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New Mexico — Veteran Benefits

Complete reference covering 58 benefit categories across 14 service tiers. Verify current eligibility with your County VSO before filing.

At a Glance — What Unlocks by Status / Rating

Veteran benefits unlocked at each service status and disability rating in New Mexico
Status / Rating Headline Benefits Unlocked
Active Duty Full NM income tax exemption on active-duty pay (NMSA § 7-2-5.11); $10 combo hunting/fishing license; 50% off all resident hunting/fishing licenses; free museums/parks on Veterans Day; CDL skills-test waiver (Heroes to Highways); CCW fee + training waiver; in-state tuition (GI Bill); transit free on multiple systems
Guard / Reserve State tuition assistance (up to $8,000/yr Air Guard, $4,000/yr Army Guard); in-state tuition for member, spouse, and dependents; property tax exemption if qualifying; 50% off hunting/fishing licenses (resident honorably discharged); CCW fee waiver; Veterans Day parks/museums free
Military Retiree Up to $30,000 military retirement pay exempt from NM income tax per year (NMSA § 7-2-5.13; no sunset); full exemption for disability retirement pay; $10,000 property tax reduction on primary residence; 50% discount on all hunting/fishing licenses
Veteran (honorable, no rating) $10,000 property tax reduction (HB 47, 2025); 50% off all hunting/fishing licenses; free Lifetime Veteran State Parks Pass (HB 161, 2025); free museums/parks on Veterans Day; CDL waiver (12-month window); CCW fee + training waiver (20-year honorable-discharge window); in-state tuition; Vietnam/Wartime scholarship if combat service; veteran DL designation free; hiring preference (+5 pts); professional license fee waiver + 30-day expedited processing
0% SC Same as veteran (no rating); no additional rating-based property tax benefits
10–20% SC $10 combo hunting/fishing license; proportional property tax exemption (rating % x assessed market value exempt); 2/3 registration rate if insufficient real property; all Tier 4 benefits
30–40% SC Proportional property tax exemption (30–40% of assessed value); $10 combo hunting/fishing; all prior tiers
50–60% SC Free DV plates for up to 2 vehicles (no registration fees); free DCA State Monuments and Museums Pass (50%+ SC); WSMR Oryx special-draw eligibility; proportional property tax (50–60% of assessed value); all prior tiers
70–90% SC Proportional property tax exemption (70–90% of assessed value); all Tier 8 benefits
100% Schedular Full property tax exemption; free lifetime hunting + fishing + deer license (no habitat stamp for small game/fish/deer); hiring preference (+10 pts SC disabled); all prior tiers
TDIU Treated as 100% for most state property tax purposes — full exemption likely; NMSA § 7-37-5 uses "100% service-connected" language, so confirm TDIU treatment with your county assessor before filing; all hunting/fishing benefits same as 100%
P&T Full property tax exemption transferable to unremarried surviving spouse on death; all Tier 10 benefits
SMC (Housebound/A&A) Same as P&T for state benefit purposes; federal SMC paid on top; no separate state SMC layer
Surviving spouse / dependents Unremarried surviving spouse: $10,000 property tax reduction; full waiver if veteran was 100% SC P&T at death; Children of Deceased Veterans Scholarship (ages 16–26); Gold Star family plates; SBP income up to $30,000 exempt from NM income tax

Taxes

1. Property Tax — Primary Residence

| Tier | Exemption | Notes | |---|---|---| | Honorably discharged veteran, NM resident, principal residence | $10,000 reduction in taxable value | Effective 2026 tax year per HB 47 (2025); adjusts annually for inflation starting 2027 | | SC disabled veteran, any rating below 100%, principal residence | Proportional: disability rating % × assessed market value exempt (e.g., 70% rating = 70% of value exempt) | NMSA § 7-37-5 as amended by HB 47; voter-approved constitutional amendment Nov 2024; effective 2026 tax year | | SC 100% disabled veteran (or TDIU treated as 100%), principal residence | Full exemption — $0 property tax | NMSA § 7-37-5; TDIU treatment mirrors 100% SC for most purposes — confirm with your county assessor before filing | | Unremarried surviving spouse of eligible veteran | Same $10,000 reduction as the veteran; if veteran was 100% SC P&T at death, full waiver continues while spouse remains unmarried and occupies the home | NMSA § 7-37-5 |
Verify locally: , 70% rating = 70% of value exempt) | NMSA § 7-37-5 as amended by HB 47; voter-approved constitutional amendment Nov 2024; effective 2026 tax year | | SC 100% disabled veteran (or TDIU treated as 100%), principal residence | Full exemption — $0 property tax | NMSA § 7-37-5; TDIU treatment mirrors 100% SC for most purposes — confirm with your county assessor before filing | | Unremarried surviving spouse of eligible veteran | Same $10,000 reduction as the veteran; if veteran was 100% SC P&T at death, full waiver continues while spouse remains unmarried and occupies the home | NMSA § 7-37-5 | **Income limit:** None.

