New Mexico Veteran Benefits (2026 Guide)

Proportional exemption for disabled veterans (10-100%); full at 100%. Following constitutional amendments approved by voters in November 2024, from the 2026 property tax year a veteran with a permanent service-connected disability is exempt on a share of the home's value equal to the disability percentage, figured on the value left after the veteran exemption (so a 70% rating exempts 70% of that value, and 100% exempts all of it). No income limit and no home value cap. Separately, New Mexico residents who are honorably discharged veterans with at least 90 days of continuous active duty get a veteran exemption regardless of disability, adjusted for inflation each year from 2026. Get a certificate of eligibility from the New Mexico Department of Veterans' Services and file it with your county assessor. Surviving spouses who were married to the veteran at death and keep living in the home also eligible.

Military retirement pay exempt up to $30,000/yr; active duty fully exempt. Military retirement pay exempt up to $30,000/year through 2026. Active-duty military pay is fully exempt. VA disability compensation and military disability retirement pay are fully exempt from NM state income tax.

Free tuition for Vietnam-era veterans and dependents of KIA/100% disabled. New Mexico provides free tuition at state schools for Vietnam-era veterans and dependents of veterans killed or 100% disabled from service. Children of National Guard members killed or disabled in the line of duty also eligible.

Free lifetime hunting/fishing license for 100% disabled veterans. New Mexico residents who are 100% disabled as a result of military service are eligible for a free lifetime game-hunting and fishing license through a Disabled Veteran card, which allows fishing, small game hunting and a free deer license (through a draw or with landowner permission). Resident disabled veterans who do not meet the 100% standard can buy a $10 combination game-hunting and fishing license. Separately, New Mexico residents who are honorably discharged veterans get 50% discounts on other licenses, permits and stamps.

Veterans preference in state employment. New Mexico grants veterans preference in state employment — 10-point preference for disabled veterans. New Mexico Department of Veterans' Services provides employment counseling and job placement assistance through Veterans Service Centers statewide.

New Mexico State Veterans Home in Truth or Consequences. The New Mexico State Veterans Home in Truth or Consequences provides skilled nursing and long-term care for eligible veterans.

Free state parks access for ALL veterans (HB 161). New Mexico provides free unlimited day-use and camping at all state parks for all veterans (not just disabled). One of the most generous state park benefits in the country.