State / Territory Benefits - Georgia
Department of Driver Services (DDS) Benefits
Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Facilities
Summary: The State of Georgia offers special benefits for its military service members and veterans including property tax exemptions, state employment preferences, education and tuition assistance, free driver's licenses, vehicle tags, home care for war veterans, 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
State Tax Advantage: None
State Income Tax: The period of time military personnel served on active duty as members of the armed forces of the United States in combat activities during a period designated by the President plus the next 180 days thereafter are disregarded in determining whether any filing requirement has been performed within the time limit prescribed for filing. For individuals who are hospitalized as a result of an injury or confined as a prisoner-of-war, the period of service in the combat zone, plus the period of confinement and the next 180 days thereafter shall be disregarded in determining whether any filing requirement has been performed within the time limit prescribed for filing.
Retired Military Pay: Social Security is exempt. Taxpayers who are 62 years of age or older, or permanently and totally disabled regardless of age, may be eligible for a retirement income adjustment on their Georgia tax return. Retirement income includes income from pensions and annuities, interest income, dividend income, net income from rental property, capital gains income, and income from royalties. For married couples filing joint returns with both members receiving retirement income, the maximum adjustment for the applicable year may be up to twice the individual exclusion amount. Retirement income exceeding the maximum adjustable amount will be taxed at the normal rate. The retirement income exclusion for tax year 2012 is $35,000 if age 62 or less and permanently disabled. If 65 or older, the amount is $65,000.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before September 24, 1975, and members receiving disability retirements based on combat injuries or who could receive disability payments from the VA are covered by laws giving disability broad exemption from federal income tax. Most military retired pay based on service-related disabilities also is free from federal income tax, but there is no guarantee of total protection.
VA Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation: VA benefits are not taxable because they generally are for disabilities and are not subject to federal or state taxes.
Homestead Tax Exemption for Disabled Veteran or Spouse: Any qualifying disabled Veteran may be granted an exemption of $50,000 from paying property taxes for state, county, municipal, and school purposes. The value of the property in excess of this exemption remains taxable. This exemption is extended to the un-remarried surviving spouse or minor children as long as they continue to occupy the home as a residence.
Homestead Exemption for of U.S. Service Member The un-remarried surviving spouse of a member of the armed forces who was killed in or died as a result of any war or armed conflict will be granted a homestead exemption from all ad valorem taxes for state, county, municipal and school purposes in the amount of $50,000. The surviving spouse will continue to be eligible for the exemption as long as they do not remarry.
Georgia Military Scholarship (GMS): This scholarship is worth $70,000 over four years. The State of Georgia offers thirty-nine scholarships per year to Georgia high school seniors who attend North Georgia and commission as officers in the Georgia Army National Guard after graduating with a bachelor's degree. The scholarship pays for the recipient's room, meals, tuition, books, uniforms, and fees. In addition, the recipient receives National Guard weekend drill pay, GI Bill, pay for attending Army basic and advanced training, and Army ROTC contract pay (starting beginning of sophomore year). The recipient may also be eligible for an enlistment bonus and monthly GI Bill kicker. Effective 15 August 2005, GMS Scholarship recipients are non-deployable as long as they are enrolled and remain in good standing with North Georgia and the Georgia Army National Guard.
Eligibility: To be eligible for this scholarship you must:
1. Be a resident of Georgia.
2. Receive a nomination from a state assembly member.
3. Meet the academic requirements for, and gain regular admission, to North Georgia.
4. Meet Army National Guard medical and physical standards.
5. Agree to serve as an enlisted member in the Georgia Army National Guard while a Cadet at North Georgia.
6. Agree to accept a commission upon graduation from North Georgia and serve four years as a commissioned officer in the Georgia Army National Guard.
Georgia HERO Scholarship: The Georgia HERO (Helping Educate Reservists and their Offspring) Scholarship Program was created to provide educational grant assistance to members of the Georgia National Guard and U.S. Military Reservists who served in combat zones or the children of such members of the Georgia National Guard and U.S. Military Reserves. The grant is to attend an approved school for a maximum of up to four award years in the sum of $2,000.00 per award year. The maximum benefit is for four award years for a total of $8,000.00.
Eligibility: The following requirements apply to all categories of HERO Scholarship recipients:
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Must be enrolled or accepted for admission in an eligible Georgia college or university.
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Must meet Georgia residency requirements, as defined by GSFC.
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Must meet U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien requirements, as defined by GSFC.
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Must be in a matriculated status in an organized undergraduate program of study leading to a college degree, technical diploma, or technical certificate.
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Must not be obligated to pay a refund on a GSFC or Federal Title IV grant or scholarship.
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Must not be in default on a GSFC or Federal Title IV student educational loan.
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Must meet Federal Selective Service registration requirements.
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Must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress in accordance with the Federal Title IV standards and practices of the institution.
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Must be in compliance with the Georgia Drug-Free Postsecondary Education Act of 1990.
In addition to the General Student Eligibility Requirements, a HERO Scholarship recipient must meet all of the specific requirements for one of the three following categories of students:
Category A:
The eligible student must be a member of the Georgia National Guard or be a U.S. Military Reservist who completed at least one qualifying term of service. A qualifying term of service is defined as deployment overseas, on or after May 3, 2005, for active service to a location outside of the United States and its territories designed by the U.S. Department of Defense as a combat zone, for a consecutive period of at least 181 days.
Category B:
The eligible student must be the biological child, adoptive child, or legal ward of a member of the Georgia National Guard or the U.S. Military Reserves who completed at least one qualifying term of service. The student must have been age 25 or younger during the qualifying term of service. A qualifying term of service is defined as deployment overseas, on or after May 3, 2005, for active service to a location outside of the United States and its territories designed by the U.S. Department of Defense as a combat zone, for a consecutive period of at least 181 days.
Category C:
The eligible student must be the biological child, adoptive child, or legal ward of a member of the Georgia National Guard or the U.S. Military Reserves who was killed or received 100 percent disability as a result of injures received in an eligible combat zone. The student must have been age 25 or younger during the qualifying term of service. A qualifying term of service is defined as deployment overseas, on or after May 3, 2005, for active service to a location outside of the United States and its territories designed by the U.S. Department of Defense as a combat zone. There are no minimum days of service required for Category C.
Required Documentation:
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Copy of DD214 military record or other acceptable military documentation for the Georgia National Guard member or the U.S. Military Reservist.
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Copy of the student's birth certificate, adoption document, or legal guardianship document. (Categories B and C only)
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Copy of death certificate. (Category C only, if applicable)
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Copy of military record of injury. (Category C only, if applicable.)
Employment Assistance: State employees receive 18 days of military leave per year.
Eligibility: Georgia National Guard service member.
Employment Preference: The Veteran's Employment Preference gives eligible Veterans preference in appointment over many other applicants. Veterans' preference applies, to virtually all new appointments in both the competitive and excepted service. Veterans' preference does not guarantee Veterans a job and it does not apply to internal agency actions such as promotions, transfers, reassignments, and reinstatements. Only Veterans that are discharged or released from active duty in the armed forces under honorable conditions are eligible for Veterans' preference. This means you must have been discharged under an honorable or general discharge.
There two types of preference eligibility are non-disabled (5-point preference eligible) and disabled (10-point preference eligible).
You are a 5-point preference eligible if your active duty service meets any of the following:
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180 or more consecutive days, any part of which occurred during the period beginning September 11, 2001 and ending on a future date prescribed by Presidential proclamation or law as the last date of Operation Iraqi Freedom, OR
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Between August 2, 1990 and January 2, 1992, OR
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180 or more consecutive days, any part of which occurred after January 31, 1955 and before October 15, 1976.
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In a war, campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized or between April 28, 1952 and July 1, 1955.
You are a 10-point preference eligible if you served at any time, and you:
1. Have a service connected disability, OR
2. Received a Purple Heart.
Department of Driver Services (DDS) Benefits:
Free Licenses for Veterans: Qualified veterans are eligible for a free driver's license that remains valid for eight (8) years. The license or permit of any veteran who currently hold a valid license or ID which expires at age 65 will remain valid. Once veterans reach age 65, they must renew their driver's licenses (at no cost) every five (5) years. Successful completion of the vision test is required at each renewal after age 65.