Authority: NMSA § 7-37-5; HB 47 (2025 Regular Session).

2. Property Tax — Vehicle / Personal Property

Veterans who qualify for the standard property tax exemption but lack sufficient real property to claim the full benefit. **Benefit:** Motor vehicle registration fees assessed at **two-thirds (2/3) the standard rate** on vehicles the veteran owns. **Statute:** NMSA § 7-37-5 (alternative vehicle fee provision). **Action:** Present property tax exemption documentation at the NM Motor Vehicle Division (MVD).

3. Vehicle Sales / Use Tax

NM resident who served in the Armed Forces and suffered, from service or a service-connected cause, the **loss or complete loss of use of one or both legs at or above the ankle, OR one or both arms at or above the wrist**. Exemption covers one vehicle. **Benefit:** Full exemption from Motor Vehicle Excise Tax (MVET) on purchase of one vehicle. **Note:** Narrower than the DV plate threshold — requires specific limb loss/loss-of-use, not simply any SC disability rating. **Action:** Provide DD-214 + medical certification confirming qualifying loss-of-use at MVD. **Statute:** NMSA § 7-14-6.
Verify locally: **Action:** Provide DD-214 + medical certification confirming qualifying loss-of-use at MVD.

4. State Income Tax — Active Duty Military Pay

All NM resident service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces. **Benefit:** Full exemption — active-duty military pay (basic pay, hazardous duty pay, family separation allowances) is entirely excluded from NM personal income tax. No dollar cap. **Action:** File NM PIT-1; active-duty pay is not reported as NM income. Use Schedule PIT-ADJ. **Statute:** NMSA § 7-2-5.11.

5. State Income Tax — Military Retirement Pay

Honorably discharged veterans and military retirees who are NM residents. **Benefit:** - **Current law (TY 2025 and ongoing):** Up to **$30,000** per year excluded from NM taxable income. The 2024 legislature removed the prior sunset date, so the $30,000 cap continues indefinitely until amended. - **Disability retirement pay:** Fully exempt with no dollar cap (separate from the $30,000 limit). - **2026 legislation:** SB 116 and HB 221 (2026 session) both proposed a full exemption for all uniformed-services retirement pay effective TY 2027; neither was signed by Governor Lujan Grisham during the 2026 session per the Governor's signed-legislation record. The $30,000 cap remains in effect. Confirm with NM Taxation and Revenue at tax.newmexico.gov if a future session enacts a change. **Action:** Claim on NM PIT-1 Schedule PIT-ADJ line for military retirement pay. **Statute:** NMSA § 7-2-5.13.
Verify locally: Confirm with NM Taxation and Revenue at tax.

6. State Income Tax — SBP Annuity

Surviving spouses of uniformed services retirees. **Benefit:** Up to **$30,000** of SBP/RCSBP payments exempt from NM income tax per year (same cap as military retirement pay under NMSA § 7-2-5.13, as amended to include surviving spouses; no sunset). **2026 legislation:** SB 116 / HB 221 (2026 session) would have provided a full exemption for SBP income; neither was signed into law during the 2026 session. The $30,000 cap remains. Confirm any future change with NM Taxation and Revenue at tax.newmexico.gov. **Action:** Claim on PIT-1 Schedule PIT-ADJ (same deduction line as military retirement pay). **Statute:** NMSA § 7-2-5.13.
Verify locally: Confirm any future change with NM Taxation and Revenue at tax.

7. State Income Tax — General

- **VA Disability Compensation:** Fully exempt from NM state income tax (federal law; NM conforms). - **DIC (Dependency and Indemnity Compensation):** Tax-free at state level. - **Social Security Inco

8. Sales Tax Exemption

New Mexico does not have a traditional retail sales tax. The state uses a Gross Receipts Tax levied on businesses. No veteran-specific consumer-facing sales tax exemption card program exists.

9. Other State Tax Breaks

**Business Tax Credit for Hiring Veterans:** NM businesses may claim a state income tax credit of **$1,000 per qualifying veteran hired** (hired within 2 years of honorable discharge, minimum 40 hrs/week). Individual income tax credit: NMSA § 7-2-18.28. Corporate income tax credit: NMSA § 7-2A-27. Unused credit may be carried forward 3 years. (Source: dws.nm.gov/Veterans/Vet-Information/Veteran-Employment-Tax-Credit)

Vehicle, Travel & ID

10. Vehicle Registration Fee

**Authority:** NMSA § 7-37-5 (2/3 rate); MVD plate laws for DV/PH/MOH/ExPOW/Guard plates. **Action:** Apply through NM MVD with appropriate documentation (VA letter showing rating, DD-214, medal certification as applicable).

