Moving to Texas as a Veteran: A Practical Guide to Texas Veteran Benefits

Hi, I’m Matt Dick from Military Living in Central Texas. If you’re thinking about moving to Texas as a veteran, or you already live here and want to maximize the benefits available to you and your family, you’re in the right place. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the major Texas veteran benefits—what they are, who qualifies, how to apply, and some insider tips from my years living and helping military families move around Central Texas.

Table of Contents

• Introduction: Texas Veteran Benefits Overview
• Veteran Benefits # 1: Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans
• Veteran Benefits # 2: Veterans Land Board Program
• Veteran Benefits # 3: Education Benefits (Hazlewood Act)
• Veteran Benefits # 4: Employment Resources
• Veteran Benefits # 5: Healthcare and Mental Health Services
• Veteran Benefits # 6: Vehicle and Driver Benefits
• Veteran Benefits # 7: Free State Park Access
• How to Apply for Texas Veteran Benefits
• Putting It All Together: A Sample Roadmap
• FAQs About Moving to Texas as a Veteran
• Closing thoughts

Introduction: Texas Veteran Benefits Overview

If you’re moving to Texas as a veteran you’ll quickly learn that the state offers a number of meaningful, dollar-saving programs aimed squarely at veterans and their families. From tax relief that can dramatically reduce your monthly mortgage payment to tuition and land purchase programs, these benefits make a real difference—especially when used together.

Over the next several sections I’ll break down the major benefits I cover with clients every week: property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, the Veterans Land Board (VLB) programs, education through the Hazlewood Act, employment resources, healthcare and mental health support, vehicle and driver benefits, and free or discounted state park access. I’ll also show you how to apply and point you toward the best local resources.

Veteran Benefits # 1: Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans

Property taxes in Texas can be a shock if you’re new here. One of the most powerful benefits for veterans—especially disabled veterans—is the property tax exemption. If you have a VA disability rating, here's how it works:

• Veterans with a 90% VA disability rating get a significant exemption on property taxes; many counties remove 90% of the taxable value for qualifying veterans.
• Veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating may qualify for a full property tax exemption on their primary residence. That means your mortgage payment can drop significantly because property taxes are no longer rolled into your mortgage escrow.
• Surviving spouses may also qualify in many counties; rules vary so it’s important to check with your local county appraisal district.

Practical tips for applying:

1. Bring your updated driver’s license with your current address and your VA award letter showing your disability rating to the county appraisal office in person. This gives you immediate confirmation that your paperwork was received.
2. Alternatively, most county appraisal districts (CADs) allow online submissions. For example, in Bell County you can review forms at blecad.org and upload images of your license and award letter.
3. Keep copies of everything. Get a dated receipt or confirmation number—this is your proof if anything gets delayed.

Remember: rules and implementation can vary by county. Always verify with your local appraisal district and ask about eligibility for surviving spouses.

Veteran Benefits # 2: Veterans Land Board Program

The Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB) offers a trio of powerful programs designed to help veterans own land, get lower mortgage interest rates, and make home improvements. If you’re moving to Texas as a veteran and want to build generational wealth or simply save on housing costs, this is a program to explore.

• Land Loan Program: VLB offers low-interest land loans—up to $150,000 in many cases—to purchase land. If you’re interested in owning a piece of Texas country or building later, this is a great option.
• Home Loan Program: VLB can assist with a mortgage interest rate advantage—veterans sometimes get a half-percent off the lender’s advertised rate through VLB participation.
• Home Improvement Loans: Up to $50,000 for home repairs or improvements, which helps veterans keep homes safe, efficient, and marketable.

Important caveats:

• You generally cannot have multiple VLB land loans or multiple VLB home loans at the same time; the programs are designed to expand homeownership but not to double up benefits.
• Eligibility includes service and residency requirements—verify the VLB rules before applying.

Action steps: Contact VLB directly at vlb.texas.gov for current loan limits, interest rates, and eligibility details. The VLB often offers better rates than banks or credit unions, so definitely get a quote if you’re financing land or a home.