Eligibility: To get your free Georgia Veteran Driver's License you must present an original Certificate of Eligibility (DS516) approved by the Georgia Department of Veterans Services which can only be obtained from the Department of Veteran Services upon presentation of separation papers (DD214) declaring the following:
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Actual wartime service*
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Honorable discharge
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Resident of the state of Georgia, either at the time of entry into service or at least 2 consecutive years preceding date of application
*Wartime service is defined as service on active duty during one of the following:
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Spanish-American War - April 21 1898, through July 4, 1902
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Mexican Border - May 9, 1916 through April 5, 1917
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World War I - April 6, 1917 through November 11, 1918 (veteran who served with the U.S. Military forces in Russia would include April 6, 1917, through April 1, 1920
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World War II - December 7, 1941 through December 31, 1946
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Korea - June 27, 1950 through January 31, 1955
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Lebanon Conflict - July 1, 1958 through November 1, 1958
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Vietnam Conflict - July 1, 1958 through August 4, 1964
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Berlin Conflict - August 14, 1961 through June 1, 1963
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Vietnam - August 5, 1964 through May 7, 1975
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Dominican Republic Conflict - April 28, 1965 through September 21, 1966
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Grenada Conflict - October 23, 1983 through November 21, 1983
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Panama Liberation - December 30, 1989 through February 15, 1990
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Saudi Arabia
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Iraq
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Kuwait
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Persian Gulf - August 2, 1990 - ending date unknown at this time
Honorary License: The spouse of a disabled honorably separated veteran who does not have a driver's license or the unmarried spouse of a deceased, honorably separated Veteran, is entitled to the same license available to the Veteran. An applicant for this type of license must meet the same requirements as those required for a veteran's license. For the unmarried spouse, the death certificate along with DD214 must be submitted to the State Department of Veteran Services to obtain an original Certificate of Eligibility (DS516).
National Guard Free License: All members or former members of the Georgia National Guard, who have 20 or more years of creditable service, are entitled to a free veteran's license. A document of certification must be obtained from the Adjutant General of the State of Georgia, stating the applicant's eligibility, and presented to any examining office of the Department of Driver Services.
Disabled Veteran - service connected Tags (Free): Disabled Veteran tag are provided free of charge to a disabled Veteran who has a letter from the Veterans Administration or a card issued by the Georgia Veterans Services. The letter is required for first time applicants stating the applicant is 100% disabled (service connected) or has loss of sight in one or both eyes, or loss or permanent loss of the use of a limb. Discharge under honorable condition-(Initial tag issuance only). Upon the death of the veteran, the surviving spouse may request/retain the tag provided they do not remarry. To request/retain the tag, a certified copy of the veteran's death certificate and Marriage License is required.
Disabled Veteran - non-service connected Tags (Paid): Disabled Veteran tags are available to Veterans who has a letter from GA VA stating applicant is 100% disabled (non-service connected) Discharged under honorable conditions. Initial tag issuance only. . These DV tags may be purchased at regular license plate rate of $20.00. Upon death of the veteran, the surviving spouse cannot request/retain the tag: it must be surrendered to their County Tag Agent.
Former Prisoner of War (POW) Tags: One free license plate will be issued free to any Veteran who is a former POW, who was discharged under honorable conditions, and who is a legal resident of Georgia. A second plate may be purchased at the cost of $20.00. Upon the death of the Veteran, the surviving spouse may request/retain the tag provided they do not remarry. To request/retain the tag, a certified copy of the Veteran's death certificate, DD 214, and Marriage License is required.
Purple Heart Tags: Recipients of the Purple Heart medal are entitled to one free license plate.
Eligibility: The Veteran must submit Form DD-214, Purple Heart Certificate, Purple Heart Medal reflecting registrant's name, or letter from Veterans Administration in order to receive the Purple Heart Plate. Additional tag(s) can be obtained by paying the regular license fees plus a manufacturing fee. Upon the death of the veteran, the surviving spouse may request/retain the tag provided they do not remarry. To request/retain the tag, a certified copy of the veteran's death certificate and Marriage License is required.
Pearl Harbor Survivor Tags: Survivors of Pearl Harbor are eligible to purchase a distinctive vehicle license plate at a cost of $45.00.
Eligibility: A copy of Form DD-214 reflecting qualifying service is required.
The surviving spouse of Veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States who survived the attack on Pearl Harbor may request/retain the license plate as long as they do not re-marry. DD-214, Death Certificate, and Marriage License required. Only one additional tag issued.
Veterans License Plates: Personnel of the U.S. Armed Forces or individuals who served during World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Operation Desert Shield/Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom are eligible to purchase special and distinctive vehicle license plates. All requests must be accompanied by payment of the appropriate taxes, registration fees, and manufacturing fees and copy of DD214 showing service dates. Upon the death of the veteran, the surviving spouse may request/retain the tag provided they do not remarry. To request/retain the tag, a certified copy of the Veterans Death Certificate, Marriage Certificate and Form DD-214 are required.
National Guard License Plates: National Guard service members are eligible for one free auto tag. Cost to purchase additional tag is $45.00 each.
Eligibility: All current or retired Georgia National Guard service members. Required annually is a current dated letter from Commanding Officer.
Army Reserve License Plates: US Army Reserve members are eligible for one free auto tag.
Eligibility: All current or retired US Army Reserve members are eligible for one free auto tag. Current dated letter from Commanding Officer and Drivers License Number are required. Only one additional tag active or retired may be issued at $70.00.,
Army Retired License Plates: Motor Vehicle owners who retired from active duty with the Armed Forces of the United States shall be issued one free tag upon applications.
Eligibility: Form DD-214 reflecting retired status or retired Military Identification (blue ID) on initial tag issuance only. Surviving spouses are entitled to request/retain the license plate after the death of the Veteran as long as they do not remarry. Form DD-214, Death Certificate, and Marriage Certificate required.
Gold Star Family License Plates: The first plate issued to the spouse, mother and father of a fallen Soldier are entitled to a free license plate. Additional plates issued to the spouse, mother and father or the first plate and additional plates issued to siblings, children, stepparents, will be issued at a cost of $20.00. Required Documents: Copy of the DEERS (Department of Eligibility and Enrollment Services) Report dated prior to the death of the fallen service member. If the DEERS report is not immediately available, please provide a copy of the fallen service member's obituary published within two years after the service member's death, listing the eligible family member's full name. The Gold Star license plate shall not be transferred except to a vehicle subsequently purchased by the eligible family member.
Health and Insurance Benefits:Hunting and Fishing Licenses:
Medical Benefits: Actual medical expenses and/or loss of wages are paid by worker's compensation for State Active Duty National Guard members.
Eligibility: Georgia National Guard service members on State Active Duty.
Group Insurance: Georgia Insurance Trust (GIT) offers low cost group insurance to Guard members and former Guard members in increments of $10,000.00 up to $50,000.00. The GIT also allows the spouse and dependent children to be covered under this plan.
Eligibility: Georgia National Guard service member.
Workers Compensation: National Guard service members on State Active Duty receive Worker's Compensation.
Eligibility: Georgia National Guard member.
Injury and Death Benefits: State Active Duty National Guard members receive pay, allowance, medical expenses for 90 days. If the Soldier is or remains disabled after 90 days, benefits become the same as Federal benefits including death gratuity, widows pension & funeral expenses up to $500.00.
Eligibility: Georgia National Guard service member.
Parks and Recreation Benefits:
One-Time Honorary Veterans Hunting and Fishing License: A free hunting and fishing license issued once for military Veterans discharged on or after July, 1 2005. The Honorary Veterans License will be valid for 12 months from the date of issue. It covers all recreational hunting and fishing licenses (except Federal Duck Stamp). This specifically includes: Alligator, Hunting, Primitive Weapons, Big Game, WMA, Georgia Waterfowl Conservation, Fishing, and Trout licenses. It does not include commercial licenses.
Eligibility: Applicants for the Honorary Veterans License must be military Veterans who meet all of the following criteria:
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Have not previously received this license.
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Served on active Federal duty for 90 or more days.
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Discharge date is July 1, 2005 or later (Veterans discharged before July 1, 2005 are not eligible for this license).
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Currently reside in Georgia.
Disability Fishing and Hunting License: A Veteran may receive an honorary license provided he/she is permanently and totally disabled so as to prevent gainful employment, and provided the certification of such disability is made by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Disabled Veteran Admission to Georgia State Parks: Disabled Veterans who are Georgia residents and present a Certificate of Eligibility from their Veterans Benefits Coordinator are entitled to a 25% discount on Annual Park Passes, Individual or Family Friends Memberships, lodge rooms, campsites, cottages, mini-golf, golf fees, swimming pools and historic site admission. When making online reservations, the full fee will be charged to your credit card. Upon check-in and presenting proof of eligibility, you will be reimbursed for your discount.
