State Taxes
Education Benefits
Employment Benefits
Unemployment Insurance
Driver and Motor Vehicle Services Benefits
Health Insurance Benefits
Parks and Recreation Benefits
Miscellaneous Benefits
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Facilities in Oregon
Oregon Military Resource Locator
Resources
Summary of Oregon Military and Veterans Benefits: Oregon offers special benefits for service members, Veterans and their Families including, state employment preferences, education and tuition assistance, vehicle tags, Oregon Parks and Recreation Special Access Pass for Veterans and service members, as well as hunting and fishing license privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component, and Veteran disability status.
Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA), County and Tribal Veteran Services Offices: ODVA has local County and Tribal Veteran Services Offices that help Veterans, retired service members and their Families find and apply for military and Veterans’ benefits under federal, state, and local laws. All their services are provided free of charge. For more information, please call 800-692-9666, email customer.service@odva.oregon.gov, or use the Request Assistance From ODVA online contact form.
ODVA, Veteran Services Offices Directory
Learn more about Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, County and Tribal Veteran Services Offices
Oregon Military and Veterans State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility
What are my Oregon Military and Veterans State Tax Benefits?
Oregon Military Retired Pay Income Taxes: Retired service members can subtract military retired pay earned for service prior to October 1, 1991, from their Oregon income taxes. Any military retired pay earned on October 1991 or after may not be subtracted.
If service included months before and after October1, 1, 1991, retired service members can subtract a percentage of their pension income. To determine the percentage, divide the months of service before October 1, 1991, by the total months of service. Percentages must be rounded to three places (example: 0.4576 = 45.8%).
Once a service member retires, withdrawals from their Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account, they are eligible for the subtraction based on dates of service. Withdrawals prior to retirement are not eligible for a subtraction. If the taxpayer moves money from a TSP to another type of account, the account is no longer a federal pension, and future withdrawals are not eligible for the subtraction.
For more information, contact the Oregon Department of Revenue.
Learn more about Oregon Military Retired Pay Income Taxes
Oregon Military Pay Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) Subtractions: Oregon offers the following AGI subtractions for military pay received by resident service members:
- Military pay earned by resident service members stationed outside Oregon is not taxed
- Military pay earned by National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve service members assigned away from home for 21 days or more is not taxed
- Military Pary earned by an Oregon National Guard service member who is serving on state active duty
- Any remaining taxable military income after taking the above subtractions is eligible for up to a $6,000 subtraction
Military pay or allowances not included in federal AGI are not taxed by Oregon.
Extension to File Oregon State Income Tax for Service Members Serving in a Combat Zone or Hazardous Duty Area: Oregon allows the same six-month extension for filing and paying state income taxes for service members (and their spouse when filing jointly) who are serving in a designated combat zone or hazardous duty area as allowed by the IRS. service members are authorized a 180 extension from the date they redeploy from a designated combat zone or qualified hazardous duty, or they are released from hospitalization due to injuries or illness they received while serving in a qualifying area.
IRS Combat Zones Approved for Tax Filing Extension
Learn more about Oregon Military Pay Adjusted Gross Income Subtractions
Oregon Nonresident Military Spouse Tax Exemption: Nonresident military spouses do not have to pay Oregon income taxes for wages earned in Oregon.
Who is eligible for the Oregon Nonresident Military Spouse Tax Exemption: To be eligible nonresident military spouses must meet the following requirements:
- Service member is in Oregon to comply with military orders
- Military spouse and service member are both residents of another state or territory
- Military spouses must still file income taxes in their state or territory of residence, if required
Learn more about the Oregon Nonresident Military Spouse Tax Exemption
Oregon Taxes on Military Disability Retirement Pay:Military disability retirement pay received as a pension, annuity or similar allowance for personal injury or sickness resulting from active service in the U.S. Armed Forces should not be included in taxable income. Some of the payments which are considered disability benefits include:
- 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.
Learn more about Oregon Taxes on Military Disability Retirement Pay
Oregon 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.
Oregon State Taxes on Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP) and Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Annuities: 
The Surviving spouse of a deceased service member can subtract SBP, RCSBP and RSFPP annuities for service prior to October 1, 1991, from their Oregon income taxes. Any annuities received for service after October 1, 1991, may not be subtracted.
If service included months before and after October 1, 1991, Surviving spouses can subtract a percentage of their pension income. To determine the percentage, divide the months of service before October 1, 1991, by the total months of service. Percentages must be rounded to three places (example: 0.4576 = 45.8%).
For more information, contact the Oregon Department of Revenue.
Disabled Veteran or Surviving Spouse Oregon Homestead Property Tax Exemptions: Oregon offers property tax exemptions of $25,537 or $30,646 for disabled Veterans and their Surviving 
spouse on their homestead’s assessed value for property taxes. Veterans and their Surviving spouse (or registered domestic partner) must own and live at the homestead property to be eligible. This exemption is first applied to the home and then to taxable personal property.