Veteran Benefits # 3: Education Benefits (Hazlewood Act)

One of the biggest educational benefits Texas provides is the Hazlewood Act. If you’re moving to Texas as a veteran, this program could cover a large portion—if not all—of your college tuition at public institutions in Texas.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Up to 150 credit hours: The Hazlewood Exemption provides up to 150 hours of tuition exemption at public colleges and universities in Texas. That’s about four years of full-time study, depending on your degree plan.
• Transferability: Under certain conditions, unused Hazlewood hours can be transferred to dependent children or a spouse.
• Residency and service requirements: Veterans must meet specific residency and service criteria to qualify. You’ll need to confirm your eligibility with the institution’s veterans’ affairs office or the Texas Veterans Commission.

How to apply:

1. Contact the registrar or veterans certifying official at the Texas public college/university you plan to attend.
2. Provide your DD214 (or equivalent), your Texas residency documentation, and any other requested paperwork.
3. If you plan to transfer benefits to a dependent, confirm eligibility and required documentation in advance.

Between federal GI Bill benefits and Hazlewood, Texas veterans have excellent education support—use both strategically to maximize your benefits.

Veteran Benefits # 4: Employment Resources

Transitioning into civilian work can be challenging, but Texas offers strong employment resources specifically for veterans. If you’re moving to Texas as a veteran and need help finding work, these programs are built for you.

• Texas Veterans Commission (TVC): The TVC offers veteran-specific job assistance including resume help, interview prep, and employer referrals. They frequently work with companies actively recruiting veterans.
• Texas Workforce Solutions: Veterans receive priority service at Workforce Solutions offices—literally getting to the front of the line for assistance with job placement and training.
• Direct employer connections: TVC and Workforce Solutions can connect you with employers that prefer to hire veterans and understand military experience.

Tips for job seekers:

1. Translate military experience into civilian terms on your resume—TVC advisors are great at this.
2. Leverage priority services at Workforce Solutions to shorten wait times and accelerate your job search.
3. Attend veteran-focused job fairs and employer networking events often hosted by TVC.

Veteran Benefits # 5: Healthcare and Mental Health Services

Healthcare and mental health services are lifesaving resources that veterans should know about when moving to Texas as a veteran. If you’re eligible for VA healthcare, Texas has several major VA hospitals and community outpatient clinics to serve you and your family.

• VA facilities in Texas: Texas hosts numerous VA hospitals and clinics. In Central Texas, for example, the VA hospital in Temple is a high-quality resource for many veterans.
• Mental health support: The state supports veteran mental health programs offering peer support, counseling, and specialized services. These programs are often accessible to family members as well.
• TextVet and other online tools: TextVet.org is a great resource connecting veterans with help for PTSD, substance use, and other mental health needs.

How to access care:

1. Apply for VA healthcare via VA.gov if you haven’t already.
2. Enroll with your local VA clinic and schedule a primary care appointment to get connected to mental health or specialty services.
3. Use online resources like TextVet.org and reach out to local veteran service organizations for peer support and counseling referrals.

If you live near Fort Cavazos or other military installations in Central Texas, there are often additional support networks and programs on base and in surrounding communities.

Veteran Benefits # 6: Vehicle and Driver Benefits

When you’re moving to Texas as a veteran—or once you’re settled—vehicle and driver benefits can make life easier and sometimes save you money. Texas offers special plates and designations that recognize veteran status and, in some cases, provide toll exemptions.

• Specialty license plates: Veterans, Purple Heart recipients, POW/MIA, and Medal of Honor recipients can apply for specialty plates in Texas.
• Driver’s license designation: Veterans who meet certain disability rating thresholds (often around 60% but sometimes lower) can have “Veteran” displayed on their driver’s license.
• Toll exemptions: Some specialty plates and designations include toll exemptions—check with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and local toll authorities for specifics.

Practical steps:

1. Contact your local county tax office or the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles to apply for specialty plates or a veteran designation on your driver’s license.
2. Bring proof of status such as your DD214 or VA award letter, and any necessary disability documentation.
3. Ask about potential toll exemptions when applying for specialty plates—availability and rules change by jurisdiction.

Veteran Benefits # 7: Free State Park Access

If you enjoy the outdoors, one of the perks of moving to Texas as a veteran is access to state parks. Veterans with a 100% VA disability rating often qualify for a free Texas State Parks pass, which covers entrance fees. Other ratings and active duty/reserve statuses may qualify for discounts.

• 100% disability: Free entrance to state parks.
• 90% and below: Discounts are often available; check with Texas Parks and Wildlife for the current policy.
• Active duty and reservists: Discounts or special access may also be available for active service members.