Active Duty and Retired Military Admission to Georgia State Parks: Active duty and retired military who are Georgia residents are entitled to a 25% discount on the daily or Annual Park Pass. ID must be shown.
Georgia War Veterans Nursing Home (GWVNH): The Georgia War Veterans Nursing Home is a 192-bed skilled nursing care facility located adjacent to the Medical College of Georgia Hospital and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Augusta. It is operated under an interagency agreement with the Medical College of Georgia. The primary purpose of the facility is to provide care to the aged and infirm Georgia Veterans. The GWVNH also serves as a teaching facility to acquaint medical and allied health students with medical conditions and diseases that confront the aged. This provides the student with practical experience and helps them gain expertise in treating the elderly.
Georgia War Veterans Home: The Georgia War Veterans Home, situated on approximately 17 acres in the central Georgia city of Milledgeville, is a 550-bed facility licensed and certified to provide skilled nursing care to aged and infirm Georgia war Veterans.
Cemeteries: Any member of the Armed Forces who is a Veteran under the rules established by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and was separated under other than dishonorable conditions, is eligible for burial in the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Milledgeville or in the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Glennville.
Eligibility:
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A Veteran under the rules established by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and separated under other than dishonorable conditions.
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A member of the Reserves/National Guard who was eligible for retirement pay at the time of death or would have been entitled to retired pay but for the fact that they were not at least 60 years of age.
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member of the U.S. Armed Forces or a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces, who died in the line of duty while on active duty, or active duty for training.
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An eligible Veteran's spouse may be interred in the same plot as the Veteran at GVMC. A copy of the marriage certificate is required.
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An eligible Veteran's dependent (unmarried, under age 21, or life-long dependency on the veteran) is eligible for burial at GVMC. Documentation of eligibility is required.
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A copy of the Veteran's DD 214 or other documentation verifying active military service must be furnished.
State Tax Advantage: None
State Income Tax: The period of time military personnel served on active duty as members of the armed forces of the United States in combat activities during a period designated by the President plus the next 180 days thereafter are disregarded in determining whether any filing requirement has been performed within the time limit prescribed for filing. For individuals who are hospitalized as a result of an injury or confined as a prisoner-of-war, the period of service in the combat zone, plus the period of confinement and the next 180 days thereafter shall be disregarded in determining whether any filing requirement has been performed within the time limit prescribed for filing.
Retired Military Pay: Social Security is exempt. Taxpayers who are 62 years of age or older, or permanently and totally disabled regardless of age, may be eligible for a retirement income adjustment on their Georgia tax return. Retirement income includes income from pensions and annuities, interest income, dividend income, net income from rental property, capital gains income, and income from royalties. For married couples filing joint returns with both members receiving retirement income, the maximum adjustment for the applicable year may be up to twice the individual exclusion amount. Retirement income exceeding the maximum adjustable amount will be taxed at the normal rate. The retirement income exclusion for tax year 2012 is $35,000 if age 62 or less and permanently disabled. If 65 or older, the amount is $65,000.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before September 24, 1975, and members receiving disability retirements based on combat injuries or who could receive disability payments from the VA are covered by laws giving disability broad exemption from federal income tax. Most military retired pay based on service-related disabilities also is free from federal income tax, but there is no guarantee of total protection.
VA Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation: VA benefits are not taxable because they generally are for disabilities and are not subject to federal or state taxes.
Homestead Tax Exemption for Disabled Veteran or Spouse: Any qualifying disabled Veteran may be granted an exemption of $50,000 from paying property taxes for state, county, municipal, and school purposes. The value of the property in excess of this exemption remains taxable. This exemption is extended to the un-remarried surviving spouse or minor children as long as they continue to occupy the home as a residence.
Employment Preference: The Veteran's Employment Preference gives eligible Veterans preference in appointment over many other applicants. Veterans' preference applies, to virtually all new appointments in both the competitive and excepted service. Veterans' preference does not guarantee Veterans a job and it does not apply to internal agency actions such as promotions, transfers, reassignments, and reinstatements. Only Veterans that are discharged or released from active duty in the armed forces under honorable conditions are eligible for Veterans' preference. This means you must have been discharged under an honorable or general discharge.
There two types of preference eligibility are non-disabled (5-point preference eligible) and disabled (10-point preference eligible).
You are a 5-point preference eligible if your active duty service meets any of the following:
-
180 or more consecutive days, any part of which occurred during the period beginning September 11, 2001 and ending on a future date prescribed by Presidential proclamation or law as the last date of Operation Iraqi Freedom, OR
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Between August 2, 1990 and January 2, 1992, OR
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180 or more consecutive days, any part of which occurred after January 31, 1955 and before October 15, 1976.
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In a war, campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized or between April 28, 1952 and July 1, 1955.
You are a 10-point preference eligible if you served at any time, and you:
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Have a service connected disability, OR
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Received a Purple Heart.
Veterans: Qualified veterans are eligible for a free driver's license that remains valid for eight (8) years. The license or permit of any veteran who currently hold a valid license or ID which expires at age 65 will remain valid. Once veterans reach age 65, they must renew their driver's licenses (at no cost) every five (5) years. Successful completion of the vision test is required at each renewal after age 65.
Eligibility: To get your free Georgia Veteran Driver's License you must present an original Certificate of Eligibility (DS516) approved by the Georgia Department of Veterans Services which can only be obtained from the Department of Veteran Services upon presentation of separation papers (DD214) declaring the following:
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Actual wartime service*
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Honorable discharge
-
Resident of the state of Georgia, either at the time of entry into service or at least 2 consecutive years preceding date of application
*Wartime service is defined as service on active duty during one of the following:
-
Spanish-American War - April 21 1898, through July 4, 1902
-
Mexican Border - May 9, 1916 through April 5, 1917
-
World War I - April 6, 1917 through November 11, 1918 (veteran who served with the U.S. Military forces in Russia would include April 6, 1917, through April 1, 1920
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World War II - December 7, 1941 through December 31, 1946
-
Korea - June 27, 1950 through January 31, 1955
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Lebanon Conflict - July 1, 1958 through November 1, 1958
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Vietnam Conflict - July 1, 1958 through August 4, 1964
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Berlin Conflict - August 14, 1961 through June 1, 1963
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Vietnam - August 5, 1964 through May 7, 1975
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Dominican Republic Conflict - April 28, 1965 through September 21, 1966
-
Grenada Conflict - October 23, 1983 through November 21, 1983
-
Panama Liberation - December 30, 1989 through February 15, 1990
-
Saudi Arabia
-
Iraq
-
Kuwait
-
Persian Gulf - August 2, 1990 - ending date unknown at this time
Honorary License: The spouse of a disabled honorably separated veteran who does not have a driver's license or the unmarried spouse of a deceased, honorably separated Veteran, is entitled to the same license available to the Veteran. An applicant for this type of license must meet the same requirements as those required for a Veteran's license. For the unmarried spouse, the death certificate along with DD214 must be submitted to the State Department of Veteran Services to obtain an original Certificate of Eligibility (DS516).
National Guard: All members or former members of the Georgia National Guard, who have 20 or more years of creditable service, are entitled to a free Veteran's license. A document of certification must be obtained from the Adjutant General of the State of Georgia, stating the applicant's eligibility, and presented to any examining office of the Department of Driver Services.
Disabled Veteran - service connected Tags (Free): Disabled Veteran tag are provided free of charge to a disabled Veteran who has a letter from the Veterans Administration or a card issued by the Georgia Veterans Services. The letter is required for first time applicants stating the applicant is 100% disabled (service connected) or has loss of sight in one or both eyes, or loss or permanent loss of the use of a limb. Discharge under honorable condition-(Initial tag issuance only). Upon the death of the Veteran, the surviving spouse may request/retain the tag provided they do not remarry. To request/retain the tag, a certified copy of the Veteran's death certificate and Marriage License is required.
Disabled Veteran - non-service connected Tags (Paid): Disabled Veteran tags are available to Veterans who has a letter from GA VA stating applicant is 100% disabled (non-service connected) Discharged under honorable conditions. Initial tag issuance only. These DV tags may be purchased at regular license plate rate of $20.00. Upon death of the Veteran, the surviving spouse cannot request/retain the tag: it must be surrendered to their County Tag Agent.