Who is eligible for the Disabled Veteran or Surviving Spouse Oregon Homestead Property Tax Exemptions? To be eligible Veterans must be a U.S. citizen who served in the U.S. Armed Forces and were discharged or released under honorable conditions and meet the one of the following requirements:
- Served at least 91 consecutive days beginning on or before January 31, 1955
- Served at least 179 consecutive days beginning after January 31, 1955
- Served less than 179 days and was discharged or released from active duty because of a service-connected disability
- Served for 178 days or less and has a disability rating from the VA
- Served at least one day in a combat zone
- Received a combat or campaign ribbon, or expeditionary medal
- Receiving a nonservice-connected pension from the VA
Veterans must also meet the one of the following requirements to be eligible for the $25,537 exemption:
- Have a 40% or more disability rating from the VA
- Served in the U.S. Armed Forces and is certified each year by a licensed physician as being 40% or more disabled, these Veteran’s total gross income cannot be more than 185% of the annual Federal Poverty Level Guidelines
- Unremarried Surviving spouse (or registered domestic partner) of an eligible deceased Veteran
To qualify for a $30,646 exemption Veterans must meet one of the following requirements:
- Has a 40% or more service-connected disability rating from the VA or a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces
- Unremarried Surviving spouse (or registered domestic partner) of a Veteran who died due to a service-connected injury or illness, or the Veteran received at least one year of the maximum exemption allowed
Applications must be filed with the local county assessor on or before 1 April, to claim a property tax exemption for the following tax year which begins 1 July. Applications must be filed within 30 days for properties acquired after 1 March but before 1 July. For more information, please call 503-378-4988 or 800-356-4222, or email questions.dor@oregon.gov.
Oregon Property Tax Assessor Directory
Oregon Veteran or Surviving Spouse Exemption Claim Form
Learn more about Disabled Veteran or Surviving Spouse Oregon Property Tax Exemption
Oregon Reserve Component Active Duty Service Property Tax Exemption: Oregon offers a property tax exemption on a portion of the assessed value of the homes of Oregon National Guard service members and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve service members who are called to federal active duty service. Service members can claim the exemption for each tax year during which they served at least one day of qualified service. The exemption amount began at $60,000 of assessed value in 2005 and increases by 3% each year.
Who is eligible for the Oregon Reserve Component Active Duty Service Property Tax Exemption? To be eligible service members must meet the following requirements:
- Oregon resident National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces service member
- must own and live at the property to be eligible
- Ordered to federal active duty service for 179 days or more
Applications must be filed with the local county assessor on or before 1 August following the end of the tax year. For more information, please call 503-378-4988 or 800-356-4222, or email questions.dor@oregon.gov.
Oregon Property Tax Assessor Directory
Oregon Active Duty Military Service Member's Exemption Claim Form
Learn more about the Oregon Reserve Component Active Duty Service Property Tax Exemption
Oregon Social Security Benefits Tax Exemption: Oregon does not tax Social Security benefits.
Learn more about the Oregon Social Security Benefits Tax Exemption
What are my Oregon Military and Veterans Education Benefits?
Oregon National Guard State Tuition Assistance (ONGSTA): ONGSTA provides tuition assistance at Oregon postsecondary institutions for Oregon National Guard service members. ONGSTA provides funding for in-state resident tuition rates for up to 90 credits at Oregon community colleges and up to 180 quarter credits / 120 semester credits at eligible Oregon universities and colleges. ONGSTA also provides a book allowance up to $1,000 per academic year and will pay certain fees up to the following amounts:
- Oregon Community Colleges - $407 per term
- Oregon Public Universities including OHSU - $776 per term
- Eligible Oregon Private Colleges - $783 per semester term, $521 per quarter term
ONGSTA is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until all available funds are used. All VA education benefits and federal tuition assistance can be used concurrently with ONGSTA.
Who is eligible for ONGSTA? To be eligible service members must meet the following requirements:
- Completed military basic training
- Oregon National Guard service member in good standing and not currently subject to adverse actions
- Currently drilling and attending all scheduled unit training assemblies and annual training periods
- Does not have a bachelor’s degree or higher
- Not in default of any federal loans
- Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and demonstrate satisfactory academic progress
To apply service members must complete the ONGSTA application in the Oregon Student Aid Portal (new users are required to create an account) and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
For more information, please contact the Wing Force Development Office by calling 503-335-4050, 541-885-6306, 541-885-6632 or email 173FW.EducationTeam@us.af.mil.
Learn more about Oregon National Guard State Tuition Assistance
Oregon Resident Tuition and Fees for Nonresident Service Members and their Families: Nonresident service members serving in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces, their spouses and dependent Children are considered Oregon residents for tuition purposes if they meet one of the following conditions:
- Live in Oregon while assigned to a duty station in Oregon
- Oregon resident at the time they entered the U.S. Armed Forces until they take steps to change their state of residence
- Oregon resident service member assigned outside of Oregon who returns to Oregon within six months of their discharge
- Service members who continue to live in Oregon after separation from the U.S. Armed Forces may count their time spent in Oregon to meet residency requirements
For the complete residency guidelines please see “Residence Classification of Armed Forces Personnel” in the Oregon Residency Standards.
