Texas Considered Top State to Benefit U.S. Veterans
Former military service members transitioning to civilian life may struggle to adapt and require resources and community to help them transition back into society. Whether through education, community service, or employment, veterans need an outlet or “mission” upon returning home. Without purpose or support, depression, homelessness, and increased risk of crisis are more likely. There are currently more than 35,000 unhoused veterans nationwide, including disabled veterans who are especially vulnerable.
After dedicating their life to service, veterans often face a tough decision when they’ve completed their service: where to go and how to cope with the physical and mental debilitations. According to research conducted in 2022, an estimated 75% of U.S. veterans experienced PTSD as a result of their military service. Of all 50 states, Texas continually shows up for its veterans with better policies geared towards employment, education, health care, community immersion, and getting these honorable men and women the benefits they’re entitled to receive.
Veteran Tax Benefits in Texas Outweigh All Other States
Texas continues to rank #1 as the state with the most overall benefits for veterans thanks to its generous property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, the most vulnerable demographic, and general low taxes in Texas overall. Veterans with 10-90 percent VA disability receive a reduction of their home‘s assessed value from $5,000–$12,000 depending on where they fall on the disability percentage scale. These benefits can also extend to the veteran’s spouse. Since Texas is already an income tax and property tax-free state, there is a piece of mind in the interim veterans may need to claim their disability status.
Texas Veterans Commission Has You Covered
Established in 1927, the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) was created as the State Service Office to assist veterans of the Indian wars, Spanish-American War, and World War I. Since then, they’ve continued to fight for veterans serving our armed forces in modern conflict and global security measures.
As the appointed advocates of Texas veterans, the TVC helps guide and navigate veterans to secure their benefits and enjoy the highest quality of life in Texas. While these benefits exist, maneuvering through bureaucracy can be difficult. The TVC ensures veterans are given what their owed and more, including assistance with benefits and programs pertaining to:
- Claims
- Education
- Employment
- Grants
- Mental & physical health care
- Women veterans
- Entrepreneurial assistance
These streamlined programs and the representatives selected for each category are more than just a DMV for veteran support. They operate under a philosophy of the utmost care and respect for service members and their rights, ensuring a personalized and nurturing experience for every veteran across the state of Texas.
The Hazelwood Act: A Big Win for Education in Texas
Texas proudly offers free in-state college tuition for veterans and their dependents through the Hazelwood Act, a benefit exclusive to Texas, which provides qualified veteran families, including veterans, their spouses, and their dependent children, with an education benefit of up to 150 hours of tuition exemption at higher education institutions in Texas.
This is a big win for veterans and their families considering Texas’ impressive university system with more than 10 public universities ranking top 50 in the National Universities poll. Through this free education, veterans can pursue dormant dreams and intellectual explorations without the burden of loans and additional financial strain.
How is Texas Able to Provide These Benefits?
It’s no secret that Texas is successful and economically poised. From the tax breaks to the innovative sectors Texas touts, citizens of the Lone Star State remain first priority. Texas’ economic strength is a key factor in these policies that serve veterans and their families. In this symbiotic state of thriving economy, Texas seeks to give back and support those who deserve it most— our brave and selfless veterans.