100% disabled veterans can unlock major financial wins by combining federal compensation and perks—like $3,737/month, healthcare, and VA loan access—with powerful state-specific benefits such as property tax exemptions, free education, and vehicle fee waivers. Each state offers different advantages, so knowing what’s available locally can save veterans thousands annually. From housing breaks to hunting licenses, these underused perks can seriously boost quality of life and long-term financial freedom.
First Things First: What the 100% Disability Rating Means (And Why It Matters)
If you’ve been rated 100% disabled by the VA, that’s no small thing. You’re now eligible for the highest level of monthly compensation through the VA—and a stack of other benefits both from Uncle Sam and your local state government.
Here’s what you’re locked in for on the federal level right off the bat:
- $3,737.85/month (as of 2024) for single veterans with no dependents
- Priority healthcare
- VA dental & vision
- CHAMPVA for dependents
- Vocational rehab programs
- Free annual national park passes
Now, that’s solid. But it’s just the start. The amount of state-specific benefits for 100% disabled veterans available can blow your mind… if you know where to look.
Here’s the Deal: Every State Plays by Its Own Rules
I don’t care if you’re living in Florida or Alaska—how your benefits shake out depends completely on your state laws. It’s a patchwork system. That’s why it’s so important to check your state’s Department of Veterans Affairs site. Or better yet — keep reading because we’re going deep on the good stuff coming up. For now, here’s a high-level look at what some states offer 100% disabled vets:
| State | Top 3 Benefits |
|---|---|
| Texas |
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| California |
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| Florida |
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| Ohio |
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And this is just scratching the surface. Lots of this stuff isn’t even advertised well. That’s why connecting with your local VA office is step one.
Can 100% Disabled Veterans Own Real Estate? Absolutely
This comes up a lot. People think getting VA disability somehow makes you ineligible to buy property — especially investment property. Not true. In fact, knowing how to use your VA loan benefits correctly sets you up for financial freedom faster than a lot of civilians. And the team over at reAlpha has some awesome tips on how to turn VA loan benefits into real estate wins—even short-term vacation rentals.
Here’s what I’ve seen work:
- Using your VA loan to purchase a multi-unit property (live in one, rent the other)
- No down payment needed
- No PMI, which saves you hundreds per month
- Flexible debt-to-income ratios
And guess what? That passive income stacks up fast when you combine it with your VA comp.
Common State Benefits Worth Looking Into
Let’s keep it straight. These aren’t flashy talking points — these are things that can keep $1,000s in your pocket every year.
1. Property Tax Exemptions
13 states offer FULL property tax exemptions for veterans rated at 100% disability. Some lower your bill by 75% or more.
2. Free License Plates or Vehicle Tax Cuts
Many states waive vehicle registration fees or offer free plates. Flex with a disabled vet plate and skip the annual costs.
3. State Education Programs
Your kids can go to a 4-year public college for free in Texas and some other states. Florida and New Mexico offer the same.
4. Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Some states offer lifetime licenses. Don’t pay $65 every season. You earned this.
5. Homestead Protection
They can’t take your house away easily when you have full disability and live in protections states like Florida and Texas.
6. Small Business Help
You might qualify for state-funded grants or priority status in bids for government contracts if you’re rated 100%.
FAQs
Can a 100% disabled veteran get a free house?
Nope, not exactly. But with state property tax exemptions, housing assistance grants, and VA home loan perks—you can build toward free-living real fast.
Do 100% disabled veterans pay sales tax on cars?
Depends on the state. In places like South Carolina, 100% P&T veterans are exempt from vehicle sales tax altogether. Check your local DMV veteran benefits page.
Is education completely free for dependents of 100% disabled vets?
In many states, yes. Programs like the Hazelwood Act in Texas offer 150 credit hours of tuition-free college for kids and spouses.
Do I need to reapply for benefits each year?
Usually not, if you’ve got a permanent and total (P&T) rating. But for state programs, you may need to verify your eligibility every couple years.
What if I wasn’t rated 100% right away?
Backpay might be on the table. And you’re still eligible from the DAY your 100% rating becomes effective—not just when you got the paper in the mail.
Bottom line
Stick around for part two coming soon… we’re going deeper into how real estate + short-term rentals (like Airbnb/Vrbo) are changing the game for vets using benefits smartly. Check out more over at reAlpha’s blog for more on that. That’s the meat and potatoes of state-specific benefits for 100% disabled veterans. Don’t leave money on the table. Use it like it’s meant to be used.