Learn more about Oregon Resident Tuition and Fees for Nonresident Service Members and their Families
Resident Tuition Rates When Using U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Educational Benefits or Fry Scholarship: Veterans using VA educational benefits, students using transferred VA educational Benefits or the Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship, who live in Oregon while attending an Oregon institution of higher learning, regardless of their state of residence, are charged resident tuition rates.
Oregon Veterans Dependent Tuition Program: This benefit provides a full tuition waiverat an Oregon public university and the Oregon Health and Science University for a bachelor's or master's degree for the children and spouse of certain Veterans. The waiver is for the total 
number of attempted credit hours equal to four years of full-time attendance for a bachelor’s degree, or the total number of attempted credit hours equal to two years of full-time attendance for a master’s degree.
Who is eligible for the Oregon Veterans Dependent Tuition Program? For the children or spouse to be eligible the Veteran must have received an Honorable or General, Under Honorable Conditions discharge and meet one of the following requirements:
- Received a Purple Heart in 2001 or after (only children are eligible)
- Died while serving on active duty
- Has a 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA or a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, or died as a result of a service-connected disability
Child or Spouse Eligibility:
- Child, including adopted child or stepchild, 23 years old or less
- Child who is older than 23 years of age may be eligible for an age waiver for a master’s degree program if the child applies within 12 months of receiving a bachelors’ degree
- Spouse or unremarried Surviving spouse of a Veteran who meets eligibility requirements
For more information students should contact the admission office at the university they plan to attend.
Learn more about the Oregon Veterans Dependent Tuition Program
Oregon Veterans Bridge Grant: The Veteran Educational Bridge Grant administered by the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) provides a grant of up to $5,000 to help student Veterans achieve their educational goals. Grants are intended to provide financial support to Veterans who find themselves unable to complete their Oregon based VA approved academic program on time due to the unavailability of a required class or debt on a student account that prevents registration.
Who is eligible for the Oregon Veterans Bridge Grant? Oregon resident Veterans who served on active duty (other than for training) in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge must meet one of the following requirements to be eligible:
- Served more than 90 consecutive days beginning on or before January 31, 1955, or
- Served more than 178 consecutive days, or less than 178 days and has a service-connected disability rating from the VA, or
- Served at least one day in a combat zone, or
- Received a combat or campaign ribbon, or an expeditionary medal for service in the U.S. Armed Forces, or
- Receives a non-service-connected disability pension from the VA
Oregon Revised Statutes 408.225
For more information, please call 503-400-0540. Applications and required documentation (listed on the application) can be submitted using the ODVA Secure Upload webpage.
ODVA Veteran Educational Bridge Grant Application
Learn more about the Oregon Veterans Bridge Grant
Oregon High School Diploma for Wartime Veterans: Oregon resident Veterans who left high school before graduating to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces can request a high school diploma. Veterans can request a diploma from the school district where they live now, or the school district they would have graduated from. Diplomas may be awarded posthumously.
Who is eligible for Oregon High School Diploma for Wartime Veterans? Veterans who received an honorable discharge after one of the following periods of service:
- Served in the U.S. Armed Forces during:
- World War I
- World War II
- Korean War
- Vietnam War
- Served in the U.S. Armed Forces and was physically present in:
- Operation Urgent Fury (Grenada)
- Operation Just Cause (Panama)
- Operations Desert Shield or Desert Storm (the Persian Gulf War)
- Operation Restore Hope (Somalia)
- Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan)
- Operation Iraqi Freedom (Iraq)
- Served in the U.S. Armed Forces in an area designated as a combat zone by the President of the U.S.
Veterans should contact the school district where they live now or the school district they would have graduated from for more information and to apply.
Oregon Revised Statutes 332.114
Oregon School Directory
Learn more about Oregon High School Diploma for Wartime Veterans
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: 503-551-3288 / 503-947-5637
Learn more about the Oregon Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children
What are my Oregon Military and Veterans Employment Benefits?
Oregon Veterans’ Preference for State Employment: Oregon is required by law to provideVeterans’ hiring preference for state employment to eligible 
Veterans. Preference is also given to Veterans who are state employees for promotion to a civil service position with a higher maximum salary.
For hiring and promotions, applicants must meet requirements for the position, pass any initial screening requirements and pass any required examinations. Preference is given by adding points to a Veterans score. Veterans receive five percentage points; disabled Veterans receive 10 percentage points added to their score.
For positions that do not have a numerical scoring system for hiring, eligible Veterans must be given special consideration in the employer’s hiring decision.