Former Prisoner of War (POW) Tags: One free license plate will be issued free to any Veteran who is a former POW, who was discharged under honorable conditions, and who is a legal resident of Georgia. A second plate may be purchased at the cost of $20.00. Upon the death of the Veteran, the surviving spouse may request/retain the tag provided they do not remarry. To request/retain the tag, a certified copy of the Veteran's death certificate, DD 214, and Marriage License is required.
Purple Heart Tags: Recipients of the Purple Heart medal are entitled to one free license plate. The Veteran must submit Form DD-214, Purple Heart Certificate, Purple Heart Medal reflecting registrant's name, or letter from Veterans Administration in order to receive the Purple Heart Plate. Additional tag(s) can be obtained by paying the regular license fees plus a manufacturing fee. Upon the death of the Veteran, the surviving spouse may request/retain the tag provided they do not remarry. To request/retain the tag, a certified copy of the Veteran's death certificate and Marriage License is required.
Veterans License Plates: Personnel of the U.S. Armed Forces or individuals who served during World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Operation Desert Shield/Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom are eligible to purchase special and distinctive vehicle license plates. All requests must be accompanied by payment of the appropriate taxes, registration fees, and manufacturing fees. and copy of DD214 showing service dates. Upon the death of the Veteran, the surviving spouse may request/retain the tag provided they do not remarry. To request/retain the tag, a certified copy of the Veterans Death Certificate, Marriage Certificate and Form DD-214 are required.
National Guard License Plates: National Guard service members are eligible for one free auto tag. Cost to purchase additional tag is $45.00 each.
Eligibility: All current or retired Georgia National Guard service members. Required annually is a current dated letter from Commanding Officer.
Army Reserve License Plates: US Army Reserve members are eligible for one free auto tag.
Eligibility: All current or retired US Army Reserve members are eligible for one free auto tag. Current dated letter from Commanding Officer and Drivers License Number are required. Only one additional tag active or retired may be issued at $70.00.
One-Time Honorary Veterans Hunting and Fishing License: A free hunting and fishing license issued once for military Veterans discharged on or after July, 1 2005. The Honorary Veterans License will be valid for 12 months from the date of issue. It covers all recreational hunting and fishing licenses (except Federal Duck Stamp). This specifically includes: Alligator, Hunting, Primitive Weapons, Big Game, WMA, Georgia Waterfowl Conservation, Fishing, and Trout licenses. It does not include commercial licenses.
Eligibility: Applicants for the Honorary Veterans License must be military Veterans who meet all of the following criteria:
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Have not previously received this license.
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Served on active Federal duty for 90 or more days.
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Discharge date is July 1, 2005 or later (Veterans discharged before July 1, 2005 are not eligible for this license).
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Currently reside in Georgia.
Disability Fishing and Hunting License: A Veteran may receive an honorary license provided he/she is permanently and totally disabled so as to prevent gainful employment, and provided the certification of such disability is made by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Disabled Veteran Admission to Georgia State Parks: Disabled Veterans who are Georgia residents and present a Certificate of Eligibility from their Veterans Benefits Coordinator are entitled to a 25% discount on Annual Park Passes, Individual or Family Friends Memberships, lodge rooms, campsites, cottages, mini-golf, golf fees, swimming pools and historic site admission. When making online reservations, the full fee will be charged to your credit card. Upon check-in and presenting proof of eligibility, you will be reimbursed for your discount.
Active Duty and Retired Military Admission to Georgia State Parks: Active duty and retired military who are Georgia residents are entitled to a 25% discount on the daily or Annual Park Pass. ID must be shown.
Georgia War Veterans Nursing Home (GWVNH): The Georgia War Veterans Nursing Home is a 192-bed skilled nursing care facility located adjacent to the Medical College of Georgia Hospital and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Augusta. It is operated under an interagency agreement with the Medical College of Georgia. The primary purpose of the facility is to provide care to the aged and infirm Georgia Veterans. The GWVNH also serves as a teaching facility to acquaint medical and allied health students with medical conditions and diseases that confront the aged. This provides the student with practical experience and helps them gain expertise in treating the elderly.
Georgia War Veterans Home: The Georgia War Veterans Home, situated on approximately 17 acres in the central Georgia city of Milledgeville, is a 550-bed facility licensed and certified to provide skilled nursing care to aged and infirm Georgia war Veterans.
Homestead Tax Exemption for Disabled Veteran or Spouse: Any qualifying disabled Veteran may be granted an exemption of $50,000 from paying property taxes for state, county, municipal, and school purposes. The value of the property in excess of this exemption remains taxable. This exemption is extended to the un-remarried surviving spouse or minor children as long as they continue to occupy the home as a residence.
Homestead Exemption for Surviving Spouse of U.S. Service Member The un-remarried surviving spouse of a member of the armed forces who was killed in or died as a result of any war or armed conflict will be granted a homestead exemption from all ad valorem taxes for state, county, municipal and school purposes in the amount of $50,000. The surviving spouse will continue to be eligible for the exemption as long as they do not remarry.
Georgia HERO Scholarship: The Georgia HERO (Helping Educate Reservists and their Offspring) Scholarship Program was created to provide educational grant assistance to members of the Georgia National Guard and U.S. Military Reservists who served in combat zones or the children of such members of the Georgia National Guard and U.S. Military Reserves. The grant is to attend an approved school for a maximum of up to four award years in the sum of $2,000.00 per award year. The maximum benefit is for four award years for a total of $8,000.00.
Eligibility: The following requirements apply to all categories of HERO Scholarship recipients:
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Must be enrolled or accepted for admission in an eligible Georgia college or university.
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Must meet Georgia residency requirements, as defined by GSFC.
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Must meet U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien requirements, as defined by GSFC.
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Must be in a matriculated status in an organized undergraduate program of study leading to a college degree, technical diploma, or technical certificate.
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Must not be obligated to pay a refund on a GSFC or Federal Title IV grant or scholarship.
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Must not be in default on a GSFC or Federal Title IV student educational loan.
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Must meet Federal Selective Service registration requirements.
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Must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress in accordance with the Federal Title IV standards and practices of the institution.
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Must be in compliance with the Georgia Drug-Free Postsecondary Education Act of 1990.
In addition to the General Student Eligibility Requirements, a HERO Scholarship recipient must meet all of the specific requirements for one of the three following categories of students:
Category C:
The eligible student must be the biological child, adoptive child, or legal ward of a member of the Georgia National Guard or the U.S. Military Reserves who was killed or received 100 percent disability as a result of injures received in an eligible combat zone. The student must have been age 25 or younger during the qualifying term of service. A qualifying term of service is defined as deployment overseas, on or after May 3, 2005, for active service to a location outside of the United States and its territories designed by the U.S. Department of Defense as a combat zone. There are no minimum days of service required for Category C.
Required Documentation:
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Copy of DD214 military record or other acceptable military documentation for the Georgia National Guard member or the U.S. Military Reservist.
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Copy of the student's birth certificate, adoption document, or legal guardianship document. (Categories B and C only)
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Copy of death certificate. (Category C only, if applicable)
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Copy of military record of injury. (Category C only, if applicable.)
Honorary License: The spouse of a disabled honorably separated Veteran who does not have a driver's license or the unmarried spouse of a deceased, honorably separated Veteran, is entitled to the same license available to the Veteran. An applicant for this type of license must meet the same requirements as those required for a Veteran's license. For the unmarried spouse, the death certificate along with DD214 must be submitted to the State Department of Veteran Services to obtain an original Certificate of Eligibility (DS516).
Disabled Veteran - service connected Tags (Free): Disabled Veteran tag are provided free of charge to a disabled Veteran who has a letter from the Veterans Administration or a card issued by the Georgia Veterans Services. The letter is required for first time applicants stating the applicant is 100% disabled (service connected) or has loss of sight in one or both eyes, or loss or permanent loss of the use of a limb. Discharge under honorable condition-(Initial tag issuance only). Upon the death of the Veteran, the surviving spouse may request/retain the tag provided they do not remarry. To request/retain the tag, a certified copy of the Veteran's death certificate and Marriage License is required.
Former Prisoner of War (POW) Tags: One free license plate will be issued free to any Veteran who is a former POW, who was discharged under honorable conditions, and who is a legal resident of Georgia. A second plate may be purchased at the cost of $20.00. Upon the death of the Veteran, the surviving spouse may request/retain the tag provided they do not remarry. To request/retain the tag, a certified copy of the Veteran's death certificate, DD 214, and Marriage License is required.