Authority: NMSA § 7-37-5 (2/3 rate); MVD plate laws for DV/PH/MOH/ExPOW/Guard plates.

11. Disabled Veteran License Plates

Veterans with a **service-connected disability rating of 50% or higher** (NM uses 50%, below the national norm of 100%). **Benefit:** Up to **2 vehicles** (including motorcycles) receive free DV license plates and zero registration fees. Optional wheelchair symbol available. **Fee:** $0 — plate and registration waived. **Application:** Form MVD10353 (Application for Military Service Special Plate) + VA award letter showing 50%+ rating. **Statute:** NMSA § 66-3-5 et seq.; MVD Military and Veterans page at mvd.newmexico.gov.

12. Other Veteran / Military Specialty Plates

26 veteran/service designation decals available on Armed Forces Veterans plates (Vietnam Veteran, Purple Heart, Combat Wounded, Bronze Star, Silver Star, etc.). **Application:** MVD Form MVD10353; nmdvs.org for Gold Star Family documentation (Form MVD10100).

13. Toll Road / Bridge Exemption

New Mexico has no statewide tolled highways. No veteran toll exemption program is needed or exists.

14. Public Transit Discount

Multiple free transit programs statewide — no single state mandate, but effective free access across all major systems:

15. Disabled Parking Privileges

Veterans with mobility-impairing service-connected disabilities may qualify for a standard NM disabled parking placard through the MVD. A separate medical certification from a licensed physician is required (Form MVD10383) — DV plates alone do not automatically convey the placard. **Fee:** Standard placard fee applies; no veteran-specific fee waiver for the placard was found. DV plate holders (50%+ SC) receive free handicapped license plates separately from the placard. Confirm current placard fee with NM MVD at mvd.newmexico.gov or any MVD office. **DV plate note:** DV plates with the optional wheelchair symbol serve as a visible indicator, but the legal parking privilege derives from the underlying disability certification on the placard.
Verify locally: Confirm current placard fee with NM MVD at mvd.

16. Driver License / State ID Fee

**Veteran Designation:** Free to add at license issuance or renewal (no additional fee). At mid-cycle replacement, the standard replacement fee applies ($5–$18 depending on credential type). **Documents needed at first application:** DD-214 or Veteran's Card. Not required at subsequent renewals. **Authority:** mvd.newmexico.gov/nm-drivers-licenses-ids/veteran-designation/ **Note:** No general fee waiver for the driver's license itself — only the veteran designation is free.

Authority: mvd.newmexico.gov/nm-drivers-licenses-ids/veteran-designation/

17. CDL Fee / Skills-Test Waiver

Active-duty service members and those **discharged within the last 12 months** applying for an initial CDL. **Options:** 1. **Even Exchange:** Knowledge tests + skills tests fully waived for qualifying MOS/AFSC equivalents; may include endorsement waivers. 2. **Skills Test Waiver:** CDL skills test waived; knowledge test still required. **Note:** The 12-month discharge window applies to skills/knowledge test waivers. CDL applicants are required to pay the standard CDL fee regardless of veteran status — no fee waiver was found. Confirm any changes with NM MVD at NMCDL.HelpDesk@state.nm.us or 505-827-1036. **Contact:** NMCDL.HelpDesk@state.nm.us or mvd.newmexico.gov/nm-drivers-licenses-ids/heroes-to-highways/
Verify locally: Confirm any changes with NM MVD at NMCDL.

18. Veteran Designation on DL / ID

Available statewide since November 2012. Free at issuance or renewal; standard replacement cost if added mid-cycle. Requires DD-214 or Veteran's Card at first application only. See § 16 for full details.

Outdoor Recreation

19. Hunting License

**50% discount exclusions:** Application fees, vendor fees, administrative fees, duplicate license fees, federal duck stamp, and the $10 disabled veteran combo license. **Application:** NMDGF online, by phone, or at a license vendor with proof of status. For the 100% disabled veteran card: download the application at wildlife.dgf.nm.gov; attach DD-214, VA award letter showing 100%, and proof of NM residency. **Authority:** NMDGF wildlife.dgf.nm.gov; 2025–2026 Military and Veteran Licenses document.

Authority: NMDGF wildlife.dgf.nm.gov; 2025–2026 Military and Veteran Licenses document.

20. Fishing License — Freshwater

**Authority:** NMDGF wildlife.dgf.nm.gov; same as § 19.

Authority: NMDGF wildlife.dgf.nm.gov; same as § 19.

21. Fishing License — Saltwater

New Mexico is landlocked; no saltwater fishing or saltwater fishing license exists.

22. Combination Hunt/Fish License

**Disabled Veteran Combo License:** $10 for SC disabled veterans below 100%. Covers small-game hunting and freshwater fishing. Habitat stamp required in addition for most activities. **100% Disabled:** Free lifetime combo (no habitat stamp for small game, fishing, and deer). Habitat stamp still required for trapping, turkey, and other big game. **Authority:** NMDGF wildlife.dgf.nm.gov.

