State / Territory Benefits - Florida
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Benefits
Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Facilities
Summary: The state of Florida offers special benefits for its military Service members and Veterans including homestead tax exemptions, state employment preferences, education and tuition assistance, vehicle tags, as well as hunting and fishing license privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component, and Veteran disability status.
State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility
Income Tax: No State Income Tax in the state of Florida
Retirement Income: Not taxed
Homestead Tax Exemptions for Veterans: Any real estate owned and used as a homestead by a Veteran is exempt from taxation.
Eligibility: Veteran must have been honorably discharged and have a rated service-connected, permanent and total disability; the Veteran must be a permanent resident of the state on January 1 of the tax year for which exemption is being claimed.
Homestead Tax Exemptions for Veteran's Spouse: If, upon the death of the Veteran, the spouse holds the legal or beneficial title to the homestead and permanently resides there, the exemption from taxation carries over to the benefit of the Veteran's spouse until such time as he or she remarries, sells, or otherwise disposes of the property. If the spouse sells the property, an exemption not to exceed the amount granted from the most recent ad valorem tax roll may be transferred to the new residence as long as it is used as the primary residence and the spouse does not remarry.
Homestead Tax Exemptions for Disabled Veteran: Any partially disabled Veteran who is age 65 or older, who was a Florida resident at the time of entering military service, any portion of whose disability was combat-related, and who was honorably discharged, may be eligible for the amount of ad valorem tax on the homestead commensurate with the percentage of the Veteran's permanent service-connected disability. Eligible Veterans should apply for this benefit at the county appraiser's office.
Homestead Tax Exemptions for Surviving Spouse of Member of Armed Forces Who Died From Service-Connected Causes While On Active Duty: Any real estate owned and used as a homestead by the surviving spouse of a member of the Armed Forces who died from service-connected causes while on active duty is exempt from taxation if the member was a permanent resident of this state on January 1 of the year in which the member died.
Homestead Property Tax Exemption (10% to 100% BUT not Permanent in nature): Eligible, resident Veterans with a VA certified service-connected disability of 10% or greater shall be entitled to a $5,000 homestead property tax exemption.
Eligibility: To qualify for homestead exemption, a Veteran must be a bona fide resident of the state. The Veteran must establish this exemption with the county tax official in the county in which the Veteran resides by providing documentation of this disability from the VA. If the benefit is in effect at the time of death of the Veteran, the benefit will carry over to the un-remarried spouse who had been married to the deceased Veteran for at least five years. If the spouse sells the property, an exemption not to exceed the amount granted in the most recent ad valorem tax roll may be transferred to the new residence if used as the primary residence. EVERY person who is entitled to homestead exemption is this state and who is serving in any branch of the Armed Forces of the U.S. may file a claim for homestead exemption. Service personnel entitled to homestead exemption in this state, and who are unable to file in person may file through next of kin or a duly authorized representative. FS 196.071
Real Estate Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans: Veterans who are paraplegic, hemiplegics, permanently and totally disabled, must use a wheelchair for mobility, or are legally blind, are exempt from real estate taxation if gross annual household income does not exceed the adjusted maximum allowed. Check with local property appraiser to determine if gross annual household income qualifies.
Eligibility: The Veteran must be a resident of the State of Florida to qualify. Certificate of such disability from two licensed doctors from Florida or from the VA or an award letter from the Social Security Administration to the property appraiser is prima facie evidence of entitlement to such exemption.
Occupational License Tax Exemption: A disabled wartime Veteran who is unable to perform manual labor and his/her un-remarried spouse shall be exempt for this tax up to $50.00.
Eligibility: This exemption is applicable to Veterans and their surviving spouses who are Florida residents.
Educational Dollars for Duty (EDD): 100% paid tuition at state colleges/universities (undergraduate only) at Florida public community college/university. Additionally you can apply for Florida National Guard sponsored scholarship (NGOA-F) for $1,000.
Eligibility: Air/Army National Guard member who has less than 15 years of service, who joined the Florida National Guard after 1 July 1997 and who has completed basic training and AIT. The Service member has 5 years to use benefit from date of eligibility and has a three-year obligation after completing degree or from last semester of usage of funds. Service member is required to sign agreement prior to utilization of the program.
State Tuition Exemption Program (STEP): 50% waiver at any state school or university up to a BA degree.
Eligibility: Air/Army National Guard member who has less than 15 years of total military service continuously maintain active participation in the FLNG, completed basic training and AIT and who is at least 17 years of age. Service member has a three-year obligation after completing degree or from last semester waiver was granted. Service member is required to sign agreement prior to utilization of the program.
Scholarships for Children and Spouse of Deceased or Disabled Veterans and Service members (CSDDV): The Scholarships for Children and Spouses of Deceased or Disabled Veterans and Service members (CSDDV) provides scholarships for dependent children or un-remarried spouses of Florida Veterans or Service members who died as a result of service-connected injuries, diseases, or disabilities sustained while on active duty or who have been verified by the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs as having service-connected 100% permanent and total disabilities. CSDDV also provides funds for dependent children whose parent is classified as a prisoner of war or missing in action by the Armed Forces of the United States or as civilian personnel captured while serving with the consent or authorization of the United States Government during wartime service. CSDDV provides funds for tuition and registration fees at an eligible public postsecondary institution or the equivalent at an eligible private postsecondary institution.
Initial Eligibility Requirements to Receive Funding
The Veteran or Service member will:
•· Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
•· Be a Florida resident for one year immediately preceding time of death, determination of 100% disability, or prisoner of war/missing in action classification.
•· Have died as a result of a service-connected disability(ies) sustained while on active duty.
•· Have been certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs as having a service-connected 100% permanent and total disability.
•· Have been classified as a prisoner of war or missing in action by the Armed Forces of the United States or as civilian personnel captured while serving with the consent or authorization of the United States Government during wartime service for a dependent child to receive scholarship funding.
The child or spouse will:
•· Be a Florida resident and a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. A student's residency and citizenship status are determined by the postsecondary institution. Questions regarding such status should be directed to the financial aid office or admissions office of the institution the student plans to attend.
•· Not owe a repayment or be in default under any state or federal grant, loan, or scholarship program unless satisfactory arrangements to repay have been made.
•· Not have previously received a baccalaureate degree.
•· Enroll in an undergraduate degree or certificate program for a minimum of six credit hours, 180 clock hours, or the equivalent, per term at an eligible participating postsecondary institution.
•· Meet State of Florida's general eligibility requirements for receipt of state aid.
Additional Specific Initial Eligibility Requirements for Children
The child will:
•o Be a dependent child of a qualified Veteran or Service member whose official military and residency status is certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
•o Be between the ages of 16 and 22.
•o Receive educational opportunity until such a time as the parent so classified as prisoner of war or missing in action is returned alive or until classified otherwise.
Additional Specific Requirements for Spouses of Deceased Service members
The spouse will:
•o Be un-remarried
•o Have been the spouse of a qualified Veteran or Service member whose official military and residency status is certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
•o Have been, with the Service member, a Florida resident for 1 year immediately preceding the Service member's death as certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
•o Apply for the scholarship within 5 years after the Service member's death as certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
Additional Specific Requirements for Spouses of Disabled Service members
The spouse will:
•o Be the spouse of a qualified Veteran or Service member whose official military and residency status is certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
•o Have been married to the disabled Service member for one or more years as certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
•o Have been, with the Service member, a Florida resident for 1 year immediately preceding the occurrence of the Service member's disability as certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs
•o Accept scholarship funding only during the duration of the marriage and up to the point of termination of the marriage by dissolution or annulment.
