Federal VA benefits follow you anywhere in the country — but state benefits don't. Every state (plus Washington, D.C.) runs its own set of programs, and the differences are big enough to matter when you PCS, retire, or file taxes. This guide covers the main categories of state veteran benefits and how to check what your state offers.
The main categories of state benefits
Taxes
Many states exempt some or all military retirement pay from state income tax, and most offer property tax relief for disabled veterans — with the largest exemptions typically reserved for veterans rated at 100%. Income thresholds, rating requirements, and residency rules vary widely.
Education
State tuition waivers and scholarships for veterans, Guard members, and sometimes dependents — layered on top of the federal GI Bill. National Guard state tuition assistance is one of the most valuable and most missed benefits.
Employment and licensing
Veterans preference in state hiring, credit for military experience toward professional licenses, and CDL skills-test waivers in many states.
Recreation and everyday perks
Free or discounted hunting and fishing licenses, state park passes, veteran designations on driver's licenses, and specialty plates.
Homes, care, and burial
State veterans homes, state-run cemeteries, and burial benefits that supplement federal programs.
Check your state in the app
- Download Military Benefits Tracker on the App Store.
- Open the benefits browser and choose your state — all 50 states and Washington, D.C. are covered.
- Review benefits by category: taxes, education, recreation, employment, and more.
- Tap through to the official state source to confirm eligibility and apply.
- With Pro, personalized eligibility matching highlights benefits that fit your profile.
Explore your state's benefits
Veteran benefits for all 50 states and D.C., source-linked so you can verify and apply.
Rules change often. State legislatures adjust veteran benefits nearly every year. Always confirm current eligibility and amounts with your state's department of veterans affairs before making decisions.
Frequently asked questions
Do state benefits differ from federal VA benefits?
Yes. Federal benefits apply nationwide; each state separately funds its own programs. Moving states changes your state benefits but not your federal ones.
Which states don't tax military retirement pay?
A large majority of states now fully exempt military retirement pay, and several have no income tax at all. Verify with your state's department of revenue — rules change frequently.
Do National Guard members get state benefits?
Often yes — especially state tuition assistance. Each state defines eligibility differently; see also our Guard and Reserve pay guide.
Related guides
Sources
- VA.gov — State Departments of Veterans Affairs directory
- National Association of State Directors of Veterans Affairs
- Military OneSource — State resources
Military Benefits Tracker is an independent resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the U.S. Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or any government agency. Benefit descriptions are educational summaries — eligibility, amounts, and rules are set by each state and change over time. Always confirm with the official state source.