Veterans Benefits Vermont: Complete 2026 Guide to State & Federal Programs
Vermont veterans benefits include a property tax exemption of at least $10,000 for disabled veterans, full state income tax exemption on military retirement pay for those earning up to $125,000, a $2 lifetime Green Mountain Passport, free hunting and fishing licenses for veterans rated 60% or higher, and access to the Vermont Veterans’ Home in Bennington. Apply through the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit | State tax exemptions, property tax relief, healthcare, education, housing, long-term care |
| Eligibility | Veterans, Guard/Reserve members, spouses, survivors; varies by program |
| Application | Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs; VA.gov; town assessor for property tax |
| Processing Time | Varies by program; property tax exemption requires annual filing by May 1 |
| Official Agency | Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs (OVA); U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs |
| Required Forms | DD-214, VA award letter, property tax exemption form, VSAC application |
| Key Contacts | OVA: 802-828-3379; VA Benefits: 800-827-1000; VT 211: Dial 2-1-1 |
| Updated For | 2026 |
What Is the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs?
The Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs (OVA) is the state agency responsible for coordinating veterans benefits, services, and advocacy across Vermont. The OVA operates with a mission to assist veterans, service members, and their families in accessing federal, state, and local benefits. It maintains trained Veterans Service Officers who provide free assistance with VA claims, appeals, and benefit applications.
Who qualifies: All Vermont veterans, active duty service members, National Guard members, Reservists, and their families.
Why it matters: The OVA is the central point of contact for veterans seeking state-specific benefits that supplement federal VA programs. Many Vermont benefits — like property tax exemptions and the Green Mountain Passport — are only available through the state.
What veterans should do next: Contact the OVA at 802-828-3379 or visit veterans.vermont.gov to schedule an appointment with a Veterans Service Officer.
Vermont Property Tax Exemption for Veterans
Vermont provides a property tax exemption for eligible disabled veterans, surviving spouses, and certain other veterans. The exemption reduces the appraised value of the veteran’s primary residence before taxes are assessed.
Who Qualifies
Veterans and survivors who meet one of the following criteria are eligible:
Veterans receiving VA Disability Compensation at a rating of 50% or higher
Veterans receiving Non-Service Connected Pension (Improved Pension)
Veterans collecting permanent military retirement pay for a medical military retirement
Surviving spouses of veterans who had received the exemption
Exemption Amount
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityState law mandates a minimum $10,000 exemption**, although towns have the option of increasing it to **$40,000. The exemption reduces the appraised value of the home prior to assessment.
Example: An eligible veteran lives in a home valued at $200,000. If the town provides a $20,000 exemption, the home is taxed at $180,000.
How to Apply
Provide proof of eligibility to the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs before May 1 of the first year for which the exemption is sought
Obtain proof of eligibility from the VA (call no later than April 1 to request documentation)
The exemption remains on the grand list until title to the property is transferred
Totally and permanently disabled veterans only need to provide proof the first year, unless they move to a new home in a different town
Important: The exemption only applies to homes owned by the veteran or survivor and used as a primary residence. Renters cannot pass this exemption to their landlord.
Vermont Income Tax Benefits for Military Retirees (Act 71)
Vermont’s Act 71, signed into law in June 2025, significantly expanded state income tax exemptions for military retirement pay and survivor benefits. The changes take effect beginning with the 2025 tax year (filed in 2026).
Military Retirement Pay Exemption
| Federal Adjusted Gross Income | Exemption Status |
|---|---|
| $125,000 or less | Full exemption on military retirement pay and survivor benefit income |
| $125,001 – $175,000 | Partial exemption on a sliding scale |
| Above $175,000 | Annual exclusion cap of $40,000 (up from $30,000) |
Important: Taxpayers receiving both Social Security income and military retirement pay can only elect one exclusion — either the Social Security tax exemption or the Military Retirement pay tax exemption, but not both.
Vermont Veteran Tax Credit
Act 71 established a new $250 refundable tax credit** for income-eligible veterans. Veterans with an adjusted gross income of **$25,000 or less can receive this credit. Contact the Vermont Department of Taxes for current eligibility requirements.
Other Income Tax Exemptions
Military pay is exempt from Vermont income taxes for resident service members serving on full-time active duty outside Vermont
Up to $2,000 of military pay is tax exempt for Vermont National Guard or Reserve members if federal AGI is less than $50,000
VA disability compensation remains tax-free at both federal and state levels
Funds received through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program are exempt from Vermont income taxes
Vermont Veterans’ Home
The Vermont Veterans’ Home (VVH) in Bennington is the second oldest state veterans home in the country, opening on April 1, 1887. The 177-bed facility provides skilled nursing care, short-term rehabilitation, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, respite care, hospice and palliative care, and residential/domiciliary care to veterans, their spouses, and Gold Star parents.