Waiver for Recipients of Purple Heart or Superior Combat Decorations: Provides a tuition and fee waiver to recipients of the Purple Heart or other combat decoration superior in precedence if the recipient is enrolling in a Florida public community college or state university, and provided he or she meets specific criteria. This waiver is applicable for 110 percent of the number of required credit hours of the degree or certificate program for which the student is enrolled.
Eligibility:
•· Enrolled full-time, part-time, or summer-school student in an undergraduate program of study leading to a degree or certificate;
•· Currently, and was at the time of the military action that resulted in the awarding of the Purple Heart or other superior combat decoration, a resident of Florida; and
•· Submits to the state university or the community college or university Department of Defense Form 214 (DD-214), issued at the time of separation from service, as documentation that he or she has received a Purple Heart or other combat decoration superior in precedence.
High School Diploma for Korean Veterans: Florida Veterans who served during the Korean War may be eligible to receive a high school diploma. The diplomas are for any Veteran who currently resides in Florida, regardless of whether they were living in Florida at the time they went to high school. The Florida Department of Education will send a standard Florida high school diploma upon receiving a completed and notarized application along with your DD Form 214 or honorable discharge. Also, Family members who would like to apply for a diploma posthumously may do so.
Eligibility: Must be a Florida resident; inducted into military service between June 27, 1950 and January 31, 1954; received an honorable discharge; started high school between 1946 and 1950; and scheduled to graduate from high school between 1950 and 1954.
High School Diploma for World War II Veterans: The 2000 Florida Legislature passed legislation authorizing the Commissioner of Education to award a high school diploma to honorably discharged World War II Veterans. These diplomas are for any Veteran who currently resides in Florida, regardless of whether they were living in Florida at the time they went to high school. Also, Family members who would like to apply for a diploma posthumously for a Veteran who has died may do so.
Eligibility: Must be a Florida resident; inducted into military service between September 16, 1940 and December 31, 1946; received an honorable discharge; started high school between 1937-1946; and scheduled to graduate from high school between 1941-1950.
Employment Assistance: The usual fee shall not be required for the issuance of a Commission as a Notary Public.
Eligibility: Veteran who served during a period of wartime service, and who has been rated 50% or more for service-connected disability. Other fees may apply. FS 117.01
Florida Service-Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Opportunity Act: It is the intent of the Legislature to rectify the economic disadvantage of service-disabled Veterans, who are statistically the least likely to be self-employed when compared to the Veteran population as a whole and who have made extraordinary sacrifices on behalf of the nation, the state, and the public, by providing opportunities for service-disabled Veteran business enterprises as set forth in this section. A state agency, when considering two or more bids, proposals, or replies for the procurement of commodities or contractual services, at least one of which is from a certified service-disabled Veteran business enterprise, that are equal with respect to all relevant considerations, including price, quality, and service, shall award such procurement or contract to the certified service-disabled Veteran business enterprise.
Employment Preference: An eligible Veteran is entitled to preference at each stage of the hiring process; however, the preference is not absolute. Employment preferences, where numerically based examinations are used as a device for selections, consists of adding ten points to the score of the first category of applicants (disabled Veterans and spouses of disabled or missing Veterans) and five points to the score of other preference-eligible applicants. The names of all the preference-eligible applicants shall be placed on a register or employment list, beginning with those disabled Veterans with disability ratings of 30 percent or more, and followed by all other preference-eligible applicants in the order of their augmented ratings. A Veteran can file a complaint with the FDVA when a non-preference applicant has been employed instead of an equally qualified Veteran.
Eligibility: Section 295.07, Florida Statutes, extends Veterans' preference to the following:
•· A Veteran with a service-connected disability who is eligible for or receiving compensation, disability retirement, or pension under public laws administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense.
•· The spouse of a Veteran who cannot qualify for employment because of a total and permanent service-connected disability, or the spouse of a Veteran missing in action, captured, or forcibly detained by a foreign power.
•· A Veteran of any war who has served on active duty for one day or more during a wartime period, excluding active duty for training.
•· The un-remarried widow or widower of a Veteran who died of a service-connected disability
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Benefits:
Handicapped Toll Permit: Any handicapped person who has a valid driver's license, who operates a vehicle specially equipped for use by the handicapped, and who is certified by a licensed physician or by the VA Adjudication Officer as being physically disabled and having permanent impairments which impair the person's ability to deposit coins in toll baskets shall be allowed to pass free through all tollgates. A vehicle window sticker will be issued.
Special Vehicle License Plates and Permits:
Congressional Medal of Honor License Plate: No fee.
Eligibility: Veteran owner or lessee (or their un-remarried surviving spouse) of an automobile for private use, who is a resident of the state and has been awarded the U.S. Congressional Medal of Honor may be issued a special plate.
Ex Prisoner of War (POW) Plate: License plates stamped with the words "EX-POW" are tax exempt; This plate is offered to eligible military members at no charge, however, administrative fees apply to civilians according to weight of vehicle.
Eligibility: Veteran or member of the Armed Forces, who is an Ex Prisoner of War, may be issued this special license plate.
National Guard Plate: Taxes and administrative fees are assessed according to the weight of the vehicle.
Eligibility: Applicant is an active or retired member of the Florida National Guard.
U.S. Reserve: Taxes and administrative fees are assessed according to the weight of the vehicle.
Eligibility: Applicant is an active or retired member of the U.S. Reserves.
Purple Heart Plate: Taxes and administrative fees are charged.
Eligibility: Applicant has been awarded the Purple Heart Medal
Pearl Harbor Survivor: Taxes and administrative fees are assessed according to the weight of the vehicle.
Eligibility: Applicant is able to prove military involvement within Pearl Harbor timeline.
Gold Star Plate: Taxes and administrative fees are assessed according to the weight of the vehicle.
Eligibility: Required proof of Gold Star recipient.
Operation Enduring Freedom: Taxes and administrative fees are assessed according to the weight of the vehicle.
Eligibility: Applicant is able to prove military involvement with Operation Enduring Freedom.
Operation Iraqi Freedom: Taxes and administrative fees are assessed according to the weight of the vehicle.
Eligibility: Applicant is able to prove military involvement with Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Korean Conflict Veteran: Taxes and administrative fees are assessed according to the weight of the vehicle.
Eligibility: Applicant is able to prove military involvement with the Korean Conflict.
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Vietnam War Veteran: Taxes and administrative fees are assessed according to the weight of the vehicle.
Eligibility: Applicant is able to prove military involvement in the Vietnam War.
Florida Driver's License: No fee for driver's license for disabled Veterans
Eligibility: Any Veteran honorably discharged from the Armed Forces who has a valid FDVA disabled Veteran identification card or who has been determined by the VA or DoD to have a total and permanent service-connected disability and is qualified to obtain a driver's license.
Disabled Veteran Motor Vehicle License Plate: One free disabled Veteran "DV" license plate will be issued for any leased or owned motor vehicle. No state agency, county, municipality, or agency thereof may charge the driver of a vehicle displaying a Disabled Veteran license plate any fee for parking on the public streets or highways or in any metered parking space. Free license plates with a wheelchair emblem are available for those Veterans permanently confined to a wheelchair and who otherwise qualify for a DV plate.
