Veterans Benefit Guide Connecticut: 2026 Complete Guide
Connecticut offers veterans a full property tax exemption on a primary residence or motor vehicle for those with a 100% P&T VA disability rating, a tuition waiver at public colleges and universities, no state income tax on military retirement pay, and access to VA healthcare at 10 locations statewide. The state is home to approximately 131,000 veterans, with over 27,000 receiving VA disability compensation.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Key State Benefit | Full property tax exemption for 100% P&T veterans on primary dwelling or vehicle |
| Eligibility | Honorable discharge; CT resident; 100% P&T rating for full exemption; 10%+ rating for partial exemption |
| Application (Property Tax) | Apply at your local Town Hall Assessor’s Office |
| Application (VA Benefits) | VA Form 10-10EZ for healthcare; VA Form 21-526EZ for disability compensation |
| Processing Time | Property tax exemption: varies by municipality; VA claims: 60–180 days |
| Official State Agency | Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs |
| Required Forms | VA Form 10-10EZ; VA Form 21-526EZ; local assessor exemption forms |
| Updated For | 2026 |
Connecticut Veteran Population and Overview
Connecticut is home to approximately 131,000 veterans, with over 27,000 receiving VA disability compensation. The state provides a range of benefits that supplement federal VA programs, including property tax exemptions, tuition waivers, income tax deductions, and housing assistance.
The Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs (CT DVA) administers state-level veteran programs through its Rocky Hill campus. The agency provides skilled nursing care, residential programs, advocacy and assistance, cemetery and memorial services, and the Office of Advocacy and Assistance, which employs accredited Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) across the state to help veterans file claims and access benefits.
Why it matters: Connecticut veterans often miss state benefits because they are not automatic—most require application through local or state offices. The property tax exemption alone can save thousands of dollars annually for qualifying veterans.
What veterans should do next: Review the benefit categories below and identify which programs apply to your situation. Contact a Connecticut VSO for free assistance with applications and claims.
Connecticut Property Tax Exemption for Veterans
Connecticut offers a full property tax exemption for veterans with a 100% service-connected Permanent and Total (P&T) disability rating from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The exemption covers either the veteran’s primary dwelling or one motor vehicle.
100% P&T Full Exemption
What it is: Connecticut law fully exempts from property tax either (1) the fractional share of a dwelling the veteran owns and lives in as a primary residence, or (2) if the veteran does not own a dwelling, one motor vehicle owned and kept in Connecticut.
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityWho qualifies: Connecticut residents who served in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air Force, or Space Force and have a 100% service-connected P&T disability rating as determined by VA.
When it took effect: October 1, 2024, applicable to assessment years starting on or after that date.
Is it mandatory? Yes. Municipalities must provide this exemption to eligible applicants. It is not a municipal-option exemption.
Property Covered by the Exemption
| Property Type | Covered? | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Primary dwelling (house, condo) | ✔ Yes | Veteran must own and live in it as primary residence |
| Motor vehicle | ✔ Yes | If veteran does not own a dwelling, one vehicle qualifies |
| Leased property | ✔ Yes | Primary dwelling on leased land if lease requires veteran to pay property taxes |
| Leased motor vehicle | ✔ Yes | A vehicle the resident leases |
| Property held in trust | ✔ Yes | Qualifying property held in trust for the veteran |
| Tenant for life | ✔ Yes | Dwellings possessed as tenant for life if liable for property taxes |
| Commercial/rental portions | ✘ No | Excludes portions used for commercial purposes or rental income |
Surviving Spouse and Minor Children
If the veteran dies, the qualifying property of the surviving spouse (while remaining unmarried) or the veteran’s minor child is exempt to the same extent the veteran was or would have been entitled at the time of death.
