State & Local Perks
Which state is best for 100% disabled veterans?
Florida and Texas consistently rank at the top because they combine two major financial advantages: no state income tax and a complete property tax exemption on a primary residence for veterans rated 100% permanently and totally disabled. But the best state for any individual depends on more than tax law — VA medical center proximity, climate, cost of living, and family location all factor in.
Updated June 2026 · Browse all benefits
Top states and what makes them stand out
These states offer the strongest combination of tax exemptions and veteran-specific benefits for those rated 100% P&T disabled.
- 1
Florida — No state income tax + full homestead property tax exemption for 100% P&T disabled veterans + one of the largest veteran populations in the country. Multiple major VA medical centers across the state.
- 2
Texas — No state income tax + complete property tax exemption for veterans rated 100% or individually unemployable + free Super Combo hunting and fishing license for veterans rated 50%+. Largest veteran population by state.
- 3
Virginia — No state tax on military retirement pay + full property tax exemption for 100% P&T disabled veterans. Home to the largest concentration of active-duty bases on the East Coast.
- 4
Wisconsin — Full property tax credit (the state refunds all property taxes paid) for qualifying disabled veterans. Strong state VSO network and veterans benefits programs.
- 5
Wyoming — No state income tax + veterans property tax exemption + consistently lower cost of living relative to coastal states.
What to compare when choosing a state
No single state wins on every dimension. Evaluate these factors before relocating:
- 1
Income tax — Does the state tax military retirement pay? Does it have any state income tax at all? Nine states have no state income tax.
- 2
Property tax exemption — Is it a full exemption or a partial deduction? What disability rating triggers it? What is the application process?
- 3
VA healthcare access — How many VA medical centers and community clinics are within a reasonable drive? 100% P&T veterans receive VA care at Priority Group 1 (no copays for service-connected conditions).
- 4
Outdoor benefits — Does the state offer free or reduced-cost hunting and fishing licenses for disabled veterans? Free state park access?
- 5
Cost of living — A full property tax exemption saves more when home values are moderate. Check median home prices and whether the military community is large enough to support job opportunities for spouses.
Federal benefits that follow you to every state
A 100% P&T rating unlocks a set of federal benefits that are identical regardless of which state you live in:
- 1
VA healthcare at Priority Group 1 — no copays for service-connected conditions at any VA facility.
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Commissary and exchange shopping access at military installations nationwide.
- 3
Chapter 35 Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance for eligible dependents.
- 4
Free America the Beautiful lifetime pass to all national parks, monuments, and federal recreation sites.
- 5
Property tax exemptions (applied in whichever state you reside in — apply upon arrival).
Frequently asked questions
Does my 100% disability rating carry over when I move to a new state?
Yes. Your VA disability rating is federal — it does not change when you move. State-specific benefits (property tax exemptions, hunting licenses, etc.) require a new application in your new state of residence.
Does Virginia tax military retirement income?
Virginia exempts military retirement pay from state income tax. Combined with the full property tax exemption for 100% P&T disabled veterans, Virginia offers one of the strongest tax environments on the East Coast for disabled veterans.
Does VA disability compensation change based on which state I live in?
No. VA disability compensation rates are set federally by Congress and are the same nationwide regardless of your state of residence.
What is "P&T" and why does it matter for state benefits?
P&T stands for Permanently and Totally disabled — a VA determination that your disability is total (100% rating or individual unemployability) and is not expected to improve. Many of the strongest state benefits (property tax full exemptions, surviving spouse transfer) require P&T status, not just a 100% rating.
Boon Atlas is an independent benefits and perks directory. Boon Atlas is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Defense, or any military branch. Confirm benefit details directly with the company, program, or official source before relying on any information listed here.
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