Missouri Veteran Benefits

Missouri 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: No statewide exemption for disabled veterans; a full homestead exemption exists only for former POWs with a total service-connected disability. The Missouri Property Tax Credit may help eligible seniors and 100% disabled individuals (income limits apply).
• DMV: “VETERAN” designation available on driver license/ID. One free set of Disabled Veteran (DV) plates (no specialty/personalization fees). DV plates do not allow disabled parking unless the wheelchair symbol is added.
• Education: Returning Heroes Education Act caps tuition at Missouri public institutions for eligible combat veterans; additional school-administered supports may apply.
• Income Tax Notes: VA disability compensation isn’t taxed. Military retired pay is exempt from Missouri income tax.

Property Tax Relief

Missouri does not provide a general statewide property tax exemption solely for disabled veterans. A constitutional homestead exemption applies only to former prisoners of war (POWs) with a total service-connected disability. Separately, the state’s Property Tax Credit (“circuit breaker”) may refund part of paid real estate tax to qualifying seniors and 100% disabled individuals based on income. Apply through your local assessor for exemptions and file credit claims with the Missouri Department of Revenue.

DMV & License Benefits

Missouri offers a “VETERAN” designation on driver licenses and nondriver IDs with acceptable proof of service. Eligible veterans may receive one free set of Disabled Veteran plates; additional sets are subject to regular fees. DV plates alone do not authorize accessible parking—request the wheelchair accessibility symbol with a medical certification or use a placard.

Education Benefits

The Missouri Returning Heroes Education Act reduces charges at public institutions for eligible combat veterans (undergraduate and graduate programs). Institutions may also provide in-state tuition and other supports for veterans and dependents. Check with your school’s veterans services office for campus-specific details.

Hunting & Fishing

Honorably discharged veterans with a 60%+ service-connected disability, former POWs, or warriors in transition may hunt small game and fish without a permit (certain species/tags like trout, deer, or turkey still require permits). Residency and documentation rules apply.

Spouse & Dependent Benefits

Missouri public institutions administer tuition supports under state law (e.g., programs for survivors). For property tax, there is no general survivor carryover statewide; check with your county assessor for any local relief or credits.

Missouri Veterans Agency

Missouri Veterans Commission – Benefits & Resource Portal

VA Regional Office

St. Louis Regional Office
Charles F. Prevedel Federal Building, 9700 Page Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63132

VA Medical Centers & Key Clinics

• Kansas City VA Medical Center, Kansas City
• Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital, Columbia
• St. Louis VA Medical Center – John Cochran Division, St. Louis
• St. Louis VA Medical Center – Jefferson Barracks Division, St. Louis
• John J. Pershing VA Medical Center, Poplar Bluff

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Sources

• Missouri DOR – Property Tax Credit
• Missouri Constitution, Art. X §6 (Former POW homestead exemption)
• Missouri DOR – Disabled Veteran License Plates
• MDHEWD – Returning Heroes Education Act
• Missouri Dept. of Conservation – Veteran Benefits

Last verified: August 26, 2025