How to get your pass:

1. Contact Texas Parks and Wildlife or the veteran affairs office at local parks to verify eligibility and required documentation.
2. Provide your VA award letter showing your disability rating if required.
3. Once approved, you’ll receive a pass that’s valid at participating Texas State Parks.

How to Apply for Texas Veteran Benefits

Applying for benefits can feel overwhelming, but there’s a clear path forward. The Texas Veterans Commission is the best single place to start. They’ll help you with paperwork and connect you to programs across the state.

If you’re nearby in Central Texas, here are some practical local steps I recommend:

• Visit the Texas Veterans Commission office at your nearest VA medical center or regional TVC office. For example, at the Temple VA Hospital, you can find TVC services in Building 171, Room CO9.
• Note that some offices have moved away from walk-ins. At TVC locations, you’ll often scan a QR code to set up an appointment. That small step ensures you get dedicated time with a counselor who can walk you through claims and applications.
• Bring all relevant documents: DD214, VA award letter, driver’s license with your local address, and any marriage or dependent documentation for transfer benefits.

Online resources to bookmark:

• Texas Veterans Commission: texasvet.org
• Veterans Land Board: vlb.texas.gov
• Texas Veterans Commission employment portal and additional resources: tvcex.gov

When in doubt, schedule a phone or in-person appointment with a TVC representative. They will either handle the claim or connect you with a local representative who specializes in the benefit you need.

Putting It All Together: A Sample Roadmap

Here’s a step-by-step checklist I often give clients who are moving to Texas as a veteran:

1. Secure residency: update your driver’s license and register with the local county to establish residency for benefits like Hazlewood and property tax exemptions.
2. Gather documents: DD214, VA award letter (disability), marriage or dependent paperwork, and current ID.
3. Visit or contact the Texas Veterans Commission: set up an appointment to review all potential benefits.
4. Apply for property tax exemption at your county appraisal district—do it in person if possible to get a receipt.
5. Explore VLB options if you’re buying land, a home, or planning improvements.
6. Check Hazlewood eligibility with your chosen college and submit required documents for tuition exemption.
7. Enroll in VA healthcare and schedule your initial appointments.
8. Apply for specialty plates and veteran designation on your driver’s license if eligible.
9. Apply for a state parks pass if you qualify for free or discounted access.

FAQs About Moving to Texas as a Veteran

What documentation do I need when moving to Texas as a veteran to access benefits?

The essentials are your DD214 (or equivalent separation papers), your VA award letter (if claiming disability-based benefits), and proof of Texas residency (a Texas driver’s license or state ID with your current address). For family-transfer benefits like Hazlewood, you’ll also need dependent documentation.

Can I get a full property tax exemption as a veteran?

Yes, veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating typically qualify for a full exemption on their primary residence. Veterans with lower ratings may qualify for partial exemptions. Always check with your county appraisal district for local implementation details.

How do I use Hazlewood with the federal GI Bill?

Hazlewood covers tuition at Texas public institutions while GI Bill benefits can cover housing allowances and additional educational costs. Coordinate with the veterans’ certifying official at your school to stack benefits properly.

Are VLB loans better than bank loans?

VLB loans often offer competitive or lower interest rates for qualifying veterans, especially for land loans and home improvement loans. Compare VLB rates with bank and credit union offers to determine what’s best for your situation.

Where should I start if I don’t know which benefits I qualify for?

Your best first stop is the Texas Veterans Commission. They’ll walk through all potential benefits, help you with paperwork, and connect you to the right programs or local representatives.

Closing thoughts

Moving to Texas as a veteran comes with real advantages—if you know where to look and how to apply. From the property tax relief that can take thousands off your mortgage each year to free tuition through the Hazlewood Act, these programs are designed to support veterans and families who’ve served.

If you’re relocating to Central Texas specifically, I’ve lived here over a decade and help veterans and military families every week with relocation, neighborhood choices, and leveraging these benefits to get the best financial outcomes. Reach out if you want a local perspective or help walking through applications—I’m happy to guide you or connect you with the right resources.

Thanks for reading, and if you’re moving to Texas as a veteran—welcome. This state values its veterans, and with the right approach you can unlock benefits that will make your transition smoother and more affordable.