State / Territory Benefits - Tennessee
Division of Motor Vehicles Benefits
Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Facilities
Summary: Tennessee offers special benefits for its military Service members and Veterans including Veterans Employment Preference, Property Tax Relief, County Motor Vehicle Tax, Dependent Children's Scholarship, Special Vehicle License Plates, Burial Eligibility in Tennessee's State Veterans Cemeteries, as well as lifetime Hunting, Fishing license and State Park privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component, and Veteran disability status.
State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility
State Income Tax: No state income tax in Tennessee. The individual income tax is imposed only on individuals and other entities receiving interest from bonds and notes and dividends from stock.
Property Tax: Disabled Veterans and their surviving spouse may qualify for a rebate or exemption of taxes on a specified portion of the value of property used as their residence. The Veteran or surviving spouse must own and use property as primary residence. The maximum market value on which tax relief is calculated is $175,000. If residence is a mobile home, a copy of the title or bill of sale is required. Apply through the county trustee; or, if property is within the city limits, application can also be made by contacting your city collecting official.
Eligibility:
For Disabled Veteran*--Disability must fall within the categories of a service-connected disability (that resulted in paraplegia OR permanent paralysis of both legs and lower part of the body resulting from traumatic injury or disease to the spinal cord or brain OR loss of or the loss of use of, two or more limbs OR legal blindness), a 100% total and permanent disability rating from a service-connected disability, or a 100% total and permanent disability rating from being a prisoner of war.
For Surviving Spouse of Disabled Veteran*--Surviving spouse must have been eligible for disabled Veteran's property tax relief at the time of the disabled Veteran's death. If a subsequent amendment to the law would have made the deceased Veteran eligible, then property tax relief shall also be extended to the surviving spouse. Qualifying Veteran must have been eligible due to a service-connected disability (that resulted in paraplegia OR permanent paralysis of both legs and lower part of the body resulting from traumatic injury or disease to the spinal cord or brain OR loss of or the loss of use of, two or more limbs OR legal blindness), a total and permanent disability rating from a service-connected disability, or a 100% total and permanent disability rating from being a prisoner of war; or death must have resulted from a service-connected, combat-related, cause or KIA (killed in action). Spouses must provide a form of personal identification (Driver's License, Military ID, or Social Security Card) and, a copy of the disabled Veteran's death certificate. A surviving spouse must have been married to the Veteran at the time of death and must NOT be remarried in order to be eligible.
*Determination of eligibility will be made based on information provided by the VA through use of consent forms (F-16) for a Disabled Veteran, or (F16S) for a Widow(er) of a Disabled Veteran available at the county trustee's office or the city collecting officials' office.
Retired Military Pay: Beginning with tax year 2012, the annual Hall Income Tax standard income exemptions for taxpayers 65 years of age or older increases from $16,200 to $26,200 for single filers and from $27,000 to $37,000 for joint filers.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before Sept. 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.
County Automobile Tax: A Veteran may be exempt from a county automobile personal use tax.
Any disabled Veteran who has a 100 percent permanent, total disability from a service connected cause, or any former prisoner-of-war, as determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, shall be exempt from the motor vehicle privilege tax upon submission of evidence of such disability to the officer in the county charged with the responsibility for collecting such tax.
Eligibility: A Veteran who is 100% disabled.
Tennessee National Guard Scholarship Program: Tennessee National Guard Association offers six (6) $1,500.00 scholarships in the following categories: one (1) exclusively for an active Army National Guard member; two (2) for active members of the NGATN or their dependents; two (2) active members of the Tennessee National Guard. If an active member of the Tennessee Army or Air National Guard does not qualify for the stipend, these scholarships may be awarded to any qualified son or daughter of an active member of the Tennessee National Guard.; one (1) for a current member of the TN National Guard or qualified son or daughter who participated in Operation Desert Storm, Noble Eagle, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.
Eligibility: National Guard Service member.
Dependent Children's Scholarship: Free tuition and/or maintenance fees, and/or student activities fees, and/or registration fees required at any college or university in TN, owned, operated, and maintained by the state.
