Wisconsin Veteran Healthcare, Education & Jobs: Complete 2025 Guide

Bottom Line Up Front

Wisconsin provides comprehensive healthcare through two major VA medical centers (Milwaukee and Madison), dozens of community clinics statewide, and three state-run Veterans Homes. The Wisconsin GI Bill covers 100% of tuition and fees for up to 128 credits at any UW System or technical college—that's worth $60,000-$120,000+ in education benefits for you and eligible dependents. Wisconsin's veteran unemployment rate tracks below the national average, and major employers like Amazon, manufacturing companies, and healthcare systems actively recruit veterans. This guide provides every address, phone number, and dollar amount you need to access these benefits.

VA Healthcare Facilities in Wisconsin

Wisconsin operates three VA health care systems serving all 72 counties. You'll get comprehensive medical care, mental health services, and specialty care through two major medical centers and 20+ community clinics.

Milwaukee VA Medical Center (Zablocki)

Clement J. Zablocki Veterans' Administration Medical Center 5000 West National Avenue Milwaukee, WI 53295-1000 Main Phone: 414-384-2000 Hours: 24 hours (Emergency services available) Pharmacy: 414-384-2000 ext. 41511

Services Offered:

• Emergency care (24/7)
• Primary care
• Mental health services
• Surgery (general and specialty)
• Cardiology
• Oncology
• Orthopedics
• Neurology
• Rehabilitation services
• Audiology
• Dental care
• Vision care
• Pharmacy
• Laboratory services
• Imaging (X-ray, CT, MRI)
• Women's health clinic

Enrollment: Serves approximately 45,000 veterans across southeastern Wisconsin

Parking: Free parking available in multiple lots. Disabled veteran parking near main entrance.

Public Transportation: MCTS Bus Routes 19, 23, and 80 stop near the facility.

Milwaukee VA Community Clinics

Milwaukee VA Clinic (North Side) 1818 North Martin Luther King Drive Milwaukee, WI 53212-3640 Phone: 414-384-2000 ext. 42601 Services: Primary care, mental health, lab services

Kenosha VA Clinic 8207 22nd Avenue Kenosha, WI 53143 Phone: 262-653-2000 Services: Primary care, mental health, telehealth

Union Grove VA Clinic 21425 G Spring Street Union Grove, WI 53182 Phone: 262-878-6755 Services: Primary care, mental health

Oconomowoc VA Clinic Address: 1120 Summit Avenue, Oconomowoc, WI 53066 Phone: 414-384-2000 ext. 42950 Services: Primary care, mental health

Milo C. Huempfner VA Outpatient Clinic (Green Bay) 2845 Greenbrier Road Green Bay, WI 54311 Phone: 920-436-6700 Services: Primary care, mental health, audiology, lab services, telehealth

John H. Bradley VA Clinic (Appleton) Phone: 414-384-2000 Services: Primary care, mental health

Cleveland VA Clinic Phone: 414-384-2000 Services: Primary care, mental health

Madison VA Medical Center (Middleton)

William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital 2500 Overlook Terrace Madison, WI 53705 Main Phone: 608-256-1901 Toll-Free: 888-478-8321 Fax: 608-280-7096 Hours: 24 hours (Emergency services available)

Services Offered:

• Emergency care (24/7)
• Primary care
• Mental health and PTSD treatment
• Substance abuse treatment
• Surgery (general and specialty)
• Cardiology and cardiac catheterization
• Oncology and radiation therapy
• Orthopedics
• Neurology and neurosurgery
• Spinal cord injury care
• Rehabilitation services
• Audiology
• Dental care (limited)
• Optometry
• Pharmacy
• Laboratory services
• Imaging (X-ray, CT, MRI, PET scan)
• Polytrauma care
• Women's health clinic
• Geriatrics

Enrollment: Serves approximately 48,000 veterans across south-central and southwestern Wisconsin and northern Illinois (19 counties)

