VA Disability Compensation

This federal benefit is provided through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. If your disability is service-connected, you may qualify for monthly tax-free payments based on the severity of your condition.

• Payments range from a 10% to 100% disability rating
• Veterans with multiple disabilities may receive additional compensation
• Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) may apply in severe cases (e.g., loss of limbs, blindness)

Missouri Property Tax Exemption

Missouri offers property tax relief for 100% permanently and totally (P&T) disabled veterans:

• Eligible veterans may be exempt from paying real property taxes on their primary residence
• Surviving spouses may also qualify if they remain unmarried
• Must apply through the local county assessor's office

Missouri Veterans Homes

Veterans with a disability rating may be eligible for care in one of Missouri’s seven Veterans Homes, which provide:

• Skilled nursing care and long-term assistance
• Access to medical services, therapy, and rehabilitation
• Priority placement for veterans with higher disability ratings

Educational Benefits

Disabled veterans in Missouri may qualify for both state and federal education assistance, including:

• Missouri Returning Heroes Education Act: Caps tuition for eligible combat veterans at Missouri public colleges and universities
• Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E): Helps veterans with service-connected disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain employment
• Dependents Educational Assistance (DEA): Provides education aid for dependents of certain disabled veterans

Missouri Veteran License Plates and Registration Benefits

Veterans with a qualifying disability rating can access:

• Specialized license plates (e.g., Disabled Veteran plates)
• No-fee registration for certain vehicles
• Parking privileges associated with disabled license plates or placards

Hunting and Fishing Licenses

Veterans who are 60% or more disabled may qualify for:

• Free or reduced-fee permits for hunting and fishing in Missouri
• Lifetime permits may be available for certain veterans

Employment Preference

Disabled veterans receive preference for:

• State employment opportunities
• Priority consideration in hiring and promotion for state jobs
• Support from the Missouri Division of Workforce Development

Missouri Veterans Cemeteries

Veterans and eligible dependents may be buried at no cost in one of Missouri’s state-run veterans cemeteries, including:

• Free grave space, headstone, and perpetual care
• Open to veterans who meet active duty and discharge criteria