Purple Heart Tags: Recipients of the Purple Heart medal are entitled to one free license plate.
Eligibility: The Veteran must submit Form DD-214, Purple Heart Certificate, Purple Heart Medal reflecting registrant's name, or letter from Veterans Administration in order to receive the Purple Heart Plate. Additional tag(s) can be obtained by paying the regular license fees plus a manufacturing fee. Upon the death of the Veteran, the surviving spouse may request/retain the tag provided they do not remarry. To request/retain the tag, a certified copy of the Veteran's death certificate and Marriage License is required.
Pearl Harbor Survivor Tags: Survivors of Pearl Harbor are eligible to purchase a distinctive vehicle license plate at a cost of $45.00.
Eligibility: A copy of Form DD-214 reflecting qualifying service is required.
The surviving spouse of Veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States who survived the attack on Pearl Harbor may request/retain the license plate as long as they do not re-marry. DD-214, Death Certificate, and Marriage License required. Only one additional tag issued.
Veterans License Plates: Personnel of the U.S. Armed Forces or individuals who served during World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Operation Desert Shield/Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom are eligible to purchase special and distinctive vehicle license plates. All requests must be accompanied by payment of the appropriate taxes, registration fees, and manufacturing fees and copy of DD214 showing service dates. Upon the death of the Veteran, the surviving spouse may request/retain the tag provided they do not remarry. To request/retain the tag, a certified copy of the Veterans Death Certificate, Marriage Certificate and Form DD-214 are required.
Army Retired License Plates: Motor Vehicle owners who retired from active duty with the Armed Forces of the United States shall be issued one free tag upon applications.
Eligibility: Form DD-214 reflecting retired status or retired Military Identification (blue ID) on initial tag issuance only. Surviving spouses are entitled to request/retain the license plate after the death of the Veteran as long as they do not remarry. Form DD-214, Death Certificate, and Marriage Certificate required.
Gold Star Family License Plates: The first plate issued to the spouse, mother and father of a fallen Soldier are entitled to a free license plate. Additional plates issued to the spouse, mother and father or the first plate and additional plates issued to siblings, children, stepparents, will be issued at a cost of $20.00. Required Documents: Copy of the DEERS (Department of Eligibility and Enrollment Services) Report dated prior to the death of the fallen service member. If the DEERS report is not immediately available, please provide a copy of the fallen service member's obituary published within two years after the service member's death, listing the eligible family member's full name. The Gold Star license plate shall not be transferred except to a vehicle subsequently purchased by the eligible family member.
Cemeteries: Any member of the Armed Forces who is a Veteran under the rules established by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and was separated under other than dishonorable conditions, is eligible for burial in the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Milledgeville or in the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Glennville.
Eligibility:
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A Veteran under the rules established by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and separated under other than dishonorable conditions.
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A member of the Reserves/National Guard who was eligible for retirement pay at the time of death or would have been entitled to retired pay but for the fact that they were not at least 60 years of age.
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A member of the U.S. Armed Forces or a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces, who died in the line of duty while on active duty, or active duty for training.
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An eligible Veteran's spouse may be interred in the same plot as the Veteran at GVMC. A copy of the marriage certificate is required.
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An eligible Veteran's dependent (unmarried, under age 21, or life-long dependency on the Veteran) is eligible for burial at GVMC. Documentation of eligibility is required.
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A copy of the Veteran's DD 214 or other documentation verifying active military service must be furnished.
State Tax Advantage: None
State Income Tax: The period of time military personnel served on active duty as members of the armed forces of the United States in combat activities during a period designated by the President plus the next 180 days thereafter are disregarded in determining whether any filing requirement has been performed within the time limit prescribed for filing. For individuals who are hospitalized as a result of an injury or confined as a prisoner-of-war, the period of service in the combat zone, plus the period of confinement and the next 180 days thereafter shall be disregarded in determining whether any filing requirement has been performed within the time limit prescribed for filing.
Retired Military Pay: Social Security is exempt. Taxpayers who are 62 years of age or older, or permanently and totally disabled regardless of age, may be eligible for a retirement income adjustment on their Georgia tax return. Retirement income includes income from pensions and annuities, interest income, dividend income, net income from rental property, capital gains income, and income from royalties. For married couples filing joint returns with both members receiving retirement income, the maximum adjustment for the applicable year may be up to twice the individual exclusion amount. Retirement income exceeding the maximum adjustable amount will be taxed at the normal rate. The retirement income exclusion for tax year 2012 is $35,000 if age 62 or less and permanently disabled. If 65 or older, the amount is $65,000.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before September 24, 1975, and members receiving disability retirements based on combat injuries or who could receive disability payments from the VA are covered by laws giving disability broad exemption from federal income tax. Most military retired pay based on service-related disabilities also is free from federal income tax, but there is no guarantee of total protection.
VA Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation: VA benefits are not taxable because they generally are for disabilities and are not subject to federal or state taxes.
Homestead Tax Exemption for Disabled Veteran or Spouse: Any qualifying disabled Veteran may be granted an exemption of $50,000 from paying property taxes for state, county, municipal, and school purposes. The value of the property in excess of this exemption remains taxable. This exemption is extended to the un-remarried surviving spouse or minor children as long as they continue to occupy the home as a residence.
Homestead Exemption for Surviving Spouse of U.S. Service Member The un-remarried surviving spouse of a member of the armed forces who was killed in or died as a result of any war or armed conflict will be granted a homestead exemption from all ad valorem taxes for state, county, municipal and school purposes in the amount of $50,000. The surviving spouse will continue to be eligible for the exemption as long as they do not remarry.
Georgia Military Scholarship (GMS): This scholarship is worth $70,000 over four years. The State of Georgia offers thirty-nine scholarships per year to Georgia high school seniors who attend North Georgia and commission as officers in the Georgia Army National Guard after graduating with a bachelor's degree. The scholarship pays for the recipient's room, meals, tuition, books, uniforms, and fees. In addition, the recipient receives National Guard weekend drill pay, GI Bill, pay for attending Army basic and advanced training, and Army ROTC contract pay (starting beginning of sophomore year). The recipient may also be eligible for an enlistment bonus and monthly GI Bill kicker. Effective 15 August 2005, GMS Scholarship recipients are non-deployable as long as they are enrolled and remain in good standing with North Georgia and the Georgia Army National Guard.
Eligibility: To be eligible for this scholarship you must:
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Be a resident of Georgia.
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Receive a nomination from a state assembly member.
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Meet the academic requirements for, and gain regular admission, to North Georgia.
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Meet Army National Guard medical and physical standards.
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Agree to serve as an enlisted member in the Georgia Army National Guard while a Cadet at North Georgia.
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Agree to accept a commission upon graduation from North Georgia and serve four years as a commissioned officer in the Georgia Army National Guard.
Georgia HERO Scholarship: The Georgia HERO (Helping Educate Reservists and their Offspring) Scholarship Program was created to provide educational grant assistance to members of the Georgia National Guard and U.S. Military Reservists who served in combat zones or the children of such members of the Georgia National Guard and U.S. Military Reserves. The grant is to attend an approved school for a maximum of up to four award years in the sum of $2,000.00 per award year. The maximum benefit is for four award years for a total of $8,000.00.
Eligibility: The following requirements apply to all categories of HERO Scholarship recipients:
-
Must be enrolled or accepted for admission in an eligible Georgia college or university.
-
Must meet Georgia residency requirements, as defined by GSFC.
-
Must meet U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien requirements, as defined by GSFC.
-
Must be in a matriculated status in an organized undergraduate program of study leading to a college degree, technical diploma, or technical certificate.
-
Must not be obligated to pay a refund on a GSFC or Federal Title IV grant or scholarship.
-
Must not be in default on a GSFC or Federal Title IV student educational loan.
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Must meet Federal Selective Service registration requirements.
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Must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress in accordance with the Federal Title IV standards and practices of the institution.
-
Must be in compliance with the Georgia Drug-Free Postsecondary Education Act of 1990.
In addition to the General Student Eligibility Requirements, a HERO Scholarship recipient must meet all of the specific requirements for one of the three following categories of students:
Category A:
The eligible student must be a member of the Georgia National Guard or be a U.S. Military Reservist who completed at least one qualifying term of service. A qualifying term of service is defined as deployment overseas, on or after May 3, 2005, for active service to a location outside of the United States and its territories designed by the U.S. Department of Defense as a combat zone, for a consecutive period of at least 181 days.
