Alabama is known as the heart of Dixie, and it might be for you, if you're an entrepreneur. It has the second highest number of veteran-owned businesses of any state, according to WalletHub. It also ranks No. 1 for Economic Environment.
Taxes- All military retirement pay is tax exempt.
- Disabled Alabama residents may be exempt from property taxes on their home and up to 160 acres of land if they are over 65 years old and have a net annual income of $12,000 or less.
- Vets who’ve used the VA’s Specially Adapted Housing Grant to purchase a house, as long as the owner also occupies the place, no taxes are paid.
- No taxes on vehicles bought by disabled vets using the VA’s motor vehicle grant.
Education
- Purple Heart recipients can get free education at Alabama two-year or four-year technical colleges, community colleges or junior colleges. Check with the school to confirm they participate in the program first.
- GI Dependents Scholarship Program waives up to $250 for each semester hour and up to $1k for books at the same types of schools.
- Service-connected disability allows for educational benefits for family members as well. Details on the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs website.
Benefits
- Interested in working for the state government? An honorable discharge from service gives you an extra five points added to any state employment exam. If you have a service-connected disability, you get another 10 points. Spouses of some disabled or deceased vets get 10 points added for their examinations as well. Vets also get preference over non-vets with the same ratings on classified service employment registers.
Career
- Veterans of war with 25% disability (service related or not) are eligible for exemption from business or occupational licensing taxes.
- Career counseling: Alabama Career Center provides career counseling, resume assistance, direct job placement, classroom and on-the-job training and information about local and national labor markets and unemployment compensation.
Veterans Homes
- There are four state run veterans’ homes in Alabama. Requirements include an honorable discharge and a least one day of wartime service to qualify to live there. There is a monthly fee as well.
Cemetaries
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