Federal VA benefits get most of the attention. But Arizona has its own set of programs for veterans, and some of the most valuable ones are run by the state and your county — not the VA.
We are based in Tempe and work with veterans across the state, so this is a guide to the Arizona-specific resources we point people to most often.
Arizona Department of Veterans' Services
The Arizona Department of Veterans' Services (ADVS) is the state agency for veterans. Among other things, it runs the state veteran homes and veterans' cemeteries.
The service most veterans should know about is its Veteran Benefits Counselors. According to ADVS, they provide free information, counseling, and assistance to veterans, their dependents, and survivors, including:
- Explaining eligibility for benefits
- Preparing and submitting VA compensation and pension claims
- Helping with appeals and representing claimants at hearings
- Assisting with survivor benefits
- Helping with discharge upgrades
Counselors work in person, virtually, by phone, and by email. Start at dvs.az.gov.
This matters because a lot of veterans pay for help they could get free. ADVS counselors, along with accredited Veterans Service Organization representatives, help with claims at no charge.
Be Connected
Be Connected is a statewide effort to strengthen access to support and resources for Arizona's service members, veterans, and their families. Its support line is open to veterans, family members, and the people helping them who need to find the right resource. If you do not know where to start, this is a good first call.
Support line: 866-429-8387, or beconnectedaz.org.
Property tax relief for disabled veterans
Arizona offers a property tax exemption for veterans with disabilities, and it changed significantly this year.
New for 2026: a full exemption for veterans rated 100%. Under HB 2792, signed into law in 2026, the primary residence of a veteran whose VA service-connected disability rating is 100% is exempt from the full amount of property tax, starting with tax year 2026. Key points from the Legislature's summary of the enacted bill:
- A residence co-owned with a spouse is treated as if owned solely by the veteran for this exemption.
- An unmarried surviving spouse of a qualifying veteran may continue to claim the exemption on a primary residence.
Partial exemption for other disabled veterans. Veterans with a service- or nonservice-connected disability can qualify for a portion of the maximum exemption equal to their disability percentage. This partial exemption has limits on assessed value and household income, and those figures are adjusted over time.
You have to apply. Property tax exemptions are handled by your county assessor, not the VA or ADVS. Each county sets its application process and filing window, and first-time applicants may need to apply in person with a VA rating letter and other documents. Contact your county assessor's office to confirm the current requirements and deadline.
If you are rated 100% and own your home, this is worth a call this week.
State income tax on military retirement
Arizona exempts uniformed services retirement pay from state income tax, starting with tax year 2021, according to the Arizona Department of Revenue. If you are a military retiree living in Arizona, make sure this is reflected on your state return and your state withholding is set accordingly.
Veteran designation on your driver license or ID
Arizona offers a "VETERAN" designation on driver licenses, permits, and ID cards. It is a convenient way to show veteran status for discounts without carrying your DD-214.
To add it, you apply in person at an MVD office or authorized third-party provider and present proof of service — such as a DD-214, a VA medical card, a Statement of Honorable Service from the VA or ADVS, or certain veterans' organization cards. Standard transaction fees apply. Details are at azdot.gov.
Housing and emergencies
If housing is at risk, act early. In Arizona, ADVS, Be Connected, and the VA's National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838 can all help connect you to emergency housing, rental assistance, and supportive services.
A note on accuracy
State programs change, and income and value limits are updated regularly. Treat this as a starting map, not the final word. Confirm details with ADVS, your county assessor, or the Arizona Department of Revenue before you rely on them. Nothing here is tax or legal advice.
Where we fit
Credit4Vets is an Arizona nonprofit. We help veterans with credit, budgeting, housing, and business, and we can help you figure out which of these programs applies to you and who to call.
If you are an Arizona veteran and are not sure where to start, reach out to us. It is free.
Sources: Arizona Department of Veterans' Services — Veteran Benefits Counselors · Arizona Legislature — HB 2792 Senate fact sheet, as enacted · Arizona Department of Revenue — Military tax filing · ADOT MVD — Veteran designation · Be Connected