Owning a home is one of the biggest milestones for any family, but for veterans in California, the cost of property taxes can feel like a heavy burden. Thankfully, the state offers California veteran property tax exemptions that help lessen this financial weight for those who have served. These exemptions are designed to recognize the sacrifices made by disabled veterans and their families, ensuring they can achieve stability and long-term security in their homes.
In this guide, we’ll break down how California’s property tax exemptions work, who qualifies, and what steps veterans need to take to apply.
What Is the Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption?
California offers a special property tax exemption for veterans who have service-connected disabilities. This exemption reduces the amount of taxable value assigned to a veteran’s primary residence, lowering the yearly property tax bill.
The exemption applies only to a home that the veteran (or their surviving spouse in some cases) uses as their primary residence. Unlike general property tax programs, this one is specifically meant to ease the burden for disabled veterans, making homeownership more affordable over the long term.
Two Levels of the Exemption
California provides two levels of exemption, depending on income and disability rating:
- Basic Exemption
Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating, or who are compensated at the 100% rate due to unemployability, may qualify for the basic exemption. As of recent figures, this removes around $161,000 of a home’s assessed value from taxation. - Low-Income Exemption
Veterans who meet the above criteria and have a household income below a state-set threshold (around $72,000, though this changes annually) may qualify for an enhanced exemption. This level removes about $241,000 of a home’s assessed value from taxation.
This difference can save thousands of dollars annually, depending on property location and tax rates.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the exemption, veterans must meet the following conditions:
- Have a 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA, or be compensated at the 100% level due to unemployability.
- Own and occupy the home as a primary residence.
- File a claim with the county assessor’s office where the property is located.
In cases where the veteran has passed away, the unmarried surviving spouse may also qualify for the exemption, provided they continue to live in the home as their primary residence.
How to Apply
The process may feel overwhelming at first, but with the right steps, veterans can make sure they don’t miss out on this valuable benefit:
- Obtain VA Disability Documentation
Veterans will need proof of their 100% disability rating (or unemployability rating) from the Department of Veterans Affairs. - Complete the Claim Form
Each county has its own “Disabled Veteran’s Exemption Claim” form, typically found on the county assessor’s website. - Submit to the County Assessor
Turn in the completed form, along with required documentation, before the deadline (usually February 15th each year). Late applications may still be accepted, but benefits could be reduced. - Reapply if Necessary
For the low-income exemption, veterans must file income documentation each year to prove they still qualify.
Why the Exemption Matters
Housing costs in California are among the highest in the country. A veteran living on disability compensation, retirement pay, or limited income may struggle to keep up with mortgage payments, insurance, and property taxes.
The California disabled veteran property tax exemption is more than just a financial break—it’s a recognition of service. By lowering annual costs, it helps veterans remain in their homes, build equity, and provide stability for their families.
Common Misconceptions
“I don’t have a 100% rating, so I can’t qualify.”
Correct—this program is only for veterans with a full disability rating (or unemployability at 100%). However, California does offer other property tax relief programs that may help.
“I only have to apply once.”
Not always. For the basic exemption, a one-time application is usually enough. But for the low-income version, reapplication with income proof is required annually.
“It doesn’t apply to mobile homes.”
Actually, if the mobile home is assessed as real property (tied to the land), the exemption may still apply.
Tips for Veterans and Families
- Check Deadlines Early: Don’t wait until tax season to apply—forms are due well before.
- Keep Copies of VA Decisions: Disability letters are required to confirm eligibility.
- Consult with Local Veteran Service Offices: While Warrior Allegiance provides nationwide support for VA claims, your county assessor’s office is the final authority for tax exemptions.
- Ask About Supplemental Benefits: California counties sometimes offer other exemptions or deferrals for seniors and disabled residents.
How Warrior Allegiance Helps
Understanding the ins and outs of disability benefits can be overwhelming, especially when those benefits tie into housing and property taxes. At Warrior Allegiance, we help veterans nationwide maximize their VA disability ratings, which often serve as the foundation for accessing exemptions like the California veteran property tax benefit.
Because we are built by veterans, for veterans, we understand what’s at stake. There are no upfront costs—you only pay based on the difference we help you achieve in your VA disability rating. With locations in El Paso, San Antonio, and Puerto Rico, plus remote services across the country, Warrior Allegiance is ready to guide you through every step of your claim journey.
Get Started Today or call (800) 837–1106 to learn how we can help.
Final Thoughts
The California disabled veteran property tax exemption is one of the most valuable state-level benefits available to veterans with severe service-connected disabilities. By lowering property tax bills, it helps secure a future where veterans and their families can enjoy the stability they deserve.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify or want to explore how improving your VA disability rating could unlock additional state-level benefits, Warrior Allegiance is here to help.