Eligibility: Dependent children (under 23 years of age) or spouse of Armed Forces Members killed or who died as a result of injuries received or officially reported as being either a prisoner-of-war or missing-in-action while serving as a member of the Armed Forces during a qualifying period of armed conflict are eligible. Must be a TN resident and under the age of 23. To be eligible for these benefits, the dependent child or spouse must present a certificate from the United States Government, and he/she cannot be receiving benefits under Public Law 634 or such other Federal Laws offering like or similar benefits, and must meet the above requirements. Notice of the waiver program must be published in the institutional catalogs and class schedules. Application available at Financial Aid Office, Records Office, or Bursar's Office at the school selected by the student.
Employment Assistance: State employee receives 15 days paid military leave per year.
Eligibility: State employee on orders for Annual Drill or active duty.
Veterans Employment Preference: Veterans receive 5 points for Veteran's status and disabled Veterans receive 10 points on state examinations for state employment. Credit for years of military service received in State employment.
Eligibility: A Veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States.
There are more than 20 Veteran related specialty plates offered in the state of Tennessee to include four more added in 2012. To find out more about all specialty plates and how to obtain them, please visit the Tennessee Department of Revenue website.
Active Military License Plate: This plate is available to Tennessee residents who are registering a private passenger motor vehicle and who are active members of the United States military and military reserves. Active military applicants must provide a current copy of their LES and stationing orders, along with a copy of the vehicle's registration.
Military Retired: Retired military applicants must provide a military ID card and show one of the following official military forms to prove their retired status: DD Form 2A (RES), DD Form 2N (RES), DD Form 2MC (RES), DD Form 2AF (RES), DD Form 2CG (RES) or DD214 which reflects 20 years of honorable military service. Please note: Retired military applicants must submit proof of their retired status each year upon renewal of their vehicle's registration. Retired military members can elect to choose to obtain a retired and honorably discharged plate instead, which only requires the submission of proof upon initial application.
The annual fee for automobile registration is $21.50 with an initial fee of $25.75 required. The annual fee for motorcycle registration is $14.50 with an initial fee of $16.75 required. The plate cannot be personalized.
National Guard Member License Plate: Officers and enlisted members of the Tennessee National Guard and spouses. Initial Fee is $25.75. Annual Fee is $21.50 for Officers, free first plate for enlisted members and $21.50 additional plates for enlisted members. Plates expire for Enlisted and Officers- September 30, Retired and Honorably Discharged- Staggered. County clerks will receive an eligibility list provided by the Adjutant General from the Title and Registration Warehouse. National Guard officer's plates are produced annually. Only one plate per officer will be produced. The officer will provide a letter of eligibility indicating the plate number. These plates are only issued in September since there is no statutory provision to prorate the registration fee. If an officer fails to register in September, they must use a passenger vehicle registration until the following September. Each year the lettering embossed on the plate will change from red to blue to distinguish the year of issuance. Each National Guard enlisted member must provide a letter of eligibility identifying them by name, social security number, indicating they are in good standing with the unit and are eligible to have National Guard plates issued if they are not on the eligibility list. If discharged from the guard prior to the expiration of the registration under which it was issued, the special plate may remain valid for display on the vehicle until the expiration date of the registration. National Guard retirees may obtain this plate with a retired decal affixed. Application must be accompanied by current and valid Armed Forces of Tennessee card stating retired status.
Air Medal - Air Medal - This plate is available to Tennessee residents who are registering a private passenger motor vehicle and who are recipients of the Air Medal. Applicants must provide a letter or DD214 from the Department of Veterans Affairs indicating they are an Air Medal recipient. There is no annual fee for this plate and it cannot be personalized.
Blue Star Family - Blue Star Family license plates are offered for purchase to any eligible person whose spouse, parent, sibling, or child is currently serving in the armed forces of the United States at the time of application. Armed forces includes members serving in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard (when mobilized to augment the Navy) to include reservists and National Guard members.
To obtain this license plate, a registrant must:
Submit proof of current service from their Service member. Examples of this documentation include copies of one of the following:
- a. Current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES),
- b. Member's military ID card, or
- c. A letter from their unit commander on official letterhead stating the Family member's current status as a member of the U.S. armed forces; and
- Provide a written statement by the Service member indicating the family relationship with the registrant.
