Wisconsin veterans are set to receive expanded benefits under Governor Tony Evers’ 2025-2027 budget proposal.
The proposed budget includes:
🏡 Lowering the VA disability rating threshold for the Wisconsin Veterans and Surviving Spouses Property Tax Credit
🎓 Eliminating the five-year residency rule for tuition-free education under the Wisconsin G.I. Bill
💰 Expanding tax relief & housing assistance for Wisconsin veterans
Wisconsin State Representative Alex Joers, a strong advocate for veteran services, shared insights on these changes in The Veteran Realtor Podcast.
Let’s break down what’s changing and how these updates could help Wisconsin veterans.
Expanded Property Tax Relief for Wisconsin Veterans
The Wisconsin Veterans and Surviving Spouses Property Tax Credit is a major financial relief program that helps veterans lower their housing costs.
✅ Covers 100% of property taxes for eligible veterans and surviving spouses
✅ Currently available to veterans with a 100% service-connected disability rating
✅ The property must be the veteran’s primary residence
Governor Evers’ 2025-2027 Budget Proposal Expands This Benefit
🏡 Lowers the eligibility requirement from 100% to 70% VA disability rating
🏡 Extends the property tax relief to veteran renters, not just homeowners
📢 Representative Alex Joers on this change:

“This expansion means more veterans—especially those with service-connected disabilities—can access much-needed financial relief. Including renters ensures that all veterans, regardless of homeownership status, get the help they deserve.”
This is a game-changer for disabled veterans struggling with rising housing costs in Madison, Sun Prairie, and across Wisconsin.
No More Five-Year Residency Rule for Veteran Education Benefits
The Wisconsin G.I. Bill provides tuition-free education at University of Wisconsin System schools and Wisconsin Technical Colleges. However, veterans previously had to live in Wisconsin for five years before becoming eligible.
🎓 NEW UPDATE: Governor Evers' budget eliminates the five-year residency requirement.
📢 Why this matters:
✔️ Veterans moving to Wisconsin can access tuition-free education immediately
✔️ Military families won’t face unnecessary delays in using education benefits
✔️ Encourages more veterans to settle in Wisconsin and build their futures here
📢 Representative Joers on this change:
“Reducing the residency rule is a huge step forward. We want Wisconsin to be a welcoming place for veterans, and this change makes education more accessible without unnecessary delays.”
Additional Veteran Benefits in the 2025-2027 Budget
1. More Funding for Veteran Housing Assistance
Governor Evers' budget allocates millions toward workforce housing development to:
🏠 Increase affordable housing options for veterans
🏠 Provide grants and loans for veterans struggling with housing costs
2. Tax Relief and Cost-Saving Measures
💰 Energy assistance tax relief to lower heating and utility costs
💰 More financial resources for veteran homebuyers
📢 Representative Joers' Take:
“With a $4 billion surplus, it’s time to put that money to work for Wisconsin veterans. This budget is designed to lower costs, improve housing access, and ensure every veteran can build a successful future in our state.”
Are You Maximizing Your Veteran Benefits?
If you’re a Wisconsin veteran, Governor Evers’ 2025-2027 budget proposal could provide you with expanded tax relief, housing support, and tuition-free education—all designed to improve financial stability.
Do you have questions on the proposed changes, or would like to see additional changes? Please let me know, and I can pass them on to Representative Joers, and other veteran advocates across the state.
Like, follow, and subscribe to see the full episode with Representative Alex Joers coming soon!
🎙️ The Veteran Realtor Podcast | Helping Veterans Navigate Real Estate & VA Benefits
📍 Hosted by John Reuter – Air Force Veteran & Madison’s Trusted Realtor
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📩 For inquiries or guest requests:
🎖️ John Reuter
📧 Email: john@integrityhomeswi.com
📞 Call/Text: 608-669-4226
🎖️ Serving Those Who Served – Making Homeownership Easy for Veterans!