California Veterans Benefits

California veterans can receive a wide variety of benefits and services offered by the state of California. Many California veterans programs are available in addition to the VA pension, disability compensation, and other federal benefit programs administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

These state benefits provide extra assistance for veterans needing housing, health care, education, and other necessary services.

8 Important Benefits for California Veterans

1. Housing
2. Health Care
3. Home Loans
4. Education
5. Employment
6. Advocacy
7. VA Claims
8. Special California State Benefits

Veterans in California can take advantage of a wide range of benefits that assist with vocational rehabilitation, advocacy, VA claims, and more. While the VA offers several programs for veterans and their families, each state is free to provide additional veterans benefits as well.

California provides some of the most comprehensive benefits for its veterans in the country. California lawmakers have voted to ensure that the state’s veterans are protected and cared for as a show of gratitude for serving their country.

California veterans may use the California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) website to learn more about each program, its eligibility guidelines, and how to apply for benefits.

What Is CalVet?

With more than 1.57 million veterans living in California, an obvious need exists for the state to protect and advocate for its veterans. The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) website hosts tools, information about programs, and other resources for veterans. Its stated mission is “To serve and honor all California veterans by connecting them and their families with their earned benefits through education, advocacy, and direct services.”

CalVet also advocates for veterans through programs, registries, events, and County Veterans Service Office (CVSO) locations that connect veterans to important services.

Through the CalVet website, veterans can search for jobs, find out more information about veterans benefits, and find service providers who can assist with housing, employment, and other services.

The state of California offers many benefits to its veterans and their families in addition to the federal benefits provided by the VA. Let's take a look at some important benefits that all California veterans should know about.

1. Housing Benefits for California Veterans

CalVet works to help homeless veterans and their families find adequate and affordable housing. The department strives to prevent veteran homelessness through various programs and services.

Affordable Housing

CalVet provides access to affordable housing through two main programs: CalVet Residential Enhanced Neighborhood (REN) Communities Home Ownership and the Veterans Housing and Homelessness Prevention (VHHP) Program (also known as Proposition 41).

The CalVet REN Communities Home Ownership program builds affordable housing communities for veterans and their families. VHHP provides financial assistance to communities to build affordable multi-unit housing. This program also allows funds to be used for modifying and preserving these housing units.

Housing and Supportive Services

California housing programs for veterans target many of the needs that veterans have for securing and sustaining affordable housing. Supportive Services for Veterans Families (SSVF) offers support and grants to low-income veterans and their families who require securing or keeping permanent housing.

Other supportive housing programs include the Domiciliary Care for Homeless Veterans Program and assistance with home foreclosures. Veterans can also receive Section 8 vouchers through a joint program with the VA and the Department of Housing and Urban Development known as HUD-VASH.

Stand Down Events

Stand Down events usually last anywhere from one to three days. These events focus on getting homeless veterans the help they need, like food, clothing, shelter, and health screenings. The events can also provide veterans with counseling on VA education benefits, housing assistance, disability compensation, and other veterans' benefits for which they may be eligible.

Stand Down events cooperate with local veterans service organizations and community organizations, like churches and food banks.

Homeless Veterans Outreach and Support

CalVet and the VA support veterans at risk of becoming homeless through a variety of outreach support services. The National Call Center for Homeless Veterans gives free access to trained counselors every day of the week for veterans in need of assistance. There are also fundraising events for homeless veterans where California veterans can learn about available housing benefits and services.

Homeless Courts

Homeless veterans with criminal histories may find it nearly impossible to get to court appointments or pay their required fines on time. Homeless courts are in place in California that grant special court sessions for homeless people to attend if needed.

These court sessions occur in places that can accommodate homelessness, such as local homeless shelters. The court sessions aim to help the homeless resolve their legal issues to make it easier for them to get a job and secure housing.

CalVet Veteran Homes

Veterans Homes of California provide housing to veterans in need of long-term care due to their age or a disability. In many cases, the veteran's spouse or domestic partner can also reside with the veteran.

California hosts eight residential campuses all over the state, including Barstow, Redding, and Fresno. Each campus provides different services that cater to specific needs. Intermediate nursing care, memory care, and independent living are some of the available services.

Financial Assistance

Several California veterans programs include different forms of financial aid to benefit veterans and their families. Veterans in danger of becoming homeless or those who are already homeless might find the assistance they need from these programs.