Eligibility
Veterans who served at least 90 days in the U.S. Armed Forces and were discharged under honorable conditions
Spouses of veterans
Gold Star parents
Vermont veterans have priority for admission
Must have Medicare or Medicaid (Vermont or New York)
Veterans without Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance must pay for care
Costs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Veterans rated 70%+ service-connected | Full cost of care paid; no charge to veteran |
| Basic Per Diem (Nursing Home) | $144.10 per day |
| Basic Per Diem (Domiciliary) | $62.20 per day |
| Monthly Rates | Start at $2,291; average in area is $6,955 |
Services
24-hour skilled nursing care
Inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation therapy
Alzheimer’s and dementia care
Dental services
Mental health services (geriatric psychiatrist on-site)
Full-time dietitian and dietary services
Pharmacy services
Trout pond, deer park, and airsoft range on the 83-acre campus
Veterans’ cemetery on site
Contact: 325 North Street, Bennington, VT 05201 | 802-442-6353 | vvh.vermont.gov
Vermont VA Healthcare
VA healthcare in Vermont is provided through the White River Junction VA Healthcare System, which operates a medical center and four community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs) in or adjacent to Vermont.
VA Facilities in Vermont
| Facility | Location | Services |
|---|---|---|
| White River Junction VA Medical Center | White River Junction | Full-service hospital, emergency care, surgery, specialty care |
| Bennington CBOC | Bennington | Primary care, mental health |
| Burlington CBOC | South Burlington | Primary care, specialty care, new dental services |
| Rutland CBOC | Rutland | Primary care, mental health |
| Vermont VA Clinic | Colchester | Primary care, specialty care |
Healthcare Benefits
Free or very inexpensive high-quality healthcare
Top-of-the-line hearing aids for no more than $50 (retail $5,000–$8,000)
Prescription drugs for no more than $11 per month
Acupuncture covered when clinically necessary
Emergency care available 24/7 at White River Junction
Geriatric services including memory care and fall prevention
Caregiver support services
Mental health services
Urgent care benefits
Enrollment
Veterans enrolled in VA healthcare categories 1 through 7 can access care. Apply online at VA.gov, by phone at 877-222-8387, or in person at any VA facility.
New Dental Services: A new VA clinic in South Burlington will provide dental care services — the first for a VA facility in Vermont. Vermont was previously the only state without a VA dental clinic.
Vermont Education Benefits for Veterans
Vermont offers education benefits through both federal VA programs and state-specific tuition assistance.
Federal VA Education Benefits (GI Bill)
The GI Bill is administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and provides funding for college, graduate school, trade school, and on-the-job training. Apply online at VA.gov.
Key steps to use the GI Bill:
Educate yourself about the program at gibill.va.gov
Apply for benefits at VA.gov (benefits are not automatic)
Find an “approved program” at your school — contact the school’s VA Certifying Official
Enroll only after completing steps 1-3
Trade schools in Vermont with GI Bill-approved programs include welding and truck driving. On-the-job training (OJT) programs are also approved.
Vermont National Guard Tuition Benefit Program
The Vermont National Guard Tuition Benefit Program provides full tuition for eligible Guard members at Vermont State University, the University of Vermont, and other eligible institutions.
Eligibility:
Active member of the Vermont National Guard
Successfully completed basic training
Enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program at an eligible Vermont institution
Have not previously earned a bachelor’s degree
Benefit Amount:
In-state tuition rate at Vermont State Colleges or UVM
For private institutions: in-state tuition rate charged by UVM
For non-degree/certificate programs: lower of institution’s tuition or UVM in-state rate
Important: The benefit is conditioned on a promissory note requiring repayment if the member fails to complete required Guard service.
Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC)
VSAC is a public nonprofit agency that helps Vermonters pursue education after high school. VSAC administers grants, loans, scholarships, career planning, and a small number of private scholarships for veterans and their families.
Contact: vsac.org
Vermont Housing Assistance for Veterans
Vermont offers several housing programs for veterans, including transitional housing, rapid re-housing, and supportive services.
Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)
SSVF provides prevention and rapid re-housing assistance for veterans and their families to help them obtain or retain stable housing.
| Provider | Service Area | Services |
|---|---|---|
| SSVF at University of Vermont | All 14 Vermont counties + Clinton, NY | Case management, benefits counseling, rent/utility payments |
| Veterans Inc. | Statewide | Transitional housing, supportive services |
| Dodge House (Rutland) | Statewide | 7-bed transitional housing for homeless veterans |
Eligibility
Low-income veterans and their families
Must not exceed 50% of median income
Honorable discharge required for transitional housing
Alcohol- and substance-free for 30 days (Dodge House)
Dodge House
Dodge House in Rutland is a seven-bed transitional housing facility for male and female Vermont veterans who are homeless. The program provides shelter, clothing, food, and an individualized reintegration program. Residents pay 20% of net income after employment, which is placed in savings and returned upon successful completion.
Contact: 95 Crescent Street, Rutland, VT 05701 | 802-775-6772
Emergency Financial Assistance
Veterans and families having difficulty with basic life necessities such as food, shelter, or utilities should contact Vermont 211 by dialing 2-1-1 from any phone. The call is toll-free. The Vermont Veterans’ Fund also provides grants for long-term care, homeless veterans, and transportation services.
Vermont State Employment Preference for Veterans
Vermont provides hiring preference for veterans applying for state jobs. Veterans receive 5 points added to their employment test score, and disabled veterans receive 10 points. An honorable discharge is required.
Who Qualifies
Ex-service personnel who served on active duty in any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces and separated under honorable conditions
Veterans receiving compensation or disability retirement benefits from the VA
Eligible veterans may apply for jobs that are normally available only to current state employees
How to Claim Preference
Apply through the Vermont Department of Human Resources. Provide a copy of your DD-214 and, if applicable, VA disability documentation.
Vermont Vehicle Benefits for Veterans
Vermont offers specific motor vehicle benefits for disabled veterans and general veteran license plates.
Disabled Veteran License Plates
Disabled veterans who have had their vehicle modified to accommodate their disability — with the modification paid for by the VA — are exempt from:
Vehicle sales tax
Registration fees
License fees
Required forms: VG-168 (Vermont Certificate of Veteran Status) and VS-113
Important: All other veterans, including those rated 100% disabled, are not exempt from these fees.
Veteran License Plates
Vermont offers a variety of license plates for veterans, including:
U.S. Veteran Plate (any branch)
Disabled Veteran Plate
Specialty plates for specific conflicts or branches
Contact the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles at 802-828-2000 for details.
Vermont Hunting and Fishing Licenses for Veterans
Vermont offers free hunting and fishing licenses to veterans with significant service-connected disabilities.
Eligibility
Vermont resident
Veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces
60% or higher service-connected disability rating
Free fishing, hunting, or combination hunting and fishing license
Includes all big game licenses
How to Apply
Present a certificate from the VA certifying the disability rating to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department. Contact: 802-828-1190 | vtfishandwildlife.com
Green Mountain Passport
The Green Mountain Passport is available to Vermont veterans for a one-time $2 fee. The passport authorizes free day passes to Vermont State parks and historic sites for the veteran and their family.
Vermont Veterans’ Fund and Financial Assistance
The Vermont Veterans’ Fund was created in 2010 to provide grants and support to individuals and organizations serving veterans. It is funded through a checkoff on Vermont state income tax returns.
Purpose
The Fund provides grants or support for:
Long-term care of veterans
Aid to homeless veterans
Transportation services for veterans
Other recognized veteran needs
Vermont Veteran Assistance Fund
Eligible veterans who have continuously resided in Vermont for the past twelve months, and their dependents, may qualify for assistance. Contact the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs at 802-828-3379 for application information.
VA Disability Compensation for Vermont Veterans
VA disability compensation is a federal tax-free monthly benefit paid to veterans with service-connected injuries or illnesses. Vermont veterans receive the same federal compensation as veterans in any other state.
How to Apply
Gather your DD-214, medical records, and service treatment records
Contact a Vermont Veterans Service Officer for free assistance — the OVA recommends veterans do not file alone
Apply online at VA.gov, by mail, in person, or with a VA-accredited representative
Attend your Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam if scheduled
Receive your decision and rating
White River Junction VA Regional Benefit Office
The White River Junction VA Regional Benefit Office serves all Vermont veterans for disability compensation claims, pension benefits, education benefits, and vocational rehabilitation. Benefit counselors can help you understand eligibility, start a claim, and complete paperwork.
Contact: 163 Veterans Drive, White River Junction, VT 05001 | 800-827-1000
Vermont State Benefits for Disabled Veterans
In addition to federal compensation, Vermont offers:
Property tax exemption (50%+ rating)
Free hunting and fishing licenses (60%+ rating)
Free Vermont Veterans’ Home care (70%+ rating)
Vehicle tax exemptions (modified vehicles only)
Vermont Survivor Benefits
Vermont provides benefits to surviving spouses and dependents of veterans through both federal and state programs.
