Washington Veteran Benefits

Washington offers state-level benefits that complement your federal VA benefits. Here’s a clear breakdown of what you may qualify for and where to apply.

Quick Facts

• Property Tax: Income-based exemption for disabled veterans (generally 80%+ service-connected or paid at the 100% rate). Administered by your county assessor.
• DMV: Free “Veteran” designation on driver license/ID; Disabled American Veteran (DAV) plates exempt license fees on one vehicle per year (ADA parking requires separate disabled parking authorization).
• Education: Public colleges may grant tuition waivers for veterans; a mandatory waiver exists for certain spouses/dependents under state law (amounts and rules vary by school).
• Income Tax Notes: No state personal income tax in Washington.

Property Tax Relief

Washington provides an income-qualified property tax exemption for seniors, people retired due to disability, and veterans with disabilities. Disabled veterans typically qualify with a VA service-connected rating of at least 80% or if receiving compensation at the 100% rate. Apply with your county assessor; thresholds and documents vary by county. Surviving spouses may qualify for related relief through the Department of Revenue.

DMV & License Benefits

You can add a “Veteran” designation to a Washington driver license/ID at no cost by providing acceptable proof of service. Disabled American Veteran plates are available and are exempt from license fees on one vehicle per year; the plate itself does not grant ADA parking—request disabled parking authorization/placard separately if needed. Specialty military and Gold Star plates are also available through the Department of Licensing.

Education Benefits

Washington public colleges may offer tuition waivers for eligible veterans. Under RCW 28B.15.621, institutions must provide waivers for certain spouses and dependents (for example, of service members who are 100% disabled or deceased), but waiver amounts and eligibility details are set by each institution. Contact your school’s Veterans Services office to apply.

Hunting & Fishing

Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife offers reduced-fee hunting and fishing licenses to resident disabled veterans (generally 30%+ service-connected) and qualifying nonresidents. Bring VA disability documentation when applying.

Spouse & Dependent Benefits

Dependents may qualify for tuition waivers at public colleges per RCW 28B.15.621 (school-specific limits apply). Surviving spouses may be eligible for property-tax-related assistance through the state; check with your county assessor and the Department of Revenue for current programs.

Washington Veterans Agency

Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA)

VA Regional Office

Seattle VA Regional Benefit Office
915 Second Avenue, Seattle, WA 98174

VA Medical Centers & Key Clinics

• Seattle VA Medical Center, Seattle
• American Lake VA Medical Center, Tacoma
• Jonathan M. Wainwright VA Medical Center, Walla Walla
• Silverdale VA Clinic, Silverdale
• Yakima Valley VA Clinic, Union Gap

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Sources

• WA Dept. of Revenue – Property Tax Exemption (Seniors/Disabled & Disabled Veterans)
• WA DOL – Veteran Designation on Driver License/ID
• WA DOL – Disabled American Veteran Plates
• WA Student Achievement Council – Veterans & Dependents Tuition Waivers
• WA Dept. of Fish & Wildlife – Reduced-Fee Licenses for Veterans

Last verified: August 26, 2025