A National Guard unit saw the most combat during World War II
Think about the World War II shows and films that stuck with you, like “Band of Brothers,” “The Pacific,” or “Saving Private Ryan.
California Veteran Benefits (2026)
What California offers veterans on top of federal VA benefits — property tax relief, state income-tax treatment of retirement pay, and education programs. Compiled from official state sources.
Property tax exemption
California's Disabled Veterans' Exemption reduces the assessed value of the home of a veteran who is rated 100% disabled due to service, or who is blind in both eyes or has lost the use of two or more limbs. For 2026, the basic exemption is $180,671 of assessed value, and veterans with household income at or below $81,131 qualify for the larger low-income exemption of $271,009 (amounts adjust annually for inflation, per State Board of Equalization Letter to Assessors 2025/014).
Military retirement pay & state income tax
California taxed military retirement pay in full until recently; for tax years 2025 through 2029, taxpayers may exclude up to $20,000 of military retirement pay if their income does not exceed $125,000 (single) or $250,000 (joint). Retirement pay above the exclusion remains subject to state income tax.
Education benefits
The CalVet College Fee Waiver for Veteran Dependents waives mandatory system-wide tuition and fees at any California Community College, California State University, or University of California campus for eligible children and spouses of veterans with a service-connected disability or service-connected cause of death; it does not cover books, housing, or parking.
Also worth knowing
CalVet also offers CalVet Home Loans for veterans purchasing an owner-occupied home in California and operates the Veterans Homes of California, which provide affordable long-term care for aged and disabled veterans and eligible spouses.
Where to apply & verify
- California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) — the official state agency for these programs
- Verified veteran services in California — directory of local organizations
- California veteran resources & news
- VA disability pay dates 2026 · 2026 VA disability rates
Latest California veteran news
Marines identify West Coast recruit who died after physical fitness test
Task & Purpose · Aug 12
Navy fires commanding officer of California-based medical training unit
Task & Purpose · Aug 7
After specialist contacts congressman, Army admits soldiers got ‘sub-optimal’ food
Task & Purpose · Aug 3
Marine Corps F-35B crashes on runway of California base, pilot safe
Task & Purpose · Jul 31
Other states
AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasColoradoConnecticutDelawareFlorida All 51 →
About this information: Compiled July 2026 from official state sources and verified references. Benefit rules change through legislation — always confirm details with California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) or a Veteran Service Officer before making decisions. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.