Eligibility: 100% permanent and totally disabled Veteran, or a disabled Veteran with less than 100% disability with proof that his/her vehicle was acquired or modified for use through financial assistance of the VA. Veteran must have been a resident of Florida continuously for the past five years prior to application or has established a domicile in the state. Service charges may apply.
Health and Insurance Benefits:
Medical Benefits: Worker's compensation; State Active Duty call-up-Humana; Line-of-duty full pay statute for up to 1 yr, after 1 yr regular worker's compensation rate.
Eligibility: National Guard members
Group Insurance: Up to $50,000 per active guard member.
Eligibility: Active Florida National Guard member.
Workers Compensation: State Active Duty.
Eligibility: National Guard member.
Injury and Death Benefits: State Active Duty retained on duty up to 1 yr plus medical costs, after 1 yr placed on worker's compensation. Survivor benefits of $25,000 and worker's compensation if Service member killed/dies of injury.
Eligibility: National Guard member.
Parks and Recreation Benefits:
Hunting and Fishing Licenses:
Disabled Veteran Hunting and Fishing License: In order to receive a no-cost Resident Disabled Person's Hunting and Fishing Certificate from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, applicants must attach a copy of one of the following certifying him or her as totally and permanently disabled:
•· Certification by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces
•· A Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs 100% Service-connected Disabled Veteran Identification Card (must have a statement of "total and permanent disabled")
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission offers a Military Gold Sportsman's License and Reduced-Fee Annual License: The reduced-fee annual license ($20) offers the same privileges as the traditional Gold Sportsman's License ($100). The license is only available at tax collectors' offices. Applicants must show their military ID cards plus a Florida driver's license or orders showing they are stationed in Florida.
Eligibility: Active duty, Armed Forces Reserve, National Guard, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Coast Guard Reserve, and retired military who are stationed in Florida or have lived in the state for six months and claim Florida as their primary residence.
Disabled Veteran Identification Card: The Department of Veterans' Affairs may issue an identification card to any Veteran who is a permanent resident of the state and who has been adjudged by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or its predecessor to have a 100-percent, service-connected permanent and total disability rating for compensation, this could also be a rating of Individual Unemployability from the VA, or who has been determined to have a service-connected total and permanent disability rating of 100 percent and is in receipt of disability retirement pay from any branch of the United States Armed Services, upon the written request of such Veteran. Such card may be used by the Veteran as proof of eligibility for any benefit provided by state law for 100-percent, service-connected permanently and totally disabled Veterans except this card may not be used as proof of eligibility for Exemption of Homesteads. The identification card shall bear a statement that it is unlawful for any person other than the Veteran to whom it was issued to use the card. FS 295.17
To obtain a card: Contact the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs' at 1-800-827-1000, extension 7400 or commercial at (727) 319-7440 and request an application or contact the local County Veteran Service Office.
Veteran's Assisted Living Facility: The Robert H. Jenkins Jr. Veterans' Domiciliary Home in Lake City (Columbia County) opened to residents in 1990. The recently renovated 149-bed Assisted Living Facility provides a special combination of housing, personalized supportive services and incidental medical care to eligible Veterans. Veterans must be able to feed and dress themselves and in need of assisted living care.
Eligibility: Honorably discharged Veteran, 1-year resident of the State of Florida (at time of application), 60 years or older, needing assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADL) - i.e., feeding, grooming, medications, or food preparation due to disease or disability. UNDER 60 YEARS OLD Veteran must be adjudicated as Social Security-, VA pension-, or other disability benefit - permanently unable to work. NOT in need of a nursing home or hospital.
Veterans' Nursing Home: There are currently six 120-bed Veteran Nursing facilities located in Florida. They include the Emory L. Bennett State Veterans' Nursing Home in Daytona Beach, the Baldomero Lopez State Veterans' Nursing Home in Land O' Lakes, the Alexander "Sandy" Nininger Veterans' Nursing Home in Pembroke Pines, the Clifford C. Sims State Veterans' Nursing Home in Panama City, the Douglas T. Jacobson State Veterans' Nursing Home in Port Charlotte and the Clyde E. Lassen State Veterans' Nursing Home in St. Augustine.
Eligibility: Requirements for all state Veteran's homes include an honorable discharge, state residency for one year prior to admission, and certification of need of assisted living or skilled nursing care as determined by a VA physician. For more information call (727) 518-3202 Ext. 5562.
Burial Benefits: The VA provides honorably discharged Veterans, spouses and dependents with burial in a National Cemetery at no cost. Cremated remains are also accepted. Eligible spouses and dependents may be buried if they predecease the Veteran. The VA provides a headstone, marker or medallion for placement on a private headstone at a private cemetery.
National Veteran's Cemeteries: VA has seven national cemeteries in Florida including Jacksonville National Cemetery, Sarasota National Cemetery, South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth, Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, recently expanded Barrancas National Cemetery in Pensacola, Bay Pines National Cemetery which offers cremation burial sites only and St. Augustine National Cemetery, established in 1881, has been closed since 1997.
Eligibility: Veterans with a discharge issued under conditions other than dishonorable, their spouses and eligible dependent children can be buried in a VA national cemetery. Also eligible are military personnel who die on active duty, their spouses and eligible dependents.
Income Tax: No State Income Tax in the state of Florida
Homestead Tax Exemptions for Veterans: Any real estate owned and used as a homestead by a Veteran is exempt from taxation.
Eligibility: Veteran must have been honorably discharged and have a rated service-connected, permanent and total disability; the Veteran must be a permanent resident of the state on January 1 of the tax year for which exemption is being claimed.
Homestead Tax Exemptions for Disabled Veteran: Any partially disabled Veteran who is age 65 or older, who was a Florida resident at the time of entering military service, any portion of whose disability was combat-related, and who was honorably discharged, may be eligible for the amount of ad valorem tax on the homestead commensurate with the percentage of the Veteran's permanent service-connected disability. Eligible Veterans should apply for this benefit at the county appraiser's office.
Homestead Property Tax Exemption (10% to 100% BUT not Permanent in nature): Eligible, resident Veterans with a VA certified service-connected disability of 10% or greater shall be entitled to a $5,000 homestead property tax exemption.
Eligibility: To qualify for homestead exemption, a Veteran must be a bona fide resident of the state. The Veteran must establish this exemption with the county tax official in the county in which the Veteran resides by providing documentation of this disability from the VA. If the benefit is in effect at the time of death of the Veteran, the benefit will carry over to the un-remarried spouse who had been married to the deceased Veteran for at least five years. If the spouse sells the property, an exemption not to exceed the amount granted in the most recent ad valorem tax roll may be transferred to the new residence if used as the primary residence. EVERY person who is entitled to homestead exemption is this state and who is serving in any branch of the Armed Forces of the U.S. may file a claim for homestead exemption. Service personnel entitled to homestead exemption in this state, and who are unable to file in person may file through next of kin or a duly authorized representative. FS 196.071
Real Estate Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans: Veterans who are paraplegic, hemiplegics, permanently and totally disabled, must use a wheelchair for mobility, or are legally blind, are exempt from real estate taxation if gross annual household income does not exceed the adjusted maximum allowed. Check with local property appraiser to determine if gross annual household income qualifies.
Eligibility: The Veteran must be a resident of the State of Florida to qualify. Certificate of such disability from two licensed doctors from Florida or from the VA or an award letter from the Social Security Administration to the property appraiser is prima facie evidence of entitlement to such exemption.
