Texas residents who have served in the U.S. military have a number of resources available to assist them in many areas of life. These resources are all provided by the state. Military.com lists many of the most important benefits in brief detail. Veteran Energy recommends all Texas veterans become familiar with them.
Texas Veteran Housing Programs
The Texas Veterans Land Board Programs (VLB) are administered by the Texas General Land Office. There are three programs: the Land Loan Program, Veterans Housing Assistance Purchase Program and the Veterans Home Improvement Load Program. Each offers low-interest lending to Texas resident veterans.
Texas Veterans Homes are eight homes located in Amarillo, Big Spring, Bonham, El Paso, Floresville, McAllen, Temple and Tyler. The homes are maintained by the state and offer housing to veterans, their spouses and unmarried surviving spouses. The cost of housing is based on income.
Texas Financial Assistance Programs
Property tax exemptions are available to disabled veterans who meet certain requirements. The exemptions are mandatory and apply to all taxing authorities in Texas.
Texas State Veteran Education Benefits
The Hazlewood Act provides tuition exemption to qualifying veterans, their spouses and dependent children. There is up to 150 hours of tuition exemption, including most fee changes, at public institutions of higher education in Texas. Expenses, books and other supplies are not included. Qualifications apply.
The National Guard Tuition Assistance program provides support for active drilling members of the Texas Army National Guard, Texas Air National Guard and Texas State Guard. Eligibility requirements apply.
Texas Veteran Employment Programs
Wartime veterans have preference in employment with State agencies or offices, as do widows and children of those killed on active duty. In addition, a veteran is entitled to reemployment rights with his last employer when released from the Armed Forces, provided the absence was not longer than four years.
Military.com recommends visiting the Texas Veterans Commission website for more information on these and other benefits programs.
