The state of Washington provides several veteran benefits. This page explains those benefits.
Washington State Veterans Home
The state of Washington runs four state veterans homes. They are located in Ortig, Port Orchard, Spokane, and Walla Walla.
There is a cost for care, and you must have an honorable discharge. Spouses, surviving spouses and Gold Star parents are eligible for admission.
Washington Veteran Financial Benefits
No State Income Tax
While not specifically a veterans benefit, Washington has no state income tax.
Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption
Veterans with a 80% service-connected disability or over the age of 61 and income below certain levels (varies by county) may be exempt from paying property tax on their home. Surviving spouses may also qualify.
Financial Assistance
Most counties have financial assistance programs available for military and veteran families.
Washington State Veteran Education Benefits
Free Tuition For Dependents
Dependents of military members who died in service or are permanently and totally disabled veterans are eligible for up to 200 hours free tuition at state schools.
Children must be between the ages of 17 - 26 and spouses/surviving spouses are eligible for 10 years from date of death or date of VA rating.
Washington Veteran Employment Benefits
State Employment
Honorably discharged combat veterans or those with a campaign ribbon, and their surviving spouses, get preference for state jobs.
For state jobs that require an examination 5% will be added to the score of a non-combat veteran, 10% will be added to the score of a combat veteran, and 5% will be added to the score of a mobilized guard or reserve member.
If a veteran receives military retirement, they will get 5% added no matter what. Honorable discharge is required.
Military Service Credit
Washington State Department of Retirement Systems offers military service credit to qualified public employees.
Translating Military Training or Experience to WA State License or Credentials
People with military training and experience may count it towards certain civilian healthcare profession credentialing requirements if the state determines it is substantially equivalent to standards.
Military Commercial Drivers License Skills Test Waiver
Veterans seeking a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) may get a waiver of the skills test if they are currently licensed, and operated a CDL in the last 90 days as a part of their military duties.
The written test can't be waived.
Washington Veteran Recreation Benefits
Disabled Veteran Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Discounted hunting and fishing licenses are available to 30% and greater disabled veterans resident or non-resident. These licenses are also available to those over 65 with any disability and also grant access to DMV lands.
Active Duty Hunting & Fishing Licenses
Active duty members stationed in Washington can buy hunting & fishing licenses at the resident rate.
State Parks Disabled Veteran Lifetime Pass
Disabled veterans with at least 30% disability can get a free lifetime pass which offers free camping, moorage, campsite reservations, watercraft launching, trailer dump, and day use at all state parks.
Washington State Veterans Cemetery
The Washington State Veterans Cemetery is located in Medical Lake.
In general, veterans discharged under conditions other than dishonorable and their spouses and dependent children are eligible for burial. There is no residency requirement.
There is no charge for veteran interments, and a one-time fee of $300.00 fee for eligible dependents. All other funeral expenses are borne by the family
Visit the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs website for more information on any of these programs.
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