Municipal Options (Assessment Years on or After October 1, 2025)
Municipalities may vote to:
Exempt up to two acres of the lot the eligible dwelling sits on
Extend the exemption to unmarried surviving spouses of veterans who would have qualified but died between a date set by the legislative body and October 1, 2024
Limit the total exemption amount to the median assessed value of residential real property in the municipality
Partial Exemption for 10%+ Disability Ratings
Under existing Connecticut law, veterans with disability ratings of at least 10% are eligible for a partial property tax exemption on real estate or a motor vehicle. The basic veterans exemption is $3,000 for honorably discharged veterans who served 90 days or more during a time of conflict.
Additional Exemption for Income-Qualifying Veterans
Veterans or widows/widowers of a combat-period veteran who meet income qualifications may be eligible for an additional veteran’s exemption. For the 2026 assessment year, the income limits are $56,500 for married applicants** and **$46,300 for single applicants.
How to Apply for Property Tax Exemption
Step 1: Obtain proof of your 100% P&T rating from VA (your rating decision letter or VA Benefit Summary letter).
Step 2: Visit your local Town Hall Assessor’s Office. The exemption must be applied for at the municipal level—it is not automatic.
Step 3: Complete the local property tax exemption application form.
Step 4: Submit proof of residency, military discharge (DD214), and VA disability rating documentation.
Step 5: The assessor will apply the exemption to your property tax assessment. For motor vehicle exemptions, the process may occur through the tax collector’s office.
Common mistake: Many eligible veterans do not claim this exemption because they assume it is automatic. It is not. You must apply at your Town Hall.
Connecticut Veteran Tuition Waiver
Connecticut offers a tuition waiver to veterans attending public colleges and universities. The state will pay the difference if the veteran’s VA benefits don’t cover the full tuition cost.
What the Waiver Covers
The waiver pays the cost of tuition on eligible for-credit courses. It does not cover course fees, books, parking, travel, or room and board.
If a person receiving a tuition waiver also receives educational reimbursement from an employer, the waiver is reduced by the amount of that reimbursement.
Who Qualifies
The waiver is available to veterans and members of the National Guard with wartime service. Veterans and National Guard members receiving tuition waivers are given the same status as students not receiving waivers in registering for courses at Connecticut State Community College.
Expanded Coverage (2026 Legislation)
2026 legislation expanded the higher education tuition waiver program to cover:
Higher education extension fees
Tuition at Charter Oak State College with a course enrollment fee waiver
The bill also established a course enrollment fee waiver for eligible National Guard members and veterans with wartime service who attend Charter Oak State College.
Children of Veterans Using Unused Tuition Waivers
Legislation (HB 5417) allows children of veterans to use the veteran’s unused tuition waivers, with state funding required for those waivers.
Participating Institutions
The waiver applies at Connecticut public colleges and universities, including:
University of Connecticut (UConn)
Connecticut State Universities (CSCU)
Connecticut State Community Colleges
Charter Oak State College
Where to apply: Contact the veterans’ affairs office or financial aid office at the specific institution you plan to attend. Each school administers the waiver and can confirm eligibility requirements.
Federal Education Benefits Also Available
Connecticut veterans can also use federal VA education benefits at VA-approved schools and training centers. These include:
Montgomery GI Bill — Active Duty (Chapter 30)
Montgomery GI Bill — Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606)
Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP — Chapter 32)
Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (Chapter 35)
In-State Tuition for Active Military
Active military personnel stationed in Connecticut, including spouses and dependents, may be eligible for in-state tuition at UConn and CSCU institutions.
Connecticut VA Healthcare System
The VA Connecticut Healthcare System provides health care services at 10 locations across the state, including the West Haven VA Medical Center, the Newington campus, and 8 community-based outpatient clinics in Danbury, New London, Orange, Stamford, Waterbury, Willimantic, Winsted, and West Haven.
