Veteran Benefits in Michigan

Veterans in Michigan are eligible for the same federal VA disability compensation as veterans in any other state. However, each state offers some of its own unique benefits for veterans who are considered disabled by the VA. 

While some benefits are available only for 100% disabled veterans in Michigan or those with a permanent and total rating, most are available to veterans with other VA disability ratings. We share some of these state benefits below.

The information in this article is accurate as of its publication date. Please keep in mind, state benefits may be changed, added, or removed by a state government.

Veteran property tax benefits in Michigan

Disabled veterans in Michigan may be eligible for a full property tax exemption on their homestead under Michigan’s Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption. 

The veteran must have been honorably discharged and receive either TDIU, a permanent and total disability rating, or proof from the VA they’ve received specially adapted housing (SAH) assistance.

Other veterans may qualify for the Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit. This credit is available to individuals who own, rent, or pay property taxes on a homestead in Michigan and who have been a Michigan resident for at least 6 months of the tax year. Some veterans are eligible for an increased credit based on your VA rating. You can learn more here.

Veteran home loan/mortgage benefits in Michigan

Michigan does not have any state-level home loan or mortgage programs specifically designed for veterans. Eligible veterans can always apply to receive home loan assistance from the VA.

Michigan veteran income tax benefits

Military retirement benefits, exit pay, and separation pay are exempt from Michigan state taxes. 

Michigan veteran vehicle registration benefits

Veterans who are considered permanently and totally disabled by the VA or who were POWs can register a passenger vehicle with a disabled veteran plate for free aside from a one-time $5 administrative fee on first issue.

Veteran education benefits in Michigan

In Michigan, qualifying children of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled, went missing in action, or died while serving are eligible for undergraduate assistance through the Children of Veterans Tuition Grant. Additional eligibility criteria can be found here.

The state has a list of other education benefits and scholarships available to veterans, spouses, and dependents.

Michigan veteran hunting and fishing licenses

Disabled veterans living in Michigan can receive hunting and fishing licenses for free. To qualify, a veteran must be a resident and totally and permanently disabled or receiving TDIU benefits from the VA.

Other Michigan disabled veterans benefits

Michigan veterans with a specialty license plate who are 100% disabled, former POWs, or Medal of Honor recipients can also receive free access to state-run parks, recreation areas, and boating sites. Permanently disabled or Gold Star veterans can also get free access to National Parks.

Additionally, Michigan has three state veteran homes where veterans can receive skilled nursing care or assisted living.

VA facilities in Michigan

We share more about where to find VA facilities in Michigan including regional offices, medical facilities, Vet Centers, and VA cemeteries.

VA regional offices in Michigan

Each state has at least one VA regional office (VARO) that provides in-person services to help veterans with VA benefits and claims. Offices also offer information about veteran medical help, education and career counseling, memorial benefits, aid for homeless veterans, and more. Below is a list of VAROs in Michigan.

VetSuccess offices in Michigan

VetSuccess on campus (VSOC) offices are located on college campuses around Michigan and the country. These partnerships between schools and the VA aid veterans in obtaining educational benefits and find their best path forward when seeking a degree.

VA medical facilities in Michigan

VA medical facilities offer medical information and assistance for veterans. Vets may also receive their compensation and pension (C&P) exam at many of these facilities. The VA uses the information gathered at a C&P exam to determine how severe a veteran’s condition is and whether it is service connected. Below is a list of VA medical facilities in Michigan.

Vet Centers in Michigan

Vet Centers provide veterans with counseling and referral services, many of which are community-based. These centers also offer services for family members of veterans.

VA cemeteries in Michigan

VA cemeteries can be found all over the U.S. and are dedicated resting places for those who honorably served their country. Veterans or families can make arrangements to be laid to rest in a VA cemetery. Qualifying spouses of veterans may also be eligible. You can find eligibility requirements for VA cemeteries here. Below is a list of VA cemeteries in Michigan.

Michigan military bases with toxic exposure

Dangerous toxins have been found in the groundwater and soil at various military bases in Michigan, such as Camp Grayling and the Detroit Arsenal.

Veterans who were subject to toxic exposure at a Michigan military installation and later developed health complications may be eligible for VA disability benefits. Below is a list of Michigan military bases that have been affected by toxic exposure.

For more information about toxins at Michigan military bases and how exposure may affect your health, check out our Military Bases Toxic Exposure Map.

How Woods & Woods can help

Woods & Woods is an accredited VA disability law firm that serves veterans nationwide. Our team of VA disability lawyers serve Michigan from Detroit to Grand Rapids and everywhere in between. We have helped tens of thousands of veterans across the U.S. fight the VA for the full benefits they deserve, including countless veterans in Michigan.

If you are looking for an experienced and professional VA disability lawyer in Michigan, call us today for your free case evaluation.

Frequently asked questions