Wisconsin Veteran Benefits

Wisconsin offers state-level benefits that complement your federal VA benefits. Below is a clear, no-fluff breakdown of what you may qualify for and where to apply.

Quick Facts

• Property Tax: Refundable state income tax credit covers 100% of property taxes paid on your primary Wisconsin residence (up to one acre) for veterans with a 100% service-connected rating or Individual Unemployability (IU); certain unremarried surviving spouses qualify. Administered via your WI income tax return after WDVA certification.
• DMV: “VETERAN” license/ID designation; military and specialty plates; Disabled Veteran parking plates available (eligibility and fees apply).
• Education: Wisconsin GI Bill provides full tuition and segregated fee remission (up to 8 semesters/128 credits) at UW System and Wisconsin Technical College System for eligible veterans and certain dependents.
• Income Tax Notes: VA disability compensation is not taxed; military retired pay is fully exempt from WI income tax.

Property Tax Relief

Wisconsin’s Veterans & Surviving Spouses Property Tax Credit reimburses 100% of property taxes paid on a primary residence (including up to one acre of land) for veterans rated 100% service-connected or who qualify based on IU. Unremarried surviving spouses who receive DIC may also qualify if the veteran was a Wisconsin resident at death. WDVA certifies eligibility; you claim the refundable credit on your WI income tax return.

DMV & License Benefits

WisDOT offers a Veteran identifier on driver licenses/IDs with proof of honorable service. Military and specialty plates are available, including Disabled Veteran parking plates that authorize accessible parking (medical/VA certification required). Standard registration/plate fees apply; personalized options may add fees. Apply through the Wisconsin DMV.

Education Benefits

The Wisconsin GI Bill provides full tuition and segregated fee remission at UW and Wisconsin Technical College campuses for eligible veterans and, if criteria are met, spouses and children (e.g., residency and a 30%+ VA rating for some dependent eligibility paths). Schools administer the remission after WDVA certifies eligibility.

Hunting & Fishing

Resident disabled veterans may qualify for discounted licenses, including a $3 resident disabled veteran fishing license (generally for 70%+ service-connected or IU) and a $7 Disabled Veteran Recreation Card (typically for 50%+). Recently returned WI resident veterans may receive a one-time free hunting/fishing license voucher.

Spouse & Dependent Benefits

Unremarried surviving spouses receiving DIC may qualify for the property tax credit if residency conditions are met. The Wisconsin GI Bill extends tuition remission to certain dependents based on the veteran’s residency and disability status.

Wisconsin Veterans Agency

Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA)

VA Regional Office

Milwaukee Regional Office
5400 West National Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53214

VA Medical Centers & Key Clinics

• Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center, Milwaukee
• William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital, Madison
• Tomah VA Medical Center, Tomah
• Green Bay VA Health Care Clinic, Green Bay
• Appleton VA Clinic, Appleton

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Sources

• WDVA — Veterans & Surviving Spouses Property Tax Credit
• WI Dept. of Revenue — Disabled Veterans & Surviving Spouses Property Tax Credit
• WDVA — Wisconsin GI Bill (tuition remission)
• WisDOT — Veteran Identifier & Military/Veteran Plates
• WI DNR — Veterans Privileges (licenses & park access)
• VA — Wisconsin Facilities & Clinics

Last verified: August 26, 2025