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Discovering Your Family Benefits in Arizona: A Comprehensive Guide for Military Families

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Arizona extends a wide array of benefits to active duty service members, veterans, and their families, recognizing their sacrifices and contributions. If you’re looking to understand “My Family Benefits Az,” this guide serves as your comprehensive resource. From tax exemptions to educational support, employment preferences, and recreational perks, Arizona aims to support military families in various aspects of life. This article breaks down the key benefits available in Arizona, ensuring you and your loved ones can access the support you deserve.

Understanding Arizona State Benefits for Military Families

Arizona is proud to support its military community, offering a robust package of state-level benefits. These benefits are designed to ease the financial burden, enhance educational opportunities, and improve the quality of life for service members, veterans, and their families residing in or relocating to Arizona. Navigating these benefits can be complex, but understanding the categories and specific offerings is the first step to accessing valuable resources.

Arizona Veteran Benefits Counselors: Your Family’s First Stop

Navigating the complexities of military and veteran benefits can be daunting. Arizona provides a dedicated network of Veteran Benefits Counselors (VBCs) through the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services. These trained professionals offer free assistance to veterans, retired service members, and their families in identifying and applying for benefits at the federal, state, and local levels. For families seeking guidance on “my family benefits az,” VBCs are an invaluable resource, providing personalized support and expert advice.

To connect with a VBC, you can call 602-535-1215. The Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services also offers convenient online virtual and in-person appointment scheduling services, making it easier than ever to get the help your family needs.

Learn more about Arizona Veterans Benefits Counselors

Alt text: Welcome sign to Arizona, the Grand Canyon State, highlighting veteran and military family benefits.

Tax Benefits for Military Families in Arizona

Arizona offers significant state tax benefits for military families, acknowledging the unique financial circumstances of service and veteran life. These exemptions and deductions can provide substantial savings, directly contributing to the financial well-being of your family.

Income Tax Exemptions: Easing the Burden

Arizona provides several income tax exemptions specifically for military personnel and their families:

Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans and Surviving Spouses

Arizona extends a property tax exemption to resident disabled veterans and their surviving spouses. This exemption can significantly reduce the annual property tax burden, helping families maintain homeownership.

Alt text: Family members walking in a veteran cemetery, representing survivor benefits and property tax exemptions for surviving spouses.

Social Security Benefits Exemption

Social Security benefits are exempt from Arizona state income tax, providing further financial relief for retirees, including veterans and their families.
Learn more about the Arizona Income Tax Exemption for Social Security Benefits

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Education Benefits for Military Families in Arizona

Arizona is committed to supporting the educational pursuits of military families, recognizing that frequent moves and deployments can disrupt educational continuity. The state offers various educational benefits to ensure that service members, veterans, and their dependents have access to quality and affordable education.

In-State Tuition for Veterans and Dependents

Arizona grants immediate in-state residency for tuition purposes to eligible veterans and their dependents using VA educational benefits. This significantly reduces the cost of higher education for military families.

  • Eligibility: This benefit applies to veterans, their spouses, and dependents who:

    • Were discharged within the last 36 months from a period of active duty of 90 days or more.
    • Are using VA Chapters 30, 31, 33, or 35 benefits.
      VA Education Benefits

  • Residency Requirements: Students must also:

Tuition and Fee Deferment at State Schools

Arizona state-supported colleges, community colleges, and universities offer tuition and fee deferments for students using VA education benefits. This allows veterans and their dependents to start their education without upfront costs while awaiting VA benefit payments.

Tuition Waivers at Public Educational Institutions

Arizona provides tuition waivers at public educational institutions for eligible veterans, service members, and their families. These waivers can cover the full cost of tuition for bachelor’s degrees, making higher education accessible.

  • Waiver Coverage: The waiver covers the required credits for a bachelor’s degree at Arizona community colleges and public universities. It can be used in conjunction with federal education benefits.

  • Eligibility: Students must meet one of the following criteria:

    • Unremarried surviving spouses and children (under 30) of service members who were Arizona residents or stationed in Arizona and died in the line of duty or from service-related injuries.
    • Arizona National Guard members who received the Purple Heart after September 11, 2001.
    • U.S. Armed Forces members who are Arizona residents or were stationed in Arizona when they received a Purple Heart and have a VA disability rating of 50% or more.
    • Arizona National Guard members medically discharged due to service-connected injury or disability.