Public employers are required to interview every Veteran who submits an application that the employer determines to meet the minimum qualifications for the position. Veterans who are not hired can request in writing the reason they were not selected for the position.
Oregon Revised Statutes 408.230
Who is eligible for Oregon Veterans’ Preference for State Employment? Veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge must meet one of the following requirements to be eligible:
- Served more than 90 consecutive days beginning on or before January 31, 1955, or
- Served more than 178 consecutive days, or less than 178 days and has a service-connected disability rating from the VA, or
- Served at least one day in a combat zone, or
- Received a combat or campaign ribbon or an expeditionary medal for service in the U.S. Armed Forces, or
- Receives a non-service-connected disability pension from the VA
To qualify as a disabled Veteran applicants must meet one of the following requirements:
- Was discharged or released from active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces for a service-connected injury or illness, or
- Has a service-connected disability rating from the VA, or
- Was awarded the Purple Heart
Oregon Revised Statutes 408.225
Learn more about Oregon Veterans' Preference for State Employment
Federal Employment Veterans’ 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. Code 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 anindividual may be absent from work for military duty and retain reemployment rights to five years. Exceptions to the five-year limit, include initial enlistments lasting more 
than five years, periodic National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve training duty, and involuntary active duty extensions and recalls, especially during a time of national emergency. USERRA establishes that reemployment protection does not depend on the timing, frequency, duration, or nature of an individual's service if the basic eligibility criteria are met.
Disability Accommodation: USERRA provides protection for disabled Veterans, requiring employers to make reasonable efforts to accommodate the disability. Service members recovering from injuries received during service or training may have up to two years from the date of completion of service to return to their jobs or apply for reemployment.
Return to Work without Loss of Seniority: USERRA provides that returning service members are reemployed in the job that they would have attained had they not been absent for military service, with the same seniority, status and pay, as well as other rights and benefits determined by seniority. USERRA also requires that reasonable efforts (such as training or retraining) be made to enable returning service members to refresh or upgrade their skills to help them qualify for reemployment. USERRA also provides that while an individual is performing military service, they are deemed to be on a furlough or leave of absence and are entitled to the non-seniority rights accorded other individuals on non-military leaves of absence.
Extension of Health and Pension Plans: Health and pension plan coverage for service members is provided for by USERRA. Individuals performing military duty of more than 30 days may elect to continue employer sponsored health care for up to 24 months; however, they may be required to pay up to102% of the full premium. For military service of less than 31 days, health care coverage is provided as if the service member had remained employed. USERRA clarifies pension plan coverage by making explicit that all pension plans are protected.
Who is eligible for USERRA Benefits? Veterans, U.S. Armed Forces Reserve or National Guard service members who leave a position for training or active military service are eligible.
The Department of Labor, through the Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) helps all who have claims under USERRA, including Federal and Postal Service employees.
employees.
VETS Regional Office Locations
Learn more about Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act
Paid leave for Oregon State Employees for Military Duty: Oregon State employees who are serving in a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces are authorized 21 days of paid military leave each year for required military duty. Authorized military leave is without the loss of time, pay or regular leave and without a negative effect on efficiency rating or other rights or benefits.
Who is eligible for Paid leave for Oregon State Employees for Military Duty? Oregon State employees who have been employed by the state for six months or more and are service members serving in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserves are eligible for paid leave for military duty.
Learn more about Paid leave for Oregon State Employees for Military Duty
Oregon Military Family Leave Act (OMFLA): OMFLA requires Oregon businesses to provide 14 days of unpaid leave for employees who are the spouse or domestic partner of certain active and reserve component service members.
Who is eligible for the OMFLA? Oregon employers that have 25 or more employees must grant leave to employees who work an average of at least 25 hours per week and are the spouse or domestic partner of a National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserve service member who is called to active duty, or a service member serving on active duty who has been deployed.
Learn more about the Oregon Military Family Leave Act
WorkSource Oregon Employment Assistance and Priority of Service for Eligible Veterans and Spouses: WorkSource Oregon (WSO) helps Veterans, Service members who are 
leaving the U.S. Armed Forces and eligible spouses by providing employment training and placement services. This assistance is provided through Local Veteran Employment Representatives (LVERs) and Disabled Veteran Outreach Program (DVOP) Specialists. LVERs and DVOPs maintain up-to-date information about employment opportunities, programs and services available at the federal, state and local levels as well as in the private sector.
Eligible Veterans and spouses may qualify for priority of service in employment and training services. Priority of service means:
- Receiving access to a service or resource earlier than those not eligible
- When services or resources are limited, those eligible receive access before or instead of others
LVERs engage with local employers to help Veterans find gainful employment. This outreach and engagement strategy includes seminars for employers and job search workshops.
DVOP Specialists work directly with Veterans and spouses with Significant Barriers to Employment (SBE) to provide enhanced services to help them find employment. WSO staff refer eligible job seekers to a DVOP Specialist for an eligibility assessment to determine whether the Veteran or spouse is eligible for enhanced services.
