Wisconsin Veterans Services Near You: 2026 Full Guide

Wisconsin: Veterans Services Near You in Wisconsin (Updated Today)

Wisconsin veterans can find services through County Veterans Service Officers (CVSOs) in all 72 counties, three VA medical centers (Milwaukee, Madison, Tomah), numerous VA clinics, and the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) at 2135 Rimrock Road, Madison, WI 53713. The WDVA toll-free number is 1-800-WIS-VETS (947-8387). Veterans can also reach the WDVA Federal Claims Assistance Office at 833-494-7256.

Quick Facts

Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA): What It Is and Who Qualifies

What it is: The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) is the state agency responsible for administering state-level veterans benefits, programs, and services. It operates three veterans homes, three state veterans cemeteries, and provides federal claims assistance.

Who qualifies: Wisconsin veterans, their spouses, surviving spouses, dependents, and Gold Star families. Some state benefits require specific disability ratings or service history.

Why it matters: The WDVA administers benefits that supplement federal VA benefits, including the Wisconsin GI Bill, Veterans and Surviving Spouses Property Tax Credit, Veterans Assistance Grants, and the Retraining Grant program. It also provides free federal claims assistance through its Claims Assistance Office.

What veterans should do next: Contact the WDVA at 1-800-WIS-VETS (947-8387) or visit dva.wi.gov. Walk-ins are welcome at the Madison office Monday–Friday, 7:45 a.m.–4:15 p.m. The WDVA Federal Claims Assistance Office is at the VA Regional Office, 5400 W. National Ave., Room 157, Milwaukee, WI 53214.

WDVA Contact Information

The WDVA also operates the MyWisVets portal at apps.dva.wisconsin.gov/mywisvets, an online tool for applying for state veterans benefits. Veterans can submit documents for review and verification by WDVA staff.

County Veterans Service Officers (CVSOs) in Wisconsin

What they are: County Veterans Service Officers (CVSOs) are county employees who provide free, accredited assistance with VA claims and benefits. Every county in Wisconsin has a CVSO office.

Who qualifies: Any veteran, dependent, or surviving spouse in Wisconsin can use CVSO services at no charge.

Why they matter: CVSOs are often the first point of contact for veterans seeking benefits. They help gather evidence, file claims, request decision reviews, and navigate the appeals process. Wisconsin has an accredited CVSO in every county, making this the most accessible resource for veterans statewide.

What veterans should do next: Contact your county CVSO. A complete directory is available at WisVets.com/CVSO or by calling 1-800-WIS-VETS.

Wisconsin CVSO Contact Examples

CVSO services are free and confidential. They can represent veterans at VA hearings and help with all levels of the appeals process.

VA Medical Centers and Clinics in Wisconsin

Wisconsin has three VA medical centers and numerous Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) providing health care to enrolled veterans.

VA Medical Centers in Wisconsin

What they are: Full-service VA medical centers providing primary care, specialty care, mental health services, surgery, and emergency care.

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care. Enrollment priority is based on service-connected disabilities, income, and other factors.

Why they matter: These facilities provide comprehensive health care to Wisconsin veterans. The Milwaukee VA is the largest, serving veterans across southeastern Wisconsin. The Madison VA serves south-central Wisconsin, and the Tomah VA serves western Wisconsin.

What veterans should do next: Apply for VA health care using VA Form 10-10EZ online at VA.gov, in person at any VA facility, or by calling 1-877-222-8387.

VA Community Based Outpatient Clinics in Wisconsin

The Milwaukee VA also operates the Union Grove VA Clinic, and the Tomah VA operates clinics in Owen, Loyal, Hayward, Wausau, Rhinelander, and Wisconsin Rapids.

Vet Centers in Wisconsin

Wisconsin has multiple Vet Centers providing readjustment counseling and mental health services to veterans.

Vet Center services include individual and group counseling, marriage and family counseling, bereavement counseling, and referrals to VA and community resources. Services are available at no cost to eligible veterans, regardless of VA health care enrollment status.

The Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7: call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net.

Wisconsin Veterans Homes

Wisconsin operates three state veterans homes providing 24-hour skilled nursing care to veterans, their spouses, and Gold Star Parents.

What they are: State-operated skilled nursing facilities providing long-term care, memory care, and rehabilitation services.

Who qualifies: Eligible veterans, their spouses, and surviving spouses. Gold Star Parents are also eligible.