  • Application Process: Applicants must submit the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services, Tuition Waiver and Verification Form by mail or email to:

    Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services
    3839 N 3rd Street, Suite 209
    Phoenix, AZ 85012-1570
    Email: [email protected]

    For inquiries, contact [email protected] or call 602-234-5804.
    Learn more about Tuition Waivers at Arizona Public Educational Institutions for Service Members, Veterans and Dependents

Arizona National Guard State Tuition Reimbursement (STR)

The State Tuition Reimbursement (STR) program assists Arizona National Guard members in pursuing education to support their professional and personal development. Importantly, Arizona National Guard members can transfer their STR funds to their spouses and dependents registered in DEERS.

  • Reimbursement Details: STR covers up to $250 per semester hour, not exceeding $5250 per state fiscal year.

  • Eligibility: STR is available to Arizona National Guard members who:

    • Are actively drilling and in good standing.
    • Have completed initial military training.
    • Maintain 90% attendance at training assemblies and annual training.
    • Have completed a semester at an eligible institution.
    • Maintain a “C” average or equivalent.

  • Family Benefit: Eligible members can transfer STR funds to spouses and dependents in DEERS, significantly expanding “my family benefits az” in education.

  • Application Submission: Applications can be mailed or emailed to:

    Arizona National Guard Education Services Office
    5636 E. McDowell Road, Building M5710
    Phoenix, AZ 85008
    Email: [email protected]

    For more information, call 602-267-2445 or email [email protected].
    Arizona STR Flyer
    Arizona National Guard Service Member, Spouse, Dependent STR Application
    Learn more about Arizona National Guard State Tuition Reimbursement

Honorary Diploma Program for Wartime Veterans

Arizona offers an Honorary Diploma program for veterans who left high school to serve in wartime. This program recognizes their service and provides a formal acknowledgment of their commitment.

Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children

Arizona participates in the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children. This compact addresses the educational challenges faced by military children due to frequent relocations. It ensures seamless transitions and equal educational opportunities as families move across state lines. This is a crucial aspect of “my family benefits az,” ensuring educational stability for children.

Alt text: Military children on school steps, representing educational support through the Interstate Compact for Military Children.

Purple Star School Program

Arizona’s Purple Star School program recognizes schools that demonstrate exceptional commitment to military students and families. These schools offer specific support systems to address the unique needs of military children. For families prioritizing military-friendly schools, the Purple Star designation is a valuable indicator of support.

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Employment Benefits for Military Families in Arizona

Arizona provides numerous employment benefits and resources for military families, recognizing the challenges of military spouse employment and veteran career transitions. These benefits aim to facilitate successful civilian careers and provide employment security.

Veterans Hiring Preference in State Employment

Arizona offers veterans preference in state government employment, providing an advantage in the hiring process. This preference recognizes military service and skills, facilitating veteran employment in public service.

  • Preference Points: Points are added to passing scores on employment exams:
    • Veteran Preference (5 Points): For veterans with at least six months of active duty and honorable discharge, and retired reserve component members.
    • Disabled Veteran (10 Points): For veterans with an honorable discharge and a service-connected disability rating or VA compensation.
    • Veteran’s Spouse / Surviving Spouse (5 Points): For spouses or surviving spouses of:

Federal Employment Veterans’ Hiring Preferences

Federal law also provides veterans hiring preferences, which apply to federal civil service positions in Arizona. These preferences are categorized based on service and disability status, offering veterans a competitive edge in federal employment.

  • 5-point Hiring Preference: For veterans who served during specific war periods or campaigns.

  • 10-point Compensable Disability (CP) Preference: For veterans with a 10-30% service-connected disability rating.

  • 10-Point 30% Compensable Disability Preference (CPS): For veterans with a 30%+ service-connected disability rating.

  • 10-Point Disability Preference (XP): For veterans with a service-connected disability or Purple Heart recipients.

  • 10-Point Derived Preference (XP): For spouses, surviving spouses, or mothers of eligible veterans.

    Detailed eligibility criteria and documentation requirements are available from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM).
    Learn more about Federal Employment Veterans’ Hiring Preferences

Alt text: Soldier in training at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, representing veteran employment and career opportunities.

Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA)

USERRA protects the civilian job rights of service members, including reservists and National Guard members, ensuring job security during and after military service. This federal law is vital for military families, providing legal protection for civilian employment.

Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) Veterans Employment Assistance

Arizona DES offices provide specialized employment assistance to veterans and “covered persons” with barriers to employment. These services are tailored to help veterans become job-ready and secure meaningful employment.

  • DES Services:

    • Individualized career and training services.
    • Case management to address employment barriers.
    • Tutoring, study skills training, and GED assistance.
    • Mentoring and leadership development.
    • Paid and unpaid work experiences (internships, apprenticeships).
    • Occupational skills training and guidance counseling.
    • Supportive and follow-up services.

  • Priority of Service: DES offers priority of service to “covered persons,” including:

    • Veterans with honorable discharge (active duty service).
    • Spouses and surviving spouses of disabled or deceased veterans and service members.

    Arizona DES Office Locator
    Learn more about Arizona Department of Economic Security, Veterans Employment Assistance and Priority of Service

Arizona Hilton Honors Military Program

The Arizona Hilton Honors Military Program supports military families during career transitions by providing hotel accommodations for job-related travel. This program eases the financial burden of job searching and relocation.

Arizona ‘Gold Card’ Veterans Employment Initiative

The Gold Card initiative provides post-9/11 era veterans with priority employment assistance at Arizona CareerOneStop, American Job Centers. This initiative is a collaborative effort to expedite veteran reemployment.

Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services (ADVS) Veteran Toolkit Program

The ADVS Veteran Toolkit Program provides essential supplies to unemployed veterans to help them start working. This program addresses immediate needs, removing barriers to employment.

Arizona Troops to Educators (TTE) Program

The Arizona Troops to Educators (TTE) program assists service members, veterans, and their spouses in transitioning to careers in K-12 education. This program leverages military skills and experience for a new career path.

  • TTE Program Services: Provides educational counseling, certification guidance, employment referrals, and internship information.

  • Eligibility: Open to:

    • Veterans with honorable discharge after four years of active duty.
    • Reserve component members with six+ years of honorable service.
    • Currently serving reserve component members.
    • Spouses of eligible veterans or service members.

    Apply online using the Arizona TTE Registration Form. Call 602-542-4367 for details.
    Learn more about the Arizona Troops to Educators Program

Arizona Department of Education Certification Fee Waiver

The Arizona Department of Education offers initial education certification fee waivers for veterans separated within the past two years and active duty military spouses. This reduces the financial barrier to entering the education profession.

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Unemployment Insurance Benefits for Military Families in Arizona

Arizona’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) program provides temporary financial assistance to workers, including veterans, who are unemployed through no fault of their own. UI offers a safety net during job searches.

Arizona Unemployment Insurance (UI)

UI benefits are available to eligible unemployed workers actively seeking new employment.

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Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) Benefits for Military Families in Arizona

Arizona’s MVD provides several benefits tailored to military families, including special designations, license plates, and exemptions related to vehicle registration and licensing. These benefits simplify processes and offer recognition for military service.

Veteran Designation on Driver Licenses and ID Cards

Arizona offers a Veteran Designation on driver licenses, instruction permits, and ID cards. This designation serves as a convenient way for veterans to prove their status and access veteran-specific discounts and services.

Military and Veteran Special Vehicle License Plates

Arizona offers a wide variety of distinctive military and veteran license plates, honoring different branches, ranks, and achievements. These plates are a visible symbol of service and sacrifice. Many plates are available for family members as well, strengthening “my family benefits az” through recognition.

Medal of Honor License Plate

Medal of Honor recipients can receive a free Arizona Medal of Honor license plate, recognizing the highest award for valor.

Purple Heart License Plate

Purple Heart recipients can obtain a special Arizona Purple Heart license plate.

Alt text: Arizona Purple Heart license plate, a symbol of recognition for wounded veterans and their families.

Veteran License Plate

Arizona Veterans who served honorably can obtain a Veteran license plate.

Gold Star Family License Plate

Immediate family members of service members who died in the line of duty can receive an Arizona Gold Star Family license plate. This plate honors the ultimate sacrifice and extends “my family benefits az” to Gold Star families.

Alt text: Arizona Gold Star Family license plate, honoring families of fallen service members.

