Congratulations to everyone for another successful trip around the sun. The next one will be a little more challenging at 366 days, but I am confident we can do it together. With all that extra time this year, 86400 seconds, I am expecting this to be the year of accomplishments. Let’s “leap” into this week’s topic.
A much-anticipated follow-up to an article from last June will leave you wanting more. Seriously, I have been trying to find more information to adequately inform the readers. The MN Veterans Omnibus bill (HR1938) provides additional through the Minnesota Department of Public Safety – Driver and Vehicle Services and the Department of Revenue.
Veteran designation on the Minnesota driver’s license expanded to include retired members of National Guard or Reserves. The required documentation to receive the Veteran designation has been expanded to include a military retiree ID card, Veteran ID card, or Veteran health ID card. Veterans with a 100% total and permanent service-connected disability rating receive free driver’s license or state-issued ID card. Applicant must provide documentation attesting to the 100% total and permanent service-connected disability rating which includes TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability).
Effective January 1, 2024, Veterans with a 100% total service-connected disability (includes TDIU) receive free motor vehicle registration, plate, and title services for up to two vehicles (auto, pickup, RV, motorcycle). Total fee exemption does not include a personalized plate fee or any required contributions for a specialty plate. Applicant eligibility for special plate emblem is expanded to include any member of Disabled American Veterans. Individuals eligible for Gold Star plates may request them as personalized and not be charged the otherwise associated $100 fee.
Starting July 1, 2024, purchases of a motor vehicle by a Veteran having a 100% total service-connected disability (includes TDIU) are exempt from the Motor Vehicle Sales Tax. Automobile dealers should have a new drop-down selection in their processing system for 100% disabled Veterans that will exclude the fees.
Disclaimer: I am just the messenger. I do not implement or enforce these changes. You will need to go to a Deputy Registrar office (DMV) to receive the benefit for a driver’s license, motor vehicle registration, plate, and/or title services. I would recommend discussing the motor vehicle sales tax exemption with your auto dealer before finalizing the sale.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