Why it matters: These homes provide compassionate care for veterans who can no longer be cared for at home due to illness, injury, frailty, or other impairments. The King home is the largest, located on a scenic 42-acre campus on the Chain O’Lakes.

What veterans should do next: Contact the specific veterans home for admission and referral information.

Wisconsin State Veterans Cemeteries

Wisconsin operates three state veterans cemeteries providing free interment for eligible veterans.

What they are: State-operated cemeteries where eligible veterans, spouses, and dependents are interred at little to no charge.

Who qualifies: Wisconsin resident veterans who were honorably discharged. Spouses and eligible dependents may also be buried with the veteran.

Why it matters: Cemetery plots, opening and closing, headstone, and perpetual care are free to eligible veterans. Headstones are supplied by the federal government.

What veterans should do next: Pre-register for burial or schedule a burial by contacting the WDVA. Pre-registration establishes eligibility and does not obligate the veteran to be interred at the selected cemetery.

Wisconsin Veterans and Surviving Spouses Property Tax Credit

What it is: The Wisconsin Veterans and Surviving Spouses Property Tax Credit is a refundable state income tax credit equal to 100% of real property taxes paid on a principal dwelling (plus up to one acre) by eligible veterans and surviving spouses.

Who qualifies: Veterans who were discharged under honorable conditions, lived in Wisconsin when they enlisted (or for five consecutive years after entry into service), and have either:

• A 100% VA service-connected disability rating under 38 USC 1114 or 1134, or

• A 100% disability rating based on individual unemployability (TDIU)

Unremarried surviving spouses of qualifying veterans also qualify.

Why it matters: This is not a property tax exemption — it is a state income tax credit that refunds 100% of property taxes paid. Veterans pay their property taxes as usual, then claim the credit on their Wisconsin income tax return. WDVA certification must be attached the first year.

What veterans should do next: File your Wisconsin income tax return claiming the credit. Contact the WDVA for certification.

Latest rule change: Recent legislation proposed expanding eligibility to veterans with a 70% disability rating. Under current law, eligibility remains at 100% or TDIU. Contact WDVA for the most current information.

Wisconsin GI Bill Tuition Remission

What it is: The Wisconsin GI Bill provides full remission of tuition and segregated fees at University of Wisconsin System schools and Wisconsin technical colleges for eligible veterans and their dependents.

Who qualifies: Eligible veterans who entered active military duty as Wisconsin residents, plus their spouses and children (ages 17–25). Veterans who have not yet used all federal GI Bill benefits may also qualify.

Why it matters: The Wisconsin GI Bill covers up to eight semesters or 128 credits, whichever is longer. It can be used in addition to federal GI Bill benefits. This is one of the most generous state education benefits in the country.

What veterans should do next: Contact the financial aid office at your chosen institution or the WDVA for application procedures.

Latest rule change: Act 155 (2026) reduces the residency requirement from five years to three years and removes the provision that a student must be a Wisconsin resident at the time of their entry into active duty.

Wisconsin Veterans Assistance Grants (VAG)

What it is: The Veterans Assistance Grants (VAG) program provides limited health care and subsistence aid to eligible veterans and dependents who have exhausted all other sources of aid.

Who qualifies: Veterans and dependents with income at or below 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines. Applicants must have exhausted all other sources of aid.

Why it matters: VAG can be used for health care aid (medical services, eyeglasses, hearing aids, dental work) and subsistence aid (rent, utilities, food, clothing). Maximum benefit is $800 in any consecutive 12-month period for subsistence, with higher limits for health care aid.

What veterans should do next: Apply through the WDVA. The application for subsistence aid is form WDVA 2453, available at WisVets.com or from the WDVA.

Wisconsin Veterans Retraining Grant

What it is: The Veterans Retraining Grant (RTG) provides up to $3,000 per year, for a maximum of two years, to recently unemployed or underemployed veterans who have a financial need while being retrained for employment.

Who qualifies: Recently unemployed or underemployed veterans, or veterans who have received notice of termination. The applicant must have experienced a reduction of income.

Why it matters: The RTG helps veterans gain new skills and qualifications for gainful employment. The maximum lifetime benefit is $6,000.

What veterans should do next: Apply through the WDVA. Contact 1-800-WIS-VETS for application information.

Wisconsin Disabled Veteran Recreation Card

What it is: The Disabled Veteran Recreation Card is an annual card that entitles holders to small game hunting and fishing privileges, plus admission to Wisconsin State Parks.

Who qualifies: Wisconsin resident veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 50% or more. A separate discounted fishing license is available to veterans with a 70% or more disability rating.

