Applying for a disabled veteran property tax exemption is straightforward: you submit proof of your VA-rated disability to your local tax assessor’s office and fill out a brief form, instantly reducing your yearly property taxes.
All 50 states offer some form of property tax relief for disabled veterans, potentially saving eligible homeowners thousands of dollars per year (the average U.S. property tax bill tops $3,000 annually). In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain the application process, federal and state rules, and tips to maximize your savings.
- 📝 Quick Application Overview: Learn exactly how to file your exemption form step by step – from gathering your VA disability paperwork to submitting it at the county tax office.
- 🇺🇸 Federal vs. State Rules: Understand the VA’s role, federal law basics, and how each state’s unique requirements affect your exemption (spoiler: rules vary in every state).
- 🌍 State-by-State Breakdown: Get a comparison of all 50 states’ disabled veteran property tax benefits, including which states offer full tax waivers and which provide partial breaks or special conditions.
- ⚠️ Avoid Costly Mistakes: Sidestep common pitfalls – missing deadlines, incomplete forms, or not knowing you qualify – and see how to keep your benefits (even if you move or your status changes).
- ❓ FAQs & Insider Tips: Clear answers to frequently asked questions from veterans and spouses on forums (eligibility, surviving spouse rules, reapplication, and more), plus real examples and court rulings that shed light on tricky situations.
Federal Law and VA’s Role in Property Tax Exemptions
No federal program directly exempts property taxes for disabled veterans – property taxes are governed by state and local laws. However, federal standards lay the groundwork. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) assigns each veteran a disability rating (e.g. 50%, 100% service-connected disability) which states use as a key eligibility factor. In other words, your VA disability rating letter is essentially your golden ticket to unlock state property tax relief.
The VA’s role is to provide documentation and confirmation of your service-connected disability status. For example, many states require that a veteran be 100% “permanent and total” (P&T) disabled according to the VA to qualify for a full property tax exemption. Some states even tie their exemption amounts to federal indices – Georgia, for instance, exempts a specific dollar amount of home value (around $110,000) that is adjusted each year based on a VA index. While there isn’t one nationwide property tax waiver law, federal law supports these programs indirectly by defining who is a disabled veteran (through VA criteria) and by offering other benefits (like VA’s Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) for surviving spouses) that states often incorporate into their eligibility rules. In short, think of the VA as establishing “who” is eligible, and the states deciding “what” the tax break is.
Who Qualifies for the Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption?
Eligibility comes down to a few common requirements across states: your veteran disability status, your home, and your residency. Here’s what most states look for before granting the exemption:
- Service-Connected Disability: Generally, you must have a VA-rated disability that is service-connected. Many states require a 100% disability rating or “total and permanent” status for the maximum benefit (full tax exemption). However, don’t fret if you’re not 100% – lots of states offer partial exemptions for lower ratings (e.g. a 50% disabled veteran might get a portion of their home’s value exempted from taxes). Some states set minimum ratings (like 10% or higher) to qualify at all. Always check your state’s threshold and whether unemployability (TDIU) counts as 100%.
- Primary Residence Ownership: The property must typically be your primary residence (homestead) and owned by you (the veteran) to qualify. This means you can’t claim the exemption on a rental property or second home. If your home is held in a trust or jointly with family, states usually still allow the exemption as long as the disabled veteran’s name is on the title and it’s your main home. Some locales also include contiguous land (for example, up to a certain number of acres) along with the house.
- Honorable Discharge & Residency: While not always explicitly stated, you should have an honorable (or other-than-dishonorable) discharge, since that’s required to receive VA benefits in the first place. Additionally, you usually need to reside in the state (and sometimes be a state resident when you entered service or for a certain number of years). Residency matters – you can generally only use the exemption in the state and county where you live. If you move to a new state, you’ll have to apply afresh in that jurisdiction (the benefit doesn’t transfer across state lines automatically).
- Surviving Spouses and Family: States often extend the benefit to the surviving spouse of a disabled veteran, with some conditions. Typically, if a veteran would have qualified (or did qualify before death), an un-remarried spouse can also claim the property tax exemption. Many states require the spouse to be receiving DIC from the VA (Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, a benefit for spouses of vets who died from service-related causes or were totally disabled). Usually the spouse must remain unmarried to continue the tax break. (Important note: if a spouse remarries and later becomes widowed or divorced, some states – as clarified by a New Jersey court case – allow the exemption to resume. The logic is “once a widow, always a widow” when it comes to eligibility once you’re not in a new marriage.) Also, a few states include minor dependent children of the veteran as eligible beneficiaries for the exemption if the veteran passes away.
