Vermont Veteran Benefits (2026 Guide)
A complete guide to state-level benefits for veterans living in Vermont, including property tax exemptions, education programs, employment preference, and more. These benefits are in addition to your federal VA benefits.
Official source: Vermont veterans affairs agency — applications, forms, and current filing deadlines come from the state directly.
Benefits at a Glance
Vermont's commitment to veterans is notable for a state its size. Full military retirement pay exemption, property tax exemptions, and the Vermont Veterans' Home in Bennington provide a support structure that ensures veterans in the Green Mountain State have access to meaningful benefits despite the state's small population.
Property Tax Exemption
$10,000 exemption for disabled veterans; full for 100% P&T
Vermont provides $10,000 property tax exemption for veterans rated at least 50% disabled. Veterans with 100% P&T disability may qualify for full exemption through their municipality.
Income Tax Benefits
Military retirement pay fully exempt (AGI under $125,000)
Vermont fully exempts military retirement pay for filers with AGI of $125,000 or less as of 2025. VA disability compensation is also tax-free.
Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Free hunting/fishing for 50%+ disabled veterans
Vermont provides free hunting and fishing licenses for resident veterans with 50%+ service-connected disability.
Education Benefits
In-state tuition for veterans at Vermont public schools
Veterans receive in-state tuition at Vermont State Colleges and University of Vermont.
Employment & Hiring Preference
Veterans preference in state employment
Vermont grants veterans preference in state employment. Vermont Department of Labor provides veteran employment services through local career centers.
Vehicles & DMV
Free disabled veteran license plates
Free "Disabled Veteran" license plates for veterans with service-connected disability.
State Parks
Free day-use for all Vermont veterans
Vermont state parks offer free day-use admission for all Vermont veterans (not limited to disabled). Covers all 55 state parks and forests.
Housing & Veterans Homes
Vermont Veterans Home in Bennington
The Vermont Veterans Home in Bennington provides skilled nursing, residential, and memory care for eligible veterans.
Veterans in Vermont
Vermont has roughly 40,000 veterans in a state of just 645,000 people, giving it one of the highest per-capita veteran populations in the nation. The Vermont National Guard is active throughout the state, and the White River Junction VA Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare. Vermont's Office of Veterans' Affairs maintains a small but dedicated team of veteran service officers, and the state has been recognized for its innovative approach to veteran mental health support through partnerships with community organizations. Vermont's rural character means that outreach and accessibility are ongoing priorities for the state's veteran services.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vermont Veteran Benefits
Does Vermont offer property tax exemptions for veterans?
$10,000 exemption for disabled veterans; full for 100% P&T. Vermont provides $10,000 property tax exemption for veterans rated at least 50% disabled. Veterans with 100% P&T disability may qualify for full exemption through their municipality.
Are military retirement benefits taxed in Vermont?
Military retirement pay fully exempt (AGI under $125,000). Vermont fully exempts military retirement pay for filers with AGI of $125,000 or less as of 2025. VA disability compensation is also tax-free.
What education benefits does Vermont offer veterans?
In-state tuition for veterans at Vermont public schools. Veterans receive in-state tuition at Vermont State Colleges and University of Vermont.
Do veterans get free or discounted hunting and fishing licenses in Vermont?
Free hunting/fishing for 50%+ disabled veterans. Vermont provides free hunting and fishing licenses for resident veterans with 50%+ service-connected disability.
Does Vermont give veterans hiring preference for state jobs?
Veterans preference in state employment. Vermont grants veterans preference in state employment. Vermont Department of Labor provides veteran employment services through local career centers.
Are there veterans homes or housing programs in Vermont?
Vermont Veterans Home in Bennington. The Vermont Veterans Home in Bennington provides skilled nursing, residential, and memory care for eligible veterans.
Do veterans get free or discounted state park access in Vermont?
Free day-use for all Vermont veterans. Vermont state parks offer free day-use admission for all Vermont veterans (not limited to disabled). Covers all 55 state parks and forests.
Want the full picture?
Vermont benefits sit alongside federal compensation, healthcare, education, housing, and employment benefits. The optional briefing walks through what may apply to your specific service.
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