Nashville VA Benefits: Complete Guide for Veterans

Nashville, TN Veterans Benefits Guide

Nashville veterans access benefits through the VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System (Nashville VA Medical Center), the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services Nashville Field Office, the Nashville Vet Center, and Metro’s Office of Veterans Services. Key benefits include state property tax relief for 100% disabled veterans, no state income tax on military retirement, the Helping Heroes Grant, and free claims assistance.

Quick Facts

VA Health Care in Nashville

The Nashville VA Medical Center is the primary VA health care facility serving veterans in Nashville and the surrounding region. It is part of the VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System.

Nashville VA Medical Center Services

The Nashville VA Medical Center at 1310 24th Avenue South provides primary care and specialty health services in a teaching hospital environment. The facility operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Services Offered:

• Primary care and specialty care

• Mental health care (individual and group)

• Women’s health services

• Organ transplants

• Prosthetics

• Eye care and optometry

• Nutrition counseling

• Foot care and podiatry

• Hospice and palliative care

• Blind and low vision rehabilitation

• Cardiovascular surgery

• Dental services

• Neurology (with subspecialty clinics for neuro-oncology, movement disorders, epilepsy, headache, traumatic brain injury, sleep, stroke, and neuroimmunology)

• Substance use disorder treatment

• Homeless services and outreach

• Physical rehabilitation

• Oncology

• Orthopedics

• Pain medicine

• Dermatology

Nashville VA Medical Center Contact Information

Alvin C. York VA Medical Center

The Alvin C. York VA Medical Center in Murfreesboro is the sister facility to the Nashville campus. It is located at 3400 Lebanon Pike, Murfreesboro, TN 37129. The facility houses the residential rehabilitation treatment program and provides additional inpatient and outpatient services.

VA Dental Services

Dental care is available at the Nashville VA Medical Center for eligible veterans. Eligibility for VA dental care depends on disability rating and other factors. Contact the dental clinic at 615-873-7120 to schedule an appointment.

Nashville VA Dental: 615-873-7120
Murfreesboro VA Dental: 615-225-6920

VA Transportation Services

Veterans who need transportation to VA medical appointments have several options:

• DAV Vans: Free van rides to and from Nashville VA Medical Center health care facilities for veterans who don’t have other transportation options. Call 615-695-6384 to schedule.

• Beneficiary Travel: Round-trip transportation from your home to the medical center, mileage reimbursement, or special mode transport for qualifying veterans.

• Non-DAV Van Services: Many localities in the region provide other van services to veterans.

Important: Reserve your DAV van seat as soon as you make your medical appointment. Van schedules vary by county.

Tennessee Department of Veterans Services in Nashville

The Tennessee Department of Veterans Services (TDVS) operates a field office inside the Nashville VA Medical Center. TDVS provides free claims assistance and benefits navigation for Tennessee veterans.

Nashville Field Office

Nashville Field Office Staff

TDVS Statewide Services

TDVS provides the following services at no cost:

• Assistance filing VA disability compensation claims

• Claims for increased ratings

• Secondary condition claims

• VA pension applications

• Survivor benefits (DIC, death pension)

• Burial benefits

• Appeals assistance

• Healthcare enrollment

• Education benefits navigation

Statewide Toll-Free: 1-844-838-7838

Metro Office of Veterans Services

The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County operates an Office of Veterans Services inside Operation Stand Down TN at 1125 12th Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37203. The office assists all veterans, surviving spouses, or eligible dependents who live, work, or attend school in Davidson County.

Services:

• Access to city, state, and federal veteran-related benefits

• Claims assistance

• Benefits counseling

• Connection to community resources

Nashville Vet Center

The Nashville Vet Center provides confidential help for veterans, service members, and their families at no cost in a non-medical setting. Services include counseling for depression, PTSD, and the psychological effects of military sexual trauma.

Nashville Vet Center Services

• Individual counseling

• Couples and family counseling

• PTSD treatment

• Military sexual trauma counseling

• Bereavement counseling for families who lost a loved one during active duty

• Grief counseling

• Substance use counseling

• Community referrals

Nashville Vet Center Contact Information

Who Can Use the Nashville Vet Center?

