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.
Colorado Veteran Benefits (2026)
What Colorado 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
Veterans with a service-connected disability rated 100% and permanent by the VA — or with VA individual-unemployability status — qualify for an exemption of 50% of the first $200,000 of their primary residence's actual value. Gold Star spouses also qualify. Applications are filed with the county assessor.
Military retirement pay & state income tax
Colorado partially taxes military retirement pay. Retirees under 55 may subtract up to $15,000 of military retirement benefits; those 55-64 may subtract up to $20,000 and those 65 and older up to $24,000 under the state's general pension and annuity subtraction.
Education benefits
Colorado National Guard members can use the state Tuition Assistance/Waiver program at participating Colorado public colleges. Separately, the Dependent Tuition Assistance Program (DTAP) covers undergraduate tuition at Colorado public institutions for dependents of POW/MIA service members and of Colorado National Guard members permanently disabled or killed on state active duty.
Also worth knowing
Colorado resident veterans with a combined VA disability rating of 50% or higher, and Purple Heart recipients, qualify for the free lifetime Independence Pass giving unlimited entry to all Colorado state parks.
Where to apply & verify
- Colorado Division of Veterans Affairs (Department of Military and Veterans Affairs) — the official state agency for these programs
- Verified veteran services in Colorado — directory of local organizations
- Colorado veteran resources & news
- VA disability pay dates 2026 · 2026 VA disability rates
Latest Colorado veteran news
VA researcher wins top honor for rethinking Veteran rehabilitation
VA News · Jul 17
Air Force names 2 bases that could host nuclear ‘microreactors’
Task & Purpose · Apr 9
Other states
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About this information: Compiled July 2026 from official state sources and verified references. Benefit rules change through legislation — always confirm details with Colorado Division of Veterans Affairs (Department of Military and Veterans Affairs) or a Veteran Service Officer before making decisions. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.