Parking: Free parking in multiple ramps and surface lots

Public Transportation: Madison Metro bus routes serve the area

Madison VA Community Clinics

Baraboo VA Clinic 414 State Road 136 Baraboo, WI 53913-1193 Phone: 608-256-1901 Services: Primary care, mental health, telehealth

Beaver Dam VA Clinic 215 Corporate Drive, Suite D Beaver Dam, WI 53916-3124 Phone: 608-256-1901 Services: Primary care, mental health

Janesville VA Clinic 1141 Black Bridge Road Janesville, WI 53545-1092 Phone: 608-756-4000 Services: Primary care, mental health, audiology, lab services

Madison East VA Clinic 4904 Eastpark Boulevard Madison, WI 53718-2002 Phone: 608-256-1901 Services: Primary care, mental health, women's health

Madison West VA Clinic 1 Science Court Madison, WI 53711-1055 Phone: 608-256-1901 Services: Primary care, mental health

Tomah VA Medical Center

Tomah VA Medical Center 500 East Veterans Street Tomah, WI 54660 Main Phone: 608-372-3971 Toll-Free: 800-872-8662

Services: Comprehensive medical center serving western Wisconsin with inpatient and outpatient services

Tomah VA Community Clinics:

La Crosse VA Clinic Phone: 608-372-3971 Services: Primary care, mental health

Wisconsin Rapids VA Clinic 410 Dewey Street, Suite 220 Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494 Phone: 608-372-3971 Services: Primary care, mental health, telehealth

Wausau VA Clinic Phone: 608-372-3971 Services: Primary care, mental health

Owen VA Clinic Phone: 608-372-3971 Services: Primary care, mental health

Northern Wisconsin VA Clinics

Hayward VA Clinic 15954 Rivers Edge Drive Hayward, WI 54843 Phone: 715-934-2410 Services: Primary care, mental health

Rhinelander VA Clinic Phone: 715-369-3656 Services: Primary care, mental health

VA Enrollment and Eligibility

Who Qualifies:

• Veterans with service-connected disabilities (Priority Group 1-3)
• Veterans with income below VA/geographic income limits (Priority Group 5)
• Veterans of recent combat service (Priority Group 6)
• Other veterans based on service and income (Priority Groups 7-8)

How to Enroll:

1. Call 877-222-8387 (national VA health care enrollment)
2. Visit any VA facility's enrollment coordinator
3. Apply online at https://www.va.gov/health-care/apply/

Documentation Needed:

• DD-214 or discharge papers
• Social Security number
• Income information (previous year's tax return)
• Health insurance information (if you have other coverage)

Cost of Care:

• Free: Priority Groups 1-6 (service-connected disabilities, recent combat, etc.)
• Copays: Priority Groups 7-8 (ranges from $15-$50 per visit depending on service)
• Medication Copays: $5-$11 per 30-day supply (lower priority groups); $0 for higher priority groups

2025 Income Limits for Free Care (Priority Group 5):

• Single veteran with no dependents: $38,321
• Veteran with one dependent: $46,022
• Veteran with two dependents: $49,855 (Higher income limits apply in high-cost areas like Madison)

Mental Health and Crisis Support

Veterans Crisis Line:

• Call: 988, then press 1
• Text: 838255
• Online chat: VeteransCrisisLine.net
• Available 24/7/365
• Confidential support for veterans in crisis

Vet Centers (non-medical counseling):

Green Bay Vet Center 1600 South Ashland Avenue Green Bay, WI 54304 Phone: 920-435-5650

Madison Vet Center 147 South Butler Street Madison, WI 53703 Phone: 608-264-5342

Milwaukee Vet Center 3400 West Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 100 Milwaukee, WI 53208 Phone: 414-344-5504

Services: Free readjustment counseling, PTSD treatment, military sexual trauma counseling, bereavement counseling

Wisconsin Veterans Homes

Wisconsin operates three state veterans homes providing 24-hour skilled nursing care and assisted living services. These are state-run facilities, separate from the VA system, offering exceptional care for eligible veterans.