VA Connecticut Healthcare Locations
| Location | Type | Address |
|---|---|---|
| West Haven VA Medical Center | Main medical center | 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT 06516 |
| Newington Campus | Campus | Newington, CT |
| Danbury CBOC | Outpatient clinic | 7 Germantown Road, Suite 2B, Danbury, CT 06810 |
| New London CBOC | Outpatient clinic | Named after John J. McGuirk |
| Orange CBOC | Outpatient clinic | Orange, CT |
| Stamford CBOC | Outpatient clinic | Stamford, CT |
| Waterbury CBOC | Outpatient clinic | Waterbury, CT |
| Willimantic CBOC | Outpatient clinic | Willimantic, CT |
| Winsted CBOC | Outpatient clinic | Winsted, CT |
| West Haven CBOC | Outpatient clinic | West Haven, CT |
VA Connecticut Fast Facts
In fiscal year 2023, VA Connecticut had an operating budget of $853 million with care to 58,853 veterans and 748,747 outpatient visits
4,616 women veterans were enrolled for care in FY 2023
The West Haven campus is a teaching hospital affiliated with Yale University School of Medicine, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, and University of Connecticut School of Dentistry
VA Connecticut maintains the only dialysis center in Connecticut for Veterans
The Fisher House Connecticut opened in May 2018, providing cost-free short-term accommodations to families of veterans receiving inpatient care at West Haven
How to Enroll in VA Health Care
Step 1: Complete VA Form 10-10EZ (Application for Health Benefits).
Step 2: Submit the application online at VA.gov, by phone at 1-877-222-8387, by mail, or in person at a VA Connecticut facility.
Step 3: Bring required documents to your first appointment:
Copies of your DD214 or other discharge documents
Copies of any VA disability award letters
Health insurance cards (VA CT Healthcare System card, Medicaid, Medicare, or private insurance)
Income information from the previous calendar year
Step 4: Register for care at one of the patient registration offices at any VA Connecticut location.
Connecticut Housing Assistance for Veterans
Connecticut offers multiple housing programs for veterans, including transitional housing, family housing, and homeownership assistance.
Patriots Landing Program
What it is: Patriots Landing is a transitional housing program at the Connecticut Veterans Affairs campus in Rocky Hill that provides temporary housing and support services for veterans and their families while they work toward independent living.
What’s available:
The first phase expanded family housing units from 5 homes to 11 homes through a multi-building renovation project funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA)
Phase 2 is focused on renovating townhouses at the rear of the main campus to increase temporary housing opportunities for individual veterans, with a projected completion date in spring 2026
Services provided: The program connects veterans with affordable safe housing, case management, social and mental health support, and wraparound services.
Residential Facility — Transitional Housing Program
The Connecticut DVA operates a Residential Facility that provides qualifying individual veterans with a continuum of wraparound services and programs designed to return them to successful independent living. It provides temporary housing for veterans and their families, significant others, and/or dependent children as they work on achieving personal goals.
Veterans Housing Program (2026)
2026 legislation established a veterans’ housing program through which the Commissioner of Housing may provide housing to any qualifying veteran at no cost in the form of a prefabricated structure on the grounds of the Department of Veterans Affairs in Rocky Hill.
Homeownership Assistance
Connecticut veterans can access homeownership assistance through:
CHFA Military Homeownership Program: Provides assistance to members of the U.S. Military, Active Duty, Guard, Reserve, or veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
VA Home Loan Guaranty Program: Assists veterans in obtaining mortgage loans from private lenders by guaranteeing a portion of the loan against loss
CHFA Homebuyer Mortgage Programs: Below-market and competitive interest rates for eligible homebuyers
Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)
The SSVF program provides supportive services to very low-income veteran families in or transitioning to permanent housing. The Connecticut Veterans Legal Center provides free civil legal services for low-income veterans throughout Connecticut and partners with SSVF and HUD-VASH programs.
Connecticut Veteran Employment Benefits
Connecticut offers employment services, tax credits for employers, and priority access to job training for veterans.
