Texas: One of the most veteran-friendly states in the nation
Texas is one of the most veteran-friendly states in the country, offering a wide range of benefits on top of federal VA programs. If you are a veteran in the McAllen area, here is what you may be eligible for.
VA Healthcare Benefits
Federal VA healthcare covers a broad range of services for eligible veterans, including:
- Primary care and specialty care at VA facilities and through Community Care
- Massage therapy when referred through Community Care for conditions like chronic back pain or PTSD
- Mental health services including counseling and stress management programs
- Prescription medication coverage
Texas-Specific Veteran Benefits
Property Tax Exemptions
Texas offers partial to full property tax exemptions for veterans with service-connected disabilities. Veterans rated 100% disabled may qualify for a complete property tax exemption on their homestead.
Hazlewood Act (Education)
Texas veterans can receive up to 150 credit hours of tuition-free education at state public colleges and universities. This benefit can also be transferred to eligible dependents through the Hazlewood Legacy Act.
Vehicle Registration & Licensing
Disabled veterans in Texas may qualify for free vehicle registration and specialized veteran license plates at no additional cost.
Employment Preference
Texas state agencies give hiring preference to qualified veterans. The Texas Veterans Commission also operates employment services throughout the state.
Texas Veterans Land Board
The VLB offers below-market-rate loans for land, homes, and home improvement projects specifically for Texas veterans.
Benefits for Rio Grande Valley Veterans
Veterans in McAllen, Pharr, Edinburg, Mission, and Weslaco can access all of these benefits. For healthcare-specific questions, start with your VA provider or visit our referral guide. For local support, see our McAllen veteran resources directory.