The California Military Family Relief Fund (CMFRF) provides short-term financial aid to California National Guard members and their families with financial struggles relating to deployment or mobilization. Another program, the California Workforce Investment Board (WIB), provides financial assistance to job-hunting veterans.

Housing Resources

Because of California's high number of homeless veterans, the state offers various resources to assist them with common issues that affect the homeless population. Homeless veterans can access resources like HUD-VASH vouchers, volunteer resources, and the Veterans Transition Center.

Other programs can assist veterans with their housing needs. For example, Acres of Hope can provide a safe environment for women veterans or veteran spouses and their families, while Sacramento Loaves & Fishes provides housing and mental health resources to those affected by homelessness.

2. Health Care Benefits for California Veterans

In addition to California Medicaid and other health services for low-income families, homeless veterans may qualify for special health care programs through the VA and CalVet.

CHAMPVA

The Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA) is a program for veteran families, including dependent children and a surviving spouse. The family may receive these benefits if the veteran has been rated permanently and totally disabled by the VA or the veteran has died in the line of duty or related to a service-connected disability. CHAMPVA provides medically necessary health care services and diagnostics.

Covered California

Covered California is the state's healthcare marketplace. Veterans may use the website to find affordable health care plans within the state for themselves and their families. Families within specific income guidelines may receive financial assistance to pay their monthly health care costs.

If you are a veteran who currently receives health care coverage through the VA, you do not need to apply for coverage through Covered California. However, you can opt for extra coverage if desired.

Disability Compensation

Disability compensation is a VA benefit a veteran can receive for a service-connected disability or condition. VA disability benefits pay different monthly amounts depending on a veteran's disability rating as determined by their condition and severity.

Additionally, some veterans may be eligible to receive California disability benefits along with their VA benefits. This program runs through the Social Security Administration (SSA) but is overseen by California. To apply for Social Security benefits, a veteran must go through the SSA and present all required information, including their military records, in addition to their application.

Dental Benefits

The VA offers veterans private and affordable dental coverage through the VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP). MetLife and Delta Dental provide these services to veterans and CHAMPVA recipients to ensure access to necessary dental coverage. Veterans must be enrolled in the VA healthcare system to be eligible to purchase one of these plans.

This program and its plans can cover several dental services, including preventative care, diagnostics, and dental treatments and surgeries.

Agent Orange

California works with the VA to ensure that veterans who have been affected by Agent Orange in the military have access to the proper health care to support any conditions stemming from exposure. Agent Orange effects include several conditions like Hodgkin's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, Type 2 diabetes, and cancer.

Veterans who have been exposed to Agent Orange and suffer from any presumptive conditions as noted by the VA may be automatically eligible for VA disability compensation. A veteran dependent or surviving spouse of a deceased veteran may also qualify for benefits.

Depleted Uranium

Depleted Uranium is a chemical used in some military projectiles, especially during the Gulf War, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Wartime veterans involved in these military operations can participate in the VA Depleted Uranium Follow-up Program. This program studies the effects of Depleted Uranium exposure on the body through screenings and may treat some side effects, like embedded fragments.

California veterans wishing to participate in the program should contact a VA Environmental Health Coordinator at their nearest VA medical center. You can find a list of California VA medical centers below.

Crisis Intervention

A California veteran experiencing a mental health emergency can receive help from the Veterans Crisis Helpline at (800) 273-8255. This telephone line is available to veterans 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and every day throughout the year – even on holidays.

If you are unable to get to the phone or prefer to chat privately with someone about your crisis, you can reach out to the helpline via online chat.

CalVet Veteran Homes

These long-term and assisted care facilities are designed specifically for California veterans with disabilities and their partners or spouses. A primary focus of these facilities is to ensure proper health care for veterans through medical supervision and assistance, memory care, and around-the-clock medical care.

Family and Readjustment Counseling

Transitioning from military to civilian life can take a mental and emotional toll on veterans and their families. Family and readjustment counseling can help bridge the gap between these two worlds by providing necessary services to make the transition easier.

California and the VA work to help these veterans through family counseling, substance abuse prevention and counseling, employment assessment and job referrals, and connecting the family to community resources.

3. Home Loans for California Veterans

CalVet Home Loans

VA home loans provide government-backed loans to veterans with more affordable interest rates, down payments, and closing costs than most traditional loans.

