Virginia Veteran Benefits 2026: Tax, Tuition & V3 Jobs

Paul Hylenski
Apr 30
2 min read

Updated: May 29

Virginia is one of the nation's most veteran-dense states, anchored by the world's largest naval base and a strong package of state benefits: a full property tax exemption for 100% disabled veterans, free tuition for military families through VMSDEP, and the V3 hiring program. Here's what you can claim in 2026.

At a Glance: Virginia Veteran Benefits in 2026

Full real estate tax exemption for 100% service-connected disabled veterans and surviving spouses
State income tax subtraction on military retirement pay (expanded in recent years)
VMSDEP: tuition and fee waivers at public colleges for eligible survivors and dependents
Virginia Values Veterans (V3) connects veterans with certified employers
Major installations and VA medical centers statewide

Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption

Virginia exempts the full real estate tax on the primary residence of veterans with a 100% service-connected permanent and total disability rating, and the benefit continues for a surviving spouse who does not remarry. Apply through your local commissioner of the revenue or assessor's office.

Military Retirement & Income Tax

Virginia offers a state income tax subtraction on military retirement pay that has expanded in recent years, lowering or eliminating state tax on a portion of military retired pay. VA disability compensation is never taxed. Confirm the current subtraction amount with the Virginia Department of Taxation.

Education: VMSDEP

The Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program waives tuition and fees at Virginia public colleges and universities for the spouses and children of veterans who were killed, are missing, or are permanently and totally disabled from their service.

Employment: Virginia Values Veterans (V3)

The Virginia Department of Veterans Services runs the V3 program, which certifies employers committed to hiring veterans and connects transitioning service members to jobs, alongside a state hiring preference.

Installations & Health Care

Virginia hosts Naval Station Norfolk (the world's largest naval base), Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Fort Gregg-Adams, and the Pentagon. VA medical centers serve Hampton, Richmond (Hunter Holmes McGuire), and Salem, find facilities with the VA locator.

How Operation Pathfinder Helps Virginia Veterans

Operation Pathfinder helps Virginia veterans turn military experience into civilian careers and claim every benefit they've earned, free. Pair this guide with our VA disability benefits and career transition guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Virginia tax military retirement pay?

Virginia offers a subtraction on military retirement pay that has expanded in recent years, and VA disability compensation is never taxed. Check the current subtraction amount with the Virginia Department of Taxation.

Who qualifies for Virginia's property tax exemption?

Veterans with a 100% service-connected permanent and total disability rating receive a full real estate tax exemption on their primary residence, which continues for a non-remarried surviving spouse.

What is VMSDEP?

The Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program waives tuition and fees at Virginia public colleges for eligible spouses and children of permanently disabled or deceased veterans.

Where do I apply for Virginia veteran benefits?

Property tax through your local commissioner of the revenue; education and V3 employment through the Virginia Department of Veterans Services.