Who is eligible for WSO Employment Assistance and Priority of Service for Eligible Veterans and Spouses? To be eligible for priority of service the Veteran or spouse must meet the following requirements:
- Veteran who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and received a discharge or release under conditions other than dishonorable
- Spouse of one of the following:
- Veteran who died of a service-connected disability
- Veteran who has a total service-connected disability
- Veteran who died while a disability was in existence
- Service member who died on active duty
- Service member who is declared missing in action or a prisoner of war for 90 days or more
For more information or assistance please contact a WSO Center.
WSO Centers Directory
Oregon Direct Professional Licensing for Military Experience: Oregon professional licensing agencies and boards accept military training or experience as an allowable substitution for traditional civilian education or experience required for licensure, certification or registration.
For more information Veterans should contact the licensing board for their career field.
Oregon Occupational Licensing Boards Directory
Learn more about Oregon Direct Professional Licensing for Military Experience
What are my Oregon Military and Veterans Unemployment Insurance Benefits?
Oregon Unemployment Insurance (UI): Oregon's Employment Department administers the UI program providing temporary financial assistance to unemployed Oregon workers. 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. The amount of benefits applicants may be eligible for is determined by the amount of work they performed and wages they earned during the 12 months prior to filing the claim.
UI applicants need the following information to file a claim:
- Name, Social Security number, birthdate, and contact information
- If not a U.S. citizen or a Compact of Free Association Islander applicants must provide a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services number, A-number or I-94 number
- Complete work history for the past 18 months, including:
- Employer name(s)
- Employer address(es)
- Employer phone number(s)
- Start and end dates of employment for each employer
- Bank account number and routing number if direct deposit is requested
UI applicants can file online using the Oregon Employment Department, Frances Online for Claimants webpage, by calling 877-345-3484, or by submitting an Oregon Employment Department, Initial Claim Form to:
Oregon Employment Department
875 Union Street NE, Room 201
Salem, Oregon 97311
Fax: 503-947-1668
Oregon UI Claimant Handbook
Oregon How to Apply for UI Benefits Webpage
Learn more about Oregon Unemployment Insurance
What are my Oregon Military and Veterans Driver and Motor Vehicle Services Benefits?
Veteran Designation on Oregon Driver Licenses and ID Cards: Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services (DMV) offers a Veteran designation for driver licenses, instruction permits or ID cards. There 
is no additional fee for the Veteran designation. Original application, renewal or replacement fees will apply.
Who is eligible for Veteran Designation on Oregon Driver Licenses and ID Cards? Veterans must have served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge and meet one of the following requirements to be eligible:
- Served more than 90 consecutive days beginning on or before January 31, 1955, or
- Served more than 178 consecutive days, or less than 178 days and has a service-connected disability rating from the VA, or
- Served at least one day in a combat zone, or
- Received a combat or campaign ribbon or an expeditionary medal for service in the U.S. Armed Forces, or
- Receives a non-service-connected disability pension from the VA
Oregon Revised Statutes 408.225
Veterans can add the designation at the time of issue at any Oregon DMV Office. Veterans must provide a copy of their DD214 or DD215 indicating the received an honorable discharge and meet all other Oregon requirements for a driving privilege or ID card.
Oregon DMV Office Directory
Oregon DMV Driver licensing and ID Card Fees
Learn more about Veteran Designation on Oregon Driver Licenses and ID Cards
Oregon Military and Veteran License Plates: Oregon offers six distinctive license plates to honor the service and sacrifice of eligible service members, Veterans, retired service members, and certain family members. Specific eligibility and documentation requirements will apply. For information on how to apply for Oregon license plates please visit the Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services, License Plates webpage. A short description of some these license plates is listed below.
Oregon Department of Transportation, Passenger Vehicle Plate Fact Sheet
Oregon Medal of Honor License Plate: Medal of Honor recipients are eligible for the Oregon Medal 
of Honor license plate. Applicants must contact the Oregon Division of Motor Vehicle Services to apply.
Division of Motor Vehicle Services Directory
Oregon Disabled Veteran License Plate:Disabled Veterans who received an honorable discharge and have a service-connected disability rating from the VA are eligible for the Oregon Disabled Veteran license plate. This license plate does not grant special parking privileges. Only one set of plates may be issued per qualifying Veteran.
Veterans must complete an Oregon Department of Transportation, Application for Disabled Veteran Plates and provide a copy of their DD214 or DD215 and a letter from the VA indicating they have a service-connected disability.
Oregon Veteran Recognition License Plate: Honorably discharged Veterans are eligible for the 
Oregon Veteran license plate. Branch of service insignia or service related decals are available for this license plate.
Veterans must complete an Oregon Department of Transportation, Veteran Plate Certification and provide a copy of their DD214 or DD215. Veterans may need to provide additional documentation to confirm their eligibility for a selected decal. Please refer to page two of the application for a complete list of acceptable documentation
Oregon Gold Star Family License Plate : Immediate family members of a 
service member who was killed in action during armed conflict while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for the Oregon Gold Star family license plate.