- Other Criteria: A handful of states add extra qualifiers. For instance, a state might require that the veteran served during wartime or specific conflicts to get the benefit. Others impose income caps or asset limits for eligibility, particularly if the exemption is need-based (e.g., Pennsylvania offers a 100% exemption to 100% disabled vets who demonstrate financial need). Be sure to verify if your state has any such additional requirements like an income test, age (some give added breaks to older disabled vets), or property value limits (some exemptions only apply up to a certain assessed value of the home).
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for Your Exemption
Applying for the disabled veteran property tax exemption involves a few simple steps. It’s not automatic – you do need to file an application – but the process is usually straightforward and free. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get it done efficiently:
- Contact Your Local Tax Office: Start by reaching out to your county tax assessor’s office (or county tax collector in some areas) – this is the local government office that handles property tax matters. You can call or visit their website. Ask for information on the “Disabled Veteran Homestead Exemption” or “Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans.” They will provide the required application form and instructions specific to your location.
- Gather Required Documents: Prepare the documentation you’ll need to submit with your application. The most important item is your VA disability award letter or Summary of Benefits that shows your service-connected disability rating (and that it’s permanent, if applicable). You can obtain an up-to-date benefits summary through your VA.gov account or by calling the VA. Other common documents might include a copy of your ID, proof of home ownership (like a deed or tax bill in your name), and sometimes proof of residency (like a utility bill, depending on the county). If you’re a surviving spouse, you’ll likely need the veteran’s death certificate and proof of DIC benefits from the VA.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Complete your county’s disabled veteran exemption application. Typically, it’s a one- or two-page form asking for your personal information, property address, and details of your VA disability (rating percentage, VA claim number, etc.). Be thorough and accurate – any mismatch (like a name change or different address) could delay approval. If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask the local assessor’s office for help. Many offices are used to these applications and can guide you on the spot or by phone.
- Submit the Application by the Deadline: Turn in your application and documents before the deadline. Deadlines vary by state/locality: some states want you to apply by a certain date (for example, by March 1st or by the end of the year) to affect the next tax bill. Others allow you to apply at any time and will adjust your taxes moving forward. Check your state’s deadline – missing it could mean waiting an extra year for the benefit. Submission can often be done by mail, in person, or sometimes online. When you submit, request a confirmation (receipt or stamped copy) for your records.
- Follow Up and Verify Your Exemption: After filing, the assessor’s office will review your application. They may contact you if anything is missing. Once approved, the exemption will be applied to your property’s tax assessment. You should see a reduced tax bill or an updated assessment notice reflecting the exemption amount. It might take a few weeks to process. If your mortgage lender escrows your property taxes, inform them once approved – this ensures your monthly escrow payments adjust properly (avoiding overpaying or underpaying into your escrow account). Pro tip: In many places, once you’re approved, the exemption automatically renews each year. But some states/counties require you to refile periodically or confirm you still qualify (especially for partial or age-dependent exemptions). Mark your calendar to renew if needed so you don’t accidentally lose the benefit.
- What If You’re Denied or Your Status Changes? If for some reason your application is denied, don’t panic. Typically, the denial comes with an explanation or request for more info. Fix any issues (e.g. provide additional proof) and reapply or appeal the decision. If your disability rating increases in the future, you can usually apply for a larger exemption at that time (for example, moving from a partial to a full exemption when you go from 90% to 100% VA rating). Likewise, if you move to a new home or new state, remember this exemption isn’t automatic – you’ll need to apply again in the new location. Always keep copies of your VA paperwork handy for reapplying.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Even a simple process can go awry if you overlook details. Here are some common mistakes veterans and families should avoid when applying for a property tax exemption, and how to avoid them:
- Missing the Application Deadline: One of the biggest mistakes is assuming you can apply anytime. Many states set an annual cutoff date (for example, December 31 or April 1) to apply for that tax year’s relief. Avoid it: Check your county’s deadline as soon as you decide to apply. If you miss it, file anyway – you might either get prorated relief for part of the year or be first in line for the next cycle. Some places even allow late filing or will refund previously paid taxes once you qualify, but don’t bank on it.
