West Virginia Veterans Benefits Guide 2026
West Virginia offers a 100% state income tax exemption on all military retirement pay, a disabled veteran real property tax credit for those rated 90% or higher, free vehicle registration for 100% disabled veterans, and tuition waivers for veterans and dependents at state colleges and universities.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Benefits | Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit (90%+ rating), full military retirement tax exemption, tuition waivers, free vehicle registration (100% P&T) |
| Eligibility | Honorable discharge; West Virginia resident; 90%+ VA combined disability rating for property tax credit |
| Application | WV Tax Division (income tax credit); County Assessor (homestead exemption); Institution financial aid (tuition waiver) |
| Processing Time | Property tax credit: claimed on annual WV income tax return; Tuition waiver: varies by institution |
| Official Agency | West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance; WV Tax Division; County Assessors |
| Required Forms | DD-214; VA disability rating letter; WV income tax return (Schedule for Disabled Veteran Credit) |
| Updated For | 2026 tax year (SB 194, SB 497, HB 4141) |
West Virginia is home to approximately 120,000 veterans, with the highest concentrations in Kanawha, Cabell, and Berkeley counties. The state’s veteran benefits are anchored by two significant financial advantages: a full state income tax exemption on military retirement pay and a unique property tax credit for veterans rated 90% or higher by the VA—a threshold lower than the 100% most states require for their largest relief. The 2025–2026 legislative sessions brought several proposed expansions, including lowering the vehicle registration exemption threshold from 100% to 50% disability and adding veteran status as a protected class under the Human Rights Act.
This guide covers every major West Virginia veteran benefit available in 2026.
West Virginia VA Offices and Facilities
West Virginia’s VA services are coordinated through the Huntington VA Regional Office and three VA medical centers across the state.
VA Regional Office – Huntington
Address: 640 Fourth Avenue, Huntington, WV 25701
Phone: 800-827-1000
Website: www.benefits.va.gov/huntington
The Huntington Regional Office is the VA regional benefit office serving West Virginia veterans. It administers disability compensation, disability pension, survivor benefits, vocational rehabilitation and employment (VR&E) services, education benefits, and loan guaranty programs. The office also offers virtual appointments that can be scheduled online.
Note: Veterans in Brooke, Hancock, Marshall, and Ohio counties are served by the Pittsburgh, PA VA Regional Office.
VA Medical Centers in West Virginia
| Medical Center | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Beckley VA Medical Center | 200 Veterans Avenue, Beckley, WV 25801 | 304-255-2121 |
| Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center (Clarksburg) | 1 Medical Center Drive, Clarksburg, WV 26301 | 304-623-3461 |
| Hershel “Woody” Williams VA Medical Center (Huntington) | 1540 Spring Valley Drive, Huntington, WV 25704 | 304-429-6741 |
| Martinsburg VA Medical Center | 510 Butler Avenue, Martinsburg, WV 25405 | 304-263-0811 |
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityThe Huntington VA Medical Center is a fully accredited 80-bed acute care facility providing medical, surgical, psychiatric, and long-term care services. The Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center in Clarksburg serves veterans in north-central West Virginia with its Veteran Whole Health Program.
West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance
Website: veterans.wv.gov
The West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance operates two claims offices and 15 field service offices throughout the state. Accredited Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) advise veterans on benefits, file claims, and may represent veterans in disagreements with federal benefits decisions. The department publishes a county-by-county lookup covering all 55 counties.
Vet Centers
Vet Centers provide readjustment counseling, PTSD treatment, military sexual trauma counseling, and community outreach. West Virginia has Vet Centers in Huntington, Charleston, and other locations. Visit VA.gov/find-locations for the full directory.
West Virginia Disabled Veteran Property Tax Credit
The Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit is West Virginia’s most significant property tax benefit for veterans. It allows veterans rated 90% or higher by the VA to claim a credit against their West Virginia personal income tax equal to the amount of property tax paid on their homestead.
How the Credit Works
Under §11-13MM-4 of the West Virginia Code, a disabled veteran taxpayer or widowed spouse of a disabled veteran taxpayer may receive a tax credit against the tax imposed under §11-21-1 et seq. The credit amount equals the West Virginia ad valorem property tax timely paid on the homestead during the personal income taxable year.
