Sales tax exemptions for disabled veterans are a state-level benefit, not a VA benefit, so eligibility rules, application steps, and even whether the exemption exists at all vary significantly from state to state. Some states limit the exemption to veterans rated 100% permanent and total, others extend it to TDIU (total disability based on individual unemployability) recipients, and some tie it to specific criteria like service-connected disability percentage thresholds or income limits. Because of this variation, the first step is always to check with your own state's department of revenue (or equivalent taxing authority) rather than assume a benefit available in one state applies elsewhere.
Typically, the process involves submitting proof of your VA disability rating (often your VA award letter or disability rating decision) to the state agency, which then issues a physical or digital exemption certificate or card. This certificate is separate from anything filed with the VA and has no effect on your VA claim, rating, or any pending appeal.
Official 2026 VA monthly compensation, including the 2.8% COLA increase.
Dependent add-ons start at a 30% rating. Child-only and dependent-parent rates: see the full 2026 pay chart.
| Rating | Monthly (2026, incl. 2.8% COLA) |
|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 |
| 20% | $356.66 |
| 30% | $552.47 |
| 40% | $795.84 |
| 50% | $1,132.90 |
| 60% | $1,435.02 |
| 70% | $1,808.45 |
| 80% | $2,102.15 |
| 90% | $2,362.30 |
| 100% | $3,938.58 |
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Analyze my claim free →Once you have a state-issued exemption certificate, many major retailers, including Amazon, allow you to register for their own tax exemption programs so that sales tax is not charged at checkout on qualifying purchases. Amazon's program requires you to upload your exemption documentation through your account settings, and approval or denial is handled by Amazon based on the documentation you provide, not by the VA. Some states restrict how the exemption can be used, for example only for personal property, only up to a certain dollar amount, or only for purchases made directly by the veteran rather than a family member.
Because this is a state tax matter, it will not appear in VA claims files, will not affect compensation payments, and has no bearing on TDIU or permanent and total status itself. It is simply an ancillary financial benefit tied to having an existing VA disability rating.
The concrete next step is to visit your own state's department of revenue website, search for “disabled veteran sales tax exemption,” confirm the eligibility criteria and required documentation for your state, and apply directly through that state agency before attempting to register the exemption with any retailer.
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