- Not Submitting All Required Documentation: Incomplete applications can delay your exemption or lead to denial. A common oversight is forgetting to include your VA disability letter or relevant proof of your rating. Surviving spouses might miss sending the DIC proof or marriage certificate. Avoid it: Use a checklist (the assessor’s office often provides one) to ensure you attach every document. If your state requires a doctor’s certification or any extra form, get that done as well. Double-check before submitting that all copies are clear and legible.
- Assuming It’s Automatic: Some veterans mistakenly believe that once the VA labels them 100% disabled, the property tax break just happens or carries over if they move. In reality, you must apply in each jurisdiction where you want the tax exemption. The VA doesn’t notify states or counties about your status for this purpose. Avoid it: Take initiative to apply as soon as you’re eligible. If you buy a new house or relocate, treat the exemption like an item on your moving checklist. Don’t pay a full tax bill when you could be exempt – file that paperwork!
- Not Updating Your Status or Following Up: Perhaps you applied years ago when you had a lower disability rating and you never revisited it after your status was upgraded, meaning you might be missing out on greater savings now. Or maybe you moved and didn’t realize you need to reapply. Avoid it: Reevaluate your benefits whenever your situation changes. If your VA rating increases to 100%, contact your assessor – you may qualify for a larger exemption (possibly a full tax freeze). Also, if your mailing address changes, inform the tax office so renewal notices (if required) reach you.
- Overlooking Local Nuances: Each state and county can have quirks. For example, some states prohibit “double dipping” – if you’re using the disabled veteran exemption, you might not be allowed to also claim a senior citizen exemption or other property tax credit on the same home. Another nuance: if your property is jointly owned with someone not your spouse (say, a sibling), some jurisdictions might only exempt the portion you own. Avoid it: Ask your local assessor about any special rules. Read the fine print on the application instructions. If you have a unique situation (co-ownership, living in a multi-unit property, etc.), clarify how the exemption will apply.
By staying alert to these potential pitfalls, you can ensure a smooth application and keep enjoying your tax break for years to come. The key is to be proactive and organized – a small effort in paperwork yields big savings in dollars.
State-by-State Comparison Breakdown
Every state in the U.S. has some program to reduce property taxes for disabled veterans, but the specifics vary widely. Here we break down how states differ, so you can get a sense of where your state falls on the spectrum:
Full Tax Exemption States (100% Disabled Veterans): Roughly 20 states offer a 100% property tax exemption to veterans who are rated 100% disabled (usually “permanent and total”). If you qualify, you pay $0 in property taxes on your primary residence in these states. This group includes states like Texas, Florida, Alabama, Virginia, Illinois, and New Jersey among others. In Texas, for example, a veteran with a 100% service-connected disability doesn’t owe any property taxes on their homestead – whether the home’s value is $70,000 or $500,000, it’s fully tax-free. Florida also grants a full homestead tax exemption to 100% permanently disabled vets who are Florida residents, which can save veterans there thousands each year given Florida’s hefty local tax rates. These full exemption states typically extend the benefit to the surviving spouse as well (often with the requirement that the spouse does not remarry). It’s a huge relief: if you’re totally disabled due to service, these states essentially wipe out your property tax burden for life as a gesture of thanks for your service and sacrifice.
Partial and Tiered Exemption States: Many states provide partial exemptions or tiered benefits based on disability rating. Instead of all-or-nothing, you get some tax relief even if you’re not 100% disabled. For instance, Illinois offers a sliding scale: veterans with 30%–49% disability get a $2,500 reduction in their home’s assessed value, 50%–69% get a $5,000 reduction, and those 70% or higher are completely exempt. New York has an “Alternative Veterans Exemption” that isn’t based on percentage disability but gives wartime veterans a break and extra credit for any service-connected disability (additional reduction in assessed value proportional to their disability). California provides a generous partial exemption for 100% disabled vets (approximately a $150,000 – $200,000 deduction in assessed value on their home, depending on the veteran’s income level).
