Texas Veteran Benefits

Texas is quite proud of its many contributions to the United States Armed Forces in the way of personnel, military bases, and benefits to its Veterans. In an effort to honor its Veterans and Servicemembers, the state offers several Veterans benefits for Texas. These include the Texas Veterans Land Board loan programs, a special Texas state park pass for Veterans, Texas disabled Veteran benefits like the property tax exemption for disabled Veterans in Texas, Hazlewood Act education benefits, and the Texas disabled Veteran hunting license and Texas disabled Veteran fishing license. Veterans can also access employment, health care, housing, burial and legal assistance resources throughout the state. The Texas Veterans Commission is also an important resource for Veterans seeking information and assistance with benefits and services. Keep reading to learn more about these Texas Veteran benefits.

Texas Veteran Financial Benefits

Texas offers many financial benefits to Servicemembers and Veterans in addition to federal VA programs. These benefits and programs can help Veterans reduce everyday expenses, protect their finances and make the most of their military service. Depending on eligibility, Texas Veterans may qualify for state benefits such as property tax exemptions, financial assistance resources and a free driver’s license for certain disabled Veterans. Eligible Servicemembers and Veterans may also have access to federal VA life insurance programs. In addition to these government benefits, Veterans can explore auto and life insurance options available through private insurers to help protect themselves and their families.

Auto Insurance for Veterans in Texas

Finding cheap auto insurance for Veterans in Texas is easier thanks to several companies that recognize the service and sacrifice of military families. Many insurers, such as GEICO, offer special discounted rates, flexible payment options, and additional benefits designed to support Veterans and Servicemembers. Some companies, such as USAA, primarily serve the military community and eligible family members. These discounts help reduce monthly expenses without sacrificing coverage quality. For more details, visit the main auto insurance page Veteran auto insurance Texas.

Life Insurance for Veterans in Texas

Securing life insurance for Veterans in Texas is an important step toward protecting your family’s financial future. Many private insurers provide life insurance options for retired and active-duty military members. Veterans can choose from term life, whole life, and supplemental policy options depending on their long-term goals. Coverage, underwriting requirements and pricing can vary by insurer and policy. Eligible Veterans may also have access to VA life insurance options through the federal government. Learn more by visiting the main article Veteran life insurance Texas.

VA Life Insurance in Texas

Access to VA life insurance options provides additional protection for eligible Servicemembers, Veterans and their families. These programs offer different coverage, premiums and terms depending on eligibility. SGLI covers eligible Servicemembers, with separate family coverage available for eligible spouses and dependent children through FSGLI. When leaving the military, eligible Servicemembers can transition their SGLI coverage to VGLI, which covers Veterans and former Servicemembers. VALife provides whole life insurance for eligible Veterans with service-connected disabilities. To learn more, visit the main article VA life insurance in Texas.

Debt Relief for Veterans in Texas

Programs offering debt relief for Veterans in Texas can help reduce financial stress for those facing high-interest credit card debt, medical bills, or personal loans. Veterans may also be able to access financial assistance through nonprofit organizations and organizations funded by the Texas Veterans Commission’s Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA), depending on eligibility and the services available in their area. Private debt relief providers, such as Freedom Debt Relief and JG Wentworth, may provide services such as debt negotiation or debt resolution programs. Veterans exploring debt relief options should research state, federal, nonprofit, and private programs. To learn more, visit the main guide on Veteran debt relief in Texas.

Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans in Texas

The Texas disabled Veteran property tax exemption provides eligible disabled Veterans with property tax relief based on their VA disability rating. Veterans with a qualifying disability rating may receive a partial exemption, while certain Veterans with a total disability rating may qualify for a full homestead property tax exemption.

Texas Veteran Driver’s License

Disabled Veterans may qualify for a free Texas Veteran drivers license as part of their Texas disabled Veteran benefits. To qualify for the fee exemption, Veterans generally must have an honorable discharge, meet the required level of service-connected disability and receive disability compensation from the U.S. government. Veterans subject to sex offender registration requirements are not eligible, and the exemption does not apply to commercial driver’s licenses.

Texas Veteran License Plates

Texas offers Veteran license plates to eligible Veterans, including specialty plates recognizing military service, service branches, awards and other distinctions. Separately, disabled Veteran license plates in Texas are available to qualifying Veterans with service-connected disabilities. Veterans who meet additional disabled-parking eligibility requirements may also apply for a disabled Veteran plate with the International Symbol of Access (ISA) or a disabled parking placard.

Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA)

The Texas Veterans Commission administers the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA), which provides grants to organizations that serve eligible Texas Veterans and their families. Veterans do not receive funding directly from the FVA but may receive assistance through FVA-funded organizations. Depending on the program and eligibility requirements, services may include emergency financial assistance, housing and transportation support, and funeral or burial assistance.

Texas Veteran Education Benefits

While the VA at the federal level administers educational benefits to Servicemembers and Veterans such as the GI Bill, the state of Texas also offers its own educational benefits to military personnel. These include programs that can help eligible Veterans and their families reduce the cost of higher education, as well as opportunities to receive college credit for qualifying military training and experience.

Hazlewood Act

The Texas Hazlewood Act is part of the many Veterans benefits for Texas and provides up to 150 semester credit hours of tuition exemption for eligible Veterans, spouses, and dependent children at public institutions of higher education in Texas. To qualify, a Veteran must have served qualifying active duty, meet applicable Texas residency or service-entry requirements, and have received an honorable discharge or separation under honorable conditions. The Texas Hazlewood Act for spouses and children also covers educational benefits for eligible dependents of certain Veterans, subject to Texas residency, academic progress and other eligibility requirements, including rules concerning federal education benefits.

Eligible Veterans may also transfer unused Hazlewood exemption hours to an eligible child through the Legacy program. The child must be the biological child, stepchild, adopted child or qualifying dependent of an eligible Veteran, be generally 25 or younger, be a Texas resident, and meet applicable academic progress requirements.

College Credit for Heroes

The College Credit for Heroes program helps Texas Veterans and Servicemembers receive college credit for eligible military training and experience. Its main benefit is allowing participants to apply knowledge and skills gained during military service toward a college degree or credential, potentially reducing the amount of coursework, time and tuition needed to complete their education.

Texas Veteran Employment Benefits

Veterans living in Texas have many employment benefits and resources available to them at a state level as part of Texas Veteran benefits. Some Texas disabled Veteran benefits also extend to employment, including priority for disabled Veterans under the state’s military employment preference. The Texas Veterans Commission provides employment assistance to Veterans and resources for Veteran entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Texas Veterans Preference

Texas provides a military employment preference for eligible Veterans applying for jobs with state agencies. Qualifying Veterans receive preference over applicants for the same position who do not have greater qualifications, with disabled Veterans receiving first priority among those eligible for the preference.

Veterans Employment and Entrepreneur Programs

The Texas Veterans Commission provides Veterans Employment Services to help Veterans find meaningful employment, including job matching and career services for Veterans who face barriers to employment. TVC also administers the Veteran Entrepreneur Program, which provides Veteran entrepreneurs and Veteran small businesses the tools they need to start or grow their businesses. This includes access to business planning, training, resources, assistance with securing capital and Veteran-Owned Business certification.

Texas Veteran Health Benefits

Veterans in Texas can access VA health care through VA Medical Centers, hospitals, and clinics located throughout the state. Eligible Veterans may also receive health coverage through TRICARE. In addition, the Texas Veterans Commission provides healthcare advocacy to help Veterans address issues accessing VA health care and benefits, while federal transportation assistance programs help eligible Veterans in highly rural areas travel to medical appointments and VA facilities.

VA Health Care Facilities in Texas

Texas is home to ten major VA Medical Centers and hospitals that provide healthcare services to Veterans across the state. These VA hospitals in Texas offer a wide range of services, including primary and specialty care, mental health treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, long-term care, and other medical programs, with services varying by facility. The VA North Texas Health Care System is the largest VA health care system serving Texas, providing care through major facilities in Dallas, Garland, and Bonham, along with an extensive network of VA clinics. Together with the state’s other VA health care systems and outpatient facilities, including facilities such as the Austin VA clinic, these medical centers and hospitals help Veterans access comprehensive VA health care throughout the state.

VA Medical Centers and Hospitals in Texas:

• Amarillo: Thomas E. Creek VA Medical Center
• Big Spring: George H. O’Brien, Jr. VA Medical Center
• Bonham: Sam Rayburn Memorial Veterans Center
• Dallas: Dallas VA Medical Center
• Garland: Garland VA Medical Center
• Houston: Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center
• Kerrville: Kerrville VA Medical Center
• San Antonio: Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital
• Temple: Olin E. Teague Veterans Center
• Waco: Doris Miller VA Medical Center

TRICARE for Retired Veterans in Texas

TRICARE provides health coverage for eligible active-duty Servicemembers, military retirees, and their families. TRICARE in Texas offers comprehensive health coverage that includes preventive care, specialty services, and prescription benefits. Retirees can choose from various TRICARE plans depending on their eligibility, location, and family needs. For Medicare-eligible military retirees, TRICARE For Life works with Medicare Part A and Part B to provide additional coverage. For details, visit the main guide on TRICARE for retirees in Texas.

Texas Veterans Health Care Advocacy

The Texas Veterans Commission maintains a Health Care Advocacy Department to help Veterans resolve issues related to accessing VA health care. The department assists Veterans with concerns involving VA health care access, appointments, billing, prescriptions and medications, and other patient concerns.

Veterans Affairs Transportation in Texas

For Veterans living far from VA medical facilities, Veterans Affairs transportation in Texas can help reduce travel barriers to essential health care. Through the Highly Rural Transportation Grants program, eligible Veterans may receive transportation assistance to VA medical centers, outpatient clinics, and other approved health care locations. By improving access to appointments and treatment, Veterans Affairs transportation in Texas helps Veterans in rural communities receive consistent medical care and maintain their long-term health.

Texas Veteran Home & Housing Benefits

Texas offers extensive home and housing benefits and resources for Veterans, helping with everything from homeownership and property improvements to long-term care and housing-related needs. Eligible Veterans may have access to federal VA loans in Texas, which can provide affordable mortgage options with competitive interest rates and minimal upfront costs. The Texas Veterans Land Board also offers separate state land, home, and home improvement loan programs tailored specifically to eligible Veterans and military members. In addition, Texas supports eligible Veterans through Texas State Veterans Homes, while homeowners insurance options are available through private insurers to help Veterans protect their property.

Homeowners Insurance for Veterans in Texas

Texas homeowners have access to reliable options for Veteran home insurance in Texas, which help safeguard their property from natural disasters, theft, and unexpected damage. Many companies offer additional savings or perks for military families, especially those facing deployment. Veterans may also consider adding a home warranty for Veterans in Texas to protect appliances and home systems. This layered protection offers peace of mind and financial security for military families. See more details through the article at Veteran home insurance in Texas.

VA Loans in Texas

The federal VA home loan program can help make homeownership more achievable for eligible Veterans, Servicemembers and surviving spouses, offering competitive interest rates and flexible terms. Many Texas homebuyers use VA loans in Texas to secure a property with no down payment in many cases and with no private mortgage insurance requirement. VA loans also provide refinancing options for existing homeowners. These benefits make homeownership more affordable and accessible for military families. More information can be found in the article VA home loan Texas.

Texas Veterans Land Board Loan Programs

The Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB) offers state loan programs to eligible Texas Veterans and military members. These include land, home and home improvement loans. The Veterans Land Loan Program provides financing for qualifying land purchases, while the Veterans Housing Assistance Program (VHAP) provides loans for home purchases. The Texas Veterans Home Improvement Program (VHIP) is designed to provide loans for qualifying repairs and improvements to a Veteran’s existing primary residence.

Texas State Veterans Homes

Available for Texas Veterans who need long-term nursing care are ten Texas State Veterans Homes, which are part of the network of Texas Veteran benefits. These long-term care facilities, owned by the Texas Veterans Land Board, provide skilled nursing care for qualified Veterans, their spouses and Gold Star parents. Veterans generally must have served at least 90 days on active duty, have a qualifying discharge and have a physician’s order stating the need for nursing home care. Veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 70% or higher may live in Texas State Veterans Homes at no cost to the Veteran.

Texas State Veterans Homes locations:

• Ussery-Roan Texas State Veterans Home – Amarillo
• Lamun-Lusk-Sanchez Texas State Veterans Home – Big Spring
• Clyde W. Cosper Texas State Veterans Home – Bonham
• Ambrosio Guillen Texas State Veterans Home – El Paso
• Frank M. Tejeda Texas State Veterans Home – Floresville
• The Tuskegee Airmen Texas State Veterans Home – Fort Worth
• Richard A. Anderson Texas State Veterans Home – Houston
• Alfredo Gonzalez Texas State Veterans Home – McAllen
• William R. Courtney Texas State Veterans Home – Temple
• Watkins-Logan Texas State Veterans Home – Tyler

Texas Veteran Parks & Recreation Benefits

Texas is a beautiful state with many outdoor recreation opportunities. The state offers many perks for Servicemembers and Veterans who wish to get out and enjoy Texas’ natural wonders.