Wisconsin Veterans Home at King

Address: N2665 County Road QQ King, WI 54946 Phone: 715-258-5586 Fax: 715-258-7505

Capacity: 158 skilled nursing beds, 40 assisted living units

Services:

• 24-hour skilled nursing care
• Assisted living (community-based residential facility)
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy
• Recreation therapy
• Dental services
• Pharmacy services
• Spiritual care

Amenities:

• Private and semi-private rooms
• Beauty/barber shop
• Chapel
• Recreation areas
• Outdoor spaces
• Veterans activities and programs

Cost (2025 rates):

• Skilled Nursing: $314.02 per day ($9,420 per month)
• Assisted Living: Varies by level of care, approximately $3,000-$5,000 per month
• VA Aid & Attendance benefit can cover most or all costs for eligible veterans
• Private pay, VA benefits, Medicaid accepted

Wisconsin Veterans Home at Chippewa Falls

Address: 2175 East Park Avenue Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 Phone: 715-720-6775 Fax: 715-720-6803

Capacity: 87 skilled nursing beds

Services:

• 24-hour skilled nursing care
• Memory care unit (specialized dementia/Alzheimer's care)
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy
• Recreation therapy
• Pharmacy services
• Spiritual care

Amenities:

• All private rooms
• Secure memory care wing
• Beauty/barber shop
• Library
• Country store
• Chapel
• Outdoor walking paths
• Fishing pond

Cost (2025 rates):

• Skilled Nursing: $314.02 per day ($9,420 per month)
• Memory Care: Same rate with specialized services included
• VA Aid & Attendance benefit available
• Private pay, VA benefits, Medicaid accepted

Wisconsin Veterans Home at Union Grove

Address: 21425 G Spring Street Union Grove, WI 53182 Phone: 262-878-6700 Fax: 262-878-6704

Capacity: 158 skilled nursing beds, 40 assisted living units

Services:

• 24-hour skilled nursing care
• Assisted living (CBRF)
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy
• Recreation therapy
• Dental services
• Pharmacy services
• Spiritual care

Amenities:

• Private and semi-private rooms
• Beauty/barber shop
• Chapel
• Library
• Recreation areas
• Outdoor courtyard
• Veterans activities

Cost (2025 rates):

• Skilled Nursing: $314.02 per day ($9,420 per month)
• Assisted Living: Approximately $3,000-$5,000 per month
• VA Aid & Attendance benefit available
• Private pay, VA benefits, Medicaid accepted

Wisconsin Veterans Homes Eligibility

Eligibility Requirements:

1. Veteran: Served in active U.S. military service and received honorable discharge
2. Spouse: Legally married to eligible veteran
3. Surviving Spouse: Unremarried widow/widower of eligible veteran
4. Gold Star Parent: Parent whose child died while serving in U.S. military

Wisconsin Residency: Must be Wisconsin resident at time of application (veterans) or at time of veteran's entry into service (spouses/parents)

Care Need: Require assisted living or skilled nursing care

Application Process:

1. Contact the home directly (phone numbers listed above)
2. Complete application packet
3. Submit DD-214 and marriage certificate (if applicable)
4. Medical assessment
5. Financial assessment
6. Admission decision typically within 30 days

VA Aid & Attendance Benefit for Veterans Homes

Many veterans living in Wisconsin Veterans Homes qualify for VA Aid & Attendance benefits:

2025 Maximum Monthly Benefit:

• Veteran with spouse: $2,431
• Veteran alone: $2,050
• Surviving spouse: $1,318

Eligibility:

• Wartime veteran
• 90 days active service (at least one day during wartime period)
• Need assistance with activities of daily living
• Limited income and assets

This benefit can cover most or all costs at Wisconsin Veterans Homes. Contact the home's benefits coordinator for assistance applying.

Wisconsin GI Bill Education Benefits

The Wisconsin GI Bill is one of the best state education benefits in America. It covers 100% of tuition and fees at any UW System school or Wisconsin Technical College for up to 128 credits or eight semesters.

