NEW YORK Veteran Benefits
We help Veterans in New York obtain the quality documentation they deserve
At REE Medical, we are passionate about taking care of Veterans and are dedicated to ensuring that each Veteran we work with receives the disability examination that they deserve.
Our number one priority is delivering quality service. Our entire staff is highly trained and fully dedicated to serving those who served.
FINANCIAL ADVANTAGE
Additional Benefits For New York Veterans
As a Veteran in New York, you have access to benefits that can have a significant impact on your financial future.
Tax Relief
Property Tax Exemptions for Veterans in New York
- The Alternative Veterans’ Exemption offers a 15% reduction in the assessed value of a veteran’s primary residence for those who served during a time of war. Veterans who served in a combat zone receive an additional 10% reduction, and those with a service-connected disability get a further reduction equal to one-half of their disability rating. The property must be the veteran’s or an eligible family member’s primary residence.
- The Cold War Veterans’ Exemption provides a 10% or 15% reduction in assessed value (depending on what the local taxing jurisdiction has adopted) for eligible veterans. Veterans with a service-connected disability incurred during the Cold War receive an additional reduction equal to one-half of their disability rating. This exemption lasts for 10 years unless the jurisdiction makes it indefinite, though the disability portion has no time limit, and the property must be the veteran’s or their spouse’s primary residence.
- The Eligible Funds Exemption reduces the assessed value of a property purchased with funds (typically up to $7,500) that a veteran received upon discharge from active duty. This exemption applies to county, city, town, and village taxes and may also apply to school district taxes.
Tuition Assistance
Education Benefits for New York Veterans
- The New York State Recruitment Incentive and Retention Program (RIRP) helps New York National Guard service members by covering tuition costs up to the SUNY tuition rate. Eligible service members must be enrolled in an undergraduate degree program, either full-time or part-time. The program limits support to a maximum of eight semesters of full-time study (with exceptions for five-year programs) or sixteen semesters of part-time study, with awards capped at $1,700 per semester and $3,400 per calendar year.
- MERIT Scholarships provide financial aid to the children, spouse, and financial dependents of U.S. Armed Forces or New York National Guard service members who died or were severely and permanently disabled in the line of duty; it is also available to resident veterans who became severely and permanently disabled due to line-of-duty injuries or illnesses. The scholarship covers tuition for up to four years of full-time undergraduate study (with exceptions for five-year programs) at SUNY tuition rates. In addition to tuition, MERIT can help pay for books, supplies, transportation, and room and board, with maximum awards of $13,045 per semester for on-campus students and $8,295 per semester for commuters (off-campus students receive the lower commuter rate when on-campus housing is available).
By partnering with REE Medical for evidence-based medical documentation from our network of providers, you can save valuable time and resources to focus on the things that matter most. View our post to learn more about service-connected disability benefits within New York.
COMPENSATION RATES
2026 VA Disability Compensation Rates (Single Veteran):
| Disability Rating | 2026 Monthly Rate (Single) | Annual Amount | Increase from Previous Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 | $2,165.04 | Base Level |
| 20% | $356.66 | $4,279.92 | $176.24 |
| 30% | $552.47 | $6,629.64 | $195.81 |
| 40% | $795.84 | $9,550.08 | $243.37 |
| 50% | $1,132.90 | $13,594.80 | $337.06 |
| 60% | $1,435.02 | $17,220.24 | $302.12 |
| 70% | $1,808.45 | $21,701.40 | $373.43 |
| 80% | $2,102.15 | $25,225.80 | $293.70 |
| 90% | $2,362.30 | $28,347.60 | $260.15 |
| 100% | $3,938.58 | $47,262.96 | $1,576.28 |
VA Benefits Calculator
See how much more you could receive with a higher rating. Our calculator shows monthly compensation amounts at each rating level from 0% to 100%. Discover what you’re entitled to, then explore our veteran services to help strengthen your claim.