Category B:
The eligible student must be the biological child, adoptive child, or legal ward of a member of the Georgia National Guard or the U.S. Military Reserves who completed at least one qualifying term of service. The student must have been age 25 or younger during the qualifying term of service. A qualifying term of service is defined as deployment overseas, on or after May 3, 2005, for active service to a location outside of the United States and its territories designed by the U.S. Department of Defense as a combat zone, for a consecutive period of at least 181 days.
Category C:
The eligible student must be the biological child, adoptive child, or legal ward of a member of the Georgia National Guard or the U.S. Military Reserves who was killed or received 100 percent disability as a result of injures received in an eligible combat zone. The student must have been age 25 or younger during the qualifying term of service. A qualifying term of service is defined as deployment overseas, on or after May 3, 2005, for active service to a location outside of the United States and its territories designed by the U.S. Department of Defense as a combat zone. There are no minimum days of service required for Category C.
Required Documentation:
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Copy of DD214 military record or other acceptable military documentation for the Georgia National Guard member or the U.S. Military Reservist.
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Copy of the student's birth certificate, adoption document, or legal guardianship document. (Categories B and C only)
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Copy of death certificate. (Category C only, if applicable)
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Copy of military record of injury. (Category C only, if applicable.)
Employment Assistance: State employees receive 18 days of military leave per year.
Eligibility: Georgia National Guard service member.
Employment Preference: The Veteran's Employment Preference gives eligible Veterans preference in appointment over many other applicants. Veterans' preference applies, to virtually all new appointments in both the competitive and excepted service. Veterans' preference does not guarantee Veterans a job and it does not apply to internal agency actions such as promotions, transfers, reassignments, and reinstatements. Only Veterans that are discharged or released from active duty in the armed forces under honorable conditions are eligible for Veterans' preference. This means you must have been discharged under an honorable or general discharge.
There two types of preference eligibility are disabled (10-point preference eligible) and non-disabled (5-point preference eligible).
You are a 5-point preference eligible if your active duty service meets any of the following:
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180 or more consecutive days, any part of which occurred during the period beginning September 11, 2001 and ending on a future date prescribed by Presidential proclamation or law as the last date of Operation Iraqi Freedom, OR
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Between August 2, 1990 and January 2, 1992, OR
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180 or more consecutive days, any part of which occurred after January 31, 1955 and before October 15, 1976.
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In a war, campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized or between April 28, 1952 and July 1, 1955.
You are a 10-point preference eligible if you served at any time, and you:
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Have a service connected disability, OR
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Received a Purple Heart.
National Guard: All members or former members of the Georgia National Guard, who have 20 or more years of creditable service, are entitled to a free Veteran's license. A document of certification must be obtained from the Adjutant General of the State of Georgia, stating the applicant's eligibility, and presented to any examining office of the Department of Driver Services.
Honorary License: The spouse of a disabled honorably separated Veteran who does not have a driver's license or the unmarried spouse of a deceased, honorably separated Veteran is entitled to the same license available to the Veteran. An applicant for this type of license must meet the same requirements as those required for a Veteran's license.
Disabled Veteran - service connected Tags (Free): Disabled Veteran tag are provided free of charge to a disabled Veteran who has a letter from the Veterans Administration or a card issued by the Georgia Veterans Services. The letter is required for first time applicants stating the applicant is 100% disabled (service connected) or has loss of sight in one or both eyes, or loss or permanent loss of the use of a limb. Discharge under honorable condition-(Initial tag issuance only). Upon the death of the Veteran, the surviving spouse may request/retain the tag provided they do not remarry. To request/retain the tag, a certified copy of the Veteran's death certificate and Marriage License is required.
Disabled Veteran - non-service connected Tags (Paid): Disabled Veteran tags are available to Veterans who has a letter from GA VA stating applicant is 100% disabled (non-service connected) Discharged under honorable conditions. Initial tag issuance only.
These DV tags may be purchased at regular license plate rate of $20.00. Upon death of the Veteran, the surviving spouse cannot request/retain the tag: it must be surrendered to their County Tag Agent.
Veterans License Plates: Personnel of the U.S. Armed Forces or individuals who served during World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Operation Desert Shield/Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom are eligible to purchase special and distinctive vehicle license plates. All requests must be accompanied by payment of the appropriate taxes, registration fees, and manufacturing fees and copy of DD214 showing service dates. Upon the death of the Veteran, the surviving spouse may request/retain the tag provided they do not remarry. To request/retain the tag, a certified copy of the Veterans Death Certificate, Marriage Certificate and Form DD-214 are required.
National Guard License Plates: National Guard service members are eligible for one free auto tag. Cost to purchase additional tag is $45.00 each.
Eligibility: All current or retired Georgia National Guard service members. Required annually is a current dated letter from Commanding Officer.
Medical Benefits: Actual medical expenses and/or loss of wages are paid by worker's compensation for State Active Duty National Guard members.
Eligibility: Georgia National Guard service members on State Active Duty.
Group Insurance: Georgia Insurance Trust (GIT) offers low cost group insurance to Guard members and former Guard members in increments of $10,000.00 up to $50,000.00. The GIT also allows the spouse and dependent children to be covered under this plan.
Eligibility: Georgia National Guard service member.
Workers Compensation: National Guard service members on State Active Duty receive Worker's Compensation.
Eligibility: Georgia National Guard member.
Injury and Death Benefits: State Active Duty National Guard members receive pay, allowance, medical expenses for 90 days. If the Soldier is or remains disabled after 90 days, benefits become the same as Federal benefits including death gratuity, widows pension & funeral expenses up to $500.00.
Eligibility: Georgia National Guard service member.
One-Time Honorary Veterans Hunting and Fishing License: A free hunting and fishing license issued once for military Veterans discharged on or after July, 1 2005. The Honorary Veterans License will be valid for 12 months from the date of issue. It covers all recreational hunting and fishing licenses (except Federal Duck Stamp). This specifically includes: Alligator, Hunting, Primitive Weapons, Big Game, WMA, Georgia Waterfowl Conservation, Fishing, and Trout licenses. It does not include commercial licenses.
Eligibility: Applicants for the Honorary Veterans License must be military Veterans who meet all of the following criteria:
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Have not previously received this license.
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Served on active Federal duty for 90 or more days.
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Discharge date is July 1, 2005 or later (Veterans discharged before July 1, 2005 are not eligible for this license).
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Currently reside in Georgia.
Disability Fishing and Hunting License: A Veteran may receive an honorary license provided he/she is permanently and totally disabled so as to prevent gainful employment, and provided the certification of such disability is made by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Disabled Veteran Admission to Georgia State Parks: Disabled Veterans who are Georgia residents and present a Certificate of Eligibility from their Veterans Benefits Coordinator are entitled to a 25% discount on Annual Park Passes, Individual or Family Friends Memberships, lodge rooms, campsites, cottages, mini-golf, golf fees, swimming pools and historic site admission. When making online reservations, the full fee will be charged to your credit card. Upon check-in and presenting proof of eligibility, you will be reimbursed for your discount.
Active Duty and Retired Military Admission to Georgia State Parks: Active duty and retired military who are Georgia residents are entitled to a 25% discount on the daily or Annual Park Pass. ID must be shown.
Georgia War Veterans Nursing Home (GWVNH): The Georgia War Veterans Nursing Home is a 192-bed skilled nursing care facility located adjacent to the Medical College of Georgia Hospital and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Augusta. It is operated under an interagency agreement with the Medical College of Georgia. The primary purpose of the facility is to provide care to the aged and infirm Georgia Veterans. The GWVNH also serves as a teaching facility to acquaint medical and allied health students with medical conditions and diseases that confront the aged. This provides the student with practical experience and helps them gain expertise in treating the elderly.
Georgia War Veterans Home: The Georgia War Veterans Home, situated on approximately 17 acres in the central Georgia city of Milledgeville, is a 550-bed facility licensed and certified to provide skilled nursing care to aged and infirm Georgia war Veterans.
Cemeteries: Any member of the Armed Forces who is a Veteran under the rules established by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and was separated under other than dishonorable conditions, is eligible for burial in the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Milledgeville or in the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Glennville.
Eligibility:
-
A Veteran under the rules established by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and separated under other than dishonorable conditions.
-
A member of the Reserves/National Guard who was eligible for retirement pay at the time of death or would have been entitled to retired pay but for the fact that they were not at least 60 years of age.
-
A member of the U.S. Armed Forces or a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces, who died in the line of duty while on active duty, or active duty for training.