Why it matters: This card provides outdoor recreation opportunities for disabled veterans at no cost, supporting quality of life and therapeutic outdoor activities.

What veterans should do next: Apply through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Wisconsin Veterans Home Loan Program

What it is: The WDVA offers home loans, home improvement loans, and personal loans to eligible Wisconsin veterans.

Who qualifies: Wisconsin veterans who meet eligibility requirements. Personal loans are available up to $25,000 with up to 10 years to repay.

Why it matters: These loan programs provide favorable terms for veterans purchasing or improving their homes.

What veterans should do next: Contact the WDVA for current program guidelines and rates.

How to Apply for VA Disability Compensation in Wisconsin

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

• DD-214 or equivalent discharge documents

• Photo ID

• Medical records related to your condition

• Dependency records (if claiming dependents)

• Income information (for pension and health care)

Step 2: Complete VA Form 21-526EZ

This is the Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits. Apply online at VA.gov, or submit paper applications to the Milwaukee VA Regional Office at 5400 W. National Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53214.

Step 3: Work with a CVSO

Contact your County Veterans Service Officer for free assistance. CVSOs can help complete forms, gather evidence, and submit claims correctly the first time. They can also file appeals if a claim is denied.

Step 4: Track Your Claim

Create an account on VA.gov to check claim status, upload additional evidence, and receive decision notifications. Processing times typically range from 90 to 180 days for initial compensation claims.

VA Disability Compensation Rates in Wisconsin (2026)

VA disability compensation is a monthly, tax-free payment to veterans with service-connected disabilities. Rates are set federally and are the same in every state, including Wisconsin.

Rates effective December 1, 2025, reflecting the 2.8% COLA for 2026. Veterans with dependents receive higher rates. VA disability compensation is not taxed by the federal government or the state of Wisconsin.

Common Mistakes Wisconsin Veterans Make

Mistake 1: Assuming the property tax credit is automatic. The Veterans and Surviving Spouses Property Tax Credit must be claimed on your Wisconsin income tax return with WDVA certification. It is not applied automatically.

Mistake 2: Filing without a CVSO. Wisconsin has an accredited CVSO in every county. Filing without their assistance can lead to missing evidence and delays.

Mistake 3: Missing the residency requirement for the property tax credit. Veterans must have lived in Wisconsin when they enlisted or for five consecutive years after entry into service.

Mistake 4: Not applying for the Wisconsin GI Bill because of the residency requirement. Act 155 reduced the residency requirement from five years to three years, effective fall 2026.

Mistake 5: Overlooking the Retraining Grant. Many unemployed or underemployed veterans are unaware they can receive up to $3,000 per year for retraining.

Mistake 6: Not updating dependent information with the VA. Veterans with dependents who do not update their VA records may miss additional compensation for spouses and children.

Appeals Process for Wisconsin Veterans

If VA denies a claim or assigns a lower rating than expected, veterans have appeal options. The appeals process begins with filing a Notice of Disagreement within one year of the decision date.

A CVSO can assist with all levels of appeal at no charge. Veterans may also choose to work with an accredited attorney or claims agent, though these representatives may charge fees.

PACT Act Benefits for Wisconsin Veterans

The PACT Act expanded VA benefits for veterans exposed to toxic substances, including burn pits, Agent Orange, and other hazards. Wisconsin veterans who served in qualifying locations or eras may be eligible for presumptive service connection for certain conditions.

Who qualifies: Veterans who served in the Gulf War era, post-9/11 era, or at specific locations with toxic exposure. Surviving family members may also qualify for benefits.

How to apply: Submit VA Form 21-526EZ with DD-214, medical records showing diagnosis, and proof of service in a qualifying era or location. No nexus letter is required for presumptive conditions.

Why it matters: Presumptive conditions do not require veterans to prove a direct link between their service and their condition. The VA automatically assumes the connection.

Common Questions

1. Where is the VA Regional Office in Wisconsin?

The Milwaukee VA Regional Benefit Office is at 5400 W. National Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53214. The toll-free number is 800-827-1000. It handles disability compensation, pension, education, and home loan claims.

2. How many VA medical centers are in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin has three VA medical centers: the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center in Milwaukee, the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison, and the Tomah VA Medical Center in Tomah.

3. What VA clinics are in Wisconsin?

VA Community Based Outpatient Clinics are located in Beaver Dam, Chippewa Falls, Green Bay, Union Grove, Janesville, Kenosha, Loyal, Owen, Hayward, Wausau, Rhinelander, and Wisconsin Rapids.