Proof of eligibility must be submitted for each renewal year. The initial fee for obtaining this license plate is $25.75, and the subsequent annual fee is $21.50. Additional charges for county and/or city wheel tax, where imposed locally, plus county clerk fees will apply. The plate cannot be personalized.
Retired members of the military may apply for this license plate if they also meet the criteria above, but may wish to obtain one of several choices of registration plates available for them in honor of their service.
Bosnia Veterans - This plate is available to Tennessee residents who are registering a private passenger motor vehicle and are honorary discharged Veterans who served in Bosnia with the United States Armed Forces. The applicant will be required to show proof of service. The annual fee for automobile registration is $21.50 with an initial fee of $25.75 required. The annual fee for motorcycle registration is $14.50 with an initial fee of $16.75 required. The plate cannot be personalized.
Bronze Star (Meritorious) - This plate is available to Tennessee residents who are registering a private passenger motor vehicle and who are recipients of the Bronze Star - Meritorious. The applicant must provide a letter or DD214 from the Department of Veterans Affairs indicating they are a recipient of one of the applicable medals. The annual fee for automobile registration is $21.50 with an initial fee of $25.75 required. The annual fee for motorcycle registration is $14.50 with an initial fee of $16.75 required. The plate cannot be personalized.
Bronze Star (Valor) - This plate is available to Tennessee residents who are registering a private passenger motor vehicle and who are recipients of the Bronze Star - Valor. The applicant must provide a letter or DD214 from the Department of Veterans Affairs indicating they are a recipient of one of the applicable medals. The annual fee for automobile registration is $21.50 with an initial fee of $25.75 required. The annual fee for motorcycle registration is $14.50 with an initial fee of $16.75 required. The plate cannot be personalized.
Congressional Medal of Honor License Plates: Tennessee residents who are recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, the Navy Cross, the Air Force Cross or the Legion of Valor. Initial plate is free and there is no annual fee. Applicant must provide a letter or DD214 from the Department of Veterans Affairs indicating they are a recipient of one of the applicable medals.
Desert Storm Veteran License Plate: This plate is available to Tennessee residents who are registering a private passenger motor vehicle and are honorably discharges veterans of Desert Storm. Applicants must provide proof of service. The annual fee for automobile registration is $21.50 with an initial fee of $25.75 required. The annual fee for motorcycle registration is $14.50 with an initial fee of $16.75 required. The plate cannot be personalized.
Disabled Veteran License Plate: No fee for up to two (2) plates with or without the wheelchair emblem for a Veteran having served in the military services of the United States who is a resident of Tennessee and is entitled to compensation under the laws administered by the Veteran's Administration due to disability incurred in or aggravated by active military services of the U.S. The application for title and registration should be accompanied by an approval letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs stating a disability of the following: Loss or permanent loss of use of one (1) or both feet or Loss or permanent loss of use of one (1) or both hands. Permanent impairment of vision of both eyes as enumerated by statute Service connected disability, which is determined by the Veterans Administration to constitute 100% permanent total disability. Additional plates (over and above two free plates) may be obtained upon payment of the regular fee for plates and the actual cost of production ($25.75 first year, $21.50 for renewal). If applicant chooses to have a plate without the without the wheelchair emblem, such plate may be issued; however, only the license plate with a wheelchair emblem entitles the disabled Veteran to park in disabled parking areas. The applicant should be made aware that they would be relinquishing disabled parking privileges by choosing a plate without the wheelchair emblem.
Distinguished Flying Cross - This plate is available to Tennessee residents who are registering a private passenger motor vehicle and who are recipients of the Distinguished Flying Cross. Applicants must provide a letter or DD214 from the Department of Veterans Affairs indicating they are a Distinguished Flying Cross recipient. There is no annual fee for this plate and it cannot be personalized.