You do not need to be enrolled in VA health care, rated for a service-connected disability, or receiving any other VA benefits to use Vet Center services. On your first visit, bring one or more of the following:

• Discharge documents (DD-214)

• Receipt of certain awards

• Deployment orders

• Other documents showing qualifying military service

Many services are available on a walk-in basis. Call to schedule an appointment with a clinician.

Mobile Vet Center

A Mobile Vet Center is also available in Nashville to reach veterans who cannot easily travel to the main Vet Center location. Contact the Nashville Vet Center at 615-366-1220 for mobile unit schedules.

Tennessee Property Tax Relief for Disabled Veterans

Tennessee provides property tax relief for 100% permanently and totally disabled veterans and their surviving spouses. The state reimburses a portion of local property taxes paid on the veteran’s primary residence.

Who Qualifies

To qualify for Tennessee property tax relief as a disabled veteran, you must meet all of the following:

1. Service-Connected Disability: You have a 100% permanent and total service-connected disability rating from the VA

2. Honorable Discharge: You received an honorable discharge from military service

3. Property Ownership: You own and use the property as your primary residence

4. No Income Limit: There is no age or income restriction for disabled veterans

Surviving Spouses: The unmarried surviving spouse of a 100% disabled veteran may also qualify.

How the Benefit Works

Important: Tennessee property tax relief is a reimbursement, not an exemption. Veterans still receive their tax bill(s) and are responsible for paying property taxes each year. The state then reimburses the veteran for the approved portion.

2026 Update: Increased Market Value Cap

Legislation passed in 2026 increased the property value threshold for determining tax relief:

A separate bill (SB 473) proposes removing the market value cap entirely for 100% disabled veterans, which would require the state to fully reimburse local property taxes paid. This legislation is pending as of 2026.

How to Apply for Property Tax Relief

Step 1: Obtain your VA disability award letter showing 100% permanent and total service-connected disability.

Step 2: Complete the Tennessee property tax relief application (Form F-16 for disabled veterans, Form F-16S for surviving spouses).

Step 3: Submit the application to the Trustee’s Office in your county.

Step 4: Provide required documentation:

• Proof of ownership (current tax bill, recorded deed, etc.)

• Proof of residency (driver’s license, voter registration, utility bills)

• VA disability award letter (approved before December 31 of the prior year)

Step 5: The Trustee’s Office processes your application and submits it to the state for reimbursement.

Davidson County Application Deadline

For Davidson County (Nashville), the Trustee’s Office accepts applications through April 4, 2026, for the current tax year.

Property Tax Relief Contact

• Davidson County Trustee’s Office: 615-862-6000

• Tennessee Comptroller’s Office: 615-401-7855

Tennessee Income Tax Benefits for Veterans

Tennessee does not tax military retirement pay or VA disability benefits. The state has no personal income tax on wages.

Military Retirement Pay

Military retirement pay is fully exempt from Tennessee state income tax. Tennessee has no state income tax on any income, including military retirement and VA disability compensation.

VA Disability Benefits

All VA disability benefits are exempt from state income tax in Tennessee. This includes VA disability compensation, VA pension, and survivors’ benefits.

Why This Matters

Tennessee is one of nine states with no state income tax. This provides significant savings for military retirees and veterans receiving VA disability benefits compared to states with income taxes.

Tennessee Vehicle Tax Benefits for Disabled Veterans

Tennessee offers vehicle tax exemptions and registration fee waivers for 100% permanently and totally disabled veterans.

Vehicle Registration Fee Exemption

Disabled veterans with a 100% permanent and total service-connected disability are exempt from all registration taxes and fees for one vehicle. This applies to a private passenger automobile, recreational vehicle, or specified truck.

Motor Vehicle Privilege Tax (Wheel Tax) Exemption

Any disabled veteran with a 100% permanent total disability is exempt from the motor vehicle privilege tax (wheel tax) upon submission of evidence of such disability. Proof of a 100% rating is required.

Sales Tax Exemption for Adaptive Equipment

Automobile adaptive equipment necessary for safe operation of an automobile is exempt from sales and use tax when sold or given to an honorably discharged disabled veteran with a service-connected disability under 38 U.S.C. § 3901.

