Massachusetts is home to approximately 380,000 veterans and operates one of the most comprehensive state-level veterans support systems in the nation. From the Clause 22 property tax exemption to the $2,000 annual annuity for 100% permanently and totally disabled veterans, Massachusetts backs its veterans with meaningful financial benefits and robust service infrastructure.
Massachusetts has a deep military tradition and approximately 380,000 veterans calling the Commonwealth home. The state's approach to veterans benefits is unique in several ways: Massachusetts relies on a network of local veterans' agents — municipal officials who provide direct benefits assistance — alongside state agencies and two historic Soldiers' Homes. This system creates an unusually high density of in-person support for veterans at the local level.
The Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services (DVS) oversees the statewide framework while local veterans' agents handle benefit delivery. This combination means most Massachusetts veterans can access in-person help in their own town or city.
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 22 provides property tax exemptions for veterans. Unlike the straightforward statewide programs in some states, Massachusetts offers a tiered system with multiple Clause 22 subdivisions based on disability level:
Any veteran who served in a recognized wartime period and received an honorable discharge qualifies for a $400 reduction in their property tax bill (not assessed value — the dollar amount directly off the tax bill).
Veterans of World War II who served overseas qualify for a $500 annual reduction. Additional amounts may apply for specific service conditions.
Veterans with a service-connected disability of 10% or greater get a $1,000 annual reduction off their property tax bill — a significant improvement over the base Clause 22.
Veterans with 100% permanently and totally service-connected disability may qualify for full property tax exemption under Clause 22E. Eligibility requirements and amounts are administered locally — check with your local board of assessors.
Additionally, surviving spouses of veterans killed in action or who died from service-connected causes qualify for property tax exemptions under related clauses. Surviving spouses who have not remarried can often maintain the veteran's exemption level.
Source: Massachusetts Department of Revenue — Property Tax Guide for Veterans
One of Massachusetts' most distinctive state benefits is the Veterans' Annuity Program. Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 115A, Section 2, veterans who meet specific criteria receive an annual annuity payment from the Commonwealth:
Qualifying veterans receive $2,000 per year, paid annually. While not enormous, it represents a meaningful additional income stream that is:
Over 20 years, the annuity totals $40,000 in additional compensation beyond federal benefits — a meaningful supplement, particularly for lower-income veterans.
Apply through your local veterans' agent (see below) or directly through the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services. Bring your VA P&T determination letter and DD-214. The DVS reviews and approves applications; if approved, you'll receive payment annually.
Massachusetts operates two historic Soldiers' Homes — long-term care facilities for eligible veterans that date back to the 19th century:
Located in Chelsea, adjacent to the Boston metro area, this facility provides skilled nursing care, domiciliary care (assisted living), and outpatient services for eligible veterans. The Chelsea Soldiers' Home underwent significant renovation following the COVID-19 tragedy in 2020 and has emerged with expanded capacity and updated facilities. Admission is prioritized for veterans with service-connected conditions and Massachusetts residents.
The Holyoke Soldiers' Home serves western Massachusetts veterans with skilled nursing, memory care, and domiciliary services. The facility is undergoing a multi-year modernization project (Holyoke Soldiers' Home rebuild) to provide state-of-the-art long-term care for veterans in the Pioneer Valley region.
Costs are significantly below private nursing facility rates. VA and Medicare/Medicaid reimbursements help subsidize costs for eligible residents. Contact each facility directly for current admission procedures and rates.
Massachusetts provides free tuition at state colleges and the University of Massachusetts system for certain veterans' dependents:
All University of Massachusetts campuses and Massachusetts state universities have Veterans Services offices that provide dedicated support for veteran students, including:
One of Massachusetts' most distinctive features is its municipal veterans' agent system. Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 115, every city and town with 500 or more veterans on its rolls is required to employ a veterans' agent — a local government official whose job is to connect veterans with state and federal benefits.
Through the veterans' agent system, qualifying low-income veterans may receive Chapter 115 assistance — financial aid for food, housing, utilities, and medical expenses. This is a state-funded program that bridges gaps when federal VA benefits are insufficient or pending. Maximum benefit amounts vary but can provide substantial support during financial crises. Eligibility is income-tested and requires working with your local veterans' agent.
Massachusetts veterans with 100% P&T service-connected disability receive free motor vehicle registration for one vehicle. Disabled veteran plates are available at no charge. Apply through the Massachusetts RMV.
Massachusetts veterans with service-connected disabilities receive free fishing and hunting licenses. 100% disabled veterans qualify for the most comprehensive free licenses. Apply through MassFishHunt (massfishhunt.com).
Greater Boston Legal Services and other Massachusetts legal aid organizations provide free civil legal assistance to low-income veterans. The Massachusetts Veterans Legal Assistance (VLA) network connects veterans with pro bono attorneys for benefits, housing, and family law matters.
Massachusetts has VA medical centers in Boston (Jamaica Plain & West Roxbury), Bedford, Leeds, and Brockton, plus numerous community-based outpatient clinics. The Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial VA in Bedford serves veterans across Greater Boston and the North Shore.
Clause 22 is the baseline wartime veteran exemption ($400 off the tax bill). Clause 22E applies to veterans with 100% permanent and total service-connected disability and provides a much larger exemption — potentially full exemption from property taxes, subject to local administration. If you have a 100% P&T rating, apply under 22E, not just 22.
The Massachusetts Veterans' Annuity is generally not subject to Massachusetts income tax. However, consult with a tax professional regarding federal income tax treatment, as the specifics depend on how the annuity is classified.
Go to mass.gov/veterans and use the "Find Your Veterans' Agent" tool, or contact your city or town hall directly. Every Massachusetts community should have either a dedicated veterans' agent or access to a regional veterans' services officer. Your veterans' agent is a free, confidential resource — use them.
Yes, but Chapter 115 benefits are income-tested while the annuity is not. If you're receiving significant VA disability compensation, you may not qualify for Chapter 115 emergency assistance but would still qualify for the annuity. Your local veterans' agent can help you determine which programs you're eligible for simultaneously.
A higher VA disability rating unlocks bigger property tax exemptions and more financial security. See what your rating should be — in minutes.
Start Your Free Claim Review →Ready to make sure your VA disability rating reflects your true level of impairment? Use the claim.vet rating calculator or check out our state benefits tool to compare Massachusetts benefits with other states. Explore the full Massachusetts state benefits page. When you're ready to file, start your claim review — it's free.