Alaska Loves Military Veterans
With Veterans Day happening in November on the 11th, we have military on our hearts and minds. This has been a crazy year, and we take every opportunity to think about and meditate on the positive things around us.
Alaska is a beautiful state that also has the highest percentage of Veterans in the U.S. We have around 70,000 veterans residing here in Alaska and they occupy about 40,000 of our Alaskan homes. 69.5% of own their own homes with a median home value of $250,000. Alaska supports our veterans and provides an affordable place for them to live.
Here are some reasons why Alaska is great for military veterans:
Education is accessible:
Alaska provides resident tuition to any active duty and National Guard as well as their spouses and dependent children. If a Veteran is eligible for VA education benefits this also extends to their spouse and dependent children, so that they can have resident tuition. Alaska National Guard Tuition can also be reimbursed 100% for active members. Alaska also provides a tuition waiver to spouses and dependents that lost their family member in the line of duty or as a result of injuries sustained.
Taxes are low:
There is no personal income tax in Alaska which makes it more affordable. There is also a Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans. One positive thing about this exemption is that it can be transferred to a spouse if the veteran passes away and the spouse is at least 60 years old. Alaska truly looks out for veterans and their families.
Reduced Assisted Housing:
In Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Ketchikan, Palmer and Sitka Veterans and Pioneers Home provides a per diem from VA to those who qualify that helps them offset the cost of care. Providing a safe affordable place for them to live.
Career Opportunities:
Veterans receive extra preference when applying for Alaskan State jobs with slightly more preference given to disabled veterans. Careers can also be found searching Workplace Alaska and using Veterans Services. Alaska makes sure qualified veterans have the best chance of finding work to support their family.
Family Assistance:
Veterans are given preference and exclusive opportunities to purchase land before the general public. They are also given discounts off the purchase price of state residential land. Families are provided with homelessness, and at-risk support services, as well as family, heating and utility assistance centers. They are also provided aid to help with end of life benefits as well as simplifying and assisting with the process for families.
Leisure and Entertainment:
We know that Alaska has a beautiful backyard for us all to explore. It’s truly one of the most beautiful states. There are many activities that veterans and their families can participate in together. If you’re disabled, you can receive a complimentary hunting and fishing license. It’s your turn to relax after your dedicated service.
Alaska provides many benefits to its veterans and their families and welcomes them with open arms. We are proud that we are able to give back to them for their service and provide them with a safe and beautiful place to live.