How to Claim Vehicle Benefits

Step 1: Obtain your VA disability award letter showing 100% permanent and total disability.

Step 2: Visit your county clerk’s office when registering your vehicle.

Step 3: Present your VA disability documentation and request the exemption.

Step 4: The exemption applies to one vehicle per eligible veteran.

Tennessee Education Benefits for Veterans

Tennessee offers several education benefits for veterans, service members, and their families.

Helping Heroes Grant

The Helping Heroes Grant provides $1,000 per semester to eligible veterans pursuing post-secondary education in Tennessee.

Eligibility:

• Honorable discharge

• Tennessee resident

• Enrolled in an eligible program at a Tennessee post-secondary institution

• Completing at least 12 semester hours each term

• First-come, first-serve basis (up to 375 veterans per year)

Award Amount: $1,000 per semester (maximum of two semesters per academic year)

Administration: Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation (TSAC)

Dependents Tuition Waiver

Spouses and dependent children of eligible veterans can receive a waiver of tuition and specified fees at state colleges and universities. This waiver covers maintenance, student activity, and required registration or admission fees.

Eligibility: Must be a dependent of a veteran who is permanently and totally disabled or died as a result of service.

In-State Tuition for GI Bill Recipients

Veterans eligible for Post-9/11 GI Bill or Montgomery GI Bill benefits are not required to pay out-of-state tuition or out-of-state fees at Tennessee public institutions of higher education.

Eligibility:

• Eligible for Post-9/11 GI Bill or Montgomery GI Bill benefits

• Enrolled in a Tennessee public institution of higher education

Tennessee State Approving Agency

The Tennessee State Approving Agency approves and monitors programs of education and training offered within the state to those eligible for GI Bill benefits. Educational institutions must have SAA approval before veterans can receive GI Bill benefits for those programs.

Veteran Employment Services in Nashville

Nashville veterans have access to specialized employment services through state and local programs.

American Job Center of Tennessee – Nashville

The American Job Center of Tennessee – Nashville Comprehensive Center provides priority of service to veterans.

Jobs for Veterans State Grants (JVSG)

The Jobs for Veterans State Grants program helps veterans transition to meaningful civilian employment by providing employment services at American Job Centers and other locations. Veterans receive priority of service for job search assistance, resume workshops, training programs, and career counseling.

Operation Stand Down Tennessee

Operation Stand Down Tennessee (OSDTN) is the only comprehensive Veteran-serving agency in Middle Tennessee connecting veterans with careers, community, and crisis services.

Employment Services:

• Resume review

• Mock job interviews

• Employer connections

• Job equipment help

• Networking events

• Mentorship programs

• Career counseling

• Peer engagement

VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System Employment Resource Center

The VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System operates an Employment Resource Center that connects veterans with meaningful employment opportunities and direct access to recruiters. Contact the VA for current hiring event schedules.

Housing Assistance for Nashville Veterans

Nashville offers several housing programs for veterans, including rental assistance and transitional housing.

HUD-VASH Program

The HUD-VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program combines HUD Housing Choice Vouchers with VA case management and clinical services for homeless veterans.

How HUD-VASH Works:

1. Veterans experiencing homelessness contact the Nashville VA Homeless Clinic

2. A VA case manager assesses eligibility

3. Eligible veterans receive a Housing Choice Voucher through the local public housing agency

4. The veteran finds an apartment of their choice

5. Ongoing case management supports housing stability

Eligibility: Veterans must be homeless as determined by the VA Medical Center and eligible for VA health care services.

Contact:

• Nashville VA Homeless Clinic: 615-873-6400

• VA Homeless Hotline: 877-424-3838

Nashville Housing Incentive for VASH Voucher Program

Nashville offers an incentive program to encourage landlords to rent units to homeless veterans through the VASH program. Participating landlords are eligible for a lease signing bonus and reimbursement for unpaid rent or repairs after a VASH participant moves from a unit.

Eligibility: Veterans must be eligible for rental assistance under MDHA’s VASH Voucher Program.

Operation Stand Down Tennessee Housing Programs

OSDTN provides transitional housing and housing stability services for veterans.