Key details:
The credit opens at 90% combined disability rating—lower than the 100% most states demand for their largest relief
Timely payment of the property tax is a condition for claiming the credit
The credit is claimed on the annual West Virginia income tax return
The first opportunity to claim this credit was on a 2024 WV income tax return, filed in 2025
Homestead Property Tax Exemption for 100% P&T Veterans
Veterans with a 100% permanent and total service-connected disability rating may qualify for a homestead property tax exemption on up to $20,000 of their assessed property value.
This is separate from the Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit. The exemption reduces the assessed value before tax is calculated, while the credit directly reduces the income tax owed.
Who Qualifies
| Benefit | Rating Required | What It Does | How to Claim |
|---|---|---|---|
| Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit | 90–100% combined | Credits property tax paid against income tax | WV income tax return |
| Homestead Property Tax Exemption | 100% P&T service-connected | Exempts up to $20,000 of assessed value | County Assessor |
| Eligible Widowed Spouse Credit | Spouse of disabled veteran who received the credit | Continues the credit for unmarried surviving spouse | WV income tax return |
Required Documents
DD-214 showing honorable discharge
VA disability rating letter confirming 90% or higher combined rating (for the credit) or 100% P&T (for the exemption)
Proof of West Virginia residency
Property tax receipt showing timely payment
For widowed spouses: marriage certificate and documentation of veteran’s death
How to Apply
For the Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit:
Pay your West Virginia property tax on time.
File your annual West Virginia income tax return.
Complete the schedule for the Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit.
Include your property tax payment documentation.
Submit with your WV income tax return to the WV Tax Division.
For the Homestead Property Tax Exemption:
Contact your county assessor’s office.
Provide your DD-214 and VA Letter of Adjudication confirming 100% P&T status.
File by the county’s deadline (typically July 1 for the following tax year; verify locally).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Missing the 90% threshold — the credit requires a 90–100% combined rating, not 100%
Failing to pay property tax on time — timely payment is a condition for the credit
Not checking earlier returns — if the modification was missed in prior years, ask the Tax Division about amending
Assuming the exemption is automatic — the homestead exemption requires an application with the county
West Virginia Military Retirement Pay Tax Exemption
West Virginia exempts military retirement income in full from state income tax. This is one of the most generous military retirement tax treatments in the nation.
What It Covers
The exemption covers:
Regular Armed Forces retirement
Reserves retirement
National Guard retirement
Uniformed services not part of the Armed Forces, including the Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) and NOAA
Why it matters: USPHS and NOAA retirees are routinely excluded from state exemptions and often assume they are excluded in West Virginia. They are covered. The exemption is implemented through a decreasing modification to federal adjusted gross income on the West Virginia return.
How to Claim
Take the decreasing modification on your West Virginia income tax return.
Keep your 1099-R with your return.
If you retired from USPHS or NOAA, claim it—those services are inside the exemption.
Guard and Reserve retirement is covered as well as regular armed forces retirement.
Check earlier returns if the modification was missed, and ask the Tax Division about amending.
Federal Tax Note
VA disability compensation is not taxable by the federal government. Military retirement pay is subject to federal income tax but fully exempt from West Virginia state income tax. VA pension benefits are generally not taxable unless the veteran has other income exceeding certain thresholds.
West Virginia Veteran Education Benefits
West Virginia offers tuition waivers and in-state tuition benefits for veterans, military personnel, and their dependents at state institutions of higher education.
Tuition Waivers for Veterans and Dependents
Under §18B-10-7e, the governing board of each institution of higher education shall award tuition and fee waivers for certain resident veterans and their resident dependents.