Wisconsin GI Bill Overview

What It Covers:

• 100% tuition remission
• 100% segregated fees
• Program materials fees
• Up to 128 credits OR 8 semesters (whichever is greater)

What It Doesn't Cover:

• Room and board
• Textbooks (except materials fees built into courses)
• Transportation
• Personal expenses

Value (2025-2026 academic year):

UW-Madison:

• In-state tuition: $11,646 per year
• Segregated fees: $1,500 per year
• Total per year: $13,146
• Four-year bachelor's degree value: $52,584
• Graduate degree (2 years): $26,292

UW-Milwaukee:

• In-state tuition: $10,603 per year
• Segregated fees: $1,460 per year
• Total per year: $12,063
• Four-year bachelor's degree value: $48,252

Wisconsin Technical College:

• Average tuition: $4,500 per year
• Fees: $500 per year
• Total per year: $5,000
• Two-year associate degree value: $10,000
• One-year technical diploma value: $5,000

Veteran Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Wisconsin GI Bill as a veteran, you must meet ALL of these requirements:

1. Residency (one of the following):

   • Wisconsin resident at time of entry or re-entry into active duty (Home of Record: Wisconsin)
   • OR Wisconsin resident for at least five consecutive years before enrolling

2. Service (one of the following):

   • Served 90+ days of active duty during a designated wartime period
   • OR served 2+ continuous years of active duty (or full initial obligation) during peacetime
   • OR currently serving in the Reserves or National Guard with at least 90 days active duty during wartime

3. Discharge: Honorable discharge (or currently serving in good standing)

4. Current Status: Currently living in Wisconsin at time of enrollment

Wartime Periods (for 90-day requirement):

• Vietnam War Era: August 5, 1964 – May 7, 1975
• Gulf War Era I: August 2, 1990 – present
• Other declared wartime periods

Dependent Eligibility

The Wisconsin GI Bill extends to eligible dependents of certain veterans:

Eligible Dependents:

• Spouse
• Unremarried surviving spouse
• Children (biological, adopted, stepchildren)

Veteran Must Meet ONE of These Criteria:

1. Died on active duty
2. Died as a result of service-connected disability
3. 100% service-connected disability rating
4. Totally disabled (individual unemployability) due to service-connected disabilities
5. Missing in Action (MIA) or Prisoner of War (POW)

Dependent Requirements:

• Spouse/child must be Wisconsin resident at time of enrollment
• Child must be under age 26
• Child of deceased/100% disabled veteran may also qualify for federal Chapter 35 benefits

Value for Dependents: Same 128 credits/8 semesters, potentially worth $50,000+ per dependent

How to Apply for Wisconsin GI Bill

Application Process:

1. Get Accepted to School: Apply and be admitted to UW System or Wisconsin Technical College

2. Contact School's Veterans Certifying Official:

   • Every UW and WTCS school has a designated veterans certifying official
   • They'll guide you through the process
   • Find them at your school's financial aid or registrar's office

3. Complete WDVA Application:

   • Download form WDVA-2203 from https://dva.wi.gov
   • Or request from school's veterans office
   • Submit documentation:
     • DD-214 (showing honorable discharge)
     • Proof of Wisconsin residency
     • Birth/marriage certificates (for dependents)
     • VA rating letter (for dependent eligibility based on disability)

4. Submit by Deadline:

   • UW System: 60 days before semester starts
   • Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS): 14 calendar days after semester starts (WTCS Date of Record)

5. Receive Approval: WDVA processes and notifies school; tuition waived automatically

Renewal: Must reapply each academic year

University of Wisconsin System Programs

All 13 UW System universities accept the Wisconsin GI Bill:

UW-Madison Veterans Services: 333 East Campus Mall #2101, Madison, WI 53703 Phone: 608-262-3581 Website: https://veterans.wisc.edu Student Veterans: 400+ Programs: 200+ majors, top-ranked public university

