US veterans are entitled to some of the most generous benefits in the country — but studies show over 40% of eligible veterans aren't receiving all the benefits they've earned.
Key Veterans Benefits by Category
VA Disability Compensation — Monthly tax-free payments for service-connected disabilities. Ranges from $171/month (10%) to $3,737+/month (100%). File or increase your claim at VA.gov.
VA Home Loan Guarantee — No down payment, no PMI mortgage for eligible veterans. One of the most powerful benefits available — saves $30,000+ compared to conventional loans.
GI Bill (Post-9/11) — Covers full tuition at public schools plus a monthly housing allowance and book stipend. Transferable to dependents after 10 years of service.
VA Healthcare — Comprehensive medical care through VA facilities and community care. Priority groups 1–8 based on service history and income.
CHAMPVA — Healthcare for surviving spouses and dependents of veterans rated 100% P&T.
State Veterans Benefits (Often Overlooked)
Every state offers its own veterans benefits on top of federal programs. These include:
- Property tax exemptions — Most states exempt disabled veterans from property tax. TX, FL, and IL offer 100% exemptions for 100% disabled veterans.
- Free tuition — Many states offer free college tuition for veterans or their dependents at state schools.
- Below-market home loans — CA (CalVet), TX (VLB), and NY (SONYMA) all offer veteran-specific mortgage programs.
- Business grants and loans — Many states have veteran entrepreneur programs with dedicated funding.
Veterans Small Business Grants
SBIR/STTR Veteran Priority — Veteran-owned businesses get priority in many federal SBIR competitions.
SBA Boots to Business — Free entrepreneurship training for transitioning service members.
SBA VBOC — Veteran Business Outreach Centers provide free business consulting in every state.
Hivers & Strivers — Angel investment fund focused exclusively on veteran-founded startups.