Montana Veteran Benefits

Montana 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 blanket exemption; the Disabled Veteran (MDV) Property Tax Assistance program reduces the tax rate on a primary residence for 100% service-connected veterans (or paid at 100% IU) and certain unremarried surviving spouses. Benefit is income-based and filed annually (deadline typically April 15).
• DMV: “Veteran” designation available on driver license/ID. Disabled Veteran (DV) plates and certain reduced/waived registration fees for qualifying categories (e.g., 100% SC/IU, former POW, some Purple Heart recipients). Disabled parking requires a disability plate or placard.
• Education: Montana University System waivers include the Returning/Honorably Discharged Veteran tuition waiver, a National Guard tuition waiver, and a War Orphans waiver at public institutions.
• Income Tax Notes: VA disability compensation isn’t taxed. Montana taxes income; limited exclusions/deductions may apply to military retirement under state rules.

Property Tax Relief

Montana does not offer a statewide full property-tax exemption. Instead, the MDV Property Tax Assistance Program lowers the effective tax rate on a qualifying veteran’s owner-occupied home. Eligibility requires a VA rating of 100% service-connected (or paid at 100% due to unemployability) and meeting income thresholds; certain unremarried surviving spouses also qualify. Apply annually with the Montana Department of Revenue by the posted deadline and include VA documentation.

DMV & License Benefits

Add a Veteran designation to your Montana driver license/ID with proof of honorable service. Montana offers military plates, including Disabled Veteran. Qualifying veterans may receive reduced or waived registration fees (limits vary by category) through the county treasurer/MVD. Disability parking requires a disability plate or placard issued with medical certification.

Education Benefits

The Montana University System provides several tuition waivers: a Returning/Honorably Discharged Veteran waiver (tuition-only), a National Guard waiver, and a War Orphans waiver for eligible dependents. Coordinate with your campus veterans office to stack state waivers with federal VA education benefits.

Hunting & Fishing

Resident veterans with qualifying service-connected disabilities may receive complimentary or reduced-fee hunting and fishing privileges through Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. Some stamps or species tags (e.g., deer, elk, turkey, trout) may still be required; bring proof of eligibility.

Spouse & Dependent Benefits

Unremarried surviving spouses may qualify for MDV property-tax assistance on the home. Eligible dependents may use the state War Orphans tuition waiver at public institutions; schools may offer additional aid—check with your financial-aid office.

Montana Veterans Agency

Montana Veterans Affairs Division (MVAD)

VA Regional Office

Fort Harrison VA Regional Benefit Office
Fort Harrison, MT 59636

VA Medical Centers & Key Clinics

• Fort Harrison VA Medical Center — Fort Harrison/Helena
• Billings VA Clinic — Billings
• Missoula VA Clinic — Missoula
• Great Falls VA Clinic — Great Falls
• Kalispell VA Clinic — Kalispell

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Sources

• Montana Dept. of Revenue — Property Tax Assistance (MDV)
• Montana DOJ Motor Vehicle Division — Military & Veteran Plates
• Montana University System — Tuition Waivers
• Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks — Disabled Licenses
• VA Montana Health Care — Locations

Last verified: August 26, 2025