What military benefits are most often unused?

Assumable VA loans, VA funding fee exemptions, state property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, MyCAA for spouses, PCAFC caregiver support, and SCRA interest-rate caps that require a written request.

Do I get the VA funding fee exemption automatically?

You should flag it. Veterans with qualifying disability compensation, certain DIC surviving spouses, and eligible Purple Heart recipients can be exempt. Bring documentation before closing.

Can a civilian assume my VA loan?

Yes, if they qualify with the servicer. Entitlement release is a separate question. See our assumption guide.

Where do I apply for state property tax exemptions?

Usually with your county assessor or auditor, using your VA award letter. Exemptions are rarely automatic when you move states.

My Career Advancement Account provides up to $4,000 in tuition assistance for eligible spouses of junior servicemembers for portable education and credentials.

10 Military Benefits You're Probably Leaving on the Table

A VA Stand Down event serving veterans, used as the share image for underused military benefits.

Assumable VA loans, funding fee exemptions, caregiver stipends, state property tax breaks, MyCAA, and more. These benefits are earned. Most families never fully use them. Here is what to claim and where to start.

Key Takeaways

Many high-value benefits require you to claim them; they are not automatic.
Flag VA funding fee exemption before closing if you qualify.
MyCAA can provide up to $4,000 for eligible spouse credentials.
SCRA 6% interest caps need a written request with orders.
State property tax exemptions for disabled veterans are usually county applications.

The Short Version

You earned more benefits than your in-processing brief covered. Assumable loans, fee exemptions, caregiver stipends, and state tax breaks do not chase you down. You have to claim them.

Housing: Assumptions, funding fee exemption, remaining entitlement strategy.
Care and career: PCAFC, MyCAA, spouse license reciprocity.
Money: State property tax exemptions, SCRA 6% cap, CRDP for eligible retirees.

1. Assumable VA Loans

Buyers can take over a qualifying VA loan and its rate. In a high-rate market, that is leverage for sellers and savings for buyers. Details: how assumptions work and assumable VA loans.

2. VA Funding Fee Exemption

A 2.15% first-use fee on a $400,000 loan is $8,600. Disability compensation, certain DIC spouses, and eligible Purple Heart recipients can pay zero. Say it out loud to your lender before closing. See the VA loan guide.

3. PCAFC Caregiver Support

PCAFC is the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. It can include stipends, CHAMPVA, respite, and travel benefits for eligible post-9/11 veterans' caregivers. Call the VA Caregiver Support Line at 1-855-260-3274.

4. State Property Tax Exemptions

Many states cut or erase property tax for disabled veterans. Texas and others can be worth thousands a year at 100% ratings. Apply with the county. Check state benefits.

5. MyCAA for Spouses

Up to $4,000 for portable education and credentials for eligible junior-sponsor spouses. It is not a loan. Pair with spouse resources.

6. FMLA Military Caregiver Leave

Up to 26 weeks of job-protected leave in a 12-month period for eligible caregivers of covered servicemembers or recent veterans, at covered employers.

7. Aid and Attendance

Enhanced VA pension for veterans and surviving spouses who need help with daily activities or are housebound. Largely unknown outside VA social work and elder law circles.

8. SCRA Interest Rate Cap

SCRA is the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act. Pre-service debts can be capped at 6% interest during qualifying active duty, but you must request it in writing with orders. It is not automatic.

9. Spouse License Reciprocity

Federal law requires expedited recognition. Compacts help nurses, counselors, and others. Start before you arrive. Guide: license reciprocity.

10. CRDP for Retirees

CRDP is Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay. Retirees with a 50% or higher VA disability rating should receive retirement pay and disability without the old dollar-for-dollar offset. If you are eligible and not receiving both, contact DFAS or VA.

What to Do Next

Pick one benefit from this list that applies to you this week.
Gather the document you need (orders, award letter, COE, or license).
Submit the request or application, then calendar a follow-up in 14 days.
For housing-specific moves, keep the military investor guide and agent matching handy.

The system will not do this for you. Claim what you earned.

Frequently Asked Questions

What military benefits are most often unused?: Assumable VA loans, VA funding fee exemptions, state property tax exemptions for disabled veterans, MyCAA for spouses, PCAFC caregiver support, and SCRA interest-rate caps that require a written request.
Do I get the VA funding fee exemption automatically?: You should flag it. Veterans with qualifying disability compensation, certain DIC surviving spouses, and eligible Purple Heart recipients can be exempt. Bring documentation before closing.
Can a civilian assume my VA loan?: Yes, if they qualify with the servicer. Entitlement release is a separate question. See our assumption guide.
Where do I apply for state property tax exemptions?: Usually with your county assessor or auditor, using your VA award letter. Exemptions are rarely automatic when you move states.
What is MyCAA?: My Career Advancement Account provides up to $4,000 in tuition assistance for eligible spouses of junior servicemembers for portable education and credentials.

Ready to put this into action?

Connect with a verified military real estate agent at your gaining installation, or start planning your PCS with our free Mission Planner tool.

Find My Agent →PCS Planner

Housing