• Transitional Housing Program (THP): Provides transitional housing for veterans experiencing homelessness

• SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families): Prevents or relieves veteran homelessness through rapid rehousing and homeless prevention

• Community Connection: Peer engagement and connection to community resources

Room in the Inn

Room in the Inn provides programs that emphasize human development and recovery through education, including transitional residency programs for veterans and individuals seeking recovery.

Services:

• Guest House & Recuperative Care (respite for medically fragile homeless individuals)

• Transitional Housing

• Permanent Housing

• Housing and utility deposit assistance

Nashville Rescue Mission

The Nashville Rescue Mission provides emergency shelter, meals, and recovery programs. The men’s facility is located at 639 Lafayette St, Nashville, TN 37203.

Free Legal Services for Nashville Veterans

Nashville veterans have access to free legal assistance through several organizations.

Legal Aid Society

The Legal Aid Society assists residents of Davidson County with a variety of civil legal matters, including housing, public benefits, and family law.

Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services

The Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services provides a legal helpline and online resources for low-income Tennesseans, including veterans.

Operation Stand Down Tennessee Legal Services

OSDTN provides access to legal services for housing-related issues, including eviction defense and landlord-tenant disputes.

How to Apply for Veterans Benefits in Nashville

Applying for veterans benefits in Nashville follows a straightforward process. Start with the resource that matches your immediate need.

Decision Tree: Where to Go for Help

Step-by-Step: Getting Started

Step 1: Identify your primary need using the decision tree above.

Step 2: Gather required documents:

• DD-214 (discharge papers)

• Photo ID

• Social Security number

• Direct deposit information

• VA disability award letter (if applicable)

• Proof of Tennessee residency

• Medical records (if applicable)

Step 3: Contact the appropriate office:

• For health care: Call the Nashville VA Medical Center

• For claims: Contact the TDVS Nashville Field Office

• For mental health: Call the Nashville Vet Center

• For property tax: Contact the Davidson County Trustee’s Office

Step 4: Schedule an appointment where required.

Step 5: Complete applications and submit documentation.

Step 6: Follow up on your claim or application. Keep copies of everything you submit.

Common Questions

What VA hospital serves Nashville?

The Nashville VA Medical Center at 1310 24th Avenue South serves veterans in Nashville and the surrounding region. It is part of the VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System and operates 24/7. Call 615-873-7000 for general information.

Where is the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services office in Nashville?

The Nashville Field Office is located inside the VA Medical Center at 1310 24th Avenue South, Rooms G116/G117/G118. Veterans Service Officers are available to assist with claims. Call 615-741-2345.

What is the Nashville Vet Center phone number?

The Nashville Vet Center is at 2501 McGavock Pike, Suite 200, Nashville, TN 37214. Call 615-366-1220. The Vet Center Call Center is available 24/7 at 877-927-8387.

Does Tennessee offer property tax relief for disabled veterans?

Yes. Tennessee provides property tax relief for 100% permanently and totally disabled veterans and their surviving spouses. There is no income limit. The state reimburses a portion of local property taxes paid on the primary residence.

What is the property tax relief amount for disabled veterans in Tennessee?

For tax year 2026, the proposed legislation increases the reimbursement from the first $175,000 to the first $200,000 of the full market value of the home. A separate bill proposes removing the cap entirely.

Does Tennessee tax military retirement pay?

No. Tennessee has no state income tax on any income, including military retirement pay and VA disability benefits. This is one of the state’s most significant financial benefits for veterans.

What education benefits are available for Tennessee veterans?

The Helping Heroes Grant provides $1,000 per semester to eligible veterans. Dependents of permanently disabled veterans may qualify for a tuition waiver. GI Bill recipients are not required to pay out-of-state tuition at Tennessee public institutions.

How do I apply for the Helping Heroes Grant?

Contact the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation (TSAC). The grant is awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis to up to 375 eligible veterans per year. You must complete at least 12 semester hours each term.

What employment services are available for Nashville veterans?

The American Job Center of Tennessee – Nashville provides priority of service to veterans, including job search assistance, resume workshops, and training programs. Operation Stand Down Tennessee provides career counseling, employer connections, and job placement.

How do I get housing assistance as a Nashville veteran?

Contact the Nashville VA Homeless Clinic at 615-873-6400 or the VA Homeless Hotline at 877-424-3838. The HUD-VASH program combines housing vouchers with VA case management services.

