FINANCIAL ADVANTAGE
Additional Benefits For Washington Veterans
As a Veteran in Washington, 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 Washington disabled veteran benefits can help you maximize the compensation and resources you’ve earned through your service. The Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) and Department of Revenue administer most of these programs.
Tax Relief
Property Tax Exemptions for Veterans in Washington
- Eligible veterans who own and occupy a primary residence in Washington and meet income limits may receive a reduction in property taxes. The amount of the reduction is based on the applicant’s income, the value of the residence, and local levy rates. Qualification requires a combined service-connected evaluation rating of 80% or higher or a total disability rating for a service-connected disability from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Unremarried surviving spouses may receive a grant to help pay property taxes. Eligibility requires the deceased veteran to have died as a result of a service-connected disability, been rated 100% disabled by the VA for 10 years prior to death, been a former POW rated 100% disabled for one year prior to death, or died on active duty or training status.
Family Tuition Assistance
Education Benefits for Washington Veterans
- State community colleges, colleges, and universities are authorized to waive all or a portion of tuition and fees for eligible veterans or National Guard members. Each institution operates its own waiver program. Eligibility generally requires Washington residency, honorable discharge (or equivalent), and service as an active or reserve member of the armed forces or National Guard called to active duty under Title 10 or Title 32.
- State universities, regional universities, The Evergreen State College, and community and technical colleges waive all undergraduate full- or part-time tuition and fees (up to 200–250 quarter credits or equivalent semester credits, depending on the program) for eligible children, spouses/domestic partners, or surviving spouses/domestic partners of veterans who became totally disabled as a result of active federal service, were declared prisoners of war or missing in action, or lost their life as a result of active federal service.
- A $500 stipend for textbooks and course materials may also be available.
Home Financing
Home Loan Benefits for Eligible Veterans
- Eligible veterans can access VA-backed home loans (often with no down payment) for purchase, construction, improvement, or refinance; details and application support are available through the VA and WDVA housing resources.
- WDVA provides information and access to the Veterans Downpayment Assistance Program and Veterans Transitional Housing Programs (locations in Port Orchard and Orting) to support veterans seeking stable housing.