That doesn’t eliminate the tax bill entirely in high-value markets like California, but it’s a significant cut. Georgia allows disabled veterans to exempt about $109,000 of their home’s value from taxation (and that number goes up slightly each year with inflation as determined by the VA). Virginia and South Carolina are examples of states that actually do give a full exemption for 100% disabled (Virginia even amended its state constitution to ensure this), whereas North Carolina offers a flat $45,000 off the assessed value for any veteran with 100% disability or certain wartime injuries. The takeaway: in partial-exemption states, lower VA ratings still yield some savings. If you’re, say, 50% or 70% disabled, you might not get the whole tax wiped out but you could see a significant portion of your home’s value exempted, which translates to hundreds of dollars (even thousands in high-tax areas) saved annually.
Special Rules and Unique Situations: Each state’s laws come with their own bells and whistles. Some impose additional conditions. A few examples: Pennsylvania requires not just a 100% disability, but also a financial need test (the veteran’s income must be below a threshold) to grant a full exemption – it’s designed to help those who are disabled and truly need financial relief. Connecticut gives a basic $1,500 exemption off property assessments for wartime veterans (any disability), but if you have a service-connected disability, you get an extra exemption that increases with the severity of your disability. Massachusetts has various categories of exemptions for veterans that can increase if the veteran has specific medals or injuries (for example, a paraplegic veteran or one who lost use of limbs qualifies for a full exemption under one of Massachusetts’ programs, while others with lesser disability get smaller fixed tax credits).
South Dakota offers a partial exemption specifically for paraplegic veterans (or those with loss of use of limbs), exempting up to $150,000 of home value. There are also states that require the veteran to have been a resident of the state before entering military service (a dwindling requirement, but check your state’s fine print). On the flip side, a number of states have no length-of-residency requirement at all – you could move there this year and as long as you meet the disability criteria and own a home, you’re eligible immediately.
Surviving Spouses and Transfers: In virtually every state, an un-remarried surviving spouse can continue to claim the veteran’s exemption or a similar benefit, but the rules differ. Some states (like Ohio and Alabama) explicitly allow the spouse to keep a full exemption for life or until remarriage. Others might limit the spouse’s benefit to the amount the veteran was qualified for at death (for example, if a veteran was 50% disabled, the spouse keeps that partial exemption and it doesn’t elevate to full). A few require the veteran to have died from a service-connected cause for the spouse to be eligible at all, especially if the veteran wasn’t already exempt. Understanding your state’s stance is important for estate planning – in community property states, for example, the exemption often flows smoothly to a spouse co-owner. But if a surviving spouse relocates, they will need to reapply in the new state; being a surviving spouse of a qualified vet gives you the right to apply, but each state will vet (pun intended) your documents anew.
Local Variations: Remember that even within a state, local counties or cities might offer additional relief. For example, some cities or counties have supplemental exemptions for veterans on top of the state benefit. Always check your county assessor’s website – they usually outline not just state-mandated programs but also any local tax relief programs (some areas have extra breaks for low-income disabled vets, etc.). The state-by-state breakdown here gives a broad picture, but for the nitty-gritty (like exact dollar amounts, specific forms, and any quirks), your local tax assessor or state Department of Revenue/Veterans Affairs will have the definitive guide.
In summary, while every U.S. state offers something, the generosity ranges from modest deductions to complete tax freedom. The good news is that as a disabled veteran or qualifying spouse, you’re virtually guaranteed some relief no matter where you live – just the degree and method of relief will vary. That’s why it’s crucial to understand your own state’s rules (and to re-evaluate if you ever move states). Next, we’ll look at a few example scenarios to illustrate how these differences play out in real life.