Texas State Park Pass for Veterans

The Texas state park pass for Veterans offers free state park admission through the Texas Parklands Passport program. The Veterans Passport is available at any state park to U.S. Veterans who were honorably discharged. Veterans must show a valid photo ID and proof of Veteran status. Veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 60% or more, or loss of a lower extremity, may qualify for the Disabled Veterans Passport, which also provides free admission for one companion. Active-duty Servicemembers and eligible Gold Star family members can also receive free admission through their own Parklands Passports. 

Texas Hunting & Fishing License for Veterans

Texas provides a Texas Disabled Veteran Super Combo Package as part of the various Texas Veteran benefits. This free package includes a Texas disabled Veteran hunting license and Texas disabled Veteran fishing license, along with most state hunting and fishing endorsements, covering activities such as archery and migratory bird hunting. It is only available in person at license retailer locations. Veterans generally qualify with a service-connected disability rating of 50% or more, or loss of use of a foot or leg, and receipt of U.S. compensation for the disability. Texas residents who are on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces may also qualify for a free Super Combo Hunting and All-Water Fishing Package.

Texas Veteran Cemeteries & Burial Benefits

Texas is home to several dedicated Veterans cemeteries in Texas that honor the contributions and military service of Veterans. The state has five State Veterans Cemeteries managed by the Texas Veterans Land Board, as well as six VA national cemeteries operated by the federal government. These cemeteries provide dedicated burial locations for eligible Veterans and certain family members, offering dignified resting places and peaceful surroundings for families to visit and remember their loved ones.

Texas State Veterans Cemeteries:

• Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery – Killeen
• Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery – Corpus Christi
• Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery – Mission
• Texas State Veterans Cemetery – Abilene
• West Texas State Veterans Cemetery – Lubbock

Texas Veterans Burial Benefits

Texas Veterans burial benefits and federal VA burial benefits provide eligible Veterans and certain family members with burial and memorial services. Texas State Veterans Cemeteries provide the same burial benefits as VA national cemeteries, including a gravesite, opening and closing of the grave, a grave liner, headstone or marker and perpetual care at no cost to eligible Veterans and family members. Eligible Veterans may also receive a burial flag, Presidential Memorial Certificate and military funeral honors.

Burial Assistance for Veterans in Texas

Programs offering burial assistance for Veterans in Texas may include federal VA burial allowances to help eligible families with certain burial and funeral costs. Depending on eligibility, VA burial allowances may help cover burial, funeral, plot or interment expenses, as well as transportation costs in certain circumstances. 

Texas Veteran Legal Assistance

Texas offers a variety of resources for legal assistance for Veterans in Texas, including the Texas Veterans Legal Assistance Project (VLAP), which provides free support for civil matters, family law, and certain discharge upgrades. Other legal aid organizations also serve Veterans and their families throughout Texas and partner with Veteran service groups to provide tailored support. These programs help ensure Veterans can navigate legal challenges with confidence.

Veterans Treatment Courts in Texas

Veterans courts in Texas provide an alternative approach within the criminal justice system designed to assist eligible Veterans and Servicemembers dealing with misdemeanor or felony offenses and certain service-related conditions, including mental health conditions, brain injuries or military sexual trauma. These Veterans courts focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, offering treatment programs and close monitoring. Their goal is to help Veterans restore stability and reintegrate successfully into their communities.

Texas Veteran Discounts & Deals

There are numerous Veteran discounts in Texas available throughout the state, offering savings on entertainment, travel, dining, and more. Popular attractions like Veterans Day in San Antonio, the Six Flags military discount in Texas, and the SeaWorld San Antonio military discount provide special pricing for current and former Servicemembers. The Sea World San Antonio military discount, also referred to as the Wave of Honor For Veterans program, is available year round. Many local businesses also participate in military appreciation programs. These discounts help Veterans enjoy events and activities while saving money year-round.

Texas Veteran Benefits FAQ

Texas Veteran benefits cover a wide range of programs and services, so eligibility and requirements can vary. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about benefits available to Veterans, Servicemembers and their families in Texas.