Connecticut Department of Labor Veteran Services
The CT Department of Labor (CTDOL) administers the Jobs for Veterans State Grants (JVSG) program, which includes:
Local Veterans’ Employment Representatives (LVER): Conduct outreach to employers to advocate for hiring veterans and develop career opportunities
Disabled Veterans’ Outreach Program (DVOP) Specialists: Provide individualized career and training-related services to eligible veterans and spouses experiencing employment barriers
Veterans and their eligible spouses receive priority for services through the Wagner-Peyser Act Employment Service, including career counseling, an online resource portal, and job search assistance.
Employer Tax Credits
Connecticut offers a **one-time $2,500 tax credit per veteran employed** to employers who hire veterans. The credit has a maximum of $1 million each fiscal year of the program.
Troops-to-Trades Initiatives
2026 legislation establishes a job expansion tax credit program and various requirements to assist current and former armed forces members transition into the civilian workforce. The state is directed to study and recommend potential incentives such as tax credits, wage subsidies, and training reimbursements.
Annual Veterans Job Fair
The state conducts an annual job fair for the purpose of promoting employment of current and former members of the National Guard and other veterans.
Employment Assistance Program (2027)
Beginning January 1, 2027, the Commissioner of Veterans Affairs shall post a state-based employment assistance program developed and administered by the Military Department for the provision of advice and information to current and former members of the armed forces, including Reserve and National Guard members.
How to Access Employment Services
Contact your local CTDOL American Job Center and ask to speak with a DVOP specialist or LVER. Veterans and eligible spouses receive priority of service. Bring your DD214 and any VA disability documentation.
Connecticut Income Tax Benefits for Veterans
Connecticut offers several state income tax exemptions and deductions for veterans, National Guard members, and retired uniformed service members.
Military Retirement Pay
Connecticut does not tax military retirement pay. Veterans receiving retired pay from the U.S. government are not subject to Connecticut state income tax on those earnings.
Income Tax Exemptions (Effective July 1, 2026)
New legislation establishes state income tax deductions for:
Compensation for an honor guard detail at a veteran’s funeral
Pay a National Guard member receives for being ordered out for active service
Any income received from the U.S. government as retirement pay for retired members of the U.S. Public Health Service commissioned corps
Veteran Disability Benefit Income Disregards
Connecticut law requires that certain federal veterans’ benefits be disregarded when determining income eligibility for several means-tested public assistance programs. This includes:
VA service-connected disability benefits excluded when determining eligibility for public defender services
VA-administered pension payments (including aid and attendance and housebound allowance payments) excluded when determining eligibility for social services
Connecticut Vehicle Benefits for Veterans
Connecticut offers vehicle-related benefits including property tax exemptions, registration fee waivers, and special license plates.
Motor Vehicle Property Tax Exemption
Veterans with a 100% P&T disability rating may apply the full property tax exemption to one motor vehicle instead of a primary dwelling if they do not own a dwelling.
Veteran Motor Vehicle Grace Period and Fee Waiver
2026 legislation extends a grace period and fee waiver for veteran motor vehicle-related transactions.
Veteran Bus Passes and Fares
Connecticut provides bus passes and fare assistance for veterans.
How to Claim Vehicle Exemptions
Visit your local Town Hall Tax Collector’s Office with proof of your 100% P&T rating and vehicle registration. The exemption is applied to your motor vehicle property tax assessment.
Connecticut Dental Care Access Program (2026)
What it is: The Veterans Dental Care Access Program is a new state program operated by the administrator of the Soldiers, Sailors and Marines Fund to assist eligible veterans with receiving dental services from participating providers.
Who qualifies: Eligible veterans as determined by the program administrator.
How it works: The program provides assistance vouchers to eligible veterans to cover certain costs associated with receiving dental services at federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in the state.
Why it matters: Dental care is a critical but often overlooked benefit. VA dental coverage is limited to veterans with certain ratings or service-connected dental conditions. This state program fills a gap for veterans who do not qualify for VA dental care.