Who is eligible for the Oregon Gold Star Family License Plate? To be eligible an applicant must be the parent, sibling, Surviving spouse, or dependent of a service member who was killed in action during armed conflict while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Applicants must complete the Oregon Department of Transportation, Gold Star Family Certification to certify eligibility.
Learn more about Oregon Military and Veteran License Plates
What are my Oregon Military and Veterans Health and Insurance Benefits?
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance:The VA provides valuable life insurance benefits to Veterans, active and reserve component service members and their Families to provide financial security given the extraordinary risks involved in military Service. The VA provides the following life insurance benefit programs:
- 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
This plan provides comprehensive health care coverage when a service member is not on active duty and covered by active duty TRICARE benefits.
Learn more about TRICARE Reserve Select Health Insurance
What are my Oregon Military and Veterans Parks and Recreation Benefits?
Free Oregon Hunting, Angling and Shellfish License for Disabled Veterans: Oregon resident disabled Veterans are eligible for a free combination license that includes hunting, fishing and shellfish 
licenses, and an elk tag for the reduced price of $25. This license must be renewed every year.
Who is eligible for Free Oregon Hunting, Angling and Shellfish License for Disabled Veterans? Disabled Veterans who have been an Oregon resident for at least six months prior to application and have a disability rating of 25% or more are eligible. When applying Veterans must submit a completed application and a letter from the VA or their branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, showing an overall disability rating of at least 25%. Veterans may apply by mail, fax, or in person.
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
4034 Fairview Industrial Drive SE
Salem, OR 97302
Phone: 503-947-6101
Fax: 503-947-6117
Learn more about the Free Oregon Hunting, Angling and Shellfish License for Disabled Veterans
Oregon Disabilities Hunting and Fishing Permit:The Oregon Disabilities Hunting and Fishing Permit is not a license or tag but offers additional privileges to accommodate an individual’s disabilities. This permit is valid for five years.
Oregon Disabilities Hunting and Fishing Permit offers the following privileges:
- Fish with the assistance of another person
- Fish from an anchored craft in waters where fishing from a floating device is prohibited
- Fish using an electric powered reel, rod must be kept in a rod holder when fishing and landing fish
- Fish during open fishing seasons from the Nehalem Hatchery Barrier Free Fishing Platform on the North Fork Nehalem River
- Clam dig with the assistance of another person
- Hunt from a parked motor propelled vehicle (except on public roads)
- Hunt with the assistance of another person
Who is eligible for the Oregon Disabilities Hunting and Fishing Permit? Oregon resident disabled Veterans who have a 65% or more disability rating are eligible. Veterans must provide a letter from the VA or their branch of the U.S. Armed Forces as proof of their disability percentage. Applicants should submit their completed application and disability letter to:
ODFW – License Services
4034 Fairview Industrial Drive SE
Salem, OR 97302
Phone: 503-947-6101
Fax: 503-947-6117
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Disabilities Hunting and Fishing Permit Application
Learn more about the Oregon Disabilities Hunting and Fishing Permit
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) Service Member and Veteran Benefits: Oregon offers several benefits for service members serving in the U.S. Armed Forces 
and Veterans:
Veterans and Service Members Waterfowl Hunt:Only Veterans and service members serving in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces on federal active duty (other than for training) can hunt waterfowl on a day designated each year. Hunters must have proof with them when hunting that they are a Veteran or an active duty service member and must have all usual licenses and validations. For more information, please call 503-947-6101.
Reduced Price Hunting Licenses for Resident Service Members: Oregon resident service members can purchase big game and game bird hunting licenses for $17 and may purchase a general season tag after the deadline without a late fee.
Nonresident Service Members Can Purchase Resident Licenses: Nonresident service members assigned to a duty station in Oregon can purchase Oregon hunting, fishing, or shellfish licenses for resident prices.
Controlled Deer, Elk and Bear Tags for Service Members on Leave in Oregon: Oregon resident service members who are stationed outside Oregon and home on leave are eligible for controlled deer, elk and bear tags.
To purchase a tag, service members must provide the following information to the local ODFW District office responsible for issuing the tag:
- Copy of active duty military ID
- Copy of current leave papers
- Valid Oregon resident hunting license
Tags are issued on a first come, first served basis. Please note, Districts can only issue tags for controlled hunts in their area. Service members should contact the office of the district they are interested in hunting to determine if tags are available.
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Directory
Learn more about Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Service Member and Veteran Benefits
Oregon Parks and Recreation Special Access Pass for Veterans with Disabilities and Refunds for Active Duty Service Members on Leave: The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) 
offers free camping RV sites, tent campsites, standard horse campsites and free parking at day-use fee parks. Free camping is for up to 10 nights at a single state park, or 10 nights in a 30 day period regardless of the location. This benefit does not include yurts, cabins, special park facilities, or fees for a second driven vehicle.