Comparing Common Scenarios: Pros and Cons
To make these rules more concrete, let’s examine three common situations and weigh the pros and cons of each. This comparison will help you see how the exemption might benefit you or your family, depending on your status:
| Application Scenario | Pros and Cons |
|---|---|
| 100% Disabled Veteran Homeowner (VA-rated totally and permanently disabled) | Pros: Full relief – pays $0 in property taxes on primary home, saving potentially thousands each year. Once approved, usually no reapplication needed (in many states) unless status changes. Extends to surviving spouse in most states, providing long-term family security. Cons: Must meet the stringent eligibility (you need a 100% VA disability rating, often designated permanent). Benefit is typically limited to one property (your homestead), so additional properties or vacation homes aren’t covered. If you relocate to another state, you’ll need to reapply to keep the benefit. |
| Partially Disabled Veteran (e.g. 50% rating) (Moderate VA disability rating) | Pros: Significant tax reduction – still saves money each year (partial exemption can cut a chunk out of your tax bill, easing financial strain). More veterans qualify (many states set a lower bar like 10% or 50% disability for some level of benefit). You might combine it with other tax relief if allowed (e.g., senior exemption, though usually you take the larger benefit). Cons: It’s not a full ride – you’ll still pay some property taxes on the remaining portion of your home’s value. The exact savings can vary widely by state and may feel modest in high-tax areas. Some states require extra conditions for partial benefits (such as an income limit or that the injury was combat-related). Also, like all scenarios, you have to remember to apply; it won’t happen automatically when you get your VA rating. |
| Surviving Spouse Application (Spouse of a deceased disabled veteran) | Pros: Continues the veteran’s tax relief, allowing you to maintain your home with reduced or no taxes even after your loved one’s passing. This can be a major financial help and a form of stability for families. Many states make the process straightforward if the veteran had the exemption – often it’s just providing proof of the veteran’s death and your status (e.g., DIC letter). Cons: Typically limited to spouses who have not remarried (marrying again usually ends the benefit). In some cases, the veteran must have met certain criteria (for example, died from a service-connected cause or had been 100% disabled) for the spouse to qualify, so not every surviving spouse of a vet will be eligible. There may be added paperwork like marriage certificates, death certificates, and proof of your continued unmarried status. And if you move out of the home or sell it, the exemption for you usually ends (it doesn’t carry over to a new property unless you reapply and qualify in that jurisdiction). |
Notable Court Rulings and Legislative Updates
Laws around disabled veteran exemptions occasionally end up clarified by courts or updated by new legislation. Staying aware of these can help you understand your rights. A prime example is the New Jersey Tax Court’s 2017 ruling in Rosanna Pruent-Steven v. Toms River. In that case, a surviving spouse of a 100% disabled New Jersey veteran had remarried and later divorced. The local tax assessor denied her application for the exemption, citing a state statute that a surviving spouse must “not have remarried.” The Tax Court, however, interpreted “widow/widower” as a status that can be regained once the subsequent marriage ended. In plain terms, the court said a spouse who remarries isn’t forever barred – if they become unmarried again, they can re-qualify for the property tax exemption. This case set a precedent in New Jersey, prompting tax assessors to honor the exemption for surviving spouses who may have had an intervening marriage, as long as they are widowed or divorced at the time of application. It’s a reminder that the intent of these laws is to benefit veterans and their families, and courts often resolve ambiguities in favor of that intent.
On the legislative front, many states have been expanding benefits. For example, some states have recently increased the dollar values of exemptions or broadened eligibility. Ohio in 2023 passed a bill to increase its homestead exemption for disabled veterans, effectively allowing more of the home’s value to go untaxed. Virginia and Alabama enshrined full exemptions for 100% disabled veterans in their state constitutions in the 2010s, which means those benefits are more secure from future political changes. And Florida voters approved an amendment to extend a combat-related discount to older veterans. These updates show a trend: states are generally moving toward more generous tax relief for veterans, not less.
The bottom line is that rules can evolve. If you hear of a law change or court decision, double-check how it might affect you. Most of the time, changes will be publicized by state veterans affairs departments or local veteran service organizations. It’s wise to periodically confirm that you’re receiving the full benefits available, especially if laws have improved since you first applied.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need to reapply for the exemption every year?
A: In many states, if you have a permanent and total disability rating, your exemption will roll over automatically each year once approved. You generally won’t need to reapply annually unless your circumstances change. However, some jurisdictions do require a simple yearly confirmation (they might mail a postcard where you just certify you still occupy the home and qualify). And if your exemption is based on something that can change (like income level or a non-permanent disability status), you may have to file more frequently. Always read your approval notice – it will state whether renewal is needed. When in doubt, call your county assessor to ask about the renewal policy so you never accidentally lose your benefit.
Q: I’m a 50% disabled veteran. Can I get any property tax exemption, or is this only for 100% disabled vets?
A: Absolutely, you may qualify for a partial exemption. While the fullest benefits are reserved for veterans who are 100% disabled, many states offer scaled benefits for those with lower disability ratings. For example, as mentioned, Illinois gives a $5,000 property assessment reduction if you’re 50% disabled. Other states might knock a certain percentage off your tax bill or exempt a fixed dollar amount of your home’s value. It varies, but the key point is don’t assume you get nothing. Check your state’s rules – even a 10% service-connected disability can earn a small deduction in some states (every bit helps). The application process is the same, and you’ll need to show your VA award letter with your rating.
