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.
Kentucky Veteran Benefits (2026)
What Kentucky 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 total (100%) service-connected disability rating from the VA qualify for Kentucky's homestead exemption, which deducts $49,100 (the amount set for the 2025-2026 assessment years; it is adjusted every two years) from the assessed value of their primary residence before property taxes are computed. Totally disabled veterans only need to apply once, not annually.
Military retirement pay & state income tax
Kentucky fully exempts military retirement pay for those who retired from the Armed Forces before January 1, 1998. Those who retired later may exclude up to $31,110 of pension income under Kentucky's general retirement-income exclusion; amounts above that are subject to state income tax.
Education benefits
The KDVA Tuition Waiver Program waives tuition at Kentucky state-supported colleges and universities for children, stepchildren, adopted children, spouses, and unremarried surviving spouses of eligible deceased or disabled Kentucky veterans. Under KRS 164.507, dependents of deceased veterans may receive up to 45 months of training or until their 26th birthday, whichever comes first; the waiver covers tuition only, not mandatory fees.
Also worth knowing
KDVA also operates state veterans centers providing skilled long-term nursing care and state veterans cemeteries offering dignified interment for Kentucky veterans.
Where to apply & verify
- Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs — the official state agency for these programs
- Verified veteran services in Kentucky — directory of local organizations
- Kentucky veteran resources & news
- VA disability pay dates 2026 · 2026 VA disability rates
Latest Kentucky veteran news
VA introduces new electronic health records system to four additional sites
Military Times - Veterans · Jun 10
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 Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs or a Veteran Service Officer before making decisions. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.