UW-Milwaukee Military and Veterans Resource Center (MAVRC) Student Union, 2200 East Kenwood Boulevard, Milwaukee, WI 53211 Phone: 414-229-4945 Website: https://uwm.edu/mavrc Student Veterans: 1,000+ Military Friendly School: Gold status 2025-26 Programs: 180+ degree programs, strong urban research university

Other UW System Schools:

• UW-Eau Claire
• UW-Green Bay
• UW-La Crosse
• UW-Oshkosh
• UW-Parkside (Kenosha)
• UW-Platteville
• UW-River Falls
• UW-Stevens Point
• UW-Stout (Menomonie)
• UW-Superior
• UW-Whitewater

University Veteran Support Services

UW-Madison Support:

• University Veteran Services (UVS) office
• Peer Advisors for Veteran Education (PAVE) program
• Women Veterans Coffee Club
• Veterans study lounge
• Priority registration
• Credit for military training
• 900+ student veterans supported annually

UW-Milwaukee Support:

• Military and Veterans Resource Center (MAVRC)
• Quiet study room and common area (Student Union)
• Veterans Success on-campus VA counselor
• Veterans Upward Bound (free college prep program)
• Credit for military experience through UW Flexible Option
• Yellow Ribbon Program participant (for Post-9/11 GI Bill users)
• Military spouse support programs

Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS)

All 16 Wisconsin technical colleges accept the Wisconsin GI Bill:

Major WTCS Colleges:

Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) 700 West State Street, Milwaukee, WI 53233 Veterans Services: 414-297-6370 Programs: Healthcare, IT, manufacturing, business

Madison Area Technical College (Madison College) 1701 Wright Street, Madison, WI 53704 Veterans Services: 608-246-6210 Programs: Nursing, engineering, public safety

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) 2740 West Mason Street, Green Bay, WI 54307 Veterans Services: 920-498-5444 Programs: Industrial, healthcare, IT

Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC) 800 Main Street, Pewaukee, WI 53072 Veterans Services: 262-691-5566 Programs: Healthcare, business, skilled trades

Other WTCS Colleges:

• Blackhawk Technical College (Janesville)
• Chippewa Valley Technical College (Eau Claire)
• Fox Valley Technical College (Appleton)
• Gateway Technical College (Kenosha, Racine, Elkhorn)
• Lakeshore Technical College (Cleveland)
• Mid-State Technical College (Wisconsin Rapids)
• Moraine Park Technical College (Fond du Lac)
• Nicolet Area Technical College (Rhinelander)
• Northcentral Technical College (Wausau)
• Southwest Wisconsin Technical College (Fennimore)
• Western Technical College (La Crosse)
• Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College (Shell Lake)

Technical College Benefits

Programs Offered:

• Associate degrees (2 years)
• Technical diplomas (1-2 years)
• Certificates (6-12 months)
• Apprenticeships

High-Demand Programs:

• Nursing (RN, LPN)
• Welding
• HVAC
• Industrial maintenance
• IT support and cybersecurity
• EMT/Paramedic
• Diesel mechanics
• Machining and CNC
• Electrical
• Construction trades

Additional WTCS Veteran Benefits:

• Priority Registration: Assembly Bill 201 allows veterans to register one business day before general registration
• VetEd Grant: Additional tuition assistance available through WDVA
• Fast track programs: Many one-year certificates leading to $50,000+ careers

Federal GI Bill Coordination

You can use both Wisconsin GI Bill AND federal Post-9/11 GI Bill, but not simultaneously:

Option 1: Use Federal First

• Use Post-9/11 GI Bill for living expenses (BAH)
• Post-9/11 covers tuition (but Wisconsin GI Bill saves federal benefits)

Option 2: Use Wisconsin First (Recommended)

• Use Wisconsin GI Bill for tuition (saves federal benefits)
• Use Post-9/11 GI Bill for living expenses only (Monthly Housing Allowance)
• Saves federal benefits for graduate school or other family members

2025 BAH Rates (Post-9/11 GI Bill, full-time student):

• Madison: $1,776/month
• Milwaukee: $1,704/month
• Green Bay: $1,560/month

Strategy: Use Wisconsin GI Bill to eliminate tuition, use federal Post-9/11 GI Bill just for BAH. This maximizes total benefits.