Enemy Evadee: Available to Tennessee residents certified as an enemy evadee by the VA. Initial Fee is $25.75. Annual Fee is $21.50. The application must be accompanied by discharge papers from the U.S. Armed Forces that have been certified by the VA. A copy of the death certificate should be supplied in the event a surviving spouse wishes to renew such plate.
Ex-Prisoner of War (Ex-POW) License Plate: Residents of Tennessee who are former prisoners of WWI, WWII, the Korean War or the Vietnam War or the surviving spouse of such former prisoner of war. First two plates are free and additional plates are $21.50. The application should be accompanied by a certificate from the U.S. Defense Department stating the period of time the applicant was a prisoner of war. In the case of an application for continuation of a license plate or plates held by a deceased spouse of the prisoner of war, a copy of the death certificate should be submitted. A surviving spouse is entitled to the plates until they remarry.
Gold Star Family Plate: Available to a person whose spouse, parent, sibling, or child served and died in the line of duty in the armed forces of the United States or its allies, or died as a result of injuries sustained in such service. The first plate is free. Additional plates will be $25.75 initial issuance and $21.50 for renewal. Applicant must provide a DD Form 1300 Report of Casualty.
Handicapped Veteran License Plate: A Veteran who has served in the United States Armed Forces who is a resident of Tennessee and who has a service-connected disability, which is determined by the federal Department of Veterans Affairs to constitute less than one hundred percent (100%) permanent total disability. Initial Fee is $25.75 and the Annual Fee is $21.50. This plate does not have handicapped parking privileges with it.
Honorably Discharged - This plate is available to Tennessee residents who are registering a private passenger motor vehicle and are honorably discharged veterans of the United States Armed Forces. An applicant must provide proof of service. The annual fee for automobile registration is $21.50 with an initial fee of $25.75 required. The annual fee for motorcycle registration is $14.50 with an initial fee of $16.75 required. The plate cannot be personalized.
Korean War - This plate is available to Tennessee residents who are registering a private passenger motor vehicle and are honorably discharged Veterans of the Korean War. An applicant must provide proof of service. The annual fee for automobile registration is $21.50 with an initial fee of $25.75 required. The annual fee for motorcycle registration is $14.50 with an initial fee of $16.75 required. The plate cannot be personalized.
Legion of Valor License Plates: Tennessee residents who are recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, the Navy Cross, the Air Force Cross or the Legion of Valor. Initial plate is free and there is no annual fee. Applicant must provide a letter or DD214 from the Department of Veterans Affairs indicating they are a recipient of one of the applicable medals.
Operation Enduring Freedom: Available to Honorably Discharged Veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom and active members of the United States armed forces serving in Operation Enduring Freedom. Honorably Discharged - DD214 indicating receipt of campaign ribbon (Afghanistan); Active Duty - award certificate indicating receipt of campaign ribbon (Afghanistan). Annual Fee: $21.50 - automobile; $14.50 - motorcycle. There is an initial fee of $25.75 for automobiles and $16.75 for motorcycles.
Operation Iraqi Freedom: Available to Honorably Discharged Veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom and active members of the United States armed forces serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Honorably Discharged - DD214 indicating receipt of campaign ribbon (Iraqi); Active Duty - award certificate indicating receipt of campaign ribbon (Iraqi). Annual Fee: $21.50 - automobile; $14.50 - motorcycle. There is an initial fee of $25.75 for automobiles and $16.75 for motorcycles.
Pearl Harbor Survivor License Plates: Any Tennessee resident who was a member of the armed forces of the United States and present at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii on December 7, 1941 and who is the owner of a motor vehicle designated for private use. Initial Fee is $25.75 and the Annual Fee is $21.50. A copy of the membership card from the Pearl Harbor Survivor's Association, Inc. must be provided for eligibility.
Purple Heart - This plate is available to Tennessee residents who are registering a private passenger motor vehicle and are holders of The Purple Heart Medal. A copy of Form DD214 or the equivalent prior to 1951 (WWK 53-55), indicating the individual has been awarded the Purple Heart should accompany the application for registration. In the event neither form is available and there is other documentation which indicates the awarding of the Purple Heart, that documentation should be forwarded to the Taxpayer & Vehicle Services Division prior to issuing the plate in order that the Department of Revenue may consult with veterans' groups to ascertain eligibility. There is no annual fee and the plate cannot be personalized. A disabled Veteran may have two plates.