Occupational License Tax Exemption: A disabled wartime Veteran who is unable to perform manual labor and his/her un-remarried spouse shall be exempt for this tax up to $50.00.
Eligibility: This exemption is applicable to Veterans and their surviving spouses who are Florida residents.
Scholarships for Children and Spouse of Deceased or Disabled Veterans and Service members (CSDDV): The Scholarships for Children and Spouses of Deceased or Disabled Veterans and Service members (CSDDV) provides scholarships for dependent children or un-remarried spouses of Florida Veterans or Service members who died as a result of service-connected injuries, diseases, or disabilities sustained while on active duty or who have been verified by the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs as having service-connected 100% permanent and total disabilities. CSDDV also provides funds for dependent children whose parent is classified as a prisoner of war or missing in action by the Armed Forces of the United States or as civilian personnel captured while serving with the consent or authorization of the United States Government during wartime service. CSDDV provides funds for tuition and registration fees at an eligible public postsecondary institution or the equivalent at an eligible private postsecondary institution.
Initial Eligibility Requirements to Receive Funding
The Veteran or Service member will:
•· Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
•· Be a Florida resident for one year immediately preceding time of death, determination of 100% disability, or prisoner of war/missing in action classification.
•· Have died as a result of a service-connected disability(ies) sustained while on active duty.
•· Have been certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs as having a service-connected 100% permanent and total disability.
•· Have been classified as a prisoner of war or missing in action by the Armed Forces of the United States or as civilian personnel captured while serving with the consent or authorization of the United States Government during wartime service for a dependent child to receive scholarship funding.
The child or spouse will:
•· Be a Florida resident and a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. A student's residency and citizenship status are determined by the postsecondary institution. Questions regarding such status should be directed to the financial aid office or admissions office of the institution the student plans to attend.
•· Not owe a repayment or be in default under any state or federal grant, loan, or scholarship program unless satisfactory arrangements to repay have been made.
•· Not have previously received a baccalaureate degree.
•· Enroll in an undergraduate degree or certificate program for a minimum of six credit hours, 180 clock hours, or the equivalent, per term at an eligible participating postsecondary institution.
•· Meet State of Florida's general eligibility requirements for receipt of state aid.
Additional Specific Initial Eligibility Requirements for Children
The child will:
•o Be a dependent child of a qualified Veteran or Service member whose official military and residency status is certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
•o Be between the ages of 16 and 22.
•o Receive educational opportunity until such a time as the parent so classified as prisoner of war or missing in action is returned alive or until classified otherwise.
Additional Specific Requirements for Spouses of Deceased Service members
The spouse will:
•o Be un-remarried
•o Have been the spouse of a qualified Veteran or Service member whose official military and residency status is certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
•o Have been, with the Service member, a Florida resident for 1 year immediately preceding the Service member's death as certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
•o Apply for the scholarship within 5 years after the Service member's death as certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
Additional Specific Requirements for Spouses of Disabled Service members
The spouse will:
•o Be the spouse of a qualified Veteran or Service member whose official military and residency status is certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
•o Have been married to the disabled Service member for one or more years as certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
•o Have been, with the Service member, a Florida resident for 1 year immediately preceding the occurrence of the Service member's disability as certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs
•o Accept scholarship funding only during the duration of the marriage and up to the point of termination of the marriage by dissolution or annulment.
Waiver for Recipients of Purple Heart or Superior Combat Decorations: Provides a fee waiver to recipients of the Purple Heart or other combat decoration superior in precedence if the recipient is enrolling in a Florida public community college or state university, and provided he or she meets specific criteria. This waiver is applicable for 110 percent of the number of required credit hours of the degree or certificate program for which the student is enrolled.
Eligibility:
•· Enrolled full-time, part-time, or summer-school student in an undergraduate program of study leading to a degree or certificate;
•· Currently, and was at the time of the military action that resulted in the awarding of the Purple Heart or other superior combat decoration, a resident of Florida; and
•· Submits to the state university or the community college or university Department of Defense Form 214 (DD-214), issued at the time of separation from service, as documentation that he or she has received a Purple Heart or other combat decoration superior in precedence.
Occupational License Tax Exemption: A disabled wartime Veteran who is unable to perform manual labor and his/her un-remarried spouse shall be exempt for this tax up to $50.00.
Eligibility: This exemption is applicable to Veterans and their surviving spouses who are Florida residents.
Employment Assistance: The usual fee shall not be required for the issuance of a Commission as a Notary Public.
Eligibility: Veteran who served during a period of wartime service, and who has been rated 50% or more for service-connected disability. Other fees may apply. FS 117.01
Florida Service-Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Opportunity Act: It is the intent of the Legislature to rectify the economic disadvantage of service-disabled Veterans, who are statistically the least likely to be self-employed when compared to the Veteran population as a whole and who have made extraordinary sacrifices on behalf of the nation, the state, and the public, by providing opportunities for service-disabled Veteran business enterprises as set forth in this section. A state agency, when considering two or more bids, proposals, or replies for the procurement of commodities or contractual services, at least one of which is from a certified service-disabled Veteran business enterprise, that are equal with respect to all relevant considerations, including price, quality, and service, shall award such procurement or contract to the certified service-disabled Veteran business enterprise.
Employment Preference: An eligible Veteran is entitled to preference at each stage of the hiring process; however, the preference is not absolute. Employment preferences, where numerically based examinations are used as a device for selections, consists of adding ten points to the score of the first category of applicants (disabled Veterans and spouses of disabled or missing Veterans) and five points to the score of other preference-eligible applicants. The names of all the preference-eligible applicants shall be placed on a register or employment list, beginning with those disabled Veterans with disability ratings of 30 percent or more, and followed by all other preference-eligible applicants in the order of their augmented ratings. A Veteran can file a complaint with the FDVA when a non-preference applicant has been employed instead of an equally qualified Veteran.
Eligibility: Section 295.07, Florida Statutes, extends Veterans' preference to the following:
•· A Veteran with a service-connected disability who is eligible for or receiving compensation, disability retirement, or pension under public laws administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense.
•· The spouse of a Veteran who cannot qualify for employment because of a total and permanent service-connected disability, or the spouse of a Veteran missing in action, captured, or forcibly detained by a foreign power.
•· A Veteran of any war who has served on active duty for one day or more during a wartime period, excluding active duty for training.
•· The un-remarried widow or widower of a Veteran who died of a service-connected disability.
Handicapped Toll Permit: Any handicapped person who has a valid driver's license, who operates a vehicle specially equipped for use by the handicapped, and who is certified by a licensed physician or by the VA Adjudication Officer as being physically disabled and having permanent impairments which impair the person's ability to deposit coins in toll baskets shall be allowed to pass free through all tollgates. A vehicle window sticker will be issued.
Purple Heart Plate: Taxes and administrative fees are charged.
Eligibility: Applicant has been awarded the Purple Heart Medal
Florida Driver's License: No fee for driver's license for disabled Veterans
Eligibility: Any Veteran honorably discharged from the Armed Forces who has a valid FDVA disabled Veteran identification card or who has been determined by the VA or DoD to have a total and permanent service-connected disability and is qualified to obtain a driver's license.
Disabled Veteran Motor Vehicle License Plate: One free disabled Veteran "DV" license plate will be issued for any leased or owned motor vehicle. No state agency, county, municipality, or agency thereof may charge the driver of a vehicle displaying a Disabled Veteran license plate any fee for parking on the public streets or highways or in any metered parking space. Free license plates with a wheelchair emblem are available for those Veterans permanently confined to a wheelchair and who otherwise qualify for a DV plate.
