As an Oklahoma veteran, you served your country with honor and distinction. Now it’s time for the country to serve you. The Sooner State offers a wide array of benefits to veterans, from education assistance to property tax exemptions. Navigating the application process for these benefits could seem daunting, but with good information and guidance, you can access the support that you’ve earned.
This blog post guides you along the process of receiving your Oklahoma veteran benefits, ensuring you don’t miss out on these resources. Let’s explore how to make the most of your Oklahoma veteran status.
Veterans Administration Aid And Attendance Pension program
The Veterans Administration Aid and Attendance Pension program is a valuable benefit for eligible Oklahoma resident veterans and their surviving spouses.
This program provides additional financial support to help cover the costs of long-term care for those requiring assistance with their daily living activities. To qualify, here are the criteria you must meet:
Wartime veterans such as (i.e. previous army or National Guard service members) or surviving spouses of wartime veterans qualify.
Require assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs)
VA Benefits
VA’s Aid and Attendance Pension could significantly enhance your life by providing:
Monthly tax-free payments to supplement your income (or disability compensation if applicable)
Funds to cover in-home care assisted living, or nursing home expenses
Application Process
Applying for the Aid and Attendance Pension involves several steps:
Gather documentation such as military records & medical assessments
Submit VA Form 21-527EZ (for veterans) or VA Form 21-534EZ (for spouses)
Remember, the application process can be complex, so don’t hesitate to seek assistance from a Veterans Service officer or an accredited representative to help.
Employment assistance
As an Oklahoma veteran, you have access to valuable employment resources designed to help you transition into civilian life and find meaningful work. This state offers a range of services.
Work support
The Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC) provides specialized assistance for previous Active Duty Service Members seeking employment. You can access job listings, resume help, and interview preparation services tailored to your unique skills and experiences. Additionally, the OESC offers priority of service to veterans, ensuring that you’re going to receive prompt attention and support.
Skills translation
One of the challenges veterans face is translating military skills into civilian work. Oklahoma’s veteran employment programs offer guidance on communicating your military experience to employers.
Training
If you’re trying to enhance your skillset or pursue a new career path, Oklahoma provides various training or education opportunities for veterans. Such as vocational training programs, apprenticeships, and educational benefits to help you acquire new certifications that align with in-demand industries in the state.
Remember, these employment services are designed to honor your service and support your successful transition into the civilian workforce. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of these resources.
Tuition assistance
As an Oklahoma veteran, you have access to valuable tuition assistance programs that significantly reduce the cost of your education. The benefits are designed to support your academic pursuits.
State Tuition Waiver Program
The Oklahoma State Tuition Waiver Program is a benefit for eligible veterans seeking higher education. This program waives tuition costs at state-supported colleges and universities. To qualify:
Have served in the Armed Forces
Have been discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable
Additional Support
Beyond just tuition waivers, Oklahoma offers supplementary educational benefits:
The Oklahoma GI Bill: This provides financial help for expenses not covered by federal benefits.
Yellow Ribbon: Participating private institutions offer tuition discounts, which the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) matches, potentially fully covering out-of-pocket tuition and fees.
Application Process
To apply:
Contact your chosen school’s Veterans Services Office
Provide proof of previous active military service (DD-214 form)
Complete the Free Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Application
Submit additional required documentation specific to your chosen program
Remember, these benefits could be combined with federal education benefits like the Post-9/11 GI Bill for comprehensive financial support during your academic journey.
Hunting & fishing privileges
As an Oklahoma veteran, you also have access to exclusive hunting and fishing privileges that allow you to enjoy the state’s abundant natural resources. These benefits are designed to honor your service.
Reduced-cost licenses
You may be eligible for reduced-cost hunting and fishing licenses, depending on your service record and your service-connected disability status. These discounted licenses can significantly lower the cost of your favorite outdoor activities which makes it easier to enjoy the diverse wildlife and waterways in Oklahoma.
Special seasons
Veterans often have access to special hunting seasons, giving you opportunities to pursue games before or after the regular seasons. These exclusive periods provide a less crowded hunting experience.
Accessible facilities
Many state parks and wildlife management areas offer accessible facilities for disabled veterans, ensuring that everyone can enjoy outdoor activities regardless of physical limitations. By utilizing these hunting and fishing privileges, make the most of Oklahoma’s nature while honoring your service to the nation.
Special Vehicle License Plates
As an Oklahoma veteran, you also have the privilege of displaying your service using special vehicle license plates. These plates not only honor your military contributions but also offer practical benefits.
Types of Available Plates
The Oklahoma Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offers a good variety of special plates for veterans. Such as:
Combat Veteran military plates
Purple Heart recipient plates
Disabled Veteran military plates
Gold Star Family plates
Each plate type has specific eligibility requirements based on your service record or military honors.
Application Process
To obtain your special veteran license plate:
Visit your local Oklahoma Tax Commission office or tag agency
Provide proof of veteran status (DD-214 or equivalent documentation)
Complete the appropriate application form
Pay any required fees (some plates may have reduced or waived fees for veterans)
Benefits of Special Plates
Besides showcasing your service, these plates offer advantages such as:
Easier identification for veteran-specific parking spaces
Potential discounts at participating businesses
Remember, your special plate is more than just a decoration—it’s a testament to your service.
Trying to Receive Veteran Benefits? Receive a Free Phone as Well!
If you’re a veteran trying to access your benefits, we have some great news. Did you know that you could also qualify for a free phone? That’s right, and it’s thanks to EASY Wireless and Lifeline!
How The Program Works
When you qualify for the Federal Government’s Lifeline Assistance Program on tribal lands with providers such as EASY Wireless, you receive the following connectivity benefits:
EASY Wireless Phone Offer:
FREE Smartphone
6 GB High-Speed Data
FREE Unlimited Talk
FREE Unlimited Text
FREE SIM Card Kit and Activation
Choose to Keep Your Number or Get a New One
Applying With EASY Wireless
The easiest way to start with EASY Wireless is to apply online by clicking below:
Start Saving Today!
Find Your Nearest EASY Wireless Store
Another way is to come to one of EASY Wireless’s retail stores, where its customer service support team helps you apply for the benefits.
Either way, the first step is to provide proof of identity with a government-issued ID. This is so you can confirm your participation in one of the qualifying programs or that you meet the income requirement.