Who qualifies:
Honorably discharged resident members of the armed forces who served during specified periods (Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II, Korean War, Cold War, Vietnam era, Grenada/Lebanon, Panama, Persian Gulf War, post-9/11, or future national emergencies)
The waiver also applies to spouses of resident members who were killed in action, died while in service, are missing in action, or whose death is documented to be directly related to service
What it covers:
Tuition, fees, and other charges for correspondence or distance learning courses
Waivers are limited to 150 cumulative credit hours
Excludes general deposit fees, student services fees, and charges for lodging, board, or clothing
Tuition Waiver for 50%+ Disabled Veterans
A separate provision provides a waiver of tuition and fees at state institutions of higher education and community and technical colleges for military veterans, their spouses, and dependents when the veteran has a service-related disability of 50 percent or greater.
In-State Tuition for GI Bill Recipients
Any student living in West Virginia and receiving education benefits under Chapter 30 or Chapter 33 of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs shall be charged in-state tuition and fees at West Virginia institutions, regardless of the individual’s state of residence.
National Guard Education Benefits
The West Virginia National Guard Education Services Program (WVEEP) requires members to be in good standing throughout the semester for which benefits are received and to maintain satisfactory participation (90% attendance).
The Adjutant General may also authorize tuition assistance for National Guard members enrolled in doctor of medicine or doctor of osteopathic medicine programs.
The Beckstrom-Wolfe Educational Partnership provides a 20 percent tuition discount for eligible active members of the West Virginia National Guard, honorably discharged veterans, and their immediate family members enrolled in Glenville State University’s online criminal justice programs.
Education Benefits Comparison
| Program | Who Qualifies | What It Covers | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Veteran/Dependent Tuition Waiver | Resident veterans and dependents (specified service periods) | Tuition and fees, up to 150 credit hours | Institution financial aid office |
| 50%+ Disabled Veteran Waiver | Veterans with 50%+ service-connected disability, spouses, dependents | Tuition and fees | Institution financial aid office |
| In-State Tuition for GI Bill | Chapter 30/33 recipients living in WV | In-state tuition rate | Institution admissions |
| WV National Guard WVEEP | Active Guard members in good standing | Tuition assistance | Guard education office |
| Beckstrom-Wolfe Partnership | Guard members, veterans, immediate family | 20% tuition discount | Glenstone State University |
West Virginia Veteran Vehicle Registration Benefits
West Virginia offers free vehicle registration for disabled veterans and special license plates for honorably discharged veterans.
Free Vehicle Registration for 100% Disabled Veterans
Veterans with a 100% total and permanent service-connected disability (not less than 50% as certified by the Director of the West Virginia Department of Veterans Affairs) are exempt from payment of registration fees for not more than one vehicle, provided the vehicle is not used for commercial purposes.
Additional privileges: These free disabled veteran license plates authorize the veteran to park for free at any metered parking space in the state.
Free Registration for Former POWs and Medal of Honor Recipients
Former prisoners of war and Congressional Medal of Honor recipients are also exempt from registration fees for one Class A or Class G vehicle not used for commercial purposes.
Vehicle Registration Exemption for Disabled Veterans (Public Law 663)
Any vehicle owned by a disabled veteran as defined by Public Law 663 of the 79th Congress, Public Law 187 of the 82nd Congress, or Public Law 77 of the 90th Congress is exempt from registration fees, except vehicles used for hire.
Veteran-Designated Special Plates
All other honorably discharged veterans can receive veteran-designated special plates for a one-time fee of $10.
Proposed Expansion (SB 497)
Senate Bill 497, introduced in the 2026 Regular Session, would lower the percentage of service-connected disability required for exemption from 100 percent to 50 percent or greater.
Vehicle Benefits Comparison
| Benefit | Requirement | What It Provides | Where to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free Registration (100% P&T) | 100% total and permanent, not less than 50% | Free registration + free metered parking | WV DMV |
| Free Registration (Former POW) | Former prisoner of war | Free registration for one vehicle | WV DMV |
| Free Registration (Medal of Honor) | Congressional Medal of Honor recipient | Free registration for one vehicle | WV DMV |
| Veteran Special Plates | Honorable discharge | Veteran-designated plates | WV DMV ($10 one-time fee) |
West Virginia Veteran Hunting and Fishing Benefits
West Virginia offers free hunting and fishing privileges for veterans with qualifying disabilities and a tax credit for lifetime license purchases.