Eligibility: 100% permanent and totally disabled Veteran, or a disabled Veteran with less than 100% disability with proof that his/her vehicle was acquired or modified for use through financial assistance of the VA. Veteran must have been a resident of Florida continuously for the past five years prior to application or has established a domicile in the state. Service charges may apply.
Disabled Veteran Hunting and Fishing License: In order to receive a no-cost Resident Disabled Person's Hunting and Fishing Certificate from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, applicants must attach a copy of one of the following certifying him or her as totally and permanently disabled:
•· Certification by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces
•· A Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs 100% Service-connected Disabled Veteran Identification Card (must have a statement of "total and permanent disabled")
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission offers a Military Gold Sportsman's License and Reduced-Fee Annual License: The reduced-fee annual license ($20) offers the same privileges as the traditional Gold Sportsman's License ($100). The license is only available at tax collectors' offices. Applicants must show their military ID cards plus a Florida driver's license or orders showing they are stationed in Florida.
Eligibility: Active duty, Armed Forces Reserve, National Guard, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Coast Guard Reserve, and retired military who are stationed in Florida or have lived in the state for six months and claim Florida as their primary residence.
Veteran's Assisted Living Facility: The Robert H. Jenkins Jr. Veterans' Domiciliary Home in Lake City (Columbia County) opened to residents in 1990. The recently renovated 149-bed Assisted Living Facility provides a special combination of housing, personalized supportive services and incidental medical care to eligible Veterans. Veterans must be able to feed and dress themselves and in need of assisted living care.
Eligibility: Honorably discharged Veteran, 1-year resident of the State of Florida (at time of application), 60 years or older, needing assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADL) - i.e., feeding, grooming, medications, or food preparation due to disease or disability. UNDER 60 YEARS OLD Veteran must be adjudicated as Social Security-, VA pension-, or other disability benefit - permanently unable to work. NOT in need of a nursing home or hospital.
Veterans' Nursing Home: There are currently six 120-bed Veteran Nursing facilities located in Florida. They include the Emory L. Bennett State Veterans' Nursing Home in Daytona Beach, the Baldomero Lopez State Veterans' Nursing Home in Land O' Lakes, the Alexander "Sandy" Nininger Veterans' Nursing Home in Pembroke Pines, the Clifford C. Sims State Veterans' Nursing Home in Panama City, the Douglas T. Jacobson State Veterans' Nursing Home in Port Charlotte and the Clyde E. Lassen State Veterans' Nursing Home in St. Augustine.
Eligibility: Requirements for all state Veteran's homes include an honorable discharge, state residency for one year prior to admission, and certification of need of assisted living or skilled nursing care as determined by a VA physician. For more information call (727) 518-3202 Ext. 5562.
Homestead Tax Exemptions for Veteran's Spouse: If, upon the death of the Veteran, the spouse holds the legal or beneficial title to the homestead and permanently resides there, the exemption from taxation carries over to the benefit of the Veteran's spouse until such time as he or she remarries, sells, or otherwise disposes of the property. If the spouse sells the property, an exemption not to exceed the amount granted from the most recent ad valorem tax roll may be transferred to the new residence as long as it is used as the primary residence and the spouse does not remarry.
Homestead Tax Exemptions for Surviving Spouse of Member of Armed Forces Who Died From Service-Connected Causes While On Active Duty: Any real estate owned and used as a homestead by the surviving spouse of a member of the Armed Forces who died from service-connected causes while on active duty is exempt from taxation if the member was a permanent resident of this state on January 1 of the year in which the member died.
Homestead Property Tax Exemption (10% to 100% BUT not Permanent in nature): Eligible, resident Veterans with a VA certified service-connected disability of 10% or greater shall be entitled to a $5,000 homestead property tax exemption.
Eligibility: To qualify for homestead exemption, a Veteran must be a bona fide resident of the state. The Veteran must establish this exemption with the county tax official in the county in which the Veteran resides by providing documentation of this disability from the VA. If the benefit is in effect at the time of death of the Veteran, the benefit will carry over to the un-remarried spouse who had been married to the deceased Veteran for at least five years. If the spouse sells the property, an exemption not to exceed the amount granted in the most recent ad valorem tax roll may be transferred to the new residence if used as the primary residence. EVERY person who is entitled to homestead exemption is this state and who is serving in any branch of the Armed Forces of the U.S. may file a claim for homestead exemption. Service personnel entitled to homestead exemption in this state, and who are unable to file in person may file through next of kin or a duly authorized representative. FS 196.071
Occupational License Tax Exemption: A disabled wartime Veteran who is unable to perform manual labor and his/her un-remarried spouse shall be exempt for this tax up to $50.00.
Eligibility: This exemption is applicable to Veterans and their surviving spouses who are Florida residents.
Scholarships for Children and Spouse of Deceased or Disabled Veterans and Service members (CSDDV): The Scholarships for Children and Spouses of Deceased or Disabled Veterans and Service members (CSDDV) provides scholarships for dependent children or un-remarried spouses of Florida Veterans or Service members who died as a result of service-connected injuries, diseases, or disabilities sustained while on active duty or who have been verified by the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs as having service-connected 100% permanent and total disabilities. CSDDV also provides funds for dependent children whose parent is classified as a prisoner of war or missing in action by the Armed Forces of the United States or as civilian personnel captured while serving with the consent or authorization of the United States Government during wartime service. CSDDV provides funds for tuition and registration fees at an eligible public postsecondary institution or the equivalent at an eligible private postsecondary institution.
Initial Eligibility Requirements to Receive Funding
The Veteran or Service member will:
•· Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
•· Be a Florida resident for one year immediately preceding time of death, determination of 100% disability, or prisoner of war/missing in action classification.
•· Have died as a result of a service-connected disability(ies) sustained while on active duty.
•· Have been certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs as having a service-connected 100% permanent and total disability.
•· Have been classified as a prisoner of war or missing in action by the Armed Forces of the United States or as civilian personnel captured while serving with the consent or authorization of the United States Government during wartime service for a dependent child to receive scholarship funding.
The child or spouse will:
•· Be a Florida resident and a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. A student's residency and citizenship status are determined by the postsecondary institution. Questions regarding such status should be directed to the financial aid office or admissions office of the institution the student plans to attend.
•· Not owe a repayment or be in default under any state or federal grant, loan, or scholarship program unless satisfactory arrangements to repay have been made.
•· Not have previously received a baccalaureate degree.
•· Enroll in an undergraduate degree or certificate program for a minimum of six credit hours, 180 clock hours, or the equivalent, per term at an eligible participating postsecondary institution.
•· Meet State of Florida's general eligibility requirements for receipt of state aid.
Additional Specific Initial Eligibility Requirements for Children
The child will:
•o Be a dependent child of a qualified Veteran or Service member whose official military and residency status is certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
•o Be between the ages of 16 and 22.
•o Receive educational opportunity until such a time as the parent so classified as prisoner of war or missing in action is returned alive or until classified otherwise.
Additional Specific Requirements for Spouses of Deceased Service members
The spouse will:
•o Be un-married
•o Have been the spouse of a qualified Veteran or Service member whose official military and residency status is certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
•o Have been, with the Service member, a Florida resident for 1 year immediately preceding the Service member's death as certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
•o Apply for the scholarship within 5 years after the Service member's death as certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
Additional Specific Requirements for Spouses of Disabled Service members
The spouse will:
•o Be the spouse of a qualified Veteran or Service member whose official military and residency status is certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
•o Have been married to the disabled Service member for one or more years as certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs.