-
An eligible Veteran's spouse may be interred in the same plot as the Veteran at GVMC. A copy of the marriage certificate is required.
-
An eligible Veteran's dependent (unmarried, under age 21, or life-long dependency on the Veteran) is eligible for burial at GVMC. Documentation of eligibility is required.
-
A copy of the Veteran's DD 214 or other documentation verifying active military service must be furnished.
State Tax Advantage: None
State Income Tax: The period of time military personnel served on active duty as members of the armed forces of the United States in combat activities during a period designated by the President plus the next 180 days thereafter are disregarded in determining whether any filing requirement has been performed within the time limit prescribed for filing. For individuals who are hospitalized as a result of an injury or confined as a prisoner-of-war, the period of service in the combat zone, plus the period of confinement and the next 180 days thereafter shall be disregarded in determining whether any filing requirement has been performed within the time limit prescribed for filing.
Retired Military Pay: Social Security is exempt. Taxpayers who are 62 years of age or older, or permanently and totally disabled regardless of age, may be eligible for a retirement income adjustment on their Georgia tax return. Retirement income includes income from pensions and annuities, interest income, dividend income, net income from rental property, capital gains income, and income from royalties. For married couples filing joint returns with both members receiving retirement income, the maximum adjustment for the applicable year may be up to twice the individual exclusion amount. Retirement income exceeding the maximum adjustable amount will be taxed at the normal rate. The retirement income exclusion for tax year 2012 is $35,000 if age 62 or less and permanently disabled. If 65 or older, the amount is $65,000.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before September 24, 1975, and members receiving disability retirements based on combat injuries or who could receive disability payments from the VA are covered by laws giving disability broad exemption from federal income tax. Most military retired pay based on service-related disabilities also is free from federal income tax, but there is no guarantee of total protection.
VA Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation: VA benefits are not taxable because they generally are for disabilities and are not subject to federal or state taxes.
Homestead Tax Exemption for Disabled Veteran or Spouse: Any qualifying disabled Veteran may be granted an exemption of $50,000 from paying property taxes for state, county, municipal, and school purposes. The value of the property in excess of this exemption remains taxable. This exemption is extended to the un-remarried surviving spouse or minor children as long as they continue to occupy the home as a residence.
Homestead Exemption for Surviving Spouse of U.S. Service Member The un-remarried surviving spouse of a member of the armed forces who was killed in or died as a result of any war or armed conflict will be granted a homestead exemption from all ad valorem taxes for state, county, municipal and school purposes in the amount of $50,000. The surviving spouse will continue to be eligible for the exemption as long as they do not remarry.
Georgia HERO Scholarship: The Georgia HERO (Helping Educate Reservists and their Offspring) Scholarship Program was created to provide educational grant assistance to members of the Georgia National Guard and U.S. Military Reservists who served in combat zones or the children of such members of the Georgia National Guard and U.S. Military Reserves. The grant is to attend an approved school for a maximum of up to four award years in the sum of $2,000.00 per award year. The maximum benefit is for four award years for a total of $8,000.00.
Eligibility: The following requirements apply to all categories of HERO Scholarship recipients:
-
Must be enrolled or accepted for admission in an eligible Georgia college or university.
-
Must meet Georgia residency requirements, as defined by GSFC.
-
Must meet U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien requirements, as defined by GSFC.
-
Must be in a matriculated status in an organized undergraduate program of study leading to a college degree, technical diploma, or technical certificate.
-
Must not be obligated to pay a refund on a GSFC or Federal Title IV grant or scholarship.
-
Must not be in default on a GSFC or Federal Title IV student educational loan.
-
Must meet Federal Selective Service registration requirements.
-
Must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress in accordance with the Federal Title IV standards and practices of the institution.
-
Must be in compliance with the Georgia Drug-Free Postsecondary Education Act of 1990.
In addition to the General Student Eligibility Requirements, a HERO Scholarship recipient must meet all of the specific requirements for one of the three following categories of students:
Category A:
The eligible student must be a member of the Georgia National Guard or be a U.S. Military Reservist who completed at least one qualifying term of service. A qualifying term of service is defined as deployment overseas, on or after May 3, 2005, for active service to a location outside of the United States and its territories designed by the U.S. Department of Defense as a combat zone, for a consecutive period of at least 181 days.
Category B:
The eligible student must be the biological child, adoptive child, or legal ward of a member of the Georgia National Guard or the U.S. Military Reserves who completed at least one qualifying term of service. The student must have been age 25 or younger during the qualifying term of service. A qualifying term of service is defined as deployment overseas, on or after May 3, 2005, for active service to a location outside of the United States and its territories designed by the U.S. Department of Defense as a combat zone, for a consecutive period of at least 181 days.
Category C:
The eligible student must be the biological child, adoptive child, or legal ward of a member of the Georgia National Guard or the U.S. Military Reserves who was killed or received 100 percent disability as a result of injures received in an eligible combat zone. The student must have been age 25 or younger during the qualifying term of service. A qualifying term of service is defined as deployment overseas, on or after May 3, 2005, for active service to a location outside of the United States and its territories designed by the U.S. Department of Defense as a combat zone. There are no minimum days of service required for Category C.
Required Documentation:
-
Copy of DD214 military record or other acceptable military documentation for the Georgia National Guard member or the U.S. Military Reservist.
-
Copy of the student's birth certificate, adoption document, or legal guardianship document. (Categories B and C only)
-
Copy of death certificate. (Category C only, if applicable)
-
Copy of military record of injury. (Category C only, if applicable.)
Employment Preference: The Veteran's Employment Preference gives eligible Veterans preference in appointment over many other applicants. Veterans' preference applies, to virtually all new appointments in both the competitive and excepted service. Veterans' preference does not guarantee Veterans a job and it does not apply to internal agency actions such as promotions, transfers, reassignments, and reinstatements. Only Veterans that are discharged or released from active duty in the armed forces under honorable conditions are eligible for Veterans' preference. This means you must have been discharged under an honorable or general discharge.
There two types of preference eligibility are disabled (10-point preference eligible) and non-disabled (5-point preference eligible).
You are a 5-point preference eligible if your active duty service meets any of the following:
-
180 or more consecutive days, any part of which occurred during the period beginning September 11, 2001 and ending on a future date prescribed by Presidential proclamation or law as the last date of Operation Iraqi Freedom, OR
-
Between August 2, 1990 and January 2, 1992, OR
-
180 or more consecutive days, any part of which occurred after January 31, 1955 and before October 15, 1976.
-
In a war, campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized or between April 28, 1952 and July 1, 1955.
You are a 10-point preference eligible if you served at any time, and you:
-
Have a service connected disability, OR
-
Received a Purple Heart.
Veterans: Qualified Veterans are eligible for a free driver's license that remains valid for eight (8) years. The license or permit of any Veteran who currently hold a valid license or ID which expires at age 65 will remain valid. Once Veterans reach age 65, they must renew their driver's licenses (at no cost) every five (5) years. Successful completion of the vision test is required at each renewal after age 65.
Eligibility: To get your free Georgia Veteran Driver's License you must present an original Certificate of Eligibility (DS516) approved by the Georgia Department of Veterans Services which can only be obtained from the Department of Veteran Services upon presentation of separation papers (DD214) declaring the following:
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Actual wartime service*
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Honorable discharge
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Resident of the state of Georgia, either at the time of entry into service or at least 2 consecutive years preceding date of application
*Wartime service is defined as service on active duty during one of the following:
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Spanish-American War - April 21 1898, through July 4, 1902
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Mexican Border - May 9, 1916 through April 5, 1917
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World War I - April 6, 1917 through November 11, 1918 (Veteran who served with the U.S. Military forces in Russia would include April 6, 1917, through April 1, 1920
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World War II - December 7, 1941 through December 31, 1946
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Korea - June 27, 1950 through January 31, 1955
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Lebanon Conflict - July 1, 1958 through November 1, 1958
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Vietnam Conflict - July 1, 1958 through August 4, 1964
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Berlin Conflict - August 14, 1961 through June 1, 1963
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Vietnam - August 5, 1964 through May 7, 1975
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Dominican Republic Conflict - April 28, 1965 through September 21, 1966
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Grenada Conflict - October 23, 1983 through November 21, 1983
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Panama Liberation - December 30, 1989 through February 15, 1990
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Saudi Arabia
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Iraq
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Kuwait
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Persian Gulf - August 2, 1990 - ending date unknown at this time
Honorary License: The spouse of a disabled honorably separated Veteran who does not have a driver's license or the unmarried spouse of a deceased, honorably separated Veteran is entitled to the same license available to the Veteran. An applicant for this type of license must meet the same requirements as those required for a Veteran's license. For the unmarried spouse, the death certificate along with DD214 must be submitted to the State Department of Veteran Services to obtain an original Certificate of Eligibility (DS516).