What veterans should do next: Contact the Connecticut DVA Office of Advocacy and Assistance at the Rocky Hill campus for more information on how to apply.
Soldiers, Sailors and Marines Fund
The Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines Fund (SSMF) is a self-sustaining trust fund the Connecticut legislature created in 1919 to provide assistance to World War I veterans who were in need. Today, the fund serves Connecticut veterans of any wartime period.
What the Fund Provides
Assistance may include grants covering:
Loss of income
Rental or mortgage payments
Medical payments
Utility payments
Food and apparel
Medical equipment
Burial expense payments
Who Qualifies
Eligible Connecticut wartime veterans who are in need, and/or their spouses and minor children.
How to Apply
Contact the Soldiers, Sailors and Marines Fund through the Connecticut DVA Office of Advocacy and Assistance or the American Legion, which administers the fund.
Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs Services
The Connecticut DVA serves approximately 150,000 veterans with four core services:
Skilled Nursing Home Care and Rehabilitation — The Sgt. John L. Levitow Healthcare Center is a Five-Star Medicare rated facility providing 24-hour skilled nursing care
Residential Programs and Services — Transitional housing and rehabilitation/vocational services
Office of Advocacy and Assistance — Accredited Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) help veterans obtain benefits under federal, state, and local laws
Cemetery and Memorial Services — Burial services for veterans and eligible dependents
Office of Advocacy and Assistance
The Office of Advocacy and Assistance employs accredited VSOs who have received certification from the federal VA and annual updates to ensure accuracy and quality counseling.
VSO services include:
Aid and advice in preparing claims for benefits
Arranging travel assistance for appointments with benefit providers
Advocating for veterans and their dependents
Visiting homeless shelters to assist veterans in need
VSO District Offices
Connecticut VSOs serve veterans by district:
| District | VSO Contact |
|---|---|
| 1st District | Dawn Waldron; Devon Julien |
| 2nd District | Jeannie Gardiner; Paul Spedaliere |
| 3rd District | Anne Mosher; Bianca Ransome; William Muhl |
| 4th District (Fairfield) | 203-418-2005 |
| Newington | 860-594-6604 |
Contact: Visit ct.gov/dva for the full VSO directory and district office locations.
VFW Accredited Service Officers
VFW Accredited Service Officers are experts at navigating the VA system and their service is offered free of charge to anyone seeking assistance with the claims process.
Contact: 860-667-1092 (VFW Department Service Officer)
How to Apply for VA Disability Compensation in Connecticut
VA disability compensation is a federal benefit paid to veterans with service-connected disabilities. Connecticut veterans are eligible for the same compensation as veterans in any other state.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
DD214 or other discharge documents
Service treatment records (if available)
Private medical records related to your claimed conditions
Statements from buddies or family members (buddy statements)
Any existing VA rating decisions
Step 2: File Your Claim
Online: Apply through VA.gov using VA Form 21-526EZ (Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits).
By mail: Submit to the Hartford VA Regional Office.
In person: Visit the Hartford VA Regional Benefit Office at the Newington VA Clinic.
With a VSO: Contact a Connecticut VSO for free assistance. VSOs can help you file, track, and appeal claims.
Step 3: Attend C&P Exams
VA may schedule a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam to evaluate your conditions. Attend all scheduled exams.
Step 4: Receive Decision
VA will issue a rating decision. If approved, you’ll receive compensation based on your disability rating and dependent status.
Step 5: Appeal If Denied
If VA denies your claim, you have three appeal options:
| Appeal Option | When to Use | Time Limit | Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supplemental Claim | New and relevant evidence | 1 year | VA Form 20-0995 |
| Higher-Level Review | VA error, no new evidence | 1 year | VA Form 20-0996 |
| Board Appeal | Disagree with previous review | 60 days | VA Form 10182 |
Hartford VA Regional Benefit Office
Benefit counselors at the Hartford VA Regional Benefit Office can help you understand eligibility, gather required documents, fill out paperwork, check claim status, update direct deposit, and more.