Authority: NMDGF wildlife.dgf.nm.gov.

23. Trapping License

**50% discount** applies to trapping licenses for resident honorably discharged veterans (same rule as hunting/fishing). **100% disabled veteran Disabled Veteran card holders** must still purchase a trapping license and the required Habitat Stamp. The Disabled Veteran card covers small-game hunting, freshwater fishing, and deer only — trapping is not included. (Source: wildlife.dgf.nm.gov — Age, Disability, Military exceptions page)

24. State Parks — Day Use / Entrance

**Free day use** at all NM State Parks for any NM resident veteran via the Lifetime Veteran Pass (effective July 1, 2025, per HB 161). **Veterans Day:** Free day use and camping for all honorably discharged NM resident veterans plus spouse and children. **Authority:** HB 161 (2025 NM Legislature); EMNRD State Parks Division; emnrd.nm.gov/spd/fees-permits/for-veterans/

Authority: HB 161 (2025 NM Legislature); EMNRD State Parks Division; emnrd.nm.gov/spd/fees-permits/for-veterans/

25. State Parks — Camping

**Lifetime Veteran Pass** covers camping fees (including utility fees) at all NM State Parks for NM resident veterans. **Not covered:** Reservation fees ($3–$10 via ReserveAmerica), group shelters, cabins, yurts, corrals, event spaces, Smokey Bear Historical Park. **Stay limits (universal, all campers):** May 1–Sep 30: max 7 days per 20-day period; Oct 1–Apr 30: max 14 days per 20-day period. **Authority:** HB 161 (2025); emnrd.nm.gov.

Authority: HB 161 (2025); emnrd.nm.gov.

26. State Parks — Annual / Lifetime Pass

NM resident veteran with any discharge other than dishonorable. Out-of-state veterans are not eligible. - **Covers:** Day-use fees, camping fees, utility fees, entry to Living Desert Zoo and State Monuments/Historic Sites day use, Rio Grande Nature Center parking. - **Does not cover:** Reservation fees, group shelters, cabins, yurts, corrals, event spaces, Smokey Bear Historical Park. - **Non-transferable.** Issued to the individual veteran. - **Application:** Contact NMDVS at 1-866-433-8387 or vet.benefits@dvs.nm.gov. Walk-in same-day; mail or electronic ~14 days. - **Authority:** HB 161 (2025 NM Legislature), signed by Governor Lujan Grisham.

Authority: HB 161 (2025 NM Legislature), signed by Governor Lujan Grisham.

27. Boat / Watercraft Registration

**Unavailable (no veteran-specific discount confirmed)** — NMDGF and NM MVD do not list a veteran-specific boat registration fee waiver or discount. Confirm with NMDGF at 888-248-6866 or NM MVD at mvd.newmexico.gov if this changes.
Verify locally: **Unavailable (no veteran-specific discount confirmed)** — NMDGF and NM MVD do not list a veteran-specific boat registration fee waiver or discount. Confirm with NMDGF at 888-248-6866 or NM MVD at mvd.

Education

28. In-State Tuition

Veterans, spouses, and children using federal VA GI Bill education benefits may immediately use **in-state tuition rates** at any NM state-funded college, university, vocational school, or training program — no waiting period to establish residency. NM National Guard members, their spouses, and dependents also receive in-state tuition. **Authority:** 38 U.S.C. § 3679 (federal mandate); NM Higher Education Department; NM National Guard tuition policy. **Action:** Present Certificate of Eligibility (for GI Bill) or Guard membership documentation to the institution's registrar.

Authority: 38 U.S.C. § 3679 (federal mandate); NM Higher Education Department; NM National Guard tuition policy.

29. Tuition Waiver — Disabled Veteran

Honorably discharged NM resident (resident at military entry OR 10+ year NM resident) who was awarded the **Vietnam Campaign Medal** for service August 5, 1964 through official conflict termination (as designated by presidential executive order). - **Benefit:** Full tuition at any NM state-funded post-secondary institution (undergraduate or graduate); reimbursement for required fees and books/supplies. If attending a non-state school, benefit capped at the highest full-time undergraduate tuition at a state institution. - **Duration:** One academic year; renewable with satisfactory academic progress. - **Application:** NM DVS Application for Vietnam Veterans' Scholarship + DD-214 + proof of NM residency. Submit to NMDVS, 407 Galisteo St. Rm. 134, Santa Fe NM 87501 or vet.benefits@dvs.nm.gov. - **Authority:** NMSA § 21-21E-1 et seq.

Authority: NMSA § 21-21E-1 et seq.