Federal Survivor Benefits
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): Tax-free monthly benefit for surviving spouses and dependents of veterans who died from service-connected causes
Survivors Pension: Needs-based benefit for surviving spouses of wartime veterans
Burial benefits: Up to $2,000 for service-connected deaths
VA home loan guaranty for surviving spouses
Vermont State Survivor Benefits
Property tax exemption for surviving spouses of veterans who received the exemption
Military retirement survivor benefit income exempt from state income tax under Act 71 (AGI limits apply)
Education benefits for dependents through VSAC and Title 20
How to Apply
Contact the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs at 802-828-3379 or a Veterans Service Officer for assistance with survivor benefit applications. Federal benefits are applied for through VA.gov or by mail using VA Form 21P-534EZ.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Filing property tax exemption after May 1. The deadline is strict. Call the VA by April 1 to request proof of eligibility.
Assuming all disabled veterans qualify for vehicle tax exemptions. Only veterans whose vehicles were modified with VA funding qualify.
Not applying for the Vermont Veteran Tax Credit. Income-eligible veterans may miss the $250 refundable credit.
Electing both Social Security and military retirement exemptions. Taxpayers can only choose one under Act 71.
Filing VA claims alone. Vermont Veterans Service Officers provide free assistance and know the system.
Missing the 90-day service requirement for the Vermont Veterans’ Home. Even short-service veterans may qualify if discharged for a disability.
Overlooking the Green Mountain Passport. The $2 lifetime pass provides free access to state parks.
Not contacting Vermont 211 for emergency assistance. Dial 2-1-1 for help with food, shelter, and utilities.
Assuming the property tax exemption is automatic. Veterans must provide proof of eligibility to the OVA every year before May 1.
Not applying for the Vermont Veterans’ Fund. The Fund supports long-term care, homeless veterans, and transportation services.
Comparison Table: Vermont Benefits by Eligibility
| Benefit | Eligible Veterans | Income Limits | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Property Tax Exemption | 50%+ VA rating; pension; medical retirement | None stated | OVA before May 1 annually |
| Military Retirement Tax Exemption | Military retirees; survivors | Full ≤$125K AGI; partial $125K–$175K | VT Dept. of Taxes |
| Vermont Veteran Tax Credit | Income-eligible veterans | AGI ≤ $25,000 | VT Dept. of Taxes |
| Vermont Veterans’ Home | 90+ days service, honorable discharge | Sliding scale; free for 70%+ | VVH Admissions |
| Free Hunting/Fishing License | 60%+ service-connected disability | None stated | VT Fish & Wildlife |
| Green Mountain Passport | All Vermont veterans | None | $2 one-time fee |
| VA Healthcare | Categories 1–7 | None for enrollment | VA.gov |
| GI Bill | Honorable discharge; eligible service | None | VA.gov |
| Guard Tuition Benefit | Active VT National Guard | None | VT National Guard Education Office |
| Vehicle Tax Exemption | Disabled veterans with VA-modified vehicles | None | VT DMV |
| State Employment Preference | Honorable discharge | None | VT Dept. of Human Resources |
| SSVF Housing Assistance | Low-income veterans | ≤50% median income | UVM SSVF; Veterans Inc. |
Common Questions
1. What benefits are available to veterans in Vermont?
Vermont veterans can access property tax exemptions, state income tax exemptions on military retirement pay, the Vermont Veterans’ Home, free hunting and fishing licenses, the Green Mountain Passport, VA healthcare, GI Bill education benefits, housing assistance, and state employment preference.
2. How do I apply for the Vermont property tax exemption?
Provide proof of eligibility to the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs before May 1 of the first year you seek the exemption. Call the VA by April 1 to request documentation. The exemption remains on the grand list until the property is transferred.
3. Does Vermont tax military retirement pay?
No, under Act 71, military retirement pay is fully exempt from Vermont state income tax for taxpayers with federal AGI of $125,000 or less. Partial exemption is available for AGI between $125,001 and $175,000, with a $40,000 annual cap above that.
4. Who qualifies for the Vermont Veterans’ Home?
Veterans who served at least 90 days and were honorably discharged, plus their spouses and Gold Star parents. Vermont veterans have priority. Veterans rated 70%+ service-connected receive full cost of care coverage.
5. Is VA healthcare free for Vermont veterans?
VA healthcare is free or very inexpensive for eligible veterans. Prescriptions cost no more than $11 per month, and hearing aids are available for no more than $50. Enrollment categories 1–7 are eligible.
6. Does Vermont offer free hunting and fishing licenses to veterans?
Yes, for Vermont resident veterans with a 60% or higher service-connected disability rating. The license includes all big game licenses. Present VA certification to the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department.
7. What is the Green Mountain Passport?
The Green Mountain Passport is a $2 lifetime pass for Vermont veterans that provides free day passes to Vermont State parks and historic sites. It is available through the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs.
8. How do I get help filing a VA disability claim in Vermont?
Contact the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs at 802-828-3379 or a certified Veterans Service Officer. The OVA recommends veterans do not file claims alone. Services are free.
9. What housing assistance is available for Vermont veterans?
SSVF programs through the University of Vermont and Veterans Inc. provide rent and utility assistance, case management, and rapid re-housing. Dodge House in Rutland offers transitional housing for homeless veterans.
10. Does Vermont have a veteran tax credit?
Yes, Act 71 established a $250 refundable tax credit for income-eligible veterans with AGI of $25,000 or less. Contact the Vermont Department of Taxes for details.
11. What is the Vermont National Guard Tuition Benefit?
It provides full tuition for eligible Vermont National Guard members at Vermont State University, UVM, and other eligible institutions. Members must have completed basic training and not previously earned a bachelor’s degree.
12. How do I contact the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs?
Call 802-828-3379 or toll-free at 888-666-9844. The office is located at 118 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05620-4401. Visit veterans.vermont.gov.
Key Takeaways
Property tax exemption: $10,000 minimum for veterans rated 50%+; towns may increase to $40,000. File by May 1 annually through the OVA.
Act 71 tax relief: Military retirement pay is fully exempt from Vermont income tax for AGI up to $125,000; partial exemption up to $175,000.
Vermont Veteran Tax Credit: $250 refundable credit for veterans with AGI of $25,000 or less.
Vermont Veterans’ Home: 177-bed facility in Bennington; free for veterans rated 70%+; serves veterans, spouses, and Gold Star parents.
VA healthcare: White River Junction VA provides full-service care; prescriptions cost ≤$11; hearing aids ≤$50.
Free hunting/fishing licenses: Available to Vermont resident veterans with 60%+ service-connected disability.
Green Mountain Passport: $2 lifetime pass for free access to Vermont state parks.
Housing assistance: SSVF programs and Dodge House provide transitional housing and rapid re-housing.
State employment preference: 5 points for veterans, 10 points for disabled veterans on state job exams.
Act 71 survivor benefits: Military survivor benefit income exempt from state tax under the same AGI thresholds.
Official Resources
| Resource | Website |
|---|---|
| Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs | veterans.vermont.gov |
| Vermont Veterans’ Home | vvh.vermont.gov |
| VA White River Junction Healthcare System | va.gov/white-river-junction-health-care |
| VA Benefits Administration | benefits.va.gov |
| VA Disability Compensation | va.gov/disability |
| VA Aid & Attendance Pension | va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound |
| VA Health Care Enrollment | va.gov/health-care/apply |
| VA Education Benefits (GI Bill) | va.gov/education |
| Vermont Department of Taxes | tax.vermont.gov |
| Vermont Student Assistance Corporation | vsac.org |
| Vermont National Guard | vt.public.ng.mil |
| Vermont 211 | vermont211.org |
| Social Security Administration | ssa.gov |
| Medicare | medicare.gov |
| Medicaid.gov | medicaid.gov |
🇺🇸 IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER – Veterans Benefits Information
This site provides general information about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits for educational and informational purposes only.
- Not Official: We are NOT affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), or any other government agency.
- No Legal/Financial Advice: The content on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or medical advice. VA benefits rules change frequently – always consult with an accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or a qualified professional for your specific situation.
- Official Sources: For official, binding information and to apply for benefits, always visit official .gov websites: VA.gov, Benefits.VA.gov, or SSA.gov.
- No Data Collection: This site does not collect, store, or process any personal information. It does not have login forms, contact forms, or any system to capture user data. We never ask for your Social Security Number, bank details, or any personal information.
- 🚨 Scam Alert: The VA and other government agencies never charge fees for benefit applications. If anyone asks for money to "process" your VA claim, it is a scam. Report it to the VA Office of Inspector General at VA.gov/OIG.
- Advertising: This site uses third-party advertising (Adsterra) to cover operational costs. We do not endorse or guarantee any products or services advertised.
📌 Information provided as of June 2026. Always verify current eligibility and rules with official .gov sources.
This site is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency. All information is for educational purposes only. Please visit VA.gov for official information.