Veteran Employment and Job Resources

Wisconsin's veteran unemployment rate consistently tracks below national averages, and the state actively supports veteran employment through multiple programs and services.

Wisconsin Veteran Employment Statistics

2024-2025 Veteran Employment Data:

• Wisconsin veteran unemployment: Approximately 3.0% (tracks with national veteran rate)
• Wisconsin overall unemployment: 3.1%
• Veterans have lower unemployment than non-veterans in Wisconsin
• 331,340 veterans in Wisconsin workforce (7.4% of adult population)

Top Counties for Veteran Employment:

1. Milwaukee County: 37,000+ veterans
2. Dane County (Madison): 18,000+ veterans
3. Waukesha County: 16,000+ veterans
4. Brown County (Green Bay): 10,000+ veterans

Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Veteran Services

DWD Veteran Employment Services Phone: 608-266-3100 Website: https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/veterans Email: dwdvetservices@dwd.wisconsin.gov

Services Provided:

• Job matching and placement
• Resume development
• Interview preparation
• Skills assessment
• Career counseling
• Unemployment compensation assistance
• Credentialing and licensing support

Local Veterans Employment Representatives (LVERs): Stationed at Job Centers throughout Wisconsin to provide one-on-one veteran employment assistance

Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP): Intensive services for disabled veterans and other veterans with significant barriers to employment

Job Center of Wisconsin

Website: https://jobcenterofwisconsin.com/veterans

Free Services:

• Job search database
• Resume builder
• Online skills training
• Virtual workshops
• Career assessments
• Labor market information

Job Center Locations: 80+ locations statewide; find yours at https://jobcenterofwisconsin.com/locations

Wisconsin Vets Ready Employer Initiative

Wisconsin recognizes employers who go above and beyond for veterans:

2024 Vets Ready Employers (examples):

• Aurora Health Care (healthcare)
• Johnson Controls (manufacturing, HVAC)
• Kohler Company (manufacturing)
• Menard, Inc. (retail)
• Milwaukee County (government)
• Northwestern Mutual (financial services)
• U.S. Venture, Inc. (distribution)

These employers receive public recognition and demonstrate commitment to hiring and retaining veterans.

Major Employers Actively Hiring Veterans

Manufacturing (Wisconsin's largest industry):

Amazon (Kenosha):

• Area Manager positions
• Warehouse operations
• Logistics roles
• Starting pay: $55,000+ for management
• Hiring veterans with leadership experience

Harley-Davidson (Milwaukee):

• Manufacturing
• Engineering
• Supply chain
• Veterans actively recruited

Johnson Controls (Milwaukee, multiple locations):

• HVAC manufacturing
• Building automation
• Engineering
• Operations management
• Veterans preference in hiring

Kohler Company (Sheboygan):

• Manufacturing
• Engineering
• Skilled trades
• Leadership development program for veterans

Mercury Marine (Fond du Lac):

• Marine engine manufacturing
• Machining
• Assembly
• Quality control

Healthcare (fastest-growing sector):

Ascension Wisconsin:

• Nursing (RN, LPN, CNA)
• Allied health (respiratory, radiology, lab)
• Healthcare administration
• Veterans encouraged to apply
• Multiple locations statewide

Aurora Health Care:

• 15 hospitals across Wisconsin
• Vets Ready Employer
• Healthcare roles at all levels
• Tuition reimbursement programs

Froedtert Health (Milwaukee):

• Academic medical center
• Clinical and administrative roles
• Research opportunities

Gundersen Health System (La Crosse):

• Regional healthcare provider
• Nursing and allied health
• Rural health opportunities

CommonSpirit Health:

• Veteran Initiative Pathways (VIP) Program
• Career pathways specifically for veterans and military spouses
• Healthcare training and placement

Government and Public Service:

State of Wisconsin:

• Veterans preference in hiring for all state jobs
• Website: https://wisc.jobs
• Contact: Wisconsin Department of Administration, Division of Personnel Management
• 29 different state agencies hiring

VA Milwaukee Healthcare System:

• Clinical positions (nursing, therapy, medical)
• Administrative roles
• Facilities management
• IT and cybersecurity
• Contact: 414-384-2000 or https://www.va.gov/milwaukee-health-care/work-with-us

VA Madison Healthcare System:

• Similar positions as Milwaukee
• Contact: 608-256-1901 or https://www.va.gov/madison-health-care/work-with-us

Wisconsin Veterans Employment Grant Program

Program: WDVA provides grants to employers who hire qualifying veterans

Employer Benefit: Up to $5,000 in funding over 12 months for hiring qualifying veterans

Veteran Benefit: More employers incentivized to hire veterans

Contact: WDVA Employment Services at 1-800-947-8387

Professional Licensing Support

One-Time License Fee Waiver: Wisconsin waives initial application fees for professional and occupational licenses for qualified veterans.

Eligible Licenses:

• Nurses (RN, LPN)
• Cosmetologists and barbers
• Real estate agents and brokers
• Accountants (CPA)
• Architects
• Engineers (PE)
• Teachers
• Social workers
• Psychologists
• Attorneys
• Over 100 other licensed professions

Savings: $100-$500 depending on profession

How to Apply:

1. Contact WDVA to verify eligibility: 1-800-947-8387
2. Receive verification letter from WDVA
3. Submit verification with license application to licensing board
4. Fee waived for initial license only (renewals require payment)

Unemployment Benefits for Veterans

Unemployment Compensation for Ex-Service Members (UCX): If you separated from military service within last 18 months, you may qualify for unemployment benefits based on military service.

Weekly Benefit Amount (2025): $54-$471 per week depending on military pay

Duration: Up to 26 weeks

Apply: Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development

• Phone: 414-435-7069 (Milwaukee) or 608-232-4622 (Madison)
• Online: https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/uiben

Documentation Needed: DD-214 or service records

Frequently Asked Questions

Healthcare

1. Do I need to enroll in VA healthcare, or can I just show up?

You must enroll first. Call 877-222-8387 or visit any VA facility. Emergency services are available without enrollment, but you'll need to enroll afterward to continue care.

2. Can I use both VA healthcare and private insurance?

Yes. VA healthcare doesn't replace private insurance. You can use both. VA will bill your private insurance for some services, potentially reducing or eliminating your VA copays.

3. How long does VA enrollment take?

Usually 7-10 business days for approval. You can schedule appointments while enrollment is pending.

4. What if I live far from a VA facility?

Community Care program allows you to see local civilian providers if you live 40+ miles from VA facility or wait times exceed standards. Ask your VA provider about Community Care referrals.

5. Are prescription medications cheaper through VA?

Usually yes. VA copays range $0-$11 per 30-day supply depending on priority group. Many private insurance plans charge $20-$50 copays.

6. Can I go to Milwaukee VA if I live closer to Madison VA?

Yes. You can receive care at any VA facility, but it's most convenient to enroll at your closest facility.

7. How much does Wisconsin Veterans Home cost?

$9,420/month for skilled nursing ($314.02/day). Many veterans qualify for VA Aid & Attendance benefit ($2,050/month for veteran alone) which significantly reduces out-of-pocket costs.

8. Is there a waiting list for Wisconsin Veterans Homes?

Varies by home and timing. Contact homes directly for current waitlist information. Application processing takes approximately 30 days.

Education

9. Can I use Wisconsin GI Bill for online classes?

Yes, as long as you're enrolled at a UW System or WTCS school and maintain Wisconsin residency.

10. What if I already have a bachelor's degree?

You can still use Wisconsin GI Bill for a second bachelor's, a graduate degree, or a technical certificate, up to your 128-credit limit.