Silver Star License Plate: Tennessee residents who are recipients of the Silver Star. Initial Fee is $25.75 and the Annual Fee is $21.50. Applicant must provide a letter or DD214 from the Department of Veterans Affairs indicating they are a recipient of one of the applicable medals.
Sons of Confederate Veterans - This plate is available to Tennessee residents who are registering a private passenger motor vehicle. The annual fee is $56.50 and $15.38 of the additional $35 collected is allocated to the Tennessee Division of Sons of Confederate Veterans. The plate can be personalized with 5 characters available for a total fee of $91.50.
Submarine Veteran - This plate is available to Tennessee residents who are registering a private passenger motor vehicle and are honorably discharged Veterans of the United States armed forces having served on a submarine in the line of military duty, and whose submarine service has been certified by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Applicants must submit a DD214 indicating they are a Submarine Veteran. After the ranking on the DD214 there should be an SS which stands for Submarine Services. The annual fee for automobile registration is $21.50 with an initial fee of $25.75 required. The plate cannot be personalized.
Vietnam Veteran - This plate is available to Tennessee residents who are registering a private passenger motor vehicle and are honorably discharged Veterans of the Vietnam War Veterans. Applicants will be required to show proof of service. The annual fee for automobile registration is $21.50 with an initial fee of $25.75 required. The annual fee for motorcycle registration is $14.50 with an initial fee of $16.75 required. The plate cannot be personalized.
Women Veterans - This plate is available to Tennessee residents who are registering a private passenger motor vehicle and who is an honorably discharged member from the armed services. The applicant must submit a copy of their DD214 form. The annual fee for automobile registration is $21.50 with an initial fee of $25.75 required. The annual fee for motorcycle registration is $14.50 with an initial fee of $16.75 required. The plate cannot be personalized.
World War II - This plate is available to Tennessee residents who are registering a private passenger motor vehicle and are honorably discharged Veterans of World War II. Applicants will be required to show proof of service. The annual fee for automobile registration is $21.50 with an initial fee of $25.75 required. The annual fee for motorcycle registration is $14.50 with an initial fee of $16.75 required. The plate cannot be personalized.
Medical claims must be submitted; Guard members remain on active duty while under doctor's care.
Eligibility: National Guard Service member on State active duty.
Worker's Compensation: Same as State employees. Increased monetary benefit of Guard member's death gratuity who are killed in action at $100,000.
Eligibility: National Guard Service member on State active duty.
Group Insurance: Tennessee National Guard offers Guard members $10,000.00-$50,000.00 for $4.40 to $20.40 month. Spouse: $5,000.00 - $10,000 - $25,000.00 for $2.40 - $4.40 - $10.40 month. Dependents: $5,000.00 - $10,000.00 for $3.35 - $6.70 (all rates monthly). Free $10,000 coverage for new members of the National Guard (first year in TN NG).
Eligibility: National Guard Service member.
Injury/Death Benefits: Same as Worker's Compensation.
Eligibility: Disease, Injury, or Death occurs while serving on State active duty.
Lifetime Hunting/Fishing license: A one-time $10.00 fee for a lifetime hunting and fishing license.
Eligibility: A Tennessee Veteran who is 30% disabled and whose disability is the result of injury or illness from wartime service or 100% disabled from service connected cause.
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State Parks National Guard Benefits: Guard members enjoy same benefits at state parks as state employees including reduced lodging, fees, etc.
Eligibility: TN National Guard member.
Tennessee Veterans' Discount: For camping within Tennessee State Parks from November 1 through March 31. The discount is a 15% to 25% reduction off the standard nightly base rates depending on the type of site chosen. Also provides a year-round discount to all active duty U.S. military regardless of their branch of service or where they are stationed.
Eligibility: All Military and Veteran discounts require a proof of prior military duty. Acceptable IDs for proof of eligibility include a VA benefits card, retired military ID, or DD-214. These are in addition to proof of residency.
