Old Dominion Honor: Virginia's Top 10 Most Valuable Veterans Benefits

The Commonwealth of Virginia, with its deep historical ties to the nation's military, offers a comprehensive and robust suite of benefits for its large veteran population. Administered by the Virginia Department of Veterans Services (DVS), these programs provide significant advantages in taxation, education, and long-term care, reflecting a profound commitment to those who have served. While the personal value of each benefit can differ, a clear top tier emerges based on monetary impact, broad applicability, and life-altering support.

Here are the top ten, most valuable veterans benefits offered through the Virginia Department of Veterans Affairs:

1. Full Property Tax Exemption for 100% Disabled Veterans: A cornerstone of veteran support in Virginia, this benefit provides a complete exemption from property taxes on the primary residence for veterans with a 100% permanent and total service-connected disability. In a state with significant property values and taxes, this can save eligible homeowners thousands of dollars annually, offering profound and lasting financial security. The surviving spouse may also be eligible.
2. Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP): This invaluable program provides tuition and fee waivers at Virginia's public colleges and universities for the surviving spouses and children of service members killed in the line of duty or veterans who are 90-100% disabled. The program may also provide a stipend to help with living expenses, making it one of the most generous educational benefits in the nation for families who have sacrificed.
3. State Income Tax Exemption on Military Retirement Pay: Virginia provides a significant tax advantage for military retirees. As of the 2025 tax year, up to $40,000 of military retirement pay is exempt from state income tax for retirees age 55 and older. This allows retired service members to keep more of their hard-earned pension.
4. Virginia State Veterans Homes: A critical component of long-term care, Virginia operates two excellent State Veterans Care Centers in Richmond and Roanoke, with two more in Virginia Beach and Fauquier County. These facilities provide high-quality, affordable skilled nursing, memory, and rehabilitative care in a comfortable, veteran-centric environment.
5. Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program: This innovative program is not a direct benefit but provides immense value by connecting veterans with certified companies committed to hiring them. The V3 program trains employers on the value of hiring veterans and helps translate military experience into civilian careers, creating a powerful pathway to meaningful employment.
6. State Employment Preference: Honorably discharged veterans receive a hiring preference when applying for state government jobs. Preference is granted to veterans who meet the minimum qualifications by adding points to their score or giving them first consideration, providing a substantial advantage in securing stable public service careers.
7. Virginia State Veterans Cemeteries: Virginia maintains three beautiful State Veterans Cemeteries in Amelia, Dublin, and Suffolk. These facilities provide a dignified and honorable final resting place for veterans, their spouses, and eligible dependents at no cost to the family for the plot, vault, and interment.
8. In-State Tuition for Veterans and Dependents: Virginia grants immediate residency for tuition purposes to recently separated veterans, active-duty members, and their dependents. This allows them to pay the significantly lower in-state tuition rates at the state's public colleges and universities without a lengthy waiting period, saving thousands on higher education.
9. "VETERAN" Indicator on Driver's License/ID Card: For no additional fee, veterans can have a "VETERAN" indicator printed on their Virginia driver's license or ID card. This simple but important benefit serves as official proof of veteran status, ensuring easy access to the numerous retail and commercial discounts offered throughout the Commonwealth.
10. Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Virginia honors its resident disabled veterans with free recreational licenses. Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability are eligible for a free lifetime license to hunt and fish, a valuable perk that enhances quality of life.

These premier benefits showcase Virginia's strong and enduring commitment to its veteran community. For detailed eligibility requirements and to connect with a Veterans Service Officer for assistance, veterans are encouraged to visit the official website of the Virginia Department of Veterans Services.

Virginia Department of Veteran Affairs

Address: 
Department of Veterans Services
101 N. 14th Street
Richmond, VA 23219

Phone: 1-804-786-0286
Toll Free Phone: 844-VDVS-VETS or 1-844-838-7838

Return to the WeSalute State Veterans Benefits Guide