Q: What if I have multiple properties or I move during the year? Can I get the exemption on more than one home?
A: The exemption almost always applies to only your primary residence (the home that is your legal domicile). You can’t double-dip on two houses in the same state, nor claim one in State A and another in State B simultaneously. If you own rental properties or a vacation home, those won’t qualify – the benefit is typically a homestead exemption meant for your main home. If you move to a new home within the same state, you’ll need to file a new application for the new property (but you won’t get the exemption on the old house after you move out). If you move to a different state, you’ll apply under that state’s program. Timing is important: if you sell and move mid-year, some states will prorate the taxes with the exemption for the portion of the year you occupied the original home. Be sure to inform the assessor when you move out, and apply for your new home as soon as you purchase it.
Q: My spouse was the disabled veteran, not me. He passed away due to his service-connected condition. How do I apply as a surviving spouse?
A: I’m sorry for your loss. The good news is most states allow the surviving spouse to continue or obtain the property tax exemption that the veteran would have qualified for. The process for you involves providing a bit of extra documentation: you’ll generally submit the veteran’s death certificate, proof of your marriage (if required), and proof that you receive Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) or that the veteran’s death was service-related. You’ll use the same application form or a special surviving spouse form – check “surviving spouse” in the application. You also must meet the rule of not being remarried (if you ever remarried, some states disqualify you, though as noted, a few states will reinstate eligibility if that subsequent marriage ends). Essentially, you apply to the local assessor just as your spouse would have, but include your spouse’s VA and death documentation. Once approved, you’ll get the same tax relief on the home. If you move or remarry, notify the tax office as that could change your eligibility.
Q: Does a veteran’s discharge status or the era they served in affect this exemption?
A: Generally, the critical factor is that the veteran has a service-connected disability rating from the VA. That inherently means the veteran was discharged under conditions not dishonorable (since you can’t get VA comp with a dishonorable discharge). Most states do not add additional service-era requirements for the basic disabled vet exemption – it’s open to any service-connected disabled veteran regardless of whether they served in wartime or peacetime. However, some states have separate “veteran” exemptions for wartime service (with no disability needed, often a small deduction) and then an enhanced one for disabled vets. For the disabled exemption, occasionally a law will specify “wartime disabled veteran” or similar, but this is not common. Always read your state’s criteria carefully; if an era is specified, it will be clearly listed. In summary: if you have a VA disability rating, you likely meet the service requirement automatically, and your focus should be on the percentage and permanence of the disability for qualification.
Q: If I’m a disabled veteran who rents my home, do I get any benefit?
A: The property tax exemption is a benefit for property owners, so as a renter you cannot directly claim it, since you don’t get a property tax bill. Property taxes are paid by the landlord (who could get veteran benefits if they are the veteran homeowner). That said, there might be other forms of relief for veteran renters, like state veterans’ trust funds or local programs, but those are outside the scope of property tax. One indirect angle: if you’re renting from a family member and you are a disabled vet, if your name is added to the property’s title or you become a co-owner, that property could possibly qualify for an exemption (since you’d then be an owner-occupant). But that’s a significant personal decision and legal step – not something to do just for a tax break without considering all implications. In summary, the property tax exemptions discussed in this guide are for owners/occupants. If you hope to benefit from them, home ownership is a prerequisite.
Q: Are there any other tax benefits for disabled veterans I should know about?
A: Yes! Beyond property taxes, disabled veterans can often get breaks on other taxes and fees. For instance, many states waive or discount vehicle registration fees for disabled vets, especially if you have special DAV or DV license plates. Some states offer income tax credits or exemptions for certain military retirement pay or VA disability payments (VA disability compensation is exempt from federal income tax and usually state tax as well). You might find sales tax exemptions on adaptive equipment or modified vehicles. At the local level, some counties offer utility tax relief or free parking for disabled vet plates. Additionally, don’t forget federal programs: if you’re 100% disabled, the VA’s Adaptive Housing grants can help with home modifications (unrelated to taxes but useful for homeowners). And while not a tax, many states offer free or reduced tuition for veterans or their dependents and free entry to state parks and so on. It’s worth checking with your state’s Department of Veterans Affairs for a summary of all benefits – property tax exemption is often just one of a host of perks available to you as a thank you for your service.