Veterans Day has been designated as Free State Park Day for Tennessee veterans, including complimentary greens fees and night of camping. Tennessee State Parks offers this special discount to veterans annually on Veterans Day.
Tennessee State Veterans Home: The first home opened in Murfreesboro on June 10, 1991. Located on a seven-acre lot, deeded to the Board by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, adjacent to the Alvin C. York V.A. Medical Center, this is a 140-bed facility offering intermediate and skilled levels of nursing care in a one-story building encompassing 69,278 square feet. Legislation passed by the General Assembly in 1993 provided for construction of a second facility in Humboldt Tennessee. Also a 140-bed facility offering intermediate and skilled levels of nursing care, this one-story building encompassing some 74,870 square feet opened February 7, 1996. The third home in Knoxville opened in December 2006. This 140-bed facility, offers intermediate and skilled levels of nursing care in a spacious 73,065 square foot, one-story building. In each of the three facilities, 20 of the beds are located in a secure, special needs unit. All residents are cared for in such a manner and in such an environment as to promote enhancement of their quality of life without abridging the safety and rights of other residents. An interdisciplinary team approach to resident life is utilized to assure the quality of life. Residents and Family members are involved in the care planning process, and resident participation is encouraged through a functioning resident council. Residents' rights are posted and enforced as delineated in current federal and state standards.
Eligibility: Veterans who are entitled to medical treatment and/or other benefits from the USDVA, and who also meet at least one of the additional requirements: 1) Resident of Tennessee at time of admission; 2) Born in Tennessee; 3) Entered the U.S. Armed Forces in Tennessee; 4) Tennessee address is official Home of Record on Veteran's Military Record; 5) Has an immediate Family member (Parent, Spouse, Sibling or Child) or Legal Guardian, who would serve as primary caregiver, who is a resident of Tennessee. Spouse Widow/Widower or Gold Star Parent may also be eligible for admission on a space available basis. Upon meeting the eligibility requirements, the applicant's name will be placed on our Potential Admissions Wait List. Complete the application and provide a copy of the Veteran's discharge papers (DD214); if the applicant is not the Veteran, additional information will be requested.
Tennessee State Cemetery for Active Duty Veterans: There is no cost for interment or cremation for Veterans who meet eligibility requirements. There is a $700.00 fee for the interment or cremation of a Veteran's spouse of eligible dependent children that must be paid prior to or the day of the burial.
Eligibility: 1) Any person who served on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States who was discharged or released there from before September 7, 1980 under conditions other than dishonorable. 2) Any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who died while on active duty. 3) Any person who served on active duty who entered active duty as an enlisted person after September 7, 1980, and officers commissioned who entered active duty after October 17, 1981, and whose discharge or separation from active military service was under "other than dishonorable" conditions. A person whose first tour or duty began or after the dates listed above is eligible if he or she completed a continuous period of active duty of at least 24 months or the full period for which called or ordered to active duty, whichever is shorter or was released because of a hardship discharge, or has a compensable service connected disability or was released because of a service connected disability.
Burial in Tennessee State Cemetery for Reserve and National Guard Members: Reserve and National Guard members who are in receipt of compensation or pension from the VA are eligible for burial and do not have to pay the plot allowance, except when their claim is denied by the VA. Reserve and National Guard members who completed twenty or more years of reserve or guard service and are entitled to retirement pay. Reserve and National Guard members are also eligible for burial under the following five (5) categories and do not have to pay the plot allowance cost, except when their claim is denied by the VA:
1) Dies under honorable conditions while undergoing active duty for training.
2) If called to active duty, completes the full period for which called up.
3) Dies under honorable conditions while performing full time AGR service.
4) Completed at least 24 months of active service.
5) Discharged due to service connected disability while on active duty.
Recording of Discharges: County Clerks will provide free recording of the official discharge of each Veteran who served in the U.S. Armed Forces, as a confidential record.
Eligibility: Military Veteran with DD214.