•o Have been, with the Service member, a Florida resident for 1 year immediately preceding the occurrence of the Service member's disability as certified by the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs
•o Accept scholarship funding only during the duration of the marriage and up to the point of termination of the marriage by dissolution or annulment.
Employment Preference: An eligible Veteran is entitled to preference at each stage of the hiring process; however, the preference is not absolute. Employment preferences, where numerically based examinations are used as a device for selections, consists of adding ten points to the score of the first category of applicants (disabled Veterans and spouses of disabled or missing Veterans) and five points to the score of other preference-eligible applicants. The names of all the preference-eligible applicants shall be placed on a register or employment list, beginning with those disabled Veterans with disability ratings of 30 percent or more, and followed by all other preference-eligible applicants in the order of their augmented ratings. A Veteran can file a complaint with the FDVA when a non-preference applicant has been employed instead of an equally qualified Veteran.
Eligibility: Section 295.07, Florida Statutes, extends Veterans' preference to the following:
•· A Veteran with a service-connected disability who is eligible for or receiving compensation, disability retirement, or pension under public laws administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense.
•· The spouse of a Veteran who cannot qualify for employment because of a total and permanent service-connected disability, or the spouse of a Veteran missing in action, captured, or forcibly detained by a foreign power.
•· A Veteran of any war who has served on active duty for one day or more during a wartime period, excluding active duty for training.
•· The un-remarried widow or widower of a Veteran who died of a service-connected disability
Gold Star Plate: Taxes and administrative fees are assessed according to the weight of the vehicle.
Eligibility: Required proof of Gold Star recipient.
Burial Benefits: The VA provides honorably discharged Veterans, spouses and dependents with burial in a National Cemetery at no cost. Cremated remains are also accepted. Eligible spouses and dependents may be buried if they predecease the Veteran. The VA provides a headstone, marker or medallion for placement on a private headstone at a private cemetery
National Veteran's Cemeteries: VA has seven national cemeteries in Florida including Jacksonville National Cemetery, Sarasota National Cemetery, South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth, Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, recently expanded Barrancas National Cemetery in Pensacola, Bay Pines National Cemetery which offers cremation burial sites only and St. Augustine National Cemetery, established in 1881, has been closed since 1997.
Eligibility: Veterans with a discharge issued under conditions other than dishonorable, their spouses and eligible dependent children can be buried in a VA national cemetery. Also eligible are military personnel who die on active duty, their spouses and eligible dependents.
Income Tax: No State Income Tax in the state of Florida
Educational Dollars for Duty (EDD): 100% paid tuition at state colleges/universities (undergraduate only) at Florida public community college/university. Additionally you can apply for Florida National Guard sponsored scholarship (NGOA-F) for $1,000.
Eligibility: Army National Guard member who has less than 15 years of service and who joined the Florida National Guard after 1 July 1997. The Service member has 5 years to use benefit from date of eligibility and has a three-year obligation after completing degree or from last semester of usage of funds. Service member is required to sign agreement prior to utilization of the program.
State Tuition Exemption Program (STEP): 50% waiver at any state school or university up to a BA degree.
Eligibility: Air/Army National Guard member who has less than 15 years of total military service continuously maintain active participation in the FLNG. Service member has a three-year obligation after completing degree or from last semester waiver was granted. Service member is required to sign agreement prior to utilization of the program.
Employment Preference: An eligible Veteran is entitled to preference at each stage of the hiring process; however, the preference is not absolute. Employment preferences, where numerically based examinations are used as a device for selections, consists of adding ten points to the score of the first category of applicants (disabled Veterans and spouses of disabled or missing Veterans) and five points to the score of other preference-eligible applicants. The names of all the preference-eligible applicants shall be placed on a register or employment list, beginning with those disabled Veterans with disability ratings of 30 percent or more, and followed by all other preference-eligible applicants in the order of their augmented ratings. A Veteran can file a complaint with the FDVA when a non-preference applicant has been employed instead of an equally qualified Veteran.
Eligibility: Section 295.07, Florida Statutes, extends Veterans' preference to the following:
•· A Veteran with a service-connected disability who is eligible for or receiving compensation, disability retirement, or pension under public laws administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense.
•· The spouse of a Veteran who cannot qualify for employment because of a total and permanent service-connected disability, or the spouse of a Veteran missing in action, captured, or forcibly detained by a foreign power.
•· A Veteran of any war who has served on active duty for one day or more during a wartime period, excluding active duty for training.
•· The un-remarried widow or widower of a Veteran who died of a service-connected disability
National Guard Plate: Taxes and administrative fees are assessed according to the weight of the vehicle.
Eligibility: Applicant is an active or retired member of the Florida National Guard.
Medical Benefits: Worker's compensation; State Active Duty call-up-Humana; Line-of-duty full pay statute for up to 1 yr, after 1 yr regular worker's compensation rate.
Eligibility: National Guard members
Group Insurance: Up to $50,000 per active guard member.
Eligibility: Active Florida National Guard member.
Workers Compensation: State Active Duty.
Eligibility: National Guard member.
Injury and Death Benefits: State Active Duty retained on duty up to 1 yr plus medical costs, after 1 yr placed on worker's compensation. Survivor benefits of $25,000 and worker's compensation if Service member killed/dies of injury.
Eligibility: National Guard member.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission offers a Military Gold Sportsman's License and Reduced-Fee Annual License: The reduced-fee annual license ($20) offers the same privileges as the traditional Gold Sportsman's License ($100). The license is only available at tax collectors' offices. Applicants must show their military ID cards plus a Florida driver's license or orders showing they are stationed in Florida.
Eligibility: Active duty, Armed Forces Reserve, National Guard, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Coast Guard Reserve, and retired military who are stationed in Florida or have lived in the state for six months and claim Florida as their primary residence.
Veterans' Nursing Home: There are currently six 120-bed Veteran Nursing facilities located in Florida. They include the Emory L. Bennett State Veterans' Nursing Home in Daytona Beach, the Baldomero Lopez State Veterans' Nursing Home in Land O' Lakes, the Alexander "Sandy" Nininger Veterans' Nursing Home in Pembroke Pines, the Clifford C. Sims State Veterans' Nursing Home in Panama City, the Douglas T. Jacobson State Veterans' Nursing Home in Port Charlotte and the Clyde E. Lassen State Veterans' Nursing Home in St. Augustine.
Eligibility: Requirements for all state Veteran's homes include an honorable discharge, state residency for one year prior to admission, and certification of need of assisted living or skilled nursing care as determined by a VA physician. For more information call (727) 518-3202 Ext. 5562.
Burial Benefits: The VA provides honorably discharged Veterans, spouses and dependents with burial in a National Cemetery at no cost. Cremated remains are also accepted. Eligible spouses and dependents may be buried if they predecease the Veteran. The VA provides a headstone, marker or medallion for placement on a private headstone at a private cemetery
National Veteran's Cemeteries: VA has seven national cemeteries in Florida including Jacksonville National Cemetery, Sarasota National Cemetery, South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth, Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, recently expanded Barrancas National Cemetery in Pensacola, Bay Pines National Cemetery which offers cremation burial sites only and St. Augustine National Cemetery, established in 1881, has been closed since 1997.