Eligible disabled Veterans can apply for a Special Access Pass that is valid for 10 years to receive their discount at the point of purchase. Eligible service members on leave must apply for a refund.
Who is eligible for the Oregon Parks and Recreation Special Access Pass for Veterans with Disabilities and Refunds for Active Duty Service Members on Leave? Veterans who have a service-connected disability and active duty service members on leave are eligible.
Veterans with a service-connected disability can apply online at the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, Online Access Pass Request Form and attach a copy of their VA Benefits Summary Letter to the online form.
Active duty service members on leave are required to pay up front and then request to be reimbursed within 30 days of their stay. Service members must mail their refund request to:
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department
ATTN: Veterans Pass Program
725 Summer Street NE, Suite C
Salem, OR 97301
All refund requests must include a receipt for the dates of stay, and a letter from the service member’s commanding officer, on official letterhead, stating the service member was on leave when they were camping. For more information, please call 800-551-6949 or email special.access@oregon.gov.
What are my Oregon Military and Veterans Miscellaneous Benefits?
Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA), Home Loan Program: The ODVA offers eligible Oregon Veterans fixed-rate financingfor an owner-occupied, single family residence. Financing is available up to the Fannie Mae limit. Veterans can use ODVA Home Loan Program for a maximum of up to four home loans in their lifetime.
Who is eligible for the ODVA, Home Loan Program? Veterans must have received an honorable discharge from active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces and meet one of the following requirements to be eligible:
- Served more than 90 consecutive days beginning on or before January 31, 1955, or
- Served more than 178 consecutive days, or less than 178 days and has a service-connected disability rating from the VA, or
- Served at least one day in a combat zone, or
- Received a combat or campaign ribbon or an expeditionary medal for service in the U.S. Armed Forces, or
- Receives a non-service-connected disability pension from the VA
ODVA Home Loan Program Eligibility
To determine eligibility Veterans must submit a completed ODVA, Veterans' Home Loan Eligibility Form. Completed forms and documentation of receiving an honorable discharge can be mailed, faxed or uploaded through the ODVA Secure Upload link.
Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs
700 Summer Street NE
Salem, OR 97301
Fax: 503-373-2393
For more information, please call 888-673-8387 or 503-373-2051.
ODVA Home Loan Program Frequently Asked Questions
ODVA Home Loan Program Contact Page
Learn more about the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs, Home Loan Program
Oregon Veterans' Emergency Financial Assistance Program (OVEFAP): The OVEAP provides emergency financial assistance to Veterans and their family. Assistance is granted one time only and award amounts vary. Applicants must demonstrate they can continue to pay for basic living expenses after the emergency is resolved. All payments will be sent directly to creditors.
Emergency financial assistance includes, but is not limited to:
- Emergency or temporary housing and related housing expenses, such as expenses for utilities, insurance, house repairs
- Mortgage or rent assistance
- Emergency medical or dental expenses
- Emergency transportation expenses
Who is eligible for OVEFAP?Oregon resident Veterans discharged under honorable conditions, and their unremarried Surviving spouse, dependent child or stepchild who have an immediate financial need are eligible.
The application and required documentation (listed on the application) can be submitted through a local County or Tribal Veteran Service Officer, by mail, email or by Fax.
Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs
Statewide Veteran Services/OVEFAP
700 Summer Street NE
Salem, OR 97301
Fax: 503-373-2393
Email: ORVets.BENEFITS@odva.oregon.gov
For more information, please contact the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs at 503-373-2085.
OVEFAP Application
Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Veteran Service Officer Directory
Learn more about the Oregon Veterans' Emergency Financial Assistance Program
Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) Conservatorship Services: The ODVA Conservatorship Program authorizes the appointing of a conservator for a protected person:
- Veteran
- Surviving spouse
- Immediate family members
- Minor children
- Helpless adult children
- Dependent parents
A conservator assumes all responsibility for the financial affairs of the protected person's estate and manages their financial affairs by establishing a personal budget that pays for care, personal needs, dependent support, property maintenance, etc. A conservator applies for all benefits the protected person may be eligible for and invests or otherwise conserves unused funds.
ODVA conservators are experts in VA law and regulation and work closely with family members when planning for the welfare and best interest of the Veteran, their spouse or dependent.
For more information, please contact the ODVA by calling 503-373-2085, 800-692-9666, or 503-373-2217 for the hearing impaired.
Learn more about the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs Conservatorship Services
Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA), Representative Payee Services for Veterans: The ODVA offers Representative Payee Services for Veterans and their dependents that can act in a limited capacity to pay bills on behalf of their clients. This usually involves paying for housing, utilities, required care expenses and providing allowances for food, transportation, clothing, medications and other expenses.
ODVA Representative Payee Services adhere to the guidelines provided by the VA, the Social Security Administration and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Payee duties also may include monitoring personal accounts for resource limitations, providing financial reports and advocating for beneficiaries to maintain, protect and investigate benefits that may be available to them.