4. Do Wisconsin veterans get a property tax exemption?

Wisconsin offers a property tax credit — not an exemption. The Veterans and Surviving Spouses Property Tax Credit refunds 100% of property taxes paid on a principal dwelling for veterans with a 100% disability rating or TDIU.

5. How do I apply for the Wisconsin GI Bill?

Contact the financial aid office at your chosen UW System school or Wisconsin technical college. The WDVA provides certification of eligibility. The benefit covers up to eight semesters or 128 credits.

6. How long does a VA disability claim take in Wisconsin?

Initial VA disability compensation claims typically take 90–180 days to process. Claims filed through the Decision Ready Claims program may be processed faster.

7. Can I get help filing a VA claim for free in Wisconsin?

Yes. County Veterans Service Officers (CVSOs) in every Wisconsin county provide free, accredited assistance with VA claims. Contact your county CVSO or the WDVA at 1-800-WIS-VETS.

8. What is the number for the Veterans Crisis Line?

Call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net. The crisis line is available 24/7.

9. Does Wisconsin have state veterans nursing homes?

Yes. Wisconsin operates three state veterans homes in King, Union Grove, and Chippewa Falls. They provide 24-hour skilled nursing care to veterans, spouses, and Gold Star Parents.

10. How do I apply for VA health care in Wisconsin?

Complete VA Form 10-10EZ online at VA.gov or submit a paper application to the Milwaukee, Madison, or Tomah VA Medical Center. You can also apply in person at any VA clinic.

11. Does Wisconsin have state veterans cemeteries?

Yes. Wisconsin operates three state veterans cemeteries: Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner, Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery at King, and Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Union Grove.

12. What is the Wisconsin Veterans Assistance Grant?

The Veterans Assistance Grant provides limited health care and subsistence aid to eligible veterans and dependents who have exhausted all other sources of aid. Maximum subsistence benefit is $800 per 12-month period.

13. What is the Wisconsin Retraining Grant?

The Retraining Grant provides up to $3,000 per year, for a maximum of two years, to recently unemployed or underemployed veterans who have a financial need while being retrained for employment.

14. What is the Disabled Veteran Recreation Card in Wisconsin?

The Disabled Veteran Recreation Card is an annual card for veterans with a 50% or higher service-connected disability rating. It includes small game hunting, fishing, and admission to Wisconsin State Parks.

Key Takeaways

• The WDVA at 2135 Rimrock Road, Madison, handles state veterans benefits. Call 1-800-WIS-VETS (947-8387).

• Wisconsin has CVSOs in every county providing free, accredited claims assistance. Find yours at WisVets.com/CVSO.

• Three VA medical centers serve Wisconsin: Milwaukee (Clement J. Zablocki), Madison (William S. Middleton), and Tomah.

• The Veterans and Surviving Spouses Property Tax Credit refunds 100% of property taxes for veterans with 100% disability or TDIU.

• The Wisconsin GI Bill provides full tuition remission for up to eight semesters or 128 credits at UW System and technical colleges.

• Wisconsin operates three state veterans homes (King, Union Grove, Chippewa Falls) and three state veterans cemeteries (Spooner, King, Union Grove).

• The Retraining Grant provides up to $3,000 per year for unemployed or underemployed veterans.

• The Disabled Veteran Recreation Card provides hunting, fishing, and state park access for 50%+ disabled veterans.

• VA disability compensation is tax-free at both federal and state levels. Rates range from $180.42/month (10%) to $3,938.58/month (100%).

• Act 155 reduces the Wisconsin GI Bill residency requirement from five years to three years, effective fall 2026.

Official Resources

• VA.gov — Apply for benefits, check claim status, manage health care: https://www.va.gov

• Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs — State benefits, veterans homes, cemeteries: https://dva.wi.gov

• MyWisVets Portal — Apply for state veterans benefits: https://apps.dva.wisconsin.gov/mywisvets

• Wisconsin VA Health Care — Milwaukee, Madison, and Tomah: https://www.va.gov

• Wisconsin DNR — Disabled Veteran Recreation Card: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov

• Veterans Crisis Line — 24/7 crisis support: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net

• National Archives — Request DD-214: https://www.archives.gov

• SSA.gov — Social Security and Medicare: https://www.ssa.gov

• Medicare.gov — Health insurance for 65+: https://www.medicare.gov

• USA.gov — Government services and information: https://www.usa.gov

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