The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs serves Minnesota veterans, their dependents and survivors in securing benefits provided by federal and state laws. 

Financial Assistance
The State Soldiers Assistance Program provides cash assistance in the form of shelter payments (rent and mortgage), utilities, and personal needs grants to veterans who are unable to work as a result of temporary disability. Vouchers for dental and optical services are also available to those who financially qualify.

Education
Educational benefits are provided in the form of one-time grant to veterans who have exhausted their federal benefits, and to war orphans of veterans who died as a result of a service-connected injury or disease. The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs also has Higher Education Veteran Programs.

Burial
Burial is open to all veterans discharged from active military service under conditions other than dishonorable. Their spouses, minor children, and under certain conditions, unmarried adult children are also eligible for burial. The state also provides a grave marker program to mark the grave site of any veteran buried in the state.

Employment
Veterans Employment Representatives are located at WorkForce Centers statewide to guide veterans. The Dakota County Workforce Center in Burnsville has specialized staff to assist veterans and military members.

Taxes
Qualifying disabled veterans are eligible for the Disabled Veterans Program, which grants market value exclusions on property taxes. Veterans who have served in a combat zone on or after Jan. 1, 2008 may be eligible for the Minnesota Combat Veteran Tax Credit.

Counseling
Dakota County Financial Empowerment Services provides budget and debt counseling, student loan education, credit report review education and support to help repair damaged credit, planning for major purchases, and connecting customers to valuable community supports. Call 651-554-5763 or email financialempowerment@co.dakota.mn.us for an appointment to get started on your goals.

By partnering with Lutheran Social Services (LSS), C.O.R.E offers services such as financial counseling, debt management, and individual and family support.  Your veterans service officer will assist you with this resource.

Long-term Care
Minnesota Veterans Homes are available to give long-term care.