30. Dependent Education Benefit

Children ages **16–26** of (a) NM resident veterans KIA or killed as a result of active military service during an armed conflict, (b) NM National Guard members killed while on state active duty, or (c) NM State Police killed on duty. The veteran must have been an NM resident at time of military entry. - **Benefit:** Full tuition at any NM state-supported institution + up to **$300 per year** for matriculation fees, room, board, books, and supplies. - **Application:** NMDVS; contact 1-866-433-8387 or vet.benefits@dvs.nm.gov. Application form available at dvs.nm.gov. - **Authority:** NMSA Ch. 21 (NMDVS-administered; verify exact article cite with NMDVS — the originally cited article 21B is the Work-Study program and does not govern this scholarship). - **Note:** This scholarship is for dependents of veterans killed in service — not for dependents of living disabled veterans.
Verify locally: 21 (NMDVS-administered; verify exact article cite with NMDVS — the originally cited article 21B is the Work-Study program and does not govern this scholarship).

Authority: NMSA Ch. 21 (NMDVS-administered; verify exact article cite with NMDVS — the originally cited article 21B is the Work-Study program and does not govern this scholarship).

31. Spouse Education Benefit

**Unavailable as a separate NM state program** — NMDVS scholarships (Vietnam/Wartime) are for veterans only and cannot be awarded to spouses. Spouses using transferred GI Bill benefits (Post-9/11 Ch. 33 transfer) receive in-state tuition rates (§ 28). NM National Guard spouses receive in-state tuition. Federal MyCAA provides up to $4,000 for qualifying junior-enlisted spouses. Confirm any new NM spouse-specific scholarship with NMDVS at 1-866-433-8387.
Verify locally: Confirm any new NM spouse-specific scholarship with NMDVS at 1-866-433-8387.

32. National Guard / Reserve Tuition Assistance

Current NM National Guard members in good standing. - **Benefit:** - Air National Guard: up to **$8,000 per year** toward tuition and fees. - Army National Guard: up to **$4,000 per year** (Army Guard should also request Federal TA through GoArmyEd to cover base tuition; STA covers fees). - **Institutions:** State-funded colleges, universities, and vocational programs. - **Also:** Guard members, spouses, and dependents receive in-state tuition at all NM state institutions. - **Authority:** NMSA § 21-2-1 et seq.; NM Adjutant General.

Authority: NMSA § 21-2-1 et seq.; NM Adjutant General.

33. K-12 Support

**Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children:** NM participates. Protects military-connected children during PCS moves: schools must accept unofficial records, place students in equivalent courses, and support on-time graduation. **Purple Star Schools:** NM enacted a Purple Star School designation program. Schools meeting requirements receive the designation; program provides mentoring, inclusion, and staff training for military-connected students. **Authority:** Senate Bill 271 (NM); Military Child Education Coalition; governor.state.nm.us (signed 2021). **Action:** Students facing enrollment delays should contact the school's Purple Star liaison or the NM Public Education Department.

Authority: Senate Bill 271 (NM); Military Child Education Coalition; governor.state.nm.us (signed 2021).

34. State Student Loan / Scholarship

NM veterans of WWII, the Korean War, or the Vietnam conflict who left an NM high school early to serve. - **Benefit:** Issuance of a valid high school diploma from the veteran's original high school. - **Application:** Contact NMDVS at 1-866-433-8387.

Employment & Licensing

35. Veterans Hiring Preference

**State Civil Service:** - Honorably discharged veterans and current NM National Guard members: **+5 points** added to their final passing score on State Personnel Office screening examinations. - SC disabled veterans: **+10 points** added. - Points are added after the veteran achieves a passing score; they do not convert a failing score. **Federal:** Veterans' Preference under 5 U.S.C. § 2108 applies to all federal positions in NM. **Statute:** NMSA § 10-9-13.2.

36. Professional License Fee Waiver

Military service members, veterans, military spouses, and dependents applying for professional licensure through the NM Regulation and Licensing Department (NMRLD). **Benefits:** - **Fee waiver:** Licensing fees waived for **3 years** for all occupations regulated by NMRLD. - **Expedited processing:** Licenses issued within **30 days** of application completion. - Covers all NMRLD-regulated professions (contractors, engineers, real estate brokers, nurses, cosmetologists, etc.). **Documentation for veterans:** DD-214, DD-215, NGB-22, military ID, NM DL with veteran designation, or VA Veterans ID Card. **Statute:** NMSA § 61-1-34. **Contact:** (505) 476-4622; rld.nm.gov/licensing/military-resources/

37. Professional License Reciprocity — Military Spouse

Military spouses who relocate to NM due to active-duty orders. **Benefit:** Expedited licensure (within 30 days) through NMRLD with the 3-year fee waiver. Must provide the service member's military orders plus a marriage certificate. **Statute:** NMSA § 61-1-34. **Action:** Apply directly to the relevant NMRLD board or commission with the documentation above.

