South Dakota Veteran Benefits

Complete guide to state benefits for South Dakota veterans in 2026

South Dakota Tax Advantage

South Dakota has no state income tax! Military retirement pay, VA disability compensation, and all other income are completely tax-free at the state level.

South Dakota Veteran Benefits Summary: South Dakota offers no state income tax, property tax exemptions for disabled veterans ($150,000 for paraplegic veterans), free tuition at state schools for dependents of deceased/disabled veterans, and state veterans' homes. South Dakota has approximately 65,000 veterans.

State Income Tax

Military retirement: No state tax

VA disability: No state tax

South Dakota is one of 9 states with no income tax.

Property Tax Exemptions

  • Paraplegic veteran: $150,000 exemption
  • Disabled veteran: Varies by disability
  • Surviving spouse: May continue exemption

Education Benefits

  • Free tuition: For dependents of deceased/disabled veterans
  • State universities: Covered for qualifying dependents

Employment Benefits

  • Veterans' Preference: Points in state hiring
  • Disabled veteran: Additional preference

2026 BAH Rates for South Dakota

LocationE-5 w/Dep
Ellsworth AFB$1,434