Free Hunting, Trapping, and Fishing License
Any resident of West Virginia who was honorably discharged and who receives a veterans pension based on total permanent service-connected disability as certified by the VA may hunt, trap, and fish without a license.
Lifetime License Tax Credit
West Virginia offers a nonrefundable one-time tax credit to eligible veterans who purchase a lifetime hunting, trapping, and fishing license.
Eligibility:
West Virginia resident
Honorable discharge (conditions other than dishonorable)
Receives service-related disability compensation based on a total disability rating of not less than 50% as certified by the VA
Has completed the purchase of a lifetime hunting, fishing, and trapping license for veterans
Amount: The credit equals the amount paid for the lifetime license, capped at one-half of the adult fee for a lifetime license. If both taxpayers filing a joint return are eligible, the credit equals the amount paid by both.
Proposed Expansions
Several bills have been introduced to expand hunting and fishing benefits:
HB 4415: Would introduce a 75 percent discount on lifetime hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses for honorably discharged veterans
SB 429: Would provide a tax credit to disabled veterans for the cost of lifetime licenses
HB 2399: Would exempt all veterans from having to obtain hunting, trapping, and fishing licenses
Hunting and Fishing Benefits Comparison
| Benefit | Requirement | What It Provides | How to Claim |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free License | 100% P&T disability pension | Free hunting, trapping, fishing | WV DNR |
| Lifetime License Tax Credit | 50%+ disability, purchased lifetime license | One-time credit up to half adult fee | WV income tax return |
| Proposed 75% Discount (HB 4415) | Honorably discharged | 75% off lifetime licenses | Pending legislation |
West Virginia State Veterans Home and Nursing Facility
West Virginia operates one veterans home and one veterans nursing facility providing housing and care for eligible veterans.
West Virginia Veterans Home – Barboursville
Address: Barboursville, WV (Cabell County)
Capacity: 125–150 beds (reports vary)
Opened: 1981
The West Virginia Veterans Home is a 125-bed domiciliary facility on a 23-acre former college campus overlooking Barboursville. It provides safe and affordable temporary housing, hot meals, limited medical and nursing services, housekeeping, and recreational services.
Mission: To provide displaced veterans a temporary home while they secure income and long-term housing. Services include transportation for VA appointments, social work, counseling, education, and benefit assistance. The home has served more than 2,000 military veterans since its establishment.
Important: The Veterans Home is not a treatment facility and cannot accommodate veterans in need of daily care or skilled assistance.
West Virginia Veterans Nursing Facility – Clarksburg
Address: Clarksburg, WV
Capacity: 120 beds
The West Virginia Veterans Nursing Facility is a 120-bed skilled nursing home in Clarksburg for veterans requiring daily care and skilled assistance.
Eligibility
Honorably discharged veterans
In a position of need for safe and affordable housing (Veterans Home) or requiring skilled nursing care (Nursing Facility)
Applications should be made at the nearest field office of the West Virginia Division of Veterans Affairs or the Registrar’s office at the Veterans Home
What Families Should Do Next
Contact the West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance or the specific facility directly for eligibility determination and availability.
West Virginia Veteran Burial Benefits
West Virginia provides burial benefits through the Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery and a Burial Equity Grant Program.
Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery
Location: Dunbar, WV (Kanawha County)
The Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery provides burial benefits for eligible veterans and their families.
Burial Equity Grant Program
A Burial Equity Grant Program administered by Veterans Affairs provides funding to cover all or some of the costs associated with burial, up to $1,000, for families of anyone eligible for burial in the state cemetery for veterans. This program was created to extend burial equity to former members of the National Guard and military reserves.
State Burial Benefit for Service-Connected Death
Any member who dies as a result of a service-related illness or injury after the effective date is entitled to a lump sum burial benefit of $5,000. If the member is married, the benefit is paid to the surviving spouse. If unmarried, the benefit is paid to the member’s estate for the purpose of paying burial expenses and settling final affairs.
Federal Burial Benefits
The VA offers free headstones to mark the gravesite of any eligible veteran, or a cash allowance to help cover funeral and burial expenses. Veterans may also be eligible for VA burial allowances.