Location: Hartford VA Regional Benefit Office at the Newington VA Clinic.
Common Mistakes Connecticut Veterans Make
Avoiding these mistakes can preserve your benefits and save time.
Not Applying for the Property Tax Exemption
The 100% P&T property tax exemption is not automatic. You must apply at your local Town Hall Assessor’s Office. Many eligible veterans never claim this benefit.
Assuming the Tuition Waiver Covers Everything
The Connecticut tuition waiver covers tuition only on for-credit courses. It does not cover fees, books, parking, or room and board.
Missing the Income-Qualifying Additional Exemption
Veterans who meet income qualifications may be eligible for an additional veteran’s exemption beyond the basic exemption. Income limits for 2026 are $56,500 (married) and $46,300 (single).
Not Contacting a VSO for Free Help
Accredited VSOs provide free assistance with VA claims, appeals, and benefit applications. Many veterans try to navigate the system alone and miss out on benefits they’ve earned.
Forgetting to Bring DD214 to Healthcare Enrollment
When enrolling in VA healthcare, you must bring copies of your DD214 or other discharge documents. Without proof of service, your enrollment cannot be processed.
Waiting Too Long to Appeal a Denial
Appeal deadlines are strict: 1 year for Supplemental Claims and Higher-Level Reviews, and 60 days for Board Appeals. Missing a deadline can forfeit your right to appeal.
Common Questions
What is the property tax exemption for 100% P&T veterans in Connecticut?
Connecticut fully exempts from property tax either the primary dwelling or one motor vehicle of a veteran with a 100% service-connected P&T disability rating. The exemption went into effect October 1, 2024, and municipalities must provide it to eligible applicants. Apply at your local Town Hall Assessor’s Office.
Does Connecticut offer free tuition for veterans?
Connecticut offers a tuition waiver to veterans and National Guard members with wartime service attending public colleges and universities. The waiver pays the difference between VA benefits and full tuition on for-credit courses. It does not cover fees, books, or room and board.
How do I apply for VA healthcare in Connecticut?
Complete VA Form 10-10EZ online at VA.gov, by phone at 1-877-222-8387, by mail, or in person at any VA Connecticut facility. Bring your DD214, VA disability award letters, and insurance cards. VA Connecticut has 10 locations including West Haven VAMC and the Newington campus.
What is the income limit for the additional veteran’s exemption in Connecticut?
For the 2026 assessment year, the income limits for the additional veteran’s exemption are $56,500 for married applicants and $46,300 for single applicants. Veterans or widows/widowers of combat-period veterans who meet these limits may qualify.
Does Connecticut tax military retirement pay?
No. Connecticut does not tax military retirement pay. Veterans receiving retired pay from the U.S. government are not subject to Connecticut state income tax on those earnings. New legislation also exempts U.S. Public Health Service commissioned corps retirement pay effective July 1, 2026.
What is Patriots Landing?
Patriots Landing is a transitional housing program at the Connecticut Veterans Affairs campus in Rocky Hill. It provides temporary housing and support services for veterans and their families. The program recently expanded from 5 family housing units to 11 homes, with Phase 2 planned for spring 2026.
How do I contact a Connecticut Veterans Service Officer?
Visit ct.gov/dva for the full VSO directory by district. District offices include Fairfield (203-418-2005) and Newington (860-594-6604). VFW Accredited Service Officers are also available at 860-667-1092. All VSO services are free.
What is the Soldiers, Sailors and Marines Fund?
The Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines Fund is a state trust fund created in 1919 to assist Connecticut wartime veterans in need. It provides grants for loss of income, rental or mortgage payments, medical payments, utility payments, food, apparel, medical equipment, and burial expenses.
