FINANCIAL ADVANTAGE
Additional Benefits For Pennsylvania Veterans
As a Veteran in Pennsylvania, you may qualify for valuable state and federal benefits that can improve your financial security, reduce education costs, and provide long-term support for you and your family. Understanding available Pennsylvania disabled veteran benefits can help you maximize the compensation and resources you’ve earned through your service. The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) administers many of these programs.
Tax Relief
Property Tax Exemptions for Veterans in Pennsylvania
- Honorably discharged Pennsylvania resident veterans who served during a period of war (or received qualifying expeditionary medals), own and occupy the property as their principal dwelling, and have a 100% permanent service-connected disability (or are blind, paraplegic, or have lost two or more limbs) may receive a full exemption from real estate taxes on the dwelling and up to five acres of land.
- Unremarried surviving spouses of qualifying veterans may continue the real estate tax exemption if financial need is shown. Pennsylvania also offers the broader Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program for eligible older adults and people with disabilities.
Family Tuition Assistance
Education Benefits for Pennsylvania Veterans
- Children (ages 16–23) of honorably discharged wartime veterans rated 100% service-connected disabled by the VA may receive up to $500 per term (maximum $4,000 total) for education at Pennsylvania institutions, provided the children have been Pennsylvania residents for at least five years prior to application. Administered by the DMVA.
- Pennsylvania National Guard members who make a six-year service commitment may receive tuition assistance covering costs at state-owned institutions (or equivalent). Spouses and children of members who make an additional six-year commitment may also receive similar tuition assistance (full or part-time undergraduate or graduate study). Contact your unit Readiness NCO or the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) for details.
Home Financing
Home Loan Benefits for Eligible Veterans
- Eligible veterans, service members, and surviving spouses can obtain VA-guaranteed home loans for purchase, construction, improvement, or refinance of a primary residence through private lenders.
- The DMVA operates six long-term care veterans homes across the state providing intermediate and skilled nursing care (and related services) for eligible honorably discharged veterans, their spouses, or surviving spouses. Applicants must generally be Pennsylvania residents (or have entered service while living in Pennsylvania). Residents contribute to costs based on ability to pay. Apply through the DMVA Bureau of Veterans’ Homes.