Eligibility: Veterans with a discharge issued under conditions other than dishonorable, their spouses and eligible dependent children can be buried in a VA national cemetery. Also eligible are military personnel who die on active duty, their spouses and eligible dependents.
Income Tax: No State Income Tax in the state of Florida
Employment Preference: An eligible Veteran is entitled to preference at each stage of the hiring process; however, the preference is not absolute. Employment preferences, where numerically based examinations are used as a device for selections, consists of adding ten points to the score of the first category of applicants (disabled Veterans and spouses of disabled or missing Veterans) and five points to the score of other preference-eligible applicants. The names of all the preference-eligible applicants shall be placed on a register or employment list, beginning with those disabled Veterans with disability ratings of 30 percent or more, and followed by all other preference-eligible applicants in the order of their augmented ratings. A Veteran can file a complaint with the FDVA when a non-preference applicant has been employed instead of an equally qualified Veteran.
Eligibility: Section 295.07, Florida Statutes, extends Veterans' preference to the following:
•· A Veteran with a service-connected disability who is eligible for or receiving compensation, disability retirement, or pension under public laws administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense.
•· The spouse of a Veteran who cannot qualify for employment because of a total and permanent service-connected disability, or the spouse of a Veteran missing in action, captured, or forcibly detained by a foreign power.
•· A Veteran of any war who has served on active duty for one day or more during a wartime period, excluding active duty for training.
•· The un-remarried widow or widower of a Veteran who died of a service-connected disability.
U.S. Reserve Plate: Taxes and administrative fees are assessed according to the weight of the vehicle.
Eligibility: Applicant is an active or retired member of the U.S. Reserves.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission offers a Military Gold Sportsman's License and Reduced-Fee Annual License: The reduced-fee annual license ($20) offers the same privileges as the traditional Gold Sportsman's License ($100). The license is only available at tax collectors' offices. Applicants must show their military ID cards plus a Florida driver's license or orders showing they are stationed in Florida.
Eligibility: Active duty, Armed Forces Reserve, National Guard, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Coast Guard Reserve, and retired military who are stationed in Florida or have lived in the state for six months and claim Florida as their primary residence.
Veterans' Nursing Home: There are currently six 120-bed Veteran Nursing facilities located in Florida. They include the Emory L. Bennett State Veterans' Nursing Home in Daytona Beach, the Baldomero Lopez State Veterans' Nursing Home in Land O' Lakes, the Alexander "Sandy" Nininger Veterans' Nursing Home in Pembroke Pines, the Clifford C. Sims State Veterans' Nursing Home in Panama City, the Douglas T. Jacobson State Veterans' Nursing Home in Port Charlotte and the Clyde E. Lassen State Veterans' Nursing Home in St. Augustine.
Eligibility: Requirements for all state Veteran's homes include an honorable discharge, state residency for one year prior to admission, and certification of need of assisted living or skilled nursing care as determined by a VA physician. For more information call (727) 518-3202 Ext. 5562.
Burial Benefits: The VA provides honorably discharged Veterans, spouses and dependents with burial in a National Cemetery at no cost. Cremated remains are also accepted. Eligible spouses and dependents may be buried if they predecease the Veteran. The VA provides a headstone, marker or medallion for placement on a private headstone at a private cemetery.
National Veteran's Cemeteries: VA has seven national cemeteries in Florida including Jacksonville National Cemetery, Sarasota National Cemetery, South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth, Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, recently expanded Barrancas National Cemetery in Pensacola, Bay Pines National Cemetery which offers cremation burial sites only and St. Augustine National Cemetery, established in 1881, has been closed since 1997.
Eligibility: Veterans with a discharge issued under conditions other than dishonorable, their spouses and eligible dependent children can be buried in a VA national cemetery. Also eligible are military personnel who die on active duty, their spouses and eligible dependents.
Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Facilities in Florida:
VA Healthcare System
Bay Pines: Bay Pines VA Healthcare System, 10000 Bay Pines Blvd, 727-398-6661 / 888-820-0230
Gainesville: North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, 1601 SW Archer Rd, Gainesville, 352-376-1611 | 800-324-8387 and Lake City VA Medical Center, 619 South Marion Ave, Lake City, 386-755-3016 / 800-308-8387
VA Medical Center
Gainesville: Malcom Randall VAMC, NF/SGVHS, 1601 SW Archer Rd, 352-376-1611 | 800-324-8387
Lake City: Lake City VA Medical Center619 South Marion Ave, 386-755-3016 / 800-308-8387
Miami: Miami VA Healthcare System, 1201 N.W. 16th St, 305-575-7000 / 888-276-1785
Orlando: Orlando VA Medical Center, 5201 Raymond St, 407-629-1599 / 800-922-7521
Tampa: James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, 13000 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, 813-972-2000 / 888-811-0107
West Palm Beach: West Palm Beach VAMC, 7305 North Military Trail, 561-422-8262 / 800-972-8262
Outpatient Clinics
Cape Carol: Lee County VA Healthcare Center, 2489 Diplomat Pkwy East, 239-652-1800
Daytona Beach: William V. Chappell, Jr., VA OPC, 551 National Health Care Dr, 386-323-7500 / 800-953-6838
Jacksonville: Jacksonville OPC, 1833 Boulevard St, 904-232-2751 / 877-870-5048 / Fax: 904-232-2149
New Port Richey: New Port Richey OPC, 9912 Little Rd, 727-869-4100 / Fax: 727-861-4194
Tallahassee: Tallahassee OPC, 1607 St. James Ct, 850-878-0191 / 800-541-8387 / Fax: 850-878-8901
The Villages: The Villages OPC , 8900 SE 165th Mulberry Ln, 352-674-5000 / Fax: 352-674-5001
Viera: Viera OPC, 2900 Veterans Way, 321-637-3788 / 877-878-8387
Community Service Programs
Port St. Lucie: St Lucie County PTSD Clinical Team (PCT) Outpatient Program, 126 SW Chamber Court, 772-878-7876
Community Based Outpatient Clinics
Boca Raton: Boca Raton CBOC, 901 Meadows Rd, 561-416-8995 / Fax: 561-416-9374
Bradenton: Bradenton Community-Based Outpatient Clinic, 5520 State Rd 64, Suite 101, 941-721-0649
Brooksville: Brooksville CBOC, 14540 Cortez Blvd, Suite 108, 352-597-8287 / Fax: 352-597-7060
