
- Gold Star Survivor License Plate – Surviving Spouse and Children of a deceased Service member or Veteran
A complete list of required documentation is listed on page two of the application. Initial applications and required documentation for Gold Star license plates must be mailed to:
Service Oklahoma
PO Box 26940
Oklahoma City, OK 73126-0940
Subsequent renewals may be processed at a Service Oklahoma, Driving and Auto location.
Oklahoma Gold Star Family, Surviving Spouse and Survivor License Plate Application
Learn more about Oklahoma Military and Veteran Specialty License Plates
What are my Oklahoma Military and Veterans Health and Insurance Benefits?
Oklahoma National Guard Compensation for Illness or Injury Suffered in the Line of Duty: Oklahoma National Guard Service members who are injured or become ill in the line of duty during training or active service, will receive hospitalization, medical treatment and pay and allowances for their pay grade while they are unable to return to their civilian occupation. Commissioned Officers will only receive pay and allowances equal to a Second Lieutenant.
Who is eligible for Oklahoma National Guard Compensation for Illness or Injury Suffered in the Line of Duty? Oklahoma National Guard Service members who are injured or become ill are eligible.
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
Oklahoma National Guard State-Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI): SSLI offered through the 
National Guard Association of Oklahoma to Oklahoma National Guard Service members is made up of several voluntary group life policies that are designed to help meet the needs of National Guard Service members and their Families. Every member of the Oklahoma National Guard is covered with $1,000 SSLI at no cost to the Service member.
Key Benefits of the SSLI:
- Up to $1,000,000 in coverage through a combination of plans
- Coverage available for Spouse and Children
- Rates do not go up after separation from the National Guard
- Coverage 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
- No war or aviation exclusion
- New recruits are eligible for $10,000 SSLI coverage free for the first year (must enroll within 180 days of joining the Oklahoma National Guard)
Who is eligible for Oklahoma National Guard SSLI?Oklahoma National Guard Service members and their dependents are eligible for coverage. For more information, please call 800-633-8333.
Learn more about Oklahoma National Guard State-Sponsored Life Insurance
What are my Oklahoma Military and Veterans Parks and Recreation Benefits?
Free Admission to Oklahoma State Owned or State-Operated Parks or Museums for Resident 
Veterans: All honorably discharged Oklahoma resident Veterans are authorized free admission to all state owned or operated parks and museums.
Veterans must provide a valid Oklahoma driver license or state photo ID card and show their military discharge papers (DD214 or similar evidence of an honorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces) to be granted free entry.
Free Oklahoma Hunting and Fishing Privileges for Certain Disabled Veterans: Oklahoma offers free hunting and fishing permits for resident Veterans who have a 60% or more service-connected disability rating from the VA. In addition, Veterans with a 60% or more disability are exempt from Wildlife Land Stamp requirements.
Oklahoma Disabled Veterans Online Hunting and Fishing Application
Learn more about Free Oklahoma Hunting and Fishing Privileges for Certain Disabled Veterans
Reduced fee Disabled Veteran Lifetime Combination Hunting/Fishing License: Oklahoma resident disabled Veterans may purchase a lifetime combination hunting/fishing license. The cost of the lifetime combination licenses depends on their disability percentage from the VA.
- $200 for Veterans with a disability rating of less than 60%
- $25 for Veterans who have a disability rating of 60% or more (this license provides some additional tags not included in the free permit for Veterans with a 60% or more certified disability)
In addition, resident Veterans who are 60% or more are exempt from the Oklahoma Wildlife Land Stamp requirements.
Oklahoma Disabled Veterans Online Hunting and Fishing Application
Oklahoma Disabled Veteran Hunting Fee Exemptions: Veterans who receive disability compensation from the VA at the 100% rate are exempt from fees for the following licenses:
- Deer Gun Hunting License
- Deer Archery Hunting License
- Primitive Firearms License
- Bonus, Special, or Second Deer Gun Hunting License
Oklahoma Disabled Veterans Online Hunting and Fishing Application
Learn more about Oklahoma Disabled Veteran Hunting Fee Exemptions
Oklahoma Resident Hunting and Fishing Privileges for Nonresidents Service Members and their Dependents: Nonresident active duty Service members serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, their Spouse and dependents assigned to a military installation in Oklahoma can purchase hunting and fishing licenses for resident prices.
Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Stars and Stripes License Project: The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation’s Stars and Stripes License Project is a donor-funded project that offers free hunting and fishing licenses to Veterans and survivors of Veterans who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Applicants can choose from these licenses:
- Annual Combination Hunting/Fishing License
- 60% or more Disabled Veterans Lifetime Combination Hunting/Fishing License
Who is eligible for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Stars and Stripes Project?
- Oklahoma resident Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces
- Gold Star Lapel Pin recipients
- Next of kin of deceased Service members
To apply for a license through the Stars and Stripes License Project log into the Go Outdoors Oklahoma webpage and select “Purchase Licenses,” then select the Stars and Stripes application from the catalog.
Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Stars and Stripes Project Information
Learn more about the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Stars and Stripes Project
What are my Oklahoma Military and Veterans Miscellaneous Benefits?
Oklahoma Cross of Valor: Oklahoma will award the Oklahoma Cross of Valor to any Veteran who was declared a prisoner of war during any officially recognized war or conflict.
Who is eligible for the Oklahoma Cross of Valor? The Oklahoma Cross of Valor may be awarded to Veterans who meet the following requirements:
- Oklahoma resident at the time they entered the U.S. Armed Forces
- Served during any recognized war or conflict
- Declared a prisoner of war
- Received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces
To apply for the Oklahoma Cross of Valor please contact the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs at 405-523-4000 or 855-701-6382.