Disabled Veteran - service connected Tags (Free): Disabled Veteran tag are provided free of charge to a disabled Veteran who has a letter from the Veterans Administration or a card issued by the Georgia Veterans Services. The letter is required for first time applicants stating the applicant is 100% disabled (service connected) or has loss of sight in one or both eyes, or loss or permanent loss of the use of a limb. Discharge under honorable condition-(Initial tag issuance only). Upon the death of the Veteran, the surviving spouse may request/retain the tag provided they do not remarry. To request/retain the tag, a certified copy of the Veteran's death certificate and Marriage License is required.
Disabled Veteran - non-service connected Tags (Paid): Disabled Veteran tags are available to Veterans who has a letter from GA VA stating applicant is 100% disabled (non-service connected) Discharged under honorable conditions. Initial tag issuance only. . These DV tags may be purchased at regular license plate rate of $20.00. Upon death of the Veteran, the surviving spouse cannot request/retain the tag: it must be surrendered to their County Tag Agent.
Veterans License Plates: Personnel of the U.S. Armed Forces or individuals who served during World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Operation Desert Shield/Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom are eligible to purchase special and distinctive vehicle license plates. All requests must be accompanied by payment of the appropriate taxes, registration fees, and manufacturing fees and copy of DD214 showing service dates. Upon the death of the Veteran, the surviving spouse may request/retain the tag provided they do not remarry. To request/retain the tag, a certified copy of the Veterans Death Certificate, Marriage Certificate and Form DD-214 are required.
Army Reserve License Plates: US Army Reserve members are eligible for one free auto tag.
Eligibility: All current or retired US Army Reserve members are eligible for one free auto tag. Current dated letter from Commanding Officer and Drivers License Number are required. Only one additional tag active or retired may be issued at $70.00.,
One-Time Honorary Veterans Hunting and Fishing License: A free hunting and fishing license issued once for military Veterans discharged on or after July, 1 2005. The Honorary Veterans License will be valid for 12 months from the date of issue. It covers all recreational hunting and fishing licenses (except Federal Duck Stamp). This specifically includes: Alligator, Hunting, Primitive Weapons, Big Game, WMA, Georgia Waterfowl Conservation, Fishing, and Trout licenses. It does not include commercial licenses.
Eligibility: Applicants for the Honorary Veterans License must be military Veterans who meet all of the following criteria:
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Have not previously received this license.
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Served on active Federal duty for 90 or more days.
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Discharge date is July 1, 2005 or later (Veterans discharged before July 1, 2005 are not eligible for this license).
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Currently reside in Georgia.
Disability Fishing and Hunting License: A Veteran may receive an honorary license provided he/she is permanently and totally disabled so as to prevent gainful employment, and provided the certification of such disability is made by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Disabled Veteran Admission to Georgia State Parks: Disabled Veterans who are Georgia residents and present a Certificate of Eligibility from their Veterans Benefits Coordinator are entitled to a 25% discount on Annual Park Passes, Individual or Family Friends Memberships, lodge rooms, campsites, cottages, mini-golf, golf fees, swimming pools and historic site admission. When making online reservations, the full fee will be charged to your credit card. Upon check-in and presenting proof of eligibility, you will be reimbursed for your discount.
Active Duty and Retired Military Admission to Georgia State Parks: Active duty and retired military who are Georgia residents are entitled to a 25% discount on the daily or Annual Park Pass. ID must be shown.
Georgia War Veterans Nursing Home (GWVNH): The Georgia War Veterans Nursing Home is a 192-bed skilled nursing care facility located adjacent to the Medical College of Georgia Hospital and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Augusta. It is operated under an interagency agreement with the Medical College of Georgia. The primary purpose of the facility is to provide care to the aged and infirm Georgia Veterans. The GWVNH also serves as a teaching facility to acquaint medical and allied health students with medical conditions and diseases that confront the aged. This provides the student with practical experience and helps them gain expertise in treating the elderly.
Georgia War Veterans Home: The Georgia War Veterans Home, situated on approximately 17 acres in the central Georgia city of Milledgeville, is a 550-bed facility licensed and certified to provide skilled nursing care to aged and infirm Georgia war Veterans.
Cemeteries: Any member of the Armed Forces who is a Veteran under the rules established by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and was separated under other than dishonorable conditions, is eligible for burial in the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Milledgeville or in the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Glennville.
Eligibility:
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A Veteran under the rules established by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and separated under other than dishonorable conditions.
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A member of the Reserves/National Guard who was eligible for retirement pay at the time of death or would have been entitled to retired pay but for the fact that they were not at least 60 years of age.
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A member of the U.S. Armed Forces or a reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces, who died in the line of duty while on active duty, or active duty for training.
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An eligible Veteran's spouse may be interred in the same plot as the Veteran at GVMC. A copy of the marriage certificate is required.
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An eligible Veteran's dependent (unmarried, under age 21, or life-long dependency on the Veteran) is eligible for burial at GVMC. Documentation of eligibility is required.
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A copy of the Veteran's DD 214 or other documentation verifying active military service must be furnished.
Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Facilities in Georgia:
VA Medical Centers
Augusta: Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, 1Freedom Way, 706-733-0188
Decatur: Atlanta VA Medical Center, 1670 Clairmont Rd, 404-321-6111
Dublin: Carl Vinson VA Medical Center, 1826 Veterans Blvd, 478-272-1210
Outpatient Clinic
Athens: Athens Clinic, 9249 Highway 29 South, 706-227-4534
Decatur: Decatur Clinic, 755 Commerce Dr, 404-329-2222
Hinesville: Hinesville Clinic, 740 East General Stewart Way, Suite 103, 888-878-6884
Community Based Outpatient Clinics
Albany: Albany Clinic, 526 West Broad Ave, 229-446-9000
Austell: Austell VA Clinic, 2041 Mesa Valley Way, 404-329-2222
Blairsville: Blairsville Clinic, 1294 Highway 515 East, Suite 100, 404-329-2222
Columbus: Columbus Clinic, 1310 13th Ave, 706-257-7205
East Point: East Point, 1513 Cleveland Ave, 404-321-6111 X 2600
Kathleen: Perry Outreach Clinic, 2370 S. Houston Lake Rd, 478-224-1309
Lawrenceville: Lawrenceville Clinic, 1970 Riverside Pkwy, 404-417-1750
Macon: Macon Clinic, 5398 Thomaston Road, Suite B, 478-476-8868
Newnan: Newnan Clinic, 39-A Oak Hill Ct, 404-329-2222
Oakwood: NE Georgia/Oakwood Clinic, 3931 Munday Mill Rd, 404-728-8210
Rome: Rome CBOC, 30 Chateau Dr, SE, 706-235-6581
Savannah: Savannah Clinic, 325 West Montgomery Crossroad, 912-920-0214
Stockbridge: Stockbridge Outreach Clinic, 175 Medical Blvd, 404-329-2222
Valdosta: Valdosta CBOC, 2841 N. Patterson St, 229-293-0132
Waycross: Waycross Clinic, 515B City Blvd, 912-279-4400
Vet Center
Atlanta: Atlanta Vet Center, 1440 Dutch Valley Place, Suite 1100 Box 55, 404-347-7264
Columbus: Muscogee County (Columbus) Vet Center, 1824 Victory Dr, 706-687-6656
Lawrenceville: Lawrenceville Vet Center, 930 River Centre Place, 404-728-4195
Macon: Macon Vet Center, 750 Riverside Dr, 478-477-3813
Marietta: Marietta Vet Center, 40 Dodd St, Suite 700, 404-327-4954
Savannah: Savannah Vet Center, 321 Commercial Dr, 912-961-5800
Waycross: Waycross Outreach Clinic, 515B City Blvd, 912-279-4400
VISN:
Duluth: VISN7: VA Southeast Network, 3700 Crestwood Pkwy, Suite 500, 678-924-5700
Resources
http://sdvs.georgia.gov/portal/site/SDVS/
http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/state.asp?State=GA&dnum=ALL
http://www.retirementliving.com/RLstate1.html#GEORGIA
Document Review Date: 4 April 2012