Driver License Extension for Active Military

Arizona driver licenses for resident service members and their immediate family remain valid for six months after discharge. This provides flexibility during transitions.
Learn more about Arizona Driver License Extension for Active Military

Exemption from Photo Update and Vision Test

Active duty service members with Arizona driver licenses are exempt from the 12-year photo update and vision test requirement.
Learn more about Service Member Exemption from Arizona Driver License Photo Update and Vision Test Requirement

Vehicle Registration Renewal for Out-of-State Service Members

Arizona residents stationed out of state can renew their vehicle registration online or by mail. Emissions exemptions are also available for out-of-state renewals.

Special Military Vehicle License Tax Exemption

Arizona offers deployed service members a one-year exemption on vehicle license tax and registration fees per deployment for up to two vehicles.

100% Disabled Veteran License Tax and Registration Fee Exemption

100% disabled veterans receiving VA compensation are exempt from vehicle license tax and registration fees for one vehicle. This exemption extends to unremarried surviving spouses.
Learn more about the Arizona 100% Disabled Veteran License Tax and Registration Fee Exemption

VA Financial Aid Vehicle License Tax and Registration Fee Exemption

Veterans who receive VA financial aid to purchase specially adapted vehicles are exempt from vehicle license tax and registration fees.
Learn more about Arizona Resident Vehicle Bought with U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Financial Aid, License Tax and Registration Fee Exemption

Nonresident Active Duty Service Member License Tax Exemption

Nonresident active duty service members stationed in Arizona are exempt from the vehicle license tax portion of vehicle registration.

Commercial Driver License (CDL) Skills Test Waiver

Arizona offers a CDL Skills Test Waiver for service members and recent veterans with relevant military driving experience.

Motorcycle Endorsement by Mail for Out-of-State Service Members

Arizona service members stationed out of state can add a motorcycle endorsement to their Arizona driver license by mail.

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Health and Insurance Benefits for Military Families in Arizona

Arizona provides health and insurance benefits to support the well-being of military families, including medical coverage for National Guard members and life insurance options. These benefits ensure healthcare access and financial protection.

National Guard Workers’ Compensation

Arizona National Guard members injured, ill, disabled, or deceased in the line of duty are eligible for medical coverage and compensation under Arizona Workers’ Compensation laws. This provides essential protection for service members and their families in case of duty-related incidents.

State Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI) for National Guard Members

The National Guard Association of Arizona offers State Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI) to Arizona National Guard members and their families. Every member is automatically covered with $1,000 SSLI at no cost, with options to increase coverage. This is a valuable component of “my family benefits az”, providing affordable life insurance.

Alt text: Logo of the National Guard Association of Arizona, offering State Sponsored Life Insurance to National Guard families.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance

The VA offers a range of life insurance programs to veterans, active duty and reserve component service members, and their families, providing crucial financial security.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance

Tricare Reserve Select Health Insurance

TRICARE Reserve Select is a premium-based health plan available worldwide for Selected Reserve members (including National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve) and their families. This provides comprehensive healthcare coverage when not on active duty.

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Parks and Recreation Benefits for Military Families in Arizona

Arizona’s stunning natural landscapes and state parks offer recreational opportunities for military families. The state provides discounted or free hunting and fishing licenses and state park passes, enhancing quality of life and outdoor access. These are excellent “my family benefits az” for leisure and recreation.

Discounted Hunting and Fishing Licenses

Arizona offers free or reduced-price hunting and fishing combination licenses to eligible disabled veterans and Purple Heart recipients.

Resident Rates for Nonresident Military

Nonresident active duty service members and their spouses stationed in Arizona for 30+ days can purchase Arizona hunting and fishing licenses at resident prices.
Learn more about Arizona Hunting and Fishing Licenses for Nonresident Service Members and their Spouse at Resident Rates

Arizona State Parks Veterans Discount Program

Arizona State Parks offer various discounts to resident service members and veterans, making state parks more accessible and affordable for military families.

Alt text: Scenic view of an Arizona State Park, promoting outdoor recreation benefits for veterans and military families.

  • Discount Types:

    • Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserve Members: 50% off day-use entrance fee (military ID required).
    • Arizona Retired Veterans: 50% off day-use entrance fee (DD214 or retired military ID required).
    • Partially Disabled Veterans: 50% off day-use pass (VA Benefit Summary Letter required).
    • 100% Disabled Veterans: Free day-use pass (VA Benefit Summary Letter required).