38. Business License Fee Break

**Procurement Preference:** NM resident veteran businesses with annual gross revenues of **$6 million or less** in the preceding tax year receive a **10% preference** on state contract bids — their submitted bid is deemed 10% lower than the actual bid when public bodies apply preferences. Native American resident veteran businesses receive the same preference. **Hiring credit:** Businesses that hire recently-returned veterans may claim **$1,000 per veteran hired** as a state income tax credit (NMSA § 7-2-18.28 for individuals; § 7-2A-27 for corporations — see § 9 for full details). **Business license fee waiver:** No specific statewide veteran fee waiver for a general NM business license was confirmed. Confirm with NM Taxation and Revenue at tax.newmexico.gov or (505) 827-0700. **Statute:** NMSA § 13-1-21 (procurement preferences); NMSA § 13-1-22 (resident veteran business certification).
Verify locally: **Business license fee waiver:** No specific statewide veteran fee waiver for a general NM business license was confirmed. Confirm with NM Taxation and Revenue at tax.

39. Civil Service / Retirement Credit

**Hiring preference:** +5 or +10 points on examinations per § 35 above. **Military service credit — NM PERA:** Active PERA members with an honorable discharge and **at least 5 years of PERA service credit** may purchase up to **60 months of prior active military service** as credited PERA retirement service. The purchase price is calculated using the employee and employer contribution rates multiplied by the average of the member's highest 36 consecutive months of earnings. Deferred compensation funds may be used to purchase the credit (not a taxable transaction). Contact PERA at (505) 476-9300 or nmpera.org to request a cost estimate. **Military service credit — NM ERB (Educational Retirement Board):** Similar purchase provisions for NM public school educators. Contact erb.nm.gov for details.

Housing & Financial

40. State Home Loan / Down-Payment Assistance

**NM Mortgage Finance Authority (MFA) — FirstHOME + FirstDown Programs:** - Not veteran-exclusive, but veterans are eligible. - **FirstHOME:** Fixed-rate FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional (HFA Preferred) first mortgage at competitive interest rates. - **FirstDown:** Fixed-rate second mortgage providing up to **4% of the home sale price** as down-payment and closing-cost assistance. Veterans using a VA loan can combine with FirstDown for additional assistance. - Income limits and purchase price limits apply (vary by county and household size; e.g., 3+ persons in Bernalillo County: ~$91,713 income / ~$349,526 purchase price as of the most recent program cycle). Confirm current limits at housingnm.org/programs/homebuyers/income-and-purchase-price-limits before applying. - **Note:** NM does not have a veterans-only state home loan program separate from the federal VA loan program. **Authority:** NM MFA; housingnm.org.
Verify locally: Confirm current limits at housingnm.

Authority: NM MFA; housingnm.org.

41. Financial Assistance / Emergency Relief

**Veterans Integration Centers (VICs):** NMDVS operates VICs statewide providing case management, referrals to emergency financial assistance, housing support, and benefits navigation for homeless or at-risk veterans. **VFW Unmet Needs grants:** Up to $2,500 for essential expenses (paid directly to creditors; no repayment) for veterans in financial hardship. Contact a local VFW Post or vfwnm.org. **SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families):** Federal HUD-VASH/SSVF providers in NM deliver temporary rent, utility, and move-in payments plus case management for veterans at risk of homelessness. **NMDVS Emergency Financial Assistance:** NMDVS provides emergency financial assistance generally not exceeding **$3,000 per validated need** for veterans facing unexpected financial hardship. Contact NMDVS at 1-866-433-8387 or dvs.nm.gov. (Source: NMDVS state services)

42. State Veteran Bonus

New Mexico does not have a state veterans service bonus or wartime bonus program. No legislation providing a cash bonus to returning veterans was found.

43. Specially Adapted Housing — State Supplement

**Federal grants (administered through VA, applicable to NM veterans):** - Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grant: up to **$126,526** (FY 2026) for construction or adaptation of a primary residence for veterans with certain service-connected disabilities. Up to 6 lifetime uses. - Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) grant: up to **$25,350** (FY 2026) for smaller modifications. Up to 6 lifetime uses. - Temporary Residence Adaptation (TRA): smaller amounts for rental units. **State supplement:** No NM-specific state supplemental adapted housing grant was found. Contact NMDVS at 1-866-433-8387 if a state-level program has been added. **Authority:** 38 U.S.C. § 2101; va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/

Authority: 38 U.S.C. § 2101; va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/

44. Utility / Heating Assistance

**LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program):** Federal program administered in NM by the Human Services Department. Veterans meeting income thresholds may apply — not veteran-specific. **SSVF:** Emergency utility payments available through SSVF providers for at-risk veterans (§ 41). **No NM-specific veterans-only utility or heating assistance grant was found.** Veterans meeting income thresholds should apply to LIHEAP through the NM Human Services Department at 1-800-283-4465 or dial 211. Confirm any NMDVS-specific program at 1-866-433-8387.
Verify locally: Confirm any NMDVS-specific program at 1-866-433-8387.