Does Connecticut offer a dental program for veterans?
Yes. The 2026 Veterans Dental Care Access Program provides assistance vouchers to eligible veterans for dental services at federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in Connecticut. The program is operated by the administrator of the Soldiers, Sailors and Marines Fund.
What VA healthcare locations are in Connecticut?
VA Connecticut Healthcare System has 10 locations: West Haven VA Medical Center, Newington campus, and 8 community-based outpatient clinics in Danbury, New London, Orange, Stamford, Waterbury, Willimantic, Winsted, and West Haven.
How do I appeal a VA disability denial in Connecticut?
You have three options: Supplemental Claim (VA Form 20-0995, 1 year), Higher-Level Review (VA Form 20-0996, 1 year), or Board Appeal (VA Form 10182, 60 days). A Connecticut VSO can help you choose the right option and prepare your appeal at no cost.
Can children of veterans use unused tuition waivers in Connecticut?
Yes. HB 5417 allows children of veterans to use the veteran’s unused tuition waivers, with state funding required for those waivers. Contact the financial aid office at your Connecticut public college or university for details.
What is the Connecticut Veterans Dental Care Access Program?
The Veterans Dental Care Access Program is a 2026 state program that provides assistance vouchers to eligible veterans for dental services at federally qualified health centers. It is operated by the administrator of the Soldiers, Sailors and Marines Fund.
How do I get a Veterans Service Officer in Connecticut?
Contact the Connecticut DVA Office of Advocacy and Assistance at ct.gov/dva or call the district office nearest you. VSOs are accredited by the federal VA and provide free assistance with claims, appeals, and benefits applications.
Key Takeaways
100% P&T property tax exemption: Connecticut fully exempts a primary dwelling or one motor vehicle from property tax for veterans with a 100% service-connected P&T disability rating. Apply at your local Town Hall Assessor’s Office.
Tuition waiver: Connecticut pays the difference between VA benefits and full tuition at public colleges and universities for eligible veterans and National Guard members with wartime service.
No state tax on military retirement pay: Connecticut does not tax military retirement pay. New exemptions for honor guard pay, National Guard active service pay, and PHS retirement pay take effect July 1, 2026.
VA healthcare at 10 locations: VA Connecticut Healthcare System serves nearly 59,000 veterans with an $853 million operating budget and 10 sites of care.
Patriots Landing: Transitional housing program in Rocky Hill expanded from 5 to 11 family units, with Phase 2 adding individual veteran housing planned for spring 2026.
Employer tax credit: Connecticut offers a one-time $2,500 tax credit per veteran employed, with a $1 million annual cap.
Soldiers, Sailors and Marines Fund: Provides emergency financial assistance to Connecticut wartime veterans for rent, utilities, medical bills, food, and burial expenses.
Veterans Dental Care Access Program: 2026 program provides dental care vouchers for eligible veterans at federally qualified health centers.
Free VSO assistance: Accredited Veterans Service Officers help with claims, appeals, and benefits at no cost. Contact ct.gov/dva or call 860-667-1092 (VFW).
Additional exemption income limits: For 2026, veterans meeting income limits of $56,500 (married) or $46,300 (single) may qualify for an additional property tax exemption.
Official Resources
Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs: ct.gov/dva
CT DVA Office of Advocacy and Assistance: ct.gov/dva
VA Connecticut Healthcare System: va.gov/connecticut-health-care
VA Form 10-10EZ (Health Benefits): va.gov/forms/10-10ez
VA Form 21-526EZ (Disability Compensation): va.gov/forms/21-526ez
Hartford VA Regional Benefit Office: va.gov/hartford-va-regional-benefit-office
Connecticut Veterans Legal Center: ctveteranslegal.org
CHFA Military Homeownership Program: chfa.org
Veterans Crisis Line: veteranscrisisline.net | Call 988 (press 1)
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: va.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.