CalVet home loans assist veterans with purchasing a home. Like traditional VA loans, these loans offer competitive interest rates and do not require veterans to put a down payment on their purchases.

CalVet home loans are exclusive to California veterans, offering expanded eligibility that allows almost any California veteran to secure a home loan. These loans come with no down payment requirements and currently feature interest rates as low as 2.650%. Veterans may apply online or by calling a CalVet loan originator.

California also expands eligibility for veterans who want to be a part of the program. Veterans must have served at least 90 days of active duty service and received an honorable discharge to be eligible. Interest rates fall as low as 2.650% for a fixed-rate 20-year loan. Veterans may call to begin the application process or apply online.

Certificate of Eligibility

A Certificate of Eligibility (CoE) is necessary for veterans to get a VA home loan. The document proves a veteran's eligibility, so it's essential to request one promptly to allow your loan to process as quickly as possible.

For veterans to get a CoE, they must have a copy of their Form DD 214 that indicates their character of service and reason for separation.

4. Education Benefits for CA Veterans

California offers several education benefits to veterans and their families who are pursuing college degrees or technical training to reach their career goals.

College Fee Waiver

The College Fee Waiver program waives specific college fees and tuition at any campus of the State of California Community College, California State University, or the University of California. The program offers different plans for veterans, families, and specific situations.

Under one plan, Medal of Honor recipients and their dependents under age 27 can qualify for the program. Under another plan, dependents of the California National Guard who were killed in the line of duty may qualify.

The most common plan is Plan A, which covers dependents and a spouse of a veteran who has either been rated totally and permanently disabled, died from a service-connected condition, or is missing in action.

Non-Resident College Fee Waiver

Some veterans and their families may be subject to non-resident college fees as part of their tuition at a California university, college, or community college. The Non-Resident College Fee Waiver program allows them to waive these fees even if they aren't considered state residents yet.

However, some restrictions apply. For instance, a veteran must be stationed in California on active duty service for them or their dependents to be eligible for the program. In some cases, graduate degree-seekers may also qualify for the program.

California State University (CSU)

CSU is highly focused on assisting veterans and their families with educational benefits to further their learning and training. The university system has 23 campuses, each offering on-campus veteran outreach, assistance in applying for VA educational benefits and other programs, veteran-focused counseling, and more.

The College Fee Waiver program also provides fee and tuition assistance to resident and non-resident veterans who'd like to attend a CSU campus. Priority admissions are also available to veterans in some circumstances.

California Community Colleges (CCC)

Like CSU campuses, the CCC system grants veterans several opportunities to further their education in California. One way is through the College Waiver Programs for both resident and non-resident veterans who need fee and tuition assistance.

CCC also makes it easy for veterans to get the financial aid they need, whether it's by talking to an on-campus financial aid expert or applying for assistance online. Many VA educational benefits can also apply toward a degree at a California Community College.

Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)

The Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008 is a newer educational benefit put through by the VA. Also known as Chapter 33, the Post-9/11 GI Bill expands the original GI Bill to pay for college tuition, fees, housing, a move to a college, books and supplies, and more. In essence, the bill provides a veteran student with comprehensive assistance in receiving a college education.

Veterans may also transfer their GI Bill benefits to dependents if desired. Eligible veterans can do so if they've served in the Armed Forces on or after August 1, 2009, and meet other service requirements set by the VA.

Montgomery GI Bill (Chapter 30)

The Montgomery GI Bill (Chapter 30) pays benefits for up to 10 years after a veteran is released from active duty service. This VA educational benefit pays a monthly stipend for up to 36 months of education or training programs, including certificate programs and on-the-job training.

All veterans interested in using this benefit must have an honorable discharge and have a high school diploma or equivalent credential, like a GED. They also must have completed active duty service requirements that fall within one of four eligibility categories.

Montgomery GI Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR)

This bill offers benefits similar to the Montgomery GI Bill but it is for those who have been in the Selected Reserve rather than active duty service. Recipients can use the funds for up to 36 months for certifications, license training, apprenticeships, vocational training, and more.

GI Bill Benefits Comparison Tool

Veterans might find it challenging to decide which of their GI Bill benefits to use to begin or complete their education. The VA makes the decision process a bit easier with its GI Bill Comparison Tool.

