As a disabled veteran in California, you’ve earned the right to numerous benefits and support services. However, navigating the complex system of state and federal programs can be overwhelming. Understanding your eligibility and how to access these benefits is crucial for maximizing the support available to you. From property tax exemptions to free state park admission, California offers a range of programs designed to honor your service and sacrifice.
This guide is going to discuss the benefits available to disabled veterans in the Golden State and provide step-by-step instructions on how to apply for and receive them.
VA Benefits
As a disabled veteran in California, you have access to a wide range of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits. While these benefits aren’t specific to California, they form the foundation of support for veterans.
Disability Compensation
One of the primary benefits available to you is military disability retirement pay. This is a monthly, tax-free payment for veterans with a disability rating of at least 10%.
Your disability rating is a percentage assigned by the VA that reflects the severity of your service-connected disability. The higher your rating, the greater your compensation.
Health Care
Another crucial benefit is access to health care. If you have a disability rating of at least 10%, you’re eligible for free or low-cost health care with the VA.
These VA benefits serve as the main foundation of your support as a disabled veteran. They’re designed to provide financial assistance and ensure you receive the medical care you need. Remember, these benefits are your right as someone who has served our country, and they’re an important first step in accessing the full range of support available to you in California.
The Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption
As a disabled veteran in California, you’re most likely eligible for significant property tax exemptions. These exemptions can substantially reduce your tax burden, making homeownership more affordable.
Basic Exemption
The basic exemption, also known as the $100,000 exemption, is available to all qualifying claimants. This benefit reduces the assessed value of your primary residence by $100,000, potentially saving hundreds of dollars annually on your property taxes. To qualify, you must be a disabled veteran with a service-connected disability rating from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Low-Income Exemption
If your household income falls below a specified limit, you may be eligible for the low-income disabled veterans’ exemption, also referred to as the $150,000 exemption. This enhanced benefit provides even greater tax relief by reducing your property’s assessed value by $150,000. The income threshold is adjusted annually, so it’s crucial to check the current limits when applying.
California Military Family Relief Fund
The California Military Family Relief Fund (CMFRF) stands as a beacon of support for California resident service members and their families facing financial hardships due to deployment or mobilization.
Who's Eligible
You may qualify for CMFRF assistance if you’re in active military service for the California National Guard or a family member directly affected by mobilization or deployment.
Types of Assistance Provided
CMFRF grants cover a variety of essential expenses, such as:
Rent or mortgage payments
Utilities & food costs
Medical bills not covered by TRICARE
Vehicle repairs or payments
Other unforeseen financial emergencies
Application Process
To receive CMFRF assistance, you’re going to need to:
Contact your unit’s Family Assistance center
Provide documentation of your financial need and military status
Remember, the CMFRF is designed as a short-term solution. It’s crucial to develop a long-term financial plan alongside seeking this assistance. By utilizing this resource, you can ensure your family’s finances.
Motor Vehicle Registration Fees Waived
If you’re a Medal of Honor recipient, a former prisoner of war (POW), or a permanently and disabled veteran, you may be eligible for significant benefits related to vehicle registration in California. These benefits include a waiver of registration fees and the provision of free license plates for certain motor vehicles.
Covered Vehicles
The fee waiver and free license plate benefits apply to one vehicle per eligible veteran. Apply these benefits to:
One passenger motor vehicle
One commercial motor vehicle (weighing less than 8,001 pounds unladen)
This flexibility allows you to select the vehicle that best suits your needs and lifestyle.
To apply for these benefits, you’re going to need to provide proof of eligibility. Remember, these benefits are just one way California honors its disabled veterans and recognizes their invaluable service.
The California Veteran Dependent College Fee Waiver
If you’re a dependent of a disabled veteran in California, you may be eligible for a college fee waiver. This benefit applies to children aged 14-27 of veterans who are either disabled due to service-connected injuries or whose death was officially rated as service-connected. Additionally, spouses of totally service-connected disabled veterans and unmarried surviving spouses of totally service-connected disabled wartime veterans qualify for this waiver.
Special Circumstances
The fee waiver program also extends to dependents of veterans in situations. If you’re a dependent of a veteran who has been declared missing in action, captured in the line of duty, or forcibly detained or interned in the line of duty, you’re eligible for this benefit. This provision ensures that families affected by these circumstances receive support for their educational pursuits.
Benefits
This waiver can significantly reduce the financial burden of higher education for dependents. It covers fees at California State University and University of California campuses, as well as a California Community College. To apply, you’re going to need to contact your school’s financial aid office and provide documentation of your parent’s or spouse’s veteran status and disability rating. Remember, early application is key to ensuring you receive this valuable benefit.
California Veterans Employment Preference
As a disabled veteran in California, you have access to valuable employment preferences. The state’s commitment to honoring your service extends to the workplace, offering you a competitive edge.
Understanding Your Employment Rights
California Employment Development Department grants you preferential treatment in both state civil service examinations and appointments. This means you’re going to receive additional points on your exam scores, potentially elevating your ranking among candidates. You’re entitled to preferential hiring consideration for state jobs, giving you a distinct advantage over non-veteran applicants.
To make the most of the benefits:
Ensure you have proper documentation of your veteran status and disability rating
Familiarize yourself with the specific preferences offered for different job categories
California Veteran Recreation Benefits
As a disabled veteran in California, you may be eligible for significant recreation benefits that can enhance your overall life and connection with nature.
Get Discounted Fishing And Hunting Licenses
If you have a service-connected disability rating of 50% or greater, you’re likely eligible for reduced annual fees on hunting and fishing licenses. This discount allows you to enjoy California’s diverse wildlife and aquatic resources at a fraction of the standard cost, making these popular outdoor pursuits more accessible.
Free State Park Access
For eligible service members serving or discharged veterans who are California residents with a 50% or higher service-connected disability, the California Department of Parks and Recreation offers an incredible perk: free admission to all California state parks. This benefit extends to former prisoners of war and Medal of Honor recipients as well. With over 280 state parks spanning beaches, forests, and historic sites, you’re going to have unlimited opportunities to explore California’s natural beauty.
These recreation benefits not only provide financial relief but also encourage you to engage in activities that can boost your physical and mental health.
Disabled Veterans Could Get FREE Phones as Well!!
If you’re reading this blog, you’re likely facing some sort of financial struggle as a disabled veteran. Don’t worry — it happens. As an authorized California Lifeline administrator, we’re here to help!
Partnering with programs such as California’s Lifeline, we’re offering discounted packages for calls and unlimited data to qualifying customers just like yourself. Whether you need to keep in touch with friends & family or you want to just save money on your current plan.
To start, just come to one of our stores in California, where our customer service agent will help you apply for your benefits.