TENNESSEE FALLEN HEROES MEDAL
The Tennessee Fallen Heroes Medal may be awarded on behalf of the people of the state of Tennessee to an individual serving on active duty who has been killed in action, while:
(1) Engaged in an action against an enemy of the United States;
(2) Engaged in military support operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force;
(3) Serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party; or
(4) Serving in a combat zone as designated by presidential order.
The recipient's name will be entered on the case of the Tennessee Fallen Heroes Medal. Individuals eligible to receive the Tennessee Fallen Heroes Medal include all active duty military who are legal residents of the state of Tennessee. The Tennessee Fallen Heroes Medal will be awarded solely by the governor or the governor's designee to the immediate survivor of the recipient. This law went into effect July 1, 2011 and is not retroactive.
Property Tax: Disabled Veterans and their surviving spouse may qualify for a rebate or exemption of taxes on a specified portion of the value of property used as their residence. The Veteran or surviving spouse must own and use property as primary residence. The maximum market value on which tax relief is calculated is $175,000. If residence is a mobile home, a copy of the title or bill of sale is required. Apply through the county trustee; or, if property is within the city limits, application can also be made by contacting your city collecting official.
Eligibility:
For Disabled Veteran*--Disability must fall within the categories of a service-connected disability (that resulted in paraplegia OR permanent paralysis of both legs and lower part of the body resulting from traumatic injury or disease to the spinal cord or brain OR loss of or the loss of use of, two or more limbs OR legal blindness), a 100% total and permanent disability rating from a service-connected disability, or a 100% total and permanent disability rating from being a prisoner of war.
For Surviving Spouse of Disabled Veteran*--Surviving spouse must have been eligible for disabled Veteran's property tax relief at the time of the disabled Veteran's death. If a subsequent amendment to the law would have made the deceased Veteran eligible, then property tax relief shall also be extended to the surviving spouse. Qualifying Veteran must have been eligible due to a service-connected disability (that resulted in paraplegia OR permanent paralysis of both legs and lower part of the body resulting from traumatic injury or disease to the spinal cord or brain OR loss of or the loss of use of, two or more limbs OR legal blindness), a total and permanent disability rating from a service-connected disability, or a 100% total and permanent disability rating from being a prisoner of war; or death must have resulted from a service-connected, combat-related, cause or KIA (killed in action). Spouses must provide a form of personal identification (Driver's License, Military ID, or Social Security Card) and, a copy of the disabled Veteran's death certificate. A surviving spouse must have been married to the Veteran at the time of death and must NOT be remarried in order to be eligible.
*Determination of eligibility will be made based on information provided by the VA through use of consent forms (F-16) for a Disabled Veteran, or (F16S) for a Widow(er) of a Disabled Veteran available at the county trustee's office or the city collecting officials' office.
Military Disability Retired Pay: Retirees who entered the military before Sept. 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.
County Automobile Tax: A Veteran may be exempt from a county automobile personal use tax.
Any disabled Veteran who has a 100 percent permanent, total disability from a service connected cause, or any former prisoner-of-war, as determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, shall be exempt from the motor vehicle privilege tax upon submission of evidence of such disability to the officer in the county charged with the responsibility for collecting such tax.
Eligibility: A Veteran who is 100% disabled.
Veterans Employment Preference: Disabled Veterans receive 10 points on state examinations for state employment. Credit for years of military service received in State employment.
Eligibility: A Veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States.
Purple Heart - This plate is available to Tennessee residents who are registering a private passenger motor vehicle and are holders of The Purple Heart Medal. A copy of Form DD214 or the equivalent prior to 1951 (WWK 53-55), indicating the individual has been awarded the Purple Heart should accompany the application for registration. In the event neither form is available and there is other documentation which indicates the awarding of the Purple Heart, that documentation should be forwarded to the Taxpayer & Vehicle Services Division prior to issuing the plate in order that the Department of Revenue may consult with veterans' groups to ascertain eligibility. There is no annual fee and the plate cannot be personalized. A disabled Veteran may have two plates.
Disabled Veteran License Plate: No fee for up to two (2) plates with or without the wheelchair emblem for a Veteran having served in the military services of the United States who is a resident of Tennessee and is entitled to compensation under the laws administered by the Veteran's Administration due to disability incurred in or aