Veterans Benefits Application Delaware: 2026 Step-by-Step Filing Guide
Delaware veterans file federal benefits through VA.gov using VA Form 21-526EZ (disability compensation) or VA Form 10-10EZ (healthcare). State benefits require separate applications submitted to the Delaware Office of Veterans Services, county assessment offices, or the Delaware DMV. Free Veterans Service Officers in each county assist with all applications at no cost. Call (302) 739-2792 or (800) 344-9900 for help.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Federal Application Portal | VA.gov |
| State Agency | Delaware Office of Veterans Services (OVS) |
| State Phone | (302) 739-2792 or (800) 344-9900 |
| Disability Claim Form | VA Form 21-526EZ |
| Healthcare Form | VA Form 10-10EZ |
| Property Tax Credit Deadline | April 30 (for July 1 effective date) |
| Trust Fund Processing | 5-7 business days |
| VSO Services | Free in all three counties |
| Wilmington VA Regional Office | 1601 Kirkwood Hwy, Wilmington, DE 19805 |
| OVS Mailing Address | 802 Silver Lake Blvd, Suite 100, Dover, DE 19904 |
| State Email for Applications | DOS_OVS@delaware.gov |
| Updated For | 2026 |
Overview: How Veterans Benefits Applications Work in Delaware
Delaware veterans apply for benefits through two separate systems: federal VA benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and state benefits through the Delaware Office of Veterans Services and other state agencies. The two systems have different forms, deadlines, and processing timelines.
Federal benefits include VA disability compensation, healthcare, education (GI Bill), home loans, pension, and survivor benefits. These are applied for through VA.gov or by mail using specific VA forms.
State benefits include the military pension tax exemption, disabled veterans school property tax credit, Veterans Trust Fund, education benefits for dependents, state employment preference, and burial benefits. Each has its own application process and deadline.
Free help is available. Delaware has Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) in New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties who assist veterans with both federal and state applications at no charge. The Delaware Office of Veterans Services can be reached at (302) 739-2792 or (800) 344-9900.
Federal VA Benefits Applications
VA Disability Compensation (VA Form 21-526EZ)
What it is: VA disability compensation is a tax-free monthly payment for veterans with service-connected injuries or illnesses.
Who qualifies: Veterans who became sick or injured during military service, or whose service made an existing condition worse.
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityHow to apply:
Gather your DD214, medical records, Social Security number, and direct deposit information
File online at VA.gov, by mail using VA Form 21-526EZ, or in person at the Wilmington VA Regional Office
Submit your claim to the Wilmington VA Regional Office at 1601 Kirkwood Hwy, Wilmington, DE 19805
Attend a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam if scheduled
Required documents:
DD214 or separation papers
Relevant medical records
Social Security number
Direct deposit information
Dependent information (if applicable)
Processing time: Varies by claim complexity. Fully Developed Claims generally process faster.
Free assistance: Delaware County Veterans Service Officers file VA Form 21-526EZ on your behalf at no cost.
Common mistake: Filing without a VSO. Delaware provides free VSO services in every county—there is no reason to pay for claim assistance.
VA Healthcare (VA Form 10-10EZ)
What it is: VA healthcare provides comprehensive medical services including primary care, specialty care, mental health, and prescriptions.
Who qualifies: Eligibility depends on service history, disability rating, and income. Veterans with a 0% disability rating or who are non-service-connected must provide income information.
How to apply:
Complete VA Form 10-10EZ online at VA.gov, by phone at 1-877-222-VETS (8387), or in person at any VA clinic
Bring your DD214, VA disability award letters, income information, and insurance cards
Delaware VA healthcare locations:
Wilmington VA Medical Center: 1601 Kirkwood Hwy, Wilmington, DE 19805
Kent County VA Clinic: 655 South Bay Road, Suite 3C, Dover, DE 19901
Sussex County VA Clinic: 21748 Roth Avenue, Georgetown, DE 19947
Processing time: Days to weeks. In-person applications may receive faster decisions.
VA Education Benefits (GI Bill)
What it is: The GI Bill funds college, graduate school, training programs, apprenticeships, and certifications.
Who qualifies: Veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible dependents based on length and type of service.
How to apply:
Go to VA.gov/education to determine eligibility
Apply online through VA.gov
Provide bank account direct deposit information, education and military history, and information about the school or training facility
Delaware-specific resources: The Delaware Department of Education maintains a Veterans Education Programs page. Programs must be approved by DDOE to offer GI Bill benefits.
VA Home Loan (Certificate of Eligibility)
What it is: VA-backed home loans offer competitive rates and no down payment.
Who qualifies: Veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and certain surviving spouses who meet minimum service requirements.
How to apply:
Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA
Use VA Form 26-1880 to request your COE, or have your lender retrieve it electronically
Apply for the loan through a VA-approved lender
Delaware-specific programs: The Delaware State Housing Authority offers the Welcome Home Loan Program with a 0.50% rate discount for veterans, and the Delaware Diamonds program provides up to $10,000 in forgivable down payment assistance.
VA Pension and Survivor Benefits
What it is: VA pension is a needs-based benefit for wartime veterans with limited income. Survivors may qualify for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) or Survivors Pension.
How to apply: Contact a Delaware VSO for assistance. The Wilmington VA Regional Office hosts VA SOLACE (Survivors’ Outreach, Legacy Assistance, Claims & Education) Day events to connect survivors with benefits.
State of Delaware Benefits Applications
Disabled Veterans School Property Tax Credit
What it is: A 100% credit against the non-vocational school district property tax on a disabled veteran’s primary residence.
Who qualifies: Veterans rated 100% disabled by the VA due to service-connected, permanent and total disability, based on individual unemployability, or a 100% disability rating.
Residency requirement: Legal domicile in Delaware for the past 3 years.
How to apply:
Download the application from finance.delaware.gov/disabled-veterans
Complete the application and attach:
Valid driver’s license or official state ID
Documentation of VA disability
Copy of Social Security Card
Submit to your county assessment office:
New Castle County: (302) 395-5520
Kent County: (302) 744-2401
Sussex County: (302) 855-7871
Deadline: April 30 for the effective July 1 tax year.
Common mistake: Missing the April 30 deadline. Late applications delay the credit by a full year.
Military Pension Tax Exemption
What it is: Delaware excludes a portion of military retirement pay from state income tax.
Who qualifies: Delaware resident military retirees of any age.
Exemption schedule (Senate Bill 201/SB 219):
| Tax Years | Maximum Exemption |
|---|---|
| Current | $12,500 |
| On or after 1/1/24 | $15,000 |
| On or after 1/1/25 | $20,000 |
| On or after 1/1/26 | $25,000 |
This exemption phases in over three years, regardless of age.
How to claim: This exemption is claimed when filing your Delaware personal income tax return. No separate application is required.
Important note: Military disability retirement pay received for service-connected injuries should not be included in taxable income.
Veterans Trust Fund
What it is: The Delaware Veterans Trust Fund provides critical financial assistance to Delaware veterans and their families experiencing a verified emergency financial hardship.
Who qualifies:
Delaware resident
Veteran with Honorable Discharge or General Discharge under Honorable Conditions
Documented emergency financial need
Funding will help overcome the emergency and support self-sufficiency
Required documents:
DD-214 (discharge form)
Valid Delaware Driver’s License or State ID
Copies of bills/invoices related to the financial need
Two recent pay stubs or proof of income
Two recent bank statements
What can be funded:
Rent or mortgage
Utilities (electric, gas, water, sewer/trash)
Childcare
Medical bills
Car payments or insurance
Other emergency-related costs
How to apply:
Complete the fillable PDF application available at vets.delaware.gov
Submit completed application and all supporting documents in person to the location nearest you:
New Castle County VSO: (302) 365-8231, 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear, DE 19701
Kent County DCVA Main Office: (302) 739-2792
Sussex County VSO: (302) 648-3068, 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro, DE 19966
Applications may also be emailed to DOS_OVS@delaware.gov
Processing time: Allow 5-7 business days for processing.
Important: Funds are paid directly to the vendor or service provider, not the applicant.
Delaware Veterans Home Application
What it is: A 144-bed skilled nursing facility in Milford for honorably discharged veterans.
Who qualifies: Honorable discharge with 180+ days active service, one year Delaware residency, and medically determined need for skilled nursing care.
How to apply:
Download the DVH Admissions Application and VA Form 10-10EZ from vethome.delaware.gov
Gather required documents: DD214, insurance cards, photo ID, financial POA documentation
Submit by mail, fax (302-424-6033), or email (DOSDVH_Admissions@delaware.gov)
Processing time: Applications valid for 90 days. Pre-admission assessment scheduled after review.
Education Benefits for Dependents
What it is: Educational benefits for children of deceased veterans, prisoners of war, and service members officially declared missing in action.
Who qualifies:
Child of a service member killed while on active duty or who died from service-related causes
Child of a POW or MIA service member
Must be at least 16 and not more than 24 years old
Delaware resident for at least 3 years
Attending or admitted to an educational institution beyond high school
How to apply: Contact the Delaware Higher Education Office at (302) 735-4120.
Delaware National Guard Tuition Assistance
What it is: Up to 100% tuition coverage at state-supported colleges and universities.
