If you’re a 100% service-connected disabled veteran in California, there’s a powerful benefit many vets either don’t know about or don’t apply for in time — the Disabled Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption.
This exemption can reduce your home’s taxable value by hundreds of thousands of dollars, saving you thousands every year. The catch?
It’s not automatic, even if you use a VA loan.
Here’s exactly how it works, who qualifies, and how to apply.
First Things First: This Is NOT Automatic With a VA Loan
Using a VA loan does not automatically reduce your property taxes.
In California, property tax exemptions are handled by the county, not the VA or your lender. That means you must apply separately after purchasing your home.
Miss this step, and you’re leaving serious money on the table.
Who Qualifies for the Disabled Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption?
You may qualify if any of the following apply:
- You are 100% service-connected disabled (including unemployable/TDIU)
- You are rated 100% due to service-connected conditions
- You are a qualifying unmarried surviving spouse of a disabled veteran
The home must be:
- Your primary residence
- Located in California
- Owned by you (or in a qualifying trust)
How Much Is the Property Tax Exemption in California?
For 2024–2025, California offers two levels of exemption for disabled veterans:
🔹 Standard Disabled Veterans’ Exemption
- Approximately $160,000 off the assessed value of your home
🔹 Low-Income Disabled Veterans’ Exemption
- Approximately $240,000 off the assessed value
- Applies if your household income falls below the state’s threshold
👉 This reduction applies before property taxes are calculated, which can mean thousands of dollars saved every single year.
When Do You Apply?
You apply after you close on the home.
The exemption can be:
- Applied mid-year (with partial savings)
- Fully applied if submitted on time
- Retroactive in certain cases, but only if you file
Bottom line: Apply as soon as possible after closing.
Who Do You Contact to Apply?
You apply through your county assessor’s office, not the VA.
For example, in Riverside County, veterans would apply through the
Riverside County Assessor’s Office
Your local assessor will:
- Provide the correct application form
- Verify ownership and residency
- Confirm your exemption amount
- Apply it to your property tax bill
Every county in California follows the same state rules, but the assessor’s office is your point of contact.
What Documents Do You Need?
Have these ready when you apply:
- ✅ VA Benefits Summary Letter showing 100% service-connected status
- ✅ Proof the home is your primary residence
- ✅ Ownership info (deed or recorded title — the assessor can often pull this)
That’s it. No lender involvement required.
Why This Matters (And Why Many Vets Miss It)
Many veterans assume:
- “My lender handles this”
- “It happens automatically”
- “I’ll look into it later”
Unfortunately, that delay can cost thousands per year.
This exemption stays in place as long as you qualify and live in the home, making it one of the most valuable long-term benefits available to disabled veterans in California.
Final Thoughts for Veterans
You earned this benefit.
If you’re 100% service-connected and own a home in California, this exemption should already be working for you — not sitting unclaimed.
If you’re planning to buy a home, this should be part of the conversation from day one, right alongside your VA loan strategy.
If you’re a veteran:
- Buying a home with a VA loan
- Rated 100% service-connected
- Or unsure whether you qualify
👉 Reach out to VA Fast Loans and let’s make sure every benefit you earned is working for you — from financing to long-term tax savings.
You served. Now let your benefits serve you.