Serving earns you more than a thank-you. Texas and the federal government offer benefits that many veterans never use, often because nobody told them. Here are four worth checking. Eligibility rules are set by the agencies that run each program, so treat this as a starting point.
1. Property tax exemption for disabled veterans
A Texas veteran with a service-connected disability who receives 100% disability compensation from the VA may qualify for an exemption on the total appraised value of their residence homestead. Either a 100% disability rating or a determination of individual unemployability is enough. A surviving spouse may also qualify under certain conditions, and the spouse must not have remarried.
You apply with the appraisal district in the county where the home is located using the Texas Comptroller's Application for Residence Homestead Exemption (Form 50-114). The regular deadline is April 30, and late applications may be accepted for a period afterward. Veterans with lower disability ratings may also qualify for partial exemptions. Ask your county appraisal district what applies to you. Source: Texas Comptroller.
2. The Hazlewood Act (tuition exemption)
The Hazlewood Act exempts qualified veterans, and in some cases their spouses and children, from tuition and certain fees at Texas public colleges and universities, up to 150 credit hours. It does not cover living expenses, books, or every fee. Service requirements apply, so check the details with the Texas Veterans Commission or your school's veterans office. Source: University of Houston-Downtown financial aid page and the Texas Veterans Commission.
3. VA funding fee exemption on a home loan
The VA home loan comes with a one-time funding fee, but veterans who receive VA compensation for a service-connected disability are generally exempt, and so are certain surviving spouses. If you're exempt, that can save a meaningful amount at closing. Ask your lender to confirm your status. Details: VA funding fee and closing costs.
4. Free help with VA claims
The Texas Veterans Commission has benefits counselors who help veterans file and track VA claims at no charge. If you've been putting off a claim, or you haven't had your rating reviewed in years, it may be worth a call. This one matters beyond the money, because disability compensation is what unlocks several of the benefits above.
Where the VA home loan fits
The VA home loan is one of the most valuable benefits you've earned. Many eligible borrowers can buy with no down payment, and the VA doesn't set a minimum credit score. At Veteran Mortgage One, there is no minimum credit score requirement. Our lowest closed VA loan to date was a 487. That's a record, not a typical outcome, and every file is reviewed individually and is subject to underwriting approval.
Not sure where you stand? We're happy to look at your situation and point you to the right resource, even if it isn't us.
Questions about your VA benefit?
Talk with a VA loan specialist. No pressure, no obligation.
Get Pre-QualifiedVeteran Mortgage One is a DBA of MortgageOne, Inc., NMLS #898812, and an Equal Housing Lender. This article is for general information only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Program rules, fees, and eligibility are set by the VA and lenders and can change. All loans are subject to credit approval, underwriting, and property eligibility requirements.