What free legal services are available for Nashville veterans?

The Legal Aid Society assists Davidson County residents with civil legal matters. Operation Stand Down Tennessee provides access to legal services for housing-related issues.

Does the Nashville VA provide dental care?

Yes. Dental services are available at the Nashville VA Medical Center at 615-873-7120. Eligibility for VA dental care depends on your disability rating and other factors.

How do I get transportation to VA appointments in Nashville?

DAV provides free van rides to and from Nashville VA Medical Center facilities. Call 615-695-6384 to schedule. Reserve your seat as soon as you make your medical appointment.

What is the Alvin C. York VA Medical Center?

The Alvin C. York VA Medical Center in Murfreesboro is the sister facility to the Nashville campus. It houses the residential rehabilitation treatment program and provides inpatient and outpatient services. Call 615-867-6000.

What is Operation Stand Down Tennessee?

Operation Stand Down Tennessee (OSDTN) is the only comprehensive Veteran-serving agency in Middle Tennessee. It connects veterans with careers, community, and crisis services. It is located at 1125 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203.

Key Takeaways

• Nashville VA Medical Center at 1310 24th Avenue South provides comprehensive health care, including mental health, women’s health, organ transplants, prosthetics, and 24/7 emergency services.

• The Tennessee Department of Veterans Services Nashville Field Office is inside the VA Medical Center and provides free claims assistance. Call 615-741-2345.

• The Nashville Vet Center at 2501 McGavick Pike offers free, confidential counseling for PTSD, depression, and military sexual trauma. Call 615-366-1220.

• Tennessee offers property tax relief for 100% disabled veterans with no income limit. The 2026 proposed cap is $200,000 of market value. Apply through the Davidson County Trustee’s Office.

• Tennessee has no state income tax on military retirement pay or VA disability benefits , providing significant financial savings for veterans.

• The Helping Heroes Grant provides $1,000 per semester to eligible veterans pursuing post-secondary education in Tennessee.

• HUD-VASH provides housing vouchers and case management for homeless veterans. Contact the Nashville VA Homeless Clinic at 615-873-6400.

• Veterans receive priority of service at American Job Centers and through Operation Stand Down Tennessee’s employment programs.

• Free DAV van transportation is available to Nashville VA Medical Center appointments. Call 615-695-6384 to schedule.

• The Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7 by dialing 988 (Press 1) or texting 838255.

Official Resources

VA Resources

• Nashville VA Medical Center: https://www.va.gov/tennessee-valley-health-care/locations/nashville-va-medical-center

• Alvin C. York VA Medical Center: https://www.va.gov/tennessee-valley-health-care/locations/alvin-c-york-va-medical-center

• Nashville Vet Center: https://www.va.gov/nashville-vet-center

• VA Disability Compensation: https://www.va.gov/disability

• VA Health Care: https://www.va.gov/health

• VA Benefits Forms: https://www.va.gov/find-forms

• Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 (Press 1)

• VA Homeless Hotline: 877-424-3838

Tennessee State Resources

• Tennessee Department of Veterans Services: https://www.tn.gov/veteran.html

• TDVS Nashville Field Office: VA Medical Center, 1310 24th Ave S, Rooms G116/G117/G118

• TDVS Phone: 615-741-2345

• Tennessee Property Tax Relief: https://www.tn.gov/veteran/veteran-benefits/tn-state-benefits/homeowners/property-tax-relief-for-disabled-veterans.html

• Helping Heroes Grant: https://www.tn.gov/veteran/veteran-education/scholarships/veterans/helping-heroes-grant.html

• Davidson County Trustee’s Office: https://www.nashville.gov/departments/trustee

Nashville Metro Resources

• Metro Office of Veterans Services: Inside Operation Stand Down TN, 1125 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203

• Operation Stand Down Tennessee: https://osdtn.org

• American Job Center of Tennessee – Nashville: 2845 Elm Hill Pike, Nashville, TN 37214

• Room in the Inn: https://roominthenn.org

Federal Resources

• Social Security Administration: https://www.ssa.gov

• Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov

• Medicaid: https://www.medicaid.gov

• USA.gov Veterans Services: https://www.usa.gov/veterans

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