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Washington Veteran Benefits (2026)

What Washington 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

Washington offers a property tax exemption on the primary residence for veterans with a service-connected disability rating of at least 80% (or receiving VA compensation at the 100% rate) who meet a county-based income threshold tied to county median household income. VA disability compensation and dependency and indemnity compensation are excluded when calculating qualifying income; apply through the county assessor.

Military retirement pay & state income tax

Washington has no state personal income tax, so military retirement pay is not taxed at the state level.

Education benefits

Washington's tuition waiver for dependents requires state community colleges, colleges, and universities to waive all undergraduate tuition and fees, up to 200 quarter credits (or semester equivalent), for eligible children (ages 17-26), spouses, and surviving spouses of veterans or National Guard members who became 100% totally disabled as a result of military service or who died in service.

Also worth knowing

The state operates four State Veterans Homes (Washington Soldiers Home, Washington Veterans Home, Spokane Veterans Home, and Walla Walla Veterans Home) providing long-term care for eligible veterans and certain family members.

Where to apply & verify

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Other states

TexasUtahVermontVirginiaWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingDistrict of Columbia All 51 →

About this information: Compiled July 2026 from official state sources and verified references. Benefit rules change through legislation — always confirm details with Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs or a Veteran Service Officer before making decisions. This is general information, not legal or financial advice.

Updated August 23, 2026