Veterans can use the tool to input information about their military status and desired education to determine which option might be the best for them. They can also search by school, employer name, or location to see which schools and employers in their area accept GI Bill benefits for degrees, certifications, or training.

California State Approving Agency for Veterans Education (CSAAVE)

CSAAVE is responsible for approving schools and training facilities where veterans will use their California veterans benefits in education. The agency continuously evaluates each program that accepts GI Bill funds to ensure that they adhere to VA requirements regarding program integrity and compliance.

Educational institutions can also apply with CSAAVE to become an approved school for GI Bill benefit funding. Public and private colleges, on-the-job training sites, and flight schools may apply for approval.

California National Guard Education Assistance Award Program (CNG EAAP)

The CNG EAAP awards California National Guard and State Military Reserve members with financial aid to pay for tuition and school fees. The funds can be used toward programs at community colleges within the state or the University of California or California State University campuses. Eligible recipients must have been an active member of either branch for at least two years and commit to remaining an active member while participating in the program.

5. California Employment Training and Opportunities for Veterans

In addition to receiving California unemployment benefits if they lose a job, veterans can take advantage of veterans benefits that help find and secure suitable employment.

CalVet Jobs

Veterans seeking employment should start with CalVet Jobs. This database lists hundreds of jobs in several categories, including accounting and nursing, to help veterans find jobs that match their skills and interests.

Some jobs require special qualifications and passed exams to be eligible for employment. Each job description lists these prerequisites.

Apprenticeships and On-the-Job Training Programs

On-the-job training and apprenticeships can be excellent career-starters for veterans who aren't interested in completing a college program but would still like to build skills to enter a specific career. VA and California veterans benefits assist those who'd prefer to complete training programs to enter a field by providing funds through the GI Bill and other educational benefits.

Assistance for these training programs is available to veterans and their families who are also eligible for the Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program and Post-Vietnam Era Veterans' Education Assistance Program.

Employment Services

In addition to federal employment services designed to help people find suitable jobs, California's Employment Development Department (EDD) offers employment and training benefits to state residents, including veterans.

The EDD has representatives that assist with specific issues affecting veterans transitioning into the workforce. Veterans can schedule an appointment with an EDD representative to learn more about available services and find custom assistance for their situation, including job fairs and skill-building resources.

State Employment

The CalCareers website assists anyone looking for a job within the California government or state agency. Veterans may also use the site to search for jobs if they're interested in working for the state.

Veterans might also find the Military Skills Translator tool helpful. The tool finds similar skills and jobs that might be a match based on the veteran’s position within the military.

Veterans' Preference

The Veterans' Preference program helps veterans get their qualified applications moved to the top of the list when applying for a California state job. If a veteran's qualifications match those necessary for the job, they will automatically become a priority applicant. While this doesn't guarantee a state job, it can improve a veteran's chances of employment.

Federal Employment

Federal programs and agencies seek to get more veterans jobs in federal agencies and offices across the nation, including in California. Specifically, the Department of Labor's Office of the Assistant Secretary for Policy and Veterans' Employment and Training Service oversees veteran preference related to federal jobs.

This preference does not guarantee veterans federal jobs, but it can help qualified veterans move into their ideal position. This preference is typically given to veterans who served on active duty service for at least 180 days.

Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) Program

The DVBE is one of the best California veterans benefits tackling veteran employment. The program assists disabled veterans with starting and growing their businesses and has programs in place to foster an entrepreneurial spirit in veterans. The program supports disabled veteran-owned businesses through advocacy in state legislation, events, and resource connections.

Small Business and DVBE Program Advocates

California requires its state agencies and departments that spend more than $100,000 annually to hire a Small Business (SB) and Disabled Veterans Business Enterprise (DVBE) Advocate. The advocate oversees contracting and partnerships with veteran-owned businesses to ensure that the agencies and departments support these businesses as much as possible.

Business License, Tax and Fee Waiver

Veterans who own a business that sells goods or merchandise owned by the veteran can apply for a waiver of business licenses, taxes, and fees associated with that business. The state of California provides the waiver through county and city licensing agencies.

Post-9/11 GI Bill, Chapter 33

Although the GI Bill is mainly used for educational benefits, veterans may also use it to help them enter the field of employment they're interested in. In addition to college and university programs, veteran recipients may also use their funds to pursue flight programs, non-college degree programs, or correspondence training programs.