Who qualifies: Active members of a federally recognized Delaware National Guard unit in good standing.
How to apply:
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Approximately 30 days prior to class start date, contact the Education Services Officer at (302) 326-7044
Submit completed applications no later than 10 days prior to class start date
State Employment Veterans Preference
What it is: Additional points on state employment examinations.
Points:
10 points for disabled veterans
5 points for all other eligible veterans
Who else qualifies: Unmarried widows, spouses of POW/MIA service members, or spouses of totally disabled veterans may claim 5 preference points.
How to claim: Present proof of honorable discharge at the time of examination.
Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery Burial Application
What it is: Burial benefits at two state veterans cemeteries.
Who qualifies: Honorably discharged veterans, their spouses, and eligible dependent children.
How to apply:
Complete the Application for Burial in the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery
Mail completed form with a copy of DD214 to the cemetery of your choice or to the Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs
Apply online at vets.delaware.gov
Cemetery locations:
New Castle County: 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear, DE 19701
Sussex County: 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro, DE 19966
Veteran License Plate Application
What it is: Special license plates for veterans, including Disabled Veteran, Combat Veteran, and Retired Military plates.
Who qualifies: Honorably discharged veterans.
How to apply:
Complete the DMV application
Provide a copy of DD214 or NGB22 honorable discharge papers
Submit a check or money order for the required fee ($10-$15) payable to DMV
Visit a DMV location with required documentation
Comparison Table: Delaware Benefits Applications at a Glance
| Benefit | Application Method | Required Forms | Deadline | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VA Disability Compensation | VA.gov, mail, or VSO | VA Form 21-526EZ | None | Free |
| VA Healthcare | VA.gov, phone, or in person | VA Form 10-10EZ | None | Free |
| Property Tax Credit | County assessment office | DE Finance application | April 30 | Free |
| Veterans Trust Fund | In person or email | DVTF application | None | Free |
| Military Pension Exemption | State tax return | None (claimed on return) | Tax filing deadline | Free |
| DVH Admission | Mail, fax, or email | DVH App + 10-10EZ | None | Free to apply |
| Education (Dependents) | Higher Education Office | Application | May 15 (4:30 p.m.) | Free |
| Burial Benefits | Mail or online | Cemetery application | None | Free |
| License Plate | DMV | DMV application | None | $10-$15 |
Common Mistakes in Delaware Benefits Applications
1. Filing federal and state applications in the wrong order.
Apply for federal VA benefits (especially disability compensation) first. Some state benefits require a VA disability rating or award letter as part of the application.
2. Missing the April 30 property tax credit deadline.
Applications for the Disabled Veterans School Property Tax Credit are due April 30 for the effective July 1 tax year. Missing this deadline delays the credit by a full year.
3. Submitting incomplete Trust Fund applications.
Incomplete applications will not be processed. Required documents include DD214, Delaware ID, bills/invoices, two recent pay stubs, and two bank statements.
4. Not using free Veterans Service Officers.
Delaware provides free VSOs in all three counties. All services are provided free of charge. There is no need to pay for claim assistance.
5. Assuming the property tax credit covers all property taxes.
The Disabled Veterans School Tax Credit applies only to the non-vocational school district portion of property taxes—not county, municipal, or other property taxes.
6. Waiting until a crisis to apply for the Delaware Veterans Home.
There is no waiting list. Admission depends on eligibility and bed availability. Apply as early as possible.
7. Forgetting the military pension exemption on state taxes.
This is claimed when filing your Delaware income tax return. Many eligible retirees miss it.
Appeals Process for Denied Benefits
If a VA disability claim is denied, veterans can file a decision review. Delaware VSOs can assist with appeals and reconsiderations at no cost.
Appeal options:
Supplemental Claim: Submit new and relevant evidence
Higher-Level Review: Request review by a more experienced claims adjudicator
Board Appeal: Appeal directly to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals
Tackle It Tuesday events, held every second Tuesday of the month, provide opportunities to meet with VA and state representatives to resolve claims issues including VA Disability Appeals and Reconsiderations.
To register for Tackle It Tuesday: Call 302-326-7582 or register at the SignUpGenius link provided by the Delaware National Guard J9 office.
Common Questions
What forms do I need to apply for VA disability in Delaware?
File VA Form 21-526EZ (Application for Disability Compensation). You’ll need your DD214, medical records showing your diagnosis, Social Security number, and direct deposit information. Delaware CVSOs file the form on your behalf at no cost. Claims can be submitted online at VA.gov, by mail, or in person at the Wilmington VA Regional Office.
How do I apply for the Disabled Veterans School Property Tax Credit?
Download the application from finance.delaware.gov/disabled-veterans. Submit it with your driver’s license, VA disability documentation, and Social Security Card to your county assessment office by April 30. You must have legal domicile in Delaware for the past 3 years and receive 100% disability compensation from the VA.
What is the deadline for the Delaware property tax credit?
Applications are due April 30 for the effective July 1 tax year. Missing this deadline delays the credit by a full year. Contact your county assessment office: New Castle County (302) 395-5520, Kent County (302) 744-2401, or Sussex County (302) 855-7871.
How do I apply for the Delaware Veterans Trust Fund?
Complete the fillable PDF application available at vets.delaware.gov. Submit it with your DD214, Delaware ID, bills/invoices, two recent pay stubs, and two bank statements in person to the VSO office in your county or email to DOS_OVS@delaware.gov. Processing takes 5-7 business days.
What documents are required for the Veterans Trust Fund?
Required documents include: DD214 (Honorable or General under Honorable Conditions), valid Delaware Driver’s License or State ID, copies of bills/invoices related to the financial need, two recent pay stubs or proof of income, and two recent bank statements. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
How do I claim the military pension tax exemption in Delaware?
This exemption is claimed when filing your Delaware personal income tax return. No separate application is required. The current exemption is $12,500 and phases up to $25,000 by 2029, regardless of the retiree’s age. Military disability retirement pay for service-connected injuries is not taxable.
How do I apply for the Delaware Veterans Home?
Download the DVH Admissions Application and VA Form 10-10EZ from vethome.delaware.gov. Submit by email (DOSDVH_Admissions@delaware.gov), fax (302-424-6033), or mail to 100 Delaware Veterans Blvd., Milford, DE 19963. Applications are valid for 90 days.
What free help is available for Delaware veterans filing claims?
Delaware provides free Veterans Service Officers in all three counties. Call (302) 739-2792 or (800) 344-9900. VSOs assist with federal and state benefit applications at no charge. Tackle It Tuesday events offer monthly in-person claim assistance.
How do I apply for burial benefits at a Delaware veterans cemetery?
Complete the Application for Burial in the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery and mail it with a copy of your DD214 to the cemetery of your choice or to the Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs. Applications can also be completed online at vets.delaware.gov.
What is the GI Bill application process in Delaware?
Apply online at VA.gov/education. You’ll need bank account direct deposit information, education and military history, and information about the school or training facility. Delaware programs must be approved by the Delaware Department of Education to offer GI Bill benefits.
How do I get a veterans license plate in Delaware?
Complete the DMV application and provide a copy of your DD214 or NGB22 honorable discharge papers. Submit a check or money order for $10-$15 payable to DMV. Visit a DMV location with required documentation. Plates are typically mailed in 6-8 weeks.
What is the deadline for Delaware education benefits for dependents?
The application deadline is May 15 at 4:30 p.m. for the following academic year. The application period opens December 1. Contact the Delaware Higher Education Office at (302) 735-4120 for more information.
Key Takeaways
Delaware veterans apply for federal benefits through VA.gov using VA Form 21-526EZ (disability) and VA Form 10-10EZ (healthcare).
State benefits require separate applications: property tax credit (April 30 deadline), Veterans Trust Fund (5-7 day processing), and military pension exemption (claimed on tax return).
Free Veterans Service Officers are available in all three Delaware counties. Call (302) 739-2792 or (800) 344-9900.
The Disabled Veterans School Property Tax Credit requires 100% VA disability rating and 3 years of Delaware domicile.
The Delaware Veterans Trust Fund pays vendors directly for rent, utilities, medical bills, and other emergency needs.
Military pension tax exemption phases up to $25,000 by 2029, regardless of age.
Tackle It Tuesday events offer monthly in-person claim assistance—call 302-326-7582 to register.
Applications for the Delaware Veterans Home are valid for 90 days and require VA Form 10-10EZ.
Dependents’ education benefits have a May 15 deadline and require 3 years of Delaware residency.
License plates require DD214 and a $10-$15 fee, payable to DMV.
Official Resources
Delaware Office of Veterans Services: vets.delaware.gov
Wilmington VA Regional Benefit Office: va.gov/wilmington-va-regional-benefit-office
Delaware Veterans Trust Fund: vets.delaware.gov/veterans-trust-fund
Delaware Veterans Home: vethome.delaware.gov
Delaware Division of Revenue: revenue.delaware.gov
Delaware Department of Finance (Property Tax Credit): finance.delaware.gov/disabled-veterans
Delaware DMV: dmv.de.gov
Delaware Higher Education Office: (302) 735-4120
VA Benefits Hotline: 1-800-827-1000
VA Healthcare Enrollment: 1-877-222-VETS (8387)
Veterans Crisis Line: 988 (press 1)
🇺🇸 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.
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📌 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.