In addition, they will work one-on-one with beneficiaries to:
- Assess monthly income and expenses
- Establish a monthly budget
- Establish debt payment plans
- Provide personal expense money
- Help prioritize needs vs. wants
- Establish financial goals for savings
For more information, please contact the ODVA by calling 503-373-2085, 800-692-9666, or 503-373-2217 for the hearing impaired.
Oregon Veterans’ Homes: Oregon has two nursing care facilities that provide care for Oregon Veterans, their spouse or Surviving spouse and the parents of service members who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Each of the homes provide long term-care, Alzheimer's/dementia-related care, inpatient, and outpatient rehabilitative care.
Oregon Veterans’ Home Locations:
The Dalles Veterans' Home - 151 bed facility
700 Veterans Drive
The Dalles, OR 97058
Phone: 541-296-7190 ext. 52330
Edward C. Allworth Veterans’ Home - 168 bed facility
600 North 5thStreet
Lebanon, OR 97355
Phone: 541-570-7477
Who is eligible for care at an Oregon Veterans’ Home? To be eligible for admission at an Oregon Veterans’ Home applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Veteran who served in the U.S. Armed Forces and was discharged under honorable conditions as defined in 38 U.S. Code 101, Definitions
- Spouse, or Surviving spouse of an eligible Veteran
- Gold Star Parent (parent of a service member who died during wartime service)
An applicant must also:
- Be able to pay the residents' portion of the cost of care, if any
- Require skilled or intermediate nursing home care as determined by a physician and the VA
- Does not require medical care the Veterans’ Home cannot provide
- Does not have violent traits that may be dangerous to the resident or others
Oregon Veterans' Homes Application Packet
Learn more about the Oregon Veterans' Homes
Oregon Military Funeral Honors Program: The Oregon's Military Funeral Honors Program helps to schedule and coordinate military funeral honors for deceased active duty service members and Veterans.
These ceremonies are provided free of charge and include, at a minimum, the presence of no less than two uniformed service members, playing of Taps and the folding and presentation of the U.S. Flag.
Who is eligible for the Oregon Military Funeral Honors Program? Military Funeral Honors are provided for deceased service members who were serving in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces, retired service members and Veterans. Family members can request Military Funeral Honors through their funeral director, who will then contact the appropriate military service to arrange for the funeral honors detail.
Learn more about the Oregon Military Funeral Honors Program
Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) Special Advocacy: To better support minority Veteran populations, the ODVA has appointed specialized coordinators to address their specific needs and concerns. Each minority group has its own webpage with information and links to resources.
ODVA Veteran minority population resources webpages:
- Aging Veterans Resources
- Student Veteran Resources
- Homeless Veterans Resources
- Women Veterans Resources
- LGBTQ+ Veterans Resources
- Tribal Veterans Resources
- Justice-Involved Veterans Resources
For more information, please call the ODVA at 800-692-9666 or 503-373-2085.
Learn more about Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs Special Advocacy
Oregon Veterans Day Off for Veterans: Oregon Law requires employers to offer Veteran employees paid or unpaid time off on November 11 each year in recognition of their service.
Employees must give notice and proof-of-service documentation (such as a DD214), to their employer at least 21 days prior to Veterans Day. Employers must respond to requests at least 14 days prior to the holiday. Time off may be paid or unpaid at the discretion of the employer.
Employers may deny a Veteran’s request only if they can demonstrate that granting it would cause a significant economic, or operational disruption, or an undue hardship to the company. In those circumstances, the employer must allow the Veteran a single day off before the following Veterans Day. That day off must be in addition to any other time off the employee would otherwise be eligible for.
Learn more about the Oregon Veterans Day Off for Veteran
Oregon Veteran Transportation Services: Many Oregon counties offer transportation services for Veterans. Please visit the Learn more… link below for contact information for counties and regions that offer transportation services.
Learn more about Oregon Veteran Transportation Services
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Oregon
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Oregon: 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 Oregon
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Oregon:The VA National Cemetery Administration maintains four national cemeteries in Oregon. Please see the local location listing for the nearest cemetery.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Oregon
Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA)
700 Summer St NE
Salem, OR 97301-1285
Phone: 800-692-9666 or 503-373-2085
Email: orvetsbenefits@odva.state.or.us
ODVA Directory
Learn more about the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs
Military Installations in Oregon
Please see the Oregon Military Resource Locator for additional information
National Guard 
Oregon Air National Guard
173rd Fighter Wing
142nd Wing
U.S. Army Reserve (USAR)
63 rd Readiness Division
Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Facility Directory Oregon
Oregon Vehicle License Plate Manual
Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services, License Plates
U.S. Department of Labor, Veterans' Employment and Career Transition Advisor
Oregon Employment Department, Veterans Services
U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Veterans' Preference
Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission, Oregon
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Service Organization Directory