What Families Should Do Next
Contact the West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance or the Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery for eligibility determination and pre-registration.
West Virginia Veteran Employment Benefits
West Virginia provides employment preferences for veterans and military spouses, along with tax credits for employers who hire veterans.
Veterans’ Preference in State Employment
Veterans and military spouses may receive preference in hiring for state positions under §16B-17-9a. An employer may grant preference in hiring to a veteran or disabled veteran who has been honorably discharged, or to a military spouse, provided the person granted preference meets all knowledge, skill, and ability requirements.
Veterans’ Preference Points
Applicants claiming eligibility for Veterans’ Preference Points must provide a copy of their DD-214. A veteran may receive an additional 5 points if he or she received a Purple Heart Award (verified by DD-214) or has a compensable, service-connected disability.
Military Incentive Credit for Employers
West Virginia offers a Military Incentive Credit to employers who hire veterans:
30% of the first $5,000 in wages for an economically disadvantaged veteran
Disability percentage times the first $5,000 for a disabled veteran
25% of the first $5,000 for a Guard or reserve member
The veteran must be certified for the employer to claim the credit.
Veteran Status as Protected Class (SB 159)
Senate Bill 159, introduced in the 2026 Regular Session, would add veteran status as a protected class under the West Virginia Human Rights Act. This would prohibit discrimination in compensation, hire, tenure, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment based on veteran status.
Employment Resources
| Resource | Services | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| WV Department of Veterans Assistance | Claims assistance, benefits counseling | veterans.wv.gov |
| WorkForce West Virginia | Job referrals, training, DVOP/LVER services | workforcewv.org |
| Military Incentive Credit | Employer tax credit for hiring veterans | WV Tax Division |
| Veterans’ Preference Points | State employment preference | WV Division of Personnel |
West Virginia Veteran Healthcare Benefits
West Virginia veterans access healthcare through four VA medical centers and community-based outpatient clinics across the state.
VA Healthcare Eligibility
Veterans who served in the military and received an honorable discharge may qualify for VA healthcare benefits. Reservists and National Guard members may also qualify based on their service history. Enrollment is free for most qualifying veterans.
Services Available
Primary care and specialty care
Mental health and PTSD treatment
Substance abuse treatment
Dental care (for some veterans)
Vision care and eye exams
Audiology and hearing aids
Telehealth appointments
Geriatric and long-term care
Caregiver support programs
Mental Health Resources
All VA medical centers in West Virginia provide mental health services. The Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7 by calling 988 and pressing 1.
What Veterans Should Do Next
Visit VA.gov/health-care or call 1-877-222-8387 to check eligibility and apply. West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance field offices can also assist with enrollment and referrals.
West Virginia Veteran Discounts and Recreation
West Virginia offers state park lodging discounts, golf discounts, and free metered parking for disabled veterans.
State Park Lodging Discount
West Virginia State Parks offer a 10% discount on any lodge room, cabin, or campsite every day for veterans. Use code VETS10 when making a reservation and present a valid military ID at check-in.
A special Veterans Salute promotion in November offers 50% off lodge and cabin stays for stays through March 15, 2026, using code VET50 when booking online. The discount applies to stays at all West Virginia state park lodges and cabins, including Blackwater Falls and Canaan Valley Resort state parks.
Golf Discount
Veterans receive 15% off greens fees at Pipestem, Twin Falls, and Cacapon Resort State Parks year-round. Present a valid military ID when checking in for your tee time.
Free Metered Parking
Veterans with 100% total and permanent service-connected disability who receive free disabled veteran license plates are authorized to park for free at any metered parking space in West Virginia.
Comprehensive Incentive Plan for Veterans
West Virginia Code §20-5-24 directs the development of a comprehensive incentive plan to encourage the use of state parks and forests by veterans. The plan may include reduced or discounted rates on charges and fees for campground rental, lodging, and park activities.
National Discount Programs
Veterans Advantage: Membership program offering discounts on travel, dining, and retail
GovX: Online marketplace with exclusive pricing for veterans
ID.me: Verification service unlocking discounts at hundreds of retailers
West Virginia Veteran Housing Benefits
Veterans’ Home Loan Mortgage Program
The West Virginia Housing Development Fund supports a Veterans’ Home Loan Mortgage Program offering low-interest home loans to help veterans purchase their first homes.
Eligibility:
West Virginia resident
First-time homebuyer
Must complete an approved first-time homebuyer education course
Must contribute at least $2,500 toward the purchase
No disability rating required
VA Home Loan Guaranty
Veterans can use their VA home loan benefit to purchase homes in West Virginia with no down payment. With full VA entitlement, there is effectively no VA loan limit in 2026—veterans can buy at any price a lender approves them for without a down payment.
Key advantages:
No down payment
Veterans receiving VA disability compensation are exempt from the VA funding fee—any rating qualifies
Purple Heart recipients and many surviving spouses are also exempt from the funding fee
What Veterans Should Do Next
Visit VA.gov/housing-assistance or contact the West Virginia Housing Development Fund for program details and eligibility requirements.
Recent West Virginia Veteran Legislation (2025–2026)
SB 194 – Disabled Veteran Tax Credit (2026)
Amends provisions related to the Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit, including definitions of “disabled veteran taxpayer” and “eligible widowed spouse.”
SB 497 – Vehicle Registration Exemption Expansion (2026)
Would lower the percentage of service-connected disability required for exemption from 100 percent to 50 percent or greater. Introduced January 19, 2026; referred to the Committee on Military.
HB 4141 – Vehicle Registration Fee Exemption (2026)
Aims to exempt honorably discharged veterans of any branch from paying vehicle registration fees, with only a nominal $10 initial application fee maintained.
SB 159 – Veteran Status as Protected Class (2026)
Would add veteran status as a protected class to the West Virginia Human Rights Act, prohibiting discrimination in employment, compensation, and other terms of employment. Introduced January 14, 2026.
HB 4437 – Gold Star Parent Vehicle Registration Waiver (2026)
Expands West Virginia’s current vehicle registration fee waiver for Gold Star spouses to include surviving Gold Star parents. Parents who lost a son or daughter during military service can receive Gold Star Family license plates without paying registration fees. Signed by Governor Morrisey in June 2026.
SJR3 – Property Tax Exemption Constitutional Amendment (2026)
Senate Joint Resolution 3 proposes a constitutional amendment to exempt honorably discharged veterans from ad valorem property taxation on the full value of all personal property. Also addresses the “Hunter Safety Course” requirement for WV hunting licenses.
Common Questions
What is the West Virginia disabled veteran property tax credit?
The Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit allows veterans with a 90% or higher combined VA disability rating to claim a credit against their West Virginia personal income tax equal to the property tax paid on their homestead. The credit opens at 90%—lower than the 100% most states require for their largest relief.
How do I apply for the West Virginia disabled veteran property tax credit?
Pay your property tax on time, then file your annual West Virginia income tax return with the schedule for the Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit. Include documentation of your timely property tax payment and your VA disability rating. The credit is claimed on the income tax return, not with the county.
Does West Virginia tax military retirement pay?
No. West Virginia fully exempts military retirement income from state income tax. This covers regular Armed Forces, Reserves, National Guard, and uniformed services not part of the Armed Forces—including the Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service and NOAA.
What education benefits are available for West Virginia veterans?
West Virginia offers tuition waivers for honorably discharged resident veterans and their dependents at state colleges and universities, limited to 150 cumulative credit hours. Veterans with a 50%+ service-connected disability may receive waivers for themselves, their spouses, and dependents.
What VA medical facilities are in West Virginia?
Four VA medical centers: Beckley VA Medical Center, Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center (Clarksburg), Hershel “Woody” Williams VA Medical Center (Huntington), and Martinsburg VA Medical Center. The Huntington VA Regional Office administers VA benefits statewide.
How do I get free vehicle registration as a West Virginia veteran?
Veterans with a 100% total and permanent service-connected disability (not less than 50% as certified) are exempt from registration fees for one vehicle. Former POWs and Medal of Honor recipients also qualify. These plates authorize free metered parking statewide.
Are there free hunting and fishing licenses for West Virginia veterans?
Veterans with a total permanent service-connected disability pension may hunt, trap, and fish without a license. Veterans with a 50%+ disability who purchase a lifetime hunting, trapping, and fishing license may claim a one-time tax credit equal to the amount paid, capped at half the adult fee.
What is the West Virginia Veterans Home?
The West Virginia Veterans Home in Barboursville is a 125-bed domiciliary facility providing temporary housing, hot meals, limited medical services, and recreational services for displaced veterans. It is not a skilled nursing facility. The West Virginia Veterans Nursing Facility in Clarksburg is a 120-bed skilled nursing home.
What employment benefits are available for West Virginia veterans?
Veterans receive preference in state hiring and may receive 5 additional preference points for a Purple Heart or compensable service-connected disability. Employers who hire veterans can claim the Military Incentive Credit (up to 30% of first $5,000 in wages). SB 159 would add veteran status as a protected class.
What burial benefits are available for West Virginia veterans?
The Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery provides burial benefits for eligible veterans and families. A Burial Equity Grant Program provides up to $1,000 for burial costs for eligible National Guard and Reserve members. A $5,000 lump sum burial benefit is available for service-connected deaths.
Does West Virginia offer state park discounts for veterans?
Yes. West Virginia State Parks offer a 10% discount on lodge rooms, cabins, and campsites every day (code VETS10) and 15% off greens fees at select golf courses. A November promotion offers 50% off lodge and cabin stays (code VET50).
Can surviving spouses receive West Virginia veteran benefits?
Yes. The Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit extends to eligible widowed spouses of disabled veterans who previously received the credit. Tuition waivers apply to spouses of veterans killed in action, missing in action, or whose death is related to service.
Key Takeaways
West Virginia fully exempts military retirement pay from state income tax—including regular Armed Forces, Reserves, National Guard, USPHS, and NOAA.
The Disabled Veteran Real Property Tax Credit opens at 90% combined disability rating—lower than the 100% most states require for their largest relief.
Veterans with 100% P&T disability may receive a homestead property tax exemption on up to $20,000 of assessed value.
Free vehicle registration is available for 100% P&T disabled veterans, former POWs, and Medal of Honor recipients—including free metered parking statewide.
Tuition waivers cover up to 150 cumulative credit hours at West Virginia state colleges and universities for veterans and dependents.
Veterans with 50%+ disability may receive tuition waivers for themselves, spouses, and dependents at state institutions.
Free hunting, trapping, and fishing licenses are available for veterans receiving a total permanent service-connected disability pension.
The West Virginia Veterans Home in Barboursville provides temporary housing; the Veterans Nursing Facility in Clarksburg provides skilled nursing care.
A Burial Equity Grant Program provides up to $1,000 for burial costs for eligible National Guard and Reserve members.
Veterans receive preference in state hiring, and employers can claim the Military Incentive Credit for hiring veterans.
Official Resources
West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance — veterans.wv.gov | 304-558-3661
VA Regional Office – Huntington — 640 Fourth Avenue, Huntington, WV 25701 | 800-827-1000
Beckley VA Medical Center — 200 Veterans Avenue, Beckley, WV 25801 | 304-255-2121
Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center — 1 Medical Center Drive, Clarksburg, WV 26301 | 304-623-3461
Hershel “Woody” Williams VA Medical Center — 1540 Spring Valley Drive, Huntington, WV 25704 | 304-429-6741
Martinsburg VA Medical Center — 510 Butler Avenue, Martinsburg, WV 25405 | 304-263-0811
WV Tax Division — tax.wv.gov | 304-558-3333
WV Division of Natural Resources — wvdnr.gov | 304-558-2754
West Virginia State Parks — wvstateparks.com | 800-CALL-WVA
WorkForce West Virginia — workforcewv.org | 304-558-2630
VA.gov — Apply for VA healthcare, disability, education, and home loan benefits
SSA.gov — Social Security benefits information
IRS.gov — Federal tax information for veterans
USA.gov — General government services
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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.