11. Does Wisconsin GI Bill cover graduate school?

Yes. Any UW System graduate program is covered up to your 128-credit limit (typically enough for most master's degrees).

12. Can my spouse and child both use the Wisconsin GI Bill?

Yes, if you're 100% disabled or meet other criteria. Each dependent gets their own 128 credits. One veteran can fund multiple family members' educations.

13. What happens if I move out of Wisconsin while in school?

You must maintain Wisconsin residency to continue receiving the benefit. Moving out of state will disqualify you for future semesters.

14. Can I use Wisconsin GI Bill and federal Post-9/11 GI Bill at the same time?

Not simultaneously for the same expenses. Best strategy: Use Wisconsin GI Bill for tuition, federal GI Bill for housing allowance (BAH).

15. Do I lose my Wisconsin GI Bill if I fail a class?

Failed credits still count toward your 128-credit maximum. Maintain satisfactory academic progress (usually 2.0 GPA minimum) to remain eligible.

Employment

16. Does Wisconsin give veterans preference in state hiring?

Yes. State law provides veterans preference in hiring for all state government positions. Veterans receive additional points in the selection process.

17. How do I translate my military experience to civilian jobs?

Use the Military Skills Translator at https://jobcenterofwisconsin.com/veterans. Also contact your local LVER (Local Veterans Employment Representative) for one-on-one assistance.

18. Are there apprenticeship programs for veterans in Wisconsin?

Yes. Wisconsin has Registered Apprenticeship programs in skilled trades (electrician, plumber, HVAC, etc.). Contact DWD or your local technical college. Many accept GI Bill benefits.

19. What's the average salary for veterans in Wisconsin?

Madison veterans earn median income of approximately $60,000 annually. Milwaukee veterans average $50,000-$55,000. Varies significantly by industry and education level.

20. Do Wisconsin employers have to rehire me after military service?

Yes, under federal USERRA law. Employers must reemploy you in the position you would have attained if not for military service, with full seniority and benefits.

Resources and Contact Information

Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA)

Main Office: 30 West Mifflin Street, Suite 201 Madison, WI 53703 Toll-Free: 1-800-WIS-VETS (1-800-947-8387) Local: 608-266-1311 Website: https://dva.wi.gov Email: WDVABenefits@dva.wisconsin.gov

VA Medical Centers

Milwaukee: 414-384-2000 | 5000 W. National Ave, Milwaukee 53295 Madison: 608-256-1901 | 2500 Overlook Terrace, Madison 53705 Tomah: 608-372-3971 | 500 E. Veterans St, Tomah 54660

Wisconsin Veterans Homes

King: 715-258-5586 | N2665 County Rd QQ, King 54946 Chippewa Falls: 715-720-6775 | 2175 E. Park Ave, Chippewa Falls 54729 Union Grove: 262-878-6700 | 21425 G Spring St, Union Grove 53182

Education

UW-Madison Veterans: 608-262-3581 | https://veterans.wisc.edu UW-Milwaukee MAVRC: 414-229-4945 | https://uwm.edu/mavrc WTCS Veterans: Contact individual technical college

Employment

DWD Veteran Services: 608-266-3100 | https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/veterans Job Center of Wisconsin: https://jobcenterofwisconsin.com/veterans

Final Thoughts

Wisconsin provides comprehensive support for veterans across healthcare, education, and employment. The healthcare system gives you access to quality medical care through two major medical centers and dozens of clinics. The Wisconsin GI Bill is worth $50,000-$120,000 in education benefits at some of the nation's best public universities and technical colleges. And the state's strong economy, with major employers actively recruiting veterans, provides solid career opportunities.

The key is taking action. Enroll in VA healthcare today. Apply for the Wisconsin GI Bill this semester. Contact a Local Veterans Employment Representative. These benefits exist because you earned them through your service. Use them.

Need help navigating any of these programs? Call WDVA at 1-800-947-8387. They'll connect you with every resource in this guide.

Welcome home, and thank you for your service.

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Sources: VA.gov, Military OneSource, Benefits.gov