Property Tax Exemption
Up to $150,000+ Off
California's Disabled Veterans' Property Tax Exemption (DVPTE) reduces the assessed value of your home by $100,000 to $150,000 or more, depending on your household income.
| Household Income | Exemption Amount | Annual Savings (est.) |
|---|---|---|
| Income over $72,335 | $100,000 off assessed value | ~$1,100–1,500/yr |
| Income $72,335 or under | $150,000 off assessed value | ~$1,650–2,200/yr |
| Income thresholds are adjusted annually. The $100K / $150K base amounts may also increase by CPI adjustment. | ||
Who Qualifies?
Must be 100% service-connected disabled OR rated by the VA as unemployable (TDIU). Must be the primary residence. Surviving spouses may also qualify.
Apply at California BOE →
File with your county assessor · Requires VA 100% rating or TDIU letter
Vehicle Registration
$10 Flat Fee
California disabled veterans pay a flat $10 vehicle registration fee — compared to the standard $58–$180+ that other drivers pay based on vehicle value.
$10 Annual Registration (One Vehicle)
Any service-connected disabled veteran rated by the VA qualifies. Applies to one vehicle. All other registration fees waived — including the Vehicle License Fee (VLF) which can be hundreds of dollars.
Save $50–$170/yr
Disabled Veteran License Plates
Available to veterans with 100% disability or a disability affecting mobility. No annual fee; specialty plates are available.
Apply at California DMV →
Requires VA disability letter · Applies to one personal vehicle
State Income Tax on VA Benefits
VA Disability Pay Tax-Free
California does NOT tax VA disability compensation. While California does have a state income tax (up to 13.3%), VA disability pay is specifically exempted.
VA Disability Compensation — Tax Exempt
All VA disability compensation is exempt from California state income tax, matching the federal exemption. If you receive $2,000/month in VA disability, none of it is taxed by CA.
Save $0–$3,300/yr
Military Retirement — Partially Taxed
Unlike some other states, California taxes military retirement pay as regular income. However, if you also receive VA disability pay, the VA portion remains tax-free.
College Fee Waivers for Dependents
Free Tuition for Dependents
California's College Fee Waiver (CFW) program waives tuition and enrollment fees at California community colleges, CSU, and UC campuses for dependents of qualifying veterans.
Plan A — Deceased or 100% Disabled Veteran
For children and spouses of veterans who died from a service-connected cause, OR are rated 100% service-connected disabled. Waives all tuition and enrollment fees at CA public colleges.
Save $7,000–$14,000/yr
Plan B — Any Rating, Lower Income
For dependents of veterans with any service-connected disability. Income-based — must meet income limits. Waives tuition at CA community colleges and CSU.
Eligible Institutions
All California community colleges, California State University (CSU) campuses, and University of California (UC) campuses. Room, board, and textbooks are not covered.
Apply at California DVA →
Apply through California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet)
CalVet Home Loan Program
Below-Market Rate
CalVet offers below-market fixed interest rate home loans to California veterans who purchase single-family homes, condos, or manufactured homes within California.
CalVet Home Loan
Typically 0.25–0.75% below market rates. Loan amounts up to conforming loan limits ($726,200 in most CA counties; higher in high-cost counties). Fixed rate, 30-year terms available. Includes free life and disability insurance.
Save $15,000–$40,000 lifetime
Who Qualifies?
California residents who served at least 90 days active duty (60 days for wartime) and were honorably discharged. Must be purchasing a primary residence in California.
Emergency Assistance
County & State Programs
California has extensive county-level veterans services offices (CVSOs) that provide emergency financial assistance, benefits counseling, and referrals.
County Veterans Services Offices (CVSOs)
Every California county has a CVSO that provides free emergency financial assistance for rent, utilities, food, and medical emergencies. Services vary by county budget and resources.
California Veterans Resource Book
CalVet maintains a comprehensive listing of all state and county assistance programs. Download free at calvet.ca.gov
Related Resources
Ready to File Your VA Disability Claim?
California veterans who have a service-connected disability are entitled to all of the state benefits above plus monthly federal compensation. Our free tool walks you through the entire process.
Start My Claim — Free →