Delaware Veteran Benefits

Delaware offers state-level benefits that complement your federal VA benefits. Below is a clear breakdown of what you may qualify for and where to apply.

Quick Facts

• Property Tax: 100% credit on the school district portion of property tax for Veterans with VA-rated 100% P&T (or paid at 100% via IU), primary residence only; apply with your county (annual deadline typically April 30).
• DMV: “Veteran” indicator available on DE driver license/ID; special plates (Veteran, Disabled American Veteran, Purple Heart, Gold Star); registration fee exemption for one vehicle if you qualify for VA adaptive-equipment benefits.
• Education: State benefits for children of deceased/POW/MIA Veterans; spouses and children of active-duty assigned out of Delaware qualify for in-state tuition at public institutions.
• Income Tax Notes: VA disability compensation is tax-free (not included in Delaware taxable income). Delaware allows a pension exclusion (commonly up to $12,500 at age 60+; smaller under 60) for retirement income including military retired pay.

Property Tax Relief

Delaware’s Disabled Veterans School Property Tax Credit provides a credit up to 100% of your school district property tax on your primary residence if you have a 100% VA service-connected disability rating or are compensated at 100% due to IU, and you meet domicile and application requirements. Apply through your county by April 30; once approved you generally don’t reapply unless you change residences. Confirm local procedures with your county tax office (see Sources).

DMV & License Benefits

Delaware offers a Veteran indicator on driver licenses/ID with proof of honorable service (DD-214, NGB-22, etc.). Specialty plates include Veteran, Disabled American Veteran, Purple Heart, and Gold Star. If you’re eligible for VA adaptive-equipment benefits, one vehicle you own may be exempt from registration fees (documentation required). Apply at any Delaware DMV office; disability parking requires a separate application.

Education Benefits

Under state law, Delaware provides education benefits for children of deceased Veterans and for children of POW/MIA service members (tuition/fees coverage with limits and eligibility rules). In addition, spouses and children of active-duty members who were reassigned out of Delaware are treated as in-state for tuition at Delaware public colleges while continuously enrolled.

Hunting & Fishing

Resident Veterans with a 60%+ VA service-connected disability may receive a free exemption from hunting, fishing, and trapping license fees (application and VA rating letter required). Recently discharged OIF/OEF Veterans may qualify for a one-time 12-month license exemption after honorable separation.

Spouse & Dependent Benefits

Children of deceased Veterans and of POW/MIA service members may receive state education benefits (tuition/fees, up to four years) subject to residency and age limits. Spouses and children of active-duty members reassigned out of Delaware keep in-state tuition while enrolled at Delaware public institutions. Check your institution’s veterans office for documentation steps.

Delaware Veterans Agency

Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs

VA Regional Office

Wilmington VA Regional Benefit Office
1601 Kirkwood Hwy, Wilmington, DE 19805

VA Medical Centers & Key Clinics

• Wilmington VA Medical Center, Wilmington
• Kent County VA Clinic, Dover
• Sussex County VA Clinic, Georgetown

Not sure what you qualify for in Delaware?

We’ll map your benefits and build your VA claim strategy — fast.

Book Your Free Strategy Call
 | 
Contact Us

Sources

• Delaware Dept. of Finance – Disabled Veterans School Property Tax Credit FAQ
• Delaware DMV – Veteran Indicator (DL/ID)
• Delaware DMV – Military & Veteran Services (plates, fee policies)
• DNREC – License Exemptions (Disabled Veterans & recent OIF/OEF)
• VA Wilmington Health Care – Locations (VAMC & CBOCs)
• Delaware Code, Title 14, Ch.34, Subch. VI – Educational Benefits for Children of Deceased Veterans/POW-MIA
• 14 Del. Code § 3466 – In-State Tuition for Spouses & Children of Active Duty

Last verified: August 26, 2025