Health & Support

45. State Veterans Home / Nursing Home

Honorably discharged veterans with 90+ days active service, plus their spouses (spouses may receive lower admission priority when waitlisted). **Cost:** Market rate ($3,200–$7,504/month for nursing; from $5,044/month for assisted living as of Feb 2026). VA per diem applies for eligible veterans and substantially reduces out-of-pocket cost. **Contact:** nmhealth.org/about/ofm/ltcf/nmsvh/; (575) 894-4200.

46. Behavioral / Mental Health Programs

**State programs:** NMDVS Veterans Integration Centers provide behavioral health referral, case management, and crisis navigation statewide. **Federal programs (VA New Mexico):** VA NM provides PTSD treatment, mental health counseling, psychiatric care, substance use disorder treatment, and 24/7 Veterans Crisis Line (dial 988, press 1). Emergency crisis care: any veteran in suicidal crisis may go to any health care facility; VA covers up to 30 days inpatient / 90 days outpatient crisis care at no cost. **Community Veterans Court (Bernalillo County Metro Court):** Diverts veteran misdemeanor defendants (any era, any discharge status, must volunteer) to treatment for PTSD, TBI, or substance use. Contact: metro.nmcourts.gov. **Note:** No state-only mental health supplement beyond NMDVS VIC case management and referral services was found. For crisis support: call or text 988, press 1 (Veterans Crisis Line). For community programs, contact NMDVS at 1-866-433-8387.

47. Dental / Vision / Health Programs

**State supplement:** No NM-specific state dental, vision, or supplemental health insurance program exclusively for veterans beyond NMSVH and the VA health system was confirmed. **Federal (VA):** VA dental care is available for veterans with SC oral conditions or 100% SC disability rating (full dental). Vision care and hearing aids available through VA for enrolled veterans. For veterans who do not qualify for VA health care, confirm Medicaid eligibility and any NM Medicaid-adjacent programs with NMDVS at 1-866-433-8387 or the NM Health Care Authority at hca.nm.gov.
Verify locally: **State supplement:** No NM-specific state dental, vision, or supplemental health insurance program exclusively for veterans beyond NMSVH and the VA health system was confirmed. For veterans who do not qualify for VA health care, confirm Medicaid eligibility and any NM Medicaid-adjacent programs with NMDVS at 1-866-433-8387 or the NM Health Care Authority at hca.

48. Long-Term Care / Aid & Attendance Supplement

**NMSVH** (§ 45) is the primary state long-term care resource. **No NM-specific state Aid and Attendance supplement** beyond the federal VA A&A pension benefit was found. Veterans qualifying for federal VA A&A receive additional monthly compensation; NM does not add a state-level supplement. Confirm any Medicaid-funded LTC bridging programs for veterans with NMDVS at 1-866-433-8387 or the NM Health Care Authority at hca.nm.gov.
Verify locally: Confirm any Medicaid-funded LTC bridging programs for veterans with NMDVS at 1-866-433-8387 or the NM Health Care Authority at hca.

49. Free Legal Aid / Veteran Treatment Courts

**New Mexico Legal Aid — Veterans Legal Services:** - Free legal representation to qualifying veterans (income-based eligibility) in consumer law, family law, landlord/tenant/housing, low-income tax filing, veterans benefits, and discharge upgrades. - Phone: 505-814-6719 | Email: veterans@nmlegalaid.org | Website: newmexicolegalaid.org

50. Concealed Carry / Firearms Fee Waiver

**Concealed Handgun License (CHL) — Military and Veteran Exemptions:** - **Fee waiver:** Application fee and renewal fee waived for (a) active-duty military and (b) veterans and retirees who received an honorable discharge **within the last 20 years**. - **Training waiver:** Required firearms training course and refresher course waived for the same population. - **Documentation:** DD-214 or military ID demonstrating honorable discharge within the 20-year window. **Statute:** NMSA § 29-19-4. **Note:** The 20-year window is generous compared to most states.

51. Vital Records / Notary Fee Waiver

**Unavailable (no NM veteran fee waiver confirmed)** — No NM state program waiving vital records fees (birth/death certificates) for veterans was found; NM charges $10 per certificate. Some counties may have local waivers — confirm with NM Dept. of Health Vital Records at 1-833-796-8773 or nmhealth.org. Separately, federal law allows free certified records for VA benefit claims when ordered through the VA records request process.
Verify locally: **Unavailable (no NM veteran fee waiver confirmed)** — No NM state program waiving vital records fees (birth/death certificates) for veterans was found; NM charges $10 per certificate. Some counties may have local waivers — confirm with NM Dept.

