Nebraska Veteran Benefits

Nebraska 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: Nebraska’s Homestead Exemption provides property tax relief for eligible veterans (including 100% service-connected P&T or IU) and certain surviving spouses; some categories have no income or home-value limits. Apply with your county assessor by June 30 each year (Form 458).
• DMV: “VETERAN” designation available on driver license/ID. Disabled American Veteran (DAV) plates for veterans with ≥10% service-connected disability; plates don’t grant disabled parking without a separate permit. A distinct motor vehicle tax exemption exists for certain severely disabled/blind veterans via the county treasurer.
• Education: Waiver of Tuition Program waives 100% of tuition and tuition-related fees at University of Nebraska, state colleges, and community colleges for eligible dependents of qualifying veterans.
• Income Tax Notes: Military retired pay is fully exempt from Nebraska income tax (tax years 2022+). VA disability compensation isn’t taxed.

Property Tax Relief

Nebraska’s Homestead Exemption offers property tax relief to several categories, including veterans with a 100% service-connected permanent disability or VA-certified IU, certain surviving spouses, and veterans whose homes were substantially contributed to by VA. Categories for 100% SC/IU and VA-adapted housing have no income or homestead value limits. File Form 458 with your county assessor after Feb 1 and on or before June 30; VA disability certification is required the first year and in years ending in 0 or 5. See the state guide in Sources for details and category definitions.

DMV & License Benefits

Add a “VETERAN” designation to your Nebraska license/ID after registering with the NDVA Military & Veterans’ Registry. DAV plates are available to veterans with at least a 10% service-connected disability and are issued in lieu of regular plates (standard fees apply). DAV plates do not authorize disabled parking—request a handicapped placard/plate separately. A distinct motor vehicle tax exemption may apply for certain amputations/blindness; apply through your county treasurer.

Education Benefits

Nebraska’s Waiver of Tuition Program (Neb. Rev. Stat. § 80-411) waives 100% of tuition and tuition-related fees for eligible dependents at University of Nebraska campuses, state colleges, and community colleges. Eligibility is tied to the veteran’s status (e.g., service-connected death or total disability). Institutions may offer additional supports via campus veterans services.

Hunting & Fishing

Resident disabled veterans who are 50%+ service-connected (or 100% non-service-connected with a VA pension) qualify for a free lifetime Small Game Hunt/Fish/Fur Harvest permit (includes state stamps). Veterans age 64+ may obtain an annual Small Game Hunt/Fish/Fur Harvest permit for $5. Disabled veterans meeting the same thresholds can also receive a lifetime state park entry permit at no fee. Residency and documentation apply.

Spouse & Dependent Benefits

Surviving spouses may qualify for the Homestead Exemption under specific categories (including certain unremarried or remarried after age 57 scenarios). Eligible dependents may receive a full tuition and tuition-related fee waiver at Nebraska public institutions via the Waiver of Tuition Program.

Nebraska Veterans Agency

Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs

VA Regional Office

Lincoln VA Regional Benefit Office
3800 Village Drive, Lincoln, NE 68516

VA Medical Centers & Key Clinics

• Omaha VA Medical Center, Omaha
• Grand Island VA Medical Center, Grand Island
• Lincoln VA Clinic, Lincoln
• North Platte VA Clinic, North Platte
• Norfolk VA Clinic, Norfolk

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Sources

• Nebraska DOR – Homestead Exemption Information Guide (Feb. 2025)
• Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs – Taxes (Homestead & Retirement)
• Nebraska DMV – Veterans’ Designation (License/ID)
• Nebraska DMV – Disabled American Veteran Plates
• Nebraska Game & Parks – Veterans & Military Permits
• VA Nebraska–Western Iowa Health Care – Locations
• VA – Lincoln VA Regional Benefit Office
• Nebraska DOR – Military Retirement Benefits Exclusion (100% from 2022)

Last verified: August 26, 2025