  • Exclusions: Discounts do not apply to special tours, programs, events, camping, or reservation fees.

    Request Veterans Discount Program Passes at any Arizona State Park.
    Learn more about Arizona State Parks Veterans Discount Program

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Miscellaneous Benefits for Military Families in Arizona

Beyond the major categories, Arizona provides additional miscellaneous benefits that further support military families. These include financial relief, recognition programs, and support services.

Military Family Relief Fund (MFRF)

The Arizona Military Family Relief Fund (MFRF) provides financial aid to active duty service members, veterans, and their families facing unforeseen financial hardships due to military service. MFRF is a critical component of “my family benefits az”, offering a financial safety net during challenging times.

Alt text: Logo of the Arizona Military Family Relief Fund, offering financial assistance to military families in need.

  • Assistance Details: Provides one-time grants up to $3,000 (lifetime limit $20,000) for basic living expenses (rent, vehicle payments, utilities, etc.) due to unforeseen circumstances.

  • Eligibility: Service members and honorably discharged veterans who:

    • Deployed outside the continental U.S.
    • Meet Arizona residency requirements (home of record, AZ National Guard, deployed from AZ, or 12 months residency).
    • Demonstrate financial hardship due to military service.

    Surviving families of service members killed or wounded in action may also be eligible.
    Arizona MFRF Online Application
    Arizona MFRF How to Guide
    Learn more about the Arizona Military Family Relief Fund

Gold Star Military Medal

The Arizona Gold Star Military Medal honors the families of Arizona service members killed in action. This medal is a poignant recognition of sacrifice and loss.

Veterans Court

Arizona Veterans Court offers a specialized court process for veterans in the criminal justice system. It focuses on rehabilitation and addressing underlying issues like PTSD and TBI.

  • Veterans Court Program Focus: Rehabilitating veterans through treatment plans addressing PTSD, TBI, substance abuse, and other issues contributing to criminal justice involvement.
    Learn more about the Arizona Veterans Court

State Veteran Homes (ASVH)

Arizona State Veteran Homes (ASVH) provide skilled nursing and rehabilitative care for senior or chronically ill veterans and their spouses. ASVHs offer a supportive and dignified living environment.

Alt text: Exterior of an Arizona State Veterans Home, providing skilled nursing care for veterans and their spouses.

Alt text: Arizona State Veterans Home in Yuma, highlighting veteran long-term care facilities.

Veterans’ Memorial Cemeteries (AVMC)

Arizona operates five State Veteran Cemeteries offering dignified burial options for service members, veterans, and eligible family members. AVMCs provide a final resting place of honor and are a significant “my family benefits az” benefit for end-of-life planning.

Alt text: Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery, a dignified final resting place for veterans and their families.

Alt text: Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery at Camp Navajo, offering burial and memorial services for veterans.

Alt text: Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Marana, providing burial options for veterans and eligible dependents.

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U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Arizona

Arizona hosts numerous VA facilities, providing healthcare, cemeteries, and other resources for veterans and their families.

VA Facilities

The VA maintains a comprehensive network of facilities in Arizona.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Arizona

VA Cemeteries

There are two VA National Cemeteries in Arizona.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Arizona

Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services
3839 N 3rd Street
Phoenix AZ, 85012
Phone: 602-255-3373
Learn more about the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services

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Military Installations in Arizona

For families relocating to Arizona, understanding the military installations within the state is crucial.

Please see the Arizona Military Resource Locator for additional information.

Active Duty

Army Fort Huachuca Yuma Proving Ground

Air Force Davis-Monthan AFB Luke AFB

Marines Marine Corps Air Station Yuma

National Guard Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs

Arizona Army National Guard

Arizona Air National Guard 161st Air Refueling Wing 162nd Wing

U.S. Army Reserve 63rd Readiness Division

Resources

For further information and assistance, explore these valuable resources:

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Find Locations

Army National Guard Benefits

Air National Guard Benefits

Arizona Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicles Division Information

Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services

Arizona Department of Economic Security, Veterans Services

U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Veterans’ Preference

Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission, Arizona

Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services Veterans Benefit Guide

Arizona Revised Statutes

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Service Organization Directory

Military State Tax Guide

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