Legal & Administrative

52. Unique State Programs

Members (or surviving family) of the 200th/515th Coast Artillery Units captured in the Philippines during WWII. - **Benefit:** Special state medal of recognition. - **Application:** NMDVS Benefits Main Office at 1-866-433-8387.

Authority: NM Family Law statute; NMDVS.

Survivor Benefits

53. Surviving Spouse — Property Tax

Unmarried surviving spouse of an eligible veteran. - **Standard exemption:** $10,000 reduction in taxable home value — same as the veteran — available to the unremarried surviving spouse. - **100% SC P&T full waiver:** If the veteran was 100% SC and P&T at the time of death, the full property tax exemption transfers to the surviving spouse, provided the spouse (a) was married to the veteran at death, (b) remains unmarried, and (c) continues to occupy the home as the principal residence. **Statute:** NMSA § 7-37-5. **Action:** File with county assessor with death certificate, DD-214, VA award letter showing 100% P&T status, and marriage certificate.

54. Surviving Spouse — Education

**Children of Deceased Veterans Scholarship** (§ 30): Children ages 16–26 of veterans KIA qualify for full tuition + $300 per year at state institutions. **SBP income:** Up to $30,000 of SBP payments exempt from NM income tax per year (§ 6) — ongoing financial support for surviving spouses. **No separate NM state tuition waiver specifically for surviving spouses** (distinct from dependent children) was found. NMDVS scholarships are for veterans only. Surviving spouses with transferred GI Bill entitlement receive in-state tuition rates. Confirm any new program with NMDVS at 1-866-433-8387 or hed.nm.gov.
Verify locally: Confirm any new program with NMDVS at 1-866-433-8387 or hed.

55. Dependent / Survivor State Benefit

**Children of Deceased Veterans Scholarship** (§ 30): Primary state-level education benefit for dependents of veterans KIA. **Gold Star Family License Plates** (§ 12): Free plates (surviving spouse and parents) for immediate family of service members killed in armed conflict. **Note:** DIC itself is a federal VA benefit (tax-free monthly payments to surviving spouses/children). NM does not add a state-level DIC supplement. NM income tax does not tax DIC.

Memorial & Burial

56. State Veterans Cemetery

Same as VA National Cemetery eligibility — honorably discharged veteran with 90+ days active federal service (or less if discharged for SC disability), OR Guard/Reserve with 20+ years and military retired pay eligibility. Eligible spouses and dependent children may be interred with a qualifying veteran. **Cost:** No charge for veterans. Fees for spouses and dependents vary by cemetery — confirm directly with the individual cemetery before scheduling. **Federal VA National Cemeteries in NM:** Santa Fe National Cemetery (Santa Fe); Fort Bayard National Cemetery (Fort Bayard). **Authority:** nmdvs.org/cemetery/; cem.va.gov.
Verify locally: Verify operational status and eligibility at NMDVS. Fees for spouses and dependents vary by cemetery — confirm directly with the individual cemetery before scheduling.

Authority: nmdvs.org/cemetery/; cem.va.gov.

57. Burial Allowance / Plot

**State supplement:** No NM-specific state burial allowance beyond the federal VA burial benefit was found. **Federal VA burial allowance (applicable to NM veterans):** - Non-service-connected death: up to **$1,002** burial allowance + **$1,002** plot interment allowance (for burial in a private cemetery). - Service-connected death: up to **$2,000** burial allowance (no plot allowance). - Application: VA Form 21P-530EZ; submit to VA within 2 years of burial. **Authority:** 38 U.S.C. § 2302; va.gov/burials-memorials/veterans-burial-allowance/

Authority: 38 U.S.C. § 2302; va.gov/burials-memorials/veterans-burial-allowance/

58. Headstone / Memorial / Honors

**Headstone/Marker:** Federal VA furnishes at no charge a government headstone, marker, or niche cover for any eligible veteran's unmarked grave in any cemetery worldwide, regardless of date of death. Veterans buried in national or state veterans cemeteries also receive government headstones at no charge. **Presidential Memorial Certificate:** Free, personalized certificate signed by the President; available for any honorably discharged deceased veteran. Apply through VA. **Burial flag:** A U.S. flag is provided at no cost to drape the casket of any honorably discharged veteran. Contact VA or a funeral director. **Military funeral honors:** DoD provides a minimum 2-person honor guard and flag ceremony at no charge. **State supplement:** No additional NM-specific headstone or marker supplement was confirmed beyond the federal program. **Authority:** 38 U.S.C. § 2306; cem.va.gov/burial-memorial-benefits/
Verify locally: **State supplement:** No additional NM-specific headstone or marker supplement was confirmed beyond the federal program.

Authority: 38 U.S.C. § 2306; cem.va.gov/burial-memorial-benefits/