Tennessee Veteran Benefits (2026)
What Tennessee 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
Tennessee's property tax relief program pays a portion of the property taxes on the first $175,000 of market value of the primary residence for veterans with a 100% permanent and total service-connected disability (including 100% ratings tied to POW status). There is no income limit for qualifying disabled veterans or their surviving spouses. Apply through the County Trustee's office.
Military retirement pay & state income tax
Tennessee has no state income tax on wages or retirement income, so military retirement pay is not taxed.
Education benefits
The Tennessee Helping Heroes Grant gives eligible veterans $1,000 per semester when enrolled in 12+ semester hours ($500 for 6-11 hours), for up to eight full semesters or until a bachelor's degree is earned, awarded first-come first-served. Tennessee also grants immediate in-state tuition to veterans using GI Bill benefits.
Also worth knowing
The Tennessee Department of Veterans Services operates 14 field offices and four state veterans cemeteries, and serves as liaison for three Tennessee State Veterans Homes.
Where to apply & verify
- Tennessee Department of Veterans Services — the official state agency for these programs
- Verified veteran services in Tennessee — directory of local organizations
- Tennessee veteran resources & news
- VA disability pay dates 2026 · 2026 VA disability rates
Latest Tennessee veteran news
6 reasons why the military community loved Dolly Parton
We Are The Mighty · Aug 26
One Veteran’s journey from homelessness to honored caretaker
VA News · Jul 21
National Guard soldiers shoot and kill man in Memphis overnight
Task & Purpose · Jul 5
‘You are always in my heart’: A look at love letters from World War II
Military Times - Veterans · Feb 13
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 Tennessee Department of Veterans Services or a Veteran Service Officer before making decisions. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.