Oklahoma Wartime Veteran Definition
Learn more about the Oklahoma Cross of Valor
Oklahoma State Veterans Homes: Oklahoma has seven Veterans Homes located throughout the state that provide intermediate nursing care, skilled nursing care, memory care and domiciliary care for Veterans and their Spouses.
Oklahoma Veterans Homes Locations:
Ardmore Veterans Home - 175 bed facility
1015 S Commerce Street
Ardmore, OK 73401
Phone: 580-223-2266
Claremore Veterans Home - 302 bed facility
3001 W. Blue Starr Drive
Claremore, OK 74017-0988
Phone: 918-342-5432
Clinton Veterans Home - 148 bed facility 
1701 South 4th Street
Clinton, OK 73601
Phone: 580-331-2200
Lawton Veterans Home - 200 bed facility 
501 S.E. Flower Mound Road
Lawton, OK 73501
Phone: 580-351-6511
Norman Veterans Home - 301 bed facility 
1776 E. Robinson Street
Norman, OK 73070
Phone: 405-360-5600
Sulphur Veterans Home - 122 bed facility 
304 E. Fairlane
Sulphur, OK 73086
Phone: 580-331-6400
Sallisaw Veterans Home - A new Oklahoma Veterans Home in Sallisaw, Oklahoma is under construction.
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1449
Sallisaw, OK 74955
Phone: 918-774-1185
Services Include:
- Laboratory
- X-ray
- Pharmacy
- Dietary services
- Social and recreational activities
Who is eligible for care at an Oklahoma State Veterans Home? Veterans must meet the following requirements to be eligible for admission:
- Served in the U.S. Armed Forces for at least 90 days with one or more days on active duty or was discharged prior to 90 days due to a service-connected disability
- Received a discharge other than dishonorable
- Requires nursing care
- Eligible for the VA State Home Per Diem
- Spouse or Surviving Spouse of an eligible Veteran
Veterans Homes admission priorities:
- World War II Veterans
- Former prisoners of war
- Wartime Veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 70% to 100% from the VA
- Wartime Veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 0% to 60% from the VA
- All other eligible wartime Veterans
- Veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 70% to 100% from the VA
- Veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 0% to 60% from the VA
- All other eligible Veterans
- Spouse and Surviving Spouse of an eligible Veteran may be admitted after admission of all eligible Veterans
Oklahoma Wartime Veteran Definition
Veterans who have a 70% or greater service-connected disability rating from the VA will receive full cost of care at any Oklahoma Veterans Home.
Oklahoma Veterans Home Application Packet
Oklahoma Veterans Home Request for Information
Learn more about the Oklahoma Veterans Homes
Seaman First Class Billy Turner Oklahoma Veterans Cemetery: The Seaman First Class Billy Turner Veterans Cemetery is Oklahoma’s first Veterans cemetery located in Ardmore Oklahoma and provides adignified final resting place for Veterans, their Spouse and dependent Children.
The cemetery provides the following:
- Gravesite or columbarium niche
- Pre-placed grave liner
- Opening and closing of the gravesite
- Headstone, niche cover, or memorial plaque
- Committal service
- Perpetual care
All services are provided free of charge for eligible Veterans and their Family members.
Who is eligible for burial at the Seaman First Class Billy Turner Oklahoma Veterans Cemetery? Eligibility requirements for the burial at the Seaman First Class Billy Turner Veterans Cemetery are the same as for VA National Cemeteries. Exact eligibility requirements can viewed at the VA, National Cemetery Administration Eligibility webpage. To establish a Veteran’s eligibility for burial, a copy of the official military discharge document bearing an official seal, or a DD214, is required.
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 is eligible for military retired pay (or would have been eligible except their 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)
All Veterans are encouraged to complete the Oklahoma Veterans Cemetery Program Eligibility Pre-Certification Application to establish eligibility prior to need.
For more information, please contact:
Seaman First Class Billy Turner Oklahoma Veterans Cemetery
Address: 1555 Myall Street
Ardmore, OK 73401
Phone: 580-490-6489
Fax: 405-930-4078
Email: ArdmoreCemetery@odva.ok.gov
Seaman First Class Billy Turner Veterans Cemetery Brochure
Learn more about the Seaman First Class Billy Turner Oklahoma Veterans Cemetery
Oklahoma Women Veterans Program (WVP): The Oklahoma WVP’s mission is to ensure that women Veterans in Oklahoma have equitable access to federal and state Veterans’ benefits and services. For more information, please call 405-523-4020, or email okwomenvets@odva.ok.gov .
Learn more about Oklahoma Women Veterans Program
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Oklahoma
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Oklahoma: 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 Oklahoma
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Oklahoma: The VA National Cemetery Administration maintains two national cemeteries in Oklahoma. Please see the local location listing for the nearest cemetery.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Oklahoma
Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs
2132 NE 36 th Street
Oklahoma City, OK 73111
Phone: 405-523-4000 / 855-701-6382
Learn more about the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs
Military Installations in Oklahoma
Please see the Oklahoma Military Resource Locator for additional information
Active Duty
Army
Fort Sill
McAlester Army Ammunition
Air Force
Altus AFB
Tinker AFB
Vance AFB
National Guard
Oklahoma National Guard
Oklahoma Air National Guard
137 th Special Operations Wing
138 th Fighter Wing
U.S. Army Reserve (USAR)
63 rd Readiness Division
Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Facility Directory Oklahoma
Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Licensing
Service Oklahoma License Plate Catalog
U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Veterans' Preference
U.S. Department of Labor, Veteran's Employment and Career Transition Advisor
Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission, Oklahoma
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Service Organization Directory