New York Veteran Benefits

Veterans in New York 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 New York, most are available to other veterans with lower disability ratings. We share some of these state benefits below.

Veteran home loan/mortgage benefits

The State of New York Mortgage Agency offers qualifying veterans and service members fixed-rate mortgages with interest 0.375% below standard rates. They also offer down payment assistance of either $3,000 or 3% of the home purchase price (whichever is greater) up to a maximum of $15,000.

For more information about this benefit and how to qualify, visit the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services website.

Veteran property tax benefits

At the end of 2025, a bill was passed in New York establishing real property tax exemption for veterans with a 100% service-connected VA disability.

Additionally, there are three different types of property tax exemptions for veterans that apply to county, city, town, and village taxes. In some cases, these exemptions may also apply to school district taxes. The three options are:

• Alternative Veterans’ Exemption
• Cold War Veterans’ Exemption
• Eligible Funds Exemption

Each exemption has different eligibility requirements, which you can read about in more detail here.

Veteran income tax benefits

Veterans in New York do not pay income taxes on military retired pay.

New York also does not tax VA disability benefits, DIC benefits, or military disability retirement pay received as a pension, annuity, or similar allowance.

Veteran vehicle registration benefits

A disabled veteran receiving a vehicle through Federal Title 38 is exempt from registration and license plate fees. Former Prisoner of War and Congressional Medal of Honor veterans also qualify for this benefit.

Veteran education benefits

New York offers several scholarships and programs to qualifying veterans and their family members. 

One example is the MERIT scholarship, which provides financial aid to spouses and dependent children of veterans who died or became severely and permanently disabled due to service. 

Other veteran education benefits in New York include the Regents Award for Children of Deceased and Disabled Veterans, and Veterans Tuition Awards for veterans enrolled in higher education institutions in the state.

For more information about eligibility and how to apply for these benefits, click here.

Veteran hunting and fishing licenses

New York veterans with a service-connected VA disability rating of 40% or more qualify for a $5 annual fishing, hunting, or trapping license. By purchasing one of these licenses, the others are made free as long as they are purchased within the same calendar year.

Other VA disability benefits in New York

New York State Parks and Recreation offers free and discounted access to state parks, historic sites, and state-operated campgrounds and recreational facilities. 

Additionally, the state offers employment assistance, access to state veteran homes, and a variety of other benefits. You can learn more by visiting the Army’s page on New York veteran benefits.

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VA facilities in New York

We share more about where to find VA facilities in New York including regional offices, medical facilities, vet centers, and VA cemeteries. 

VA regional offices in New York

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 New York.

VetSuccess offices in New York

VetSuccess on campus (VSOC) offices are located on college campuses around New York 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 New York

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 New York.

Vet centers in New York

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 New York

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 New York.

New York military bases with toxic exposure

Dangerous toxins have been found in the groundwater and soil at various military bases in New York such as Fort Drum, Griffiss Air Force Base, and others. Veterans who were subject to toxic exposure at a New York military installation and later developed health complications may be eligible for VA disability benefits.

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

Woods & Woods: New York VA disability appeal lawyers

Woods & Woods is an accredited VA disability law firm that serves veterans nationwide. Our team of VA disability lawyers serve New York from Buffalo to Syracuse 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.

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

Frequently asked questions