Clermont: Clermont CBOC, 805 Oakley Seaver Dr, 352-536-8200 / 877-469-9037
Deerfield Beach: Deerfield Beach CBOC, 2100 SW 10th St, 954-570-5572
Delray Beach: Delray Beach CBOC, 4800 Linton Blvd, Bldg E Suite 300, 561-495-1973 / Fax: 561-495-2097
Elgin AFB: Eglin CBOC, 100 Veterans Way, 866-520-7359
Ft. Pierce: Fort Pierce CBOC, 727 North US 1, 772-595-5150 / Fax: 772-595-6560
Hollywood: Hollywood CBOC, 3702 Washington St, Suite 201, 954-986-1811 / Fax: 954-986-9452
Hollywood: Pembroke Pines/Hollywood CBOC, 7369 W. Sheridan St, Suite 102, 954-894-1668 / Fax: 954-894-6670
Homestead: Homestead CBOC, 950 Krome Ave, Suite 401, 305-248-0874 / Fax: 305-248-1875
Key Largo: Key Largo CBOC, 105662 Overseas Hwy, 305-451-0164 / Fax: 305-451-4864
Key West: Key West CBOC, 1300 Douglas Circle, Bldg L-15, 305-293-4863 / 305-293-4828 Fax: 305-293-4813
Kissimmee: Kissimmee CBOC, 2285 North Central Ave, 407-518-5004
Lakeland: Lakeland CBOC, 4237 South Pipkin Rd, 863-701-2470 / Fax: 863-701-2474
Lecanto: Lecanto CBOC, 2804 W. Marc Knighton Ct, Suite A, 352-746-8000 / Fax: 352-746-8001
Leesburg: Leesburg CBOC, 711 W Main St, 352-435-4000 / Fax: 352-435-4015
Marianna: Marianna CBOC, 4970 Highway 90, 850-718-5620
Miami: Healthcare for Homeless Veterans, 1492 Flagler St, 305-541-5864
Miami: Miami Outpatient Substance Abuse Clinic (OSAC), 1492 West Flagler St, Suite 101, 305-541-8435 / Fax: 305-541-6974
Naples: Naples VA Primary Care Clinic, 2685 Horseshoe Dr South Suite 101, 239-659-9188
Ocala: Ocala CBOC, Primary Care/Main Clinic, 1515 E. Silver Springs Blvd, 352-369-3320 / Fax: 352-369-3324
Okeechobee: Okeechobee CBOC, 1201 N. Parrot Ave, Okeechobee, 863-824-3232 / Fax: 863-824-3379
Orange City: Orange City CBOC, 2583 South Volusia Ave (Rt 17-92), Suite 300, Orange City, 386- 456-2080 / Fax: 386-456-2122
Palatka: Palatka CBOC, 400 North State Rd 19, Suite 48, Palatka, 386-329-8800 / Fax: 386-329-8805
Palm Harbor: Palm Harbor Community-Based Outpatient Clinic, 35209 US Hwy 19 N
Palm Harbor, 727-734-5276
Panama City Beach: Panama City Outpatient Clinic, Naval Support Activity, Bldg. 387, 101 Vernon Ave, and Mental Health Clinic, 4408 N. Delwood Lane, Both location: 850-636-7000 / 888-231-5047
Pensacola: Joint Ambulatory Care Center, 790 Veterans Way, 866-927-1420
Port Charlotte: Port Charlotte VA Primary Care Clinic, 4161 Tamiami Trail Suite 401, 941-235-2710
Port Saint Lucie: St Lucie CBOC, 128 SW Chamber Court, 772-344-9288
Sarasota: Sarasota VA Primary Care Clinic, 5682 Bee Ridge Rd, Suite 100, 941-371-3349
Sebring: Sebring VA Primary Care Clinic, 3760 US Highway 27 S, 863-471-6227
St. Augustine: Saint Augustine CBOC, 1955 U.S. 1 South, Suite 200, 904-829-0814 / 866-401-8387 / Fax: 904-829-6174
St. Petersburg: Saint Petersburg VA Primary Care Clinic, 840 Dr MLK Jr St N, 727-502-1700
Stuart: Stuart CBOC, 3501 S E Willoughby Blvd, 772-288-0304 / Fax: 772-288-1371
Sunrise: Broward County VA Clinic, 9800 W Commercial Blvd, Sunrise, 954-475-5500
Vero Beach: Vero Beach CBOC, 372 17th St, 772-299-4623 / Fax: 772-299-4632
Zephyrhills: Zephyrhills CBOC, 6937 Medical View Lane, 813-780-2550 / Fax: 813-780-3010
Vet Center
Bay Pines: 3A RCS Southeast Regional Office, 10000 Bay Pines Boulevard, Bldg 2 Rm 303, 727-398-9343 / 877-927-8387
Clearwater: Clearwater Vet Center, 29259 US Hwy 19 North, 727-549-3600 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 727-549-3623
Clermont: Clermont Vet Center, 1655 East Highway 50, 352-536-6701 / 877-927-8387
Daytona Beach: Daytona Beach Vet Center, 1620 Mason Ave, Suite C, 386-366-6600 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 386-274-5700
Ft. Lauderdale: Fort Lauderdale Vet Center, 713 NE 3rd Ave, 954-356-7926 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 954-356-7609
Ft. Myers: Fort Myers Vet Center, 4110 Center Pointe Dr, Unit 204, 239-479-4401 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 239-277-5817
Gainesville: Gainesville Vet Center, 105 NW 75th St, Suite #2, 352-331-1408 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 352-331-1962
Greenacres: Palm Beach Vet Center, 4996 10th Ave North Suite 6, 561-422-1201 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 561-439-5877
Jacksonville: Jacksonville Vet Center, 300 East State St, Suite J, 904-232-3621 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 904-232-3167
Jupiter: Jupiter Vet Center, 6650 W. Indiantown Rd, Suite 120, 561-422-1220 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 561-746-1458
Key Largo: Key Largo Vet Center Outstation, 105662 Overseas Hwy, 305-451-0164 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 305-451-4864
Lakeland: Polk County Vet Center, 1370 Ariana St, 863-287-0841 / 877-927-8387
Melbourne: Melbourne Vet Center, 2098 Sarno Rd, 321-254-3410 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 321-254-9138
Miami: Miami Vet Center, 8280 NW 27th St Suite 511, 305-718-3712 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 305-718-8712
Naples: Collier County (Naples) Vet Center, 2705 Horseshoe Dr. South, #204, 239-403-2377
New Port Richey: Pasco County Vet Center, 7347 Ridge Road, 727-697-5176
Orlando: Orlando Vet Center, 5575 S. Semoran Blvd #30, 407-857-2800 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 407-857-5005
Panama City: Bay County Vet Center, 3109 Minnesota Ave, Suite 101, 850-522-6102 / 877-927-8387
Pensacola: Pensacola Vet Center, 4504 Twin Oaks Dr, 850-456-5886 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 850-456-9403
Pompano: Pompano Beach Vet Center, 2300 West Sample Road, Suite 102, 954-984-1669 / 877-927-8387
Sarasota: Sarasota Vet Center, 4801 Swift Rd Suite A, 941-927-8285 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 941-927-8307
Shalimar: Okaloosa County Vet Center, 6 11th Ave, Suite G 1-3, 850-651-1000 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 850-651-1006
St. Petersburg: St. Petersburg Vet Center, 6798 Crosswinds Dr N Gaslight Square, Bldg A, 727-549-3633 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 727-299-6700
Tallahassee: Tallahassee Vet Center, 548 Bradford Rd, 850-942-8810 / 877-927-8387 / Fax: 850-942-8814
Tampa: Tampa Vet Center, Fountain Oaks Business Plaza; 3637 W Waters Ave, Suite 600, 813-228-2621 / 813-228-2621 / Fax: 813-228-2868
Perry: Taylor County Outreach Clinic, 1215 North Peacock Ave, 850-584-5087 / Fax: 850-584-8653
VISN
St. Petersburg: VISN 8: VA Sunshine Healthcare Network, 140 Fountain Pkwy, Ste. 600, 727-575-8069 / Fax: 727-575-8093
http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/home.asp
http://www.retirementliving.com/taxes-alabama-iowa#FLORIDA
http://www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org/SSFAD/factsheets/CDDV.htm
http://www.veteranprograms.com/id145.html
http://www.flhsmv.gov/specialtytags/miltags.html
Document Review Date: 28 March 2013