6. Advocacy and Legal Help for California Veterans

Advocacy is another important benefit available to California veterans. Several organizations and groups fight for and support veterans. Programs include support for special veteran groups, including justice-involved veterans, women veterans, minorities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

County Veterans Services Offices (CVSO)

CVSOs provide many of the helpful resources that veterans may require and are exceptional advocates for veterans. Representatives in CVSO locations can answer questions from veterans or their families about various benefits, including burial benefits and life insurance policies, and connect vets and their families to necessary resources.

California Veterans Registry

The California Veterans Registry hosts basic information about all veterans who have resided in California and have fought for the country since the state's founding. The primary purpose of this registry is to permanently honor the country's heroes by listing their names, branches of service, and service ranks. Veterans and families may also pay donation fees to include photographs or short messages about a veteran along with their listing.

Minority and Underrepresented Veterans

Because California prides itself on its diversity and inclusion, the state extends support to all minority and underrepresented veteran groups to ensure that they have equal rights in the military and with their veteran status.

Through various programs, California supports LGBTQ+ veterans, Native American veterans, Mexican American veterans, veterans pursuing citizenship, and other minorities and underrepresented groups. CVSO locations can help veterans in these groups get the benefits to which they're entitled.

Women Veterans

Women have had turbulent experiences becoming an equal part of the U.S. Armed Forces. California currently houses more than 163,000 women veterans and honors them through the Women Veterans Roster. This roster helps women in the military stay up to date with benefits, programs, and other resources specifically designed to help women veterans. California also hosts webinars and events for women vets.

California Vietnam Veterans Memorial

The California Vietnam Veterans Memorial is located in Capitol Park in Sacramento, CA. The memorial honors all veterans who served in the Vietnam War and died during or as a result of their service.

Although the memorial no longer adds names of veterans, families can still reach out to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund to apply to the In Memory Fund.

Incarcerated Veterans

California advocates for incarcerated veterans to open the doors for them to transition back to a traditional life after their release from prison. The state does this through a series of programs designed to give incarcerated veterans the health care and benefits to which they're entitled and help them find work and housing upon release.

CVSO officers and locations are an essential part of the support system for incarcerated veterans, but the Local Interagency Network Coordinators (LINC) also play a role. LINC connects veterans to community resources that can help them when they get out of prison.

Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, and Transgender Veterans

The LGBTQ+ veteran community is an important focus of California. The state works to educate others on LGBTQ+ members involved in the U.S. armed forces and advocates for their needs to be met. Several organizations located throughout California provide counseling, events, health screenings, and other important resources for LGBTQ+ members, including veterans.

7. VA Claims for California Veterans

To receive some California veterans benefits and those offered by the VA, veterans need to make claims. Veterans should be aware of available benefits and understand the claim process. This is true for benefits like disability compensation and unmarried surviving spouse benefits. CVSOs can assist veterans in applying for specific benefits and ensure that their claims are processed as quickly as possible.

Disability Compensation

Disability compensation pays veterans who were injured, disabled, or became ill due to their active duty service. Veterans applying for disability benefits must submit a detailed claim that notes their service connection, condition, and symptoms that affect their daily lives.

A local CVSO can assign a Veterans Service Officer to a veteran to assist them with the claims process, including appealing a decision and resubmitting a claim.

Disability Rating

A disability rating is a necessary part of the disability compensation claim process. Veterans seeking disability benefits from the VA must first receive a disability rating before they can receive funds. The VA determines this rating based on medical evidence and how much the veteran's condition affects their daily tasks and ability to work.

Some veterans may receive a lower disability rating than they believe is fair. A CVSO can ensure that the veteran's claim is filled out correctly and that any additional information that could improve the disability rating makes its way to the VA. A CVSO can also help the veteran start the appeal process.

Healthcare Services

Some veterans may not need to apply for healthcare services through the VA if they have a special eligibility status. However, most veterans should apply by downloading VA Form 10-10EZ and mailing it or bringing it to their nearest VA regional office.

Some healthcare services may require vets to submit claims for reimbursement. Grants for home modifications and reimbursements for emergency medical care may also require claims. A local CVSO can assist veterans with making claims in these cases.

Healthcare Transportation

If a veteran must travel to receive medical care for a routine procedure or emergency, they may get reimbursed by the VA. The veteran's transportation must fall within an eligible category for the vet to receive reimbursement for a taxi, mobility van, ambulance, or another mode of transportation.

If possible, the veteran should arrange transportation with the VA by contacting their local CVSO before their appointment. However, emergencies and some other health situations won't allow a pre-arrangement. In these cases, the veteran should contact their CVSO for assistance in submitting a reimbursement claim.

Agent Orange

Veterans who have been exposed to Agent Orange and have later experienced symptoms of common conditions thought to be associated with exposure may be eligible for disability compensation. CVSOs can assist veterans with filing a disability claim specifically for Agent Orange exposure. Prostate cancer, ischemic heart disease, and soft tissue sarcomas are a few examples of conditions that the VA links to exposure to the chemical.

Depleted Uranium

Similarly, Gulf War veterans may have been exposed to Depleted Uranium (DU). Exposure to this chemical has been linked to kidney issues, while other health effects continue to be monitored.

Veterans who believe their health concerns relate to DU exposure may participate in the DU Follow-Up Program for health screenings and care. Those with potential connections between their symptoms and exposure may also qualify to submit a disability claim.

Hearing Loss and Tinnitus

Veterans who have suffered hearing loss or tinnitus as a result of their active duty service may submit a disability claim to the VA. The VA offers helpful resources to veterans who suffer from these conditions, and local CVSOs can assist California veterans with filling out their application for disability benefits.

Dependent and Indemnity Compensation

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) pays funds to dependents of deceased veterans. These veterans must have died in the line of duty or as a result of a service-connected condition that was proved to be connected to service before or after the veteran's death. Surviving dependents may complete VA Form 21-534 to apply for DIC benefits, and a CVSO representative may assist with the application.

Claims Representation at District Offices

The state of California has three district offices that review California veterans benefits claims and assist veterans and their families in appealing VA decisions. These offices are located in Oakland, Los Angeles, and San Diego.

8. Special California State Benefits for Veterans

There are a few California veterans benefits that offer veterans even more perks than VA programs. These are specifically designed to assist California veterans with state-focused items, like licenses and education.

License Plates

California features special vehicle license plates to honor its veterans and their sacrifices. These plates include more than 100 logos and emblems for veterans to choose from, displaying next to six letters or numbers. Your local DMV or CVSO can provide you with a veteran's license plate. Veterans may be able to deduct the registration and renewal fees from their taxes.

Fishing and Hunting Licenses

California grants some veterans with reduced fees for fishing and hunting licenses. Veterans eligible for the lowest fees must have a service-connected disability rating of 50% or more and have an honorable discharge. Low-income seniors, recovering service members, and people who meet other specific criteria may qualify for other reduced rates, including free sport fishing licenses.

State Parks and Recreation Pass

The Distinguished Veteran Pass is a California veteran benefit that grants eligible veterans free access to services and facilities at California State Parks. Eligibility for those with a veteran designation includes having a 50% or higher disability rating for a service-connected condition, having prisoner of war status, or holding a Medal of Honor. Veterans who'd like the pass must fill out an application.

College Fee Waiver

The College Fee Waiver program is part of the California veterans benefits package for education. Dependents of an eligible veteran can avoid mandatory system-wide tuition and fees when they attend a college or university.

Veterans Tax Benefits

California benefits include helping former service members pay taxes. These benefits take on a few forms. First, a disabled veteran may receive an exemption for property taxes. A deceased veteran's unmarried surviving spouse may also qualify for this benefit. Additionally, honorably discharged veterans or a surviving spouse may receive a $4,000 exemption on property taxes, even if the veteran was not disabled.

The state also provides tax breaks for veteran business owners. Itinerant veteran vendors do not need to acquire and pay for a seller's permit for most items owned and sold. Veteran business owners who sell items from a fixed location can also receive a waiver for license fees, business fees, and taxes related to their business.

Benefits for California Veterans

California offers a comprehensive group of programs and services for veterans who have successfully completed military service. Benefits are managed by the California Department of Veterans Affairs. Eligibility varies among programs, but most of them require a former service member to have received an honorable discharge and be a California resident.

California veterans interested in learning more about benefits and how to apply for them should visit CalVet.gov. Veterans can also contact or visit a local County Veterans Service Office, where a CVSO representative can help answer questions and connect veterans and eligible family members to available benefits and services.

Veterans Offices and Facilities in California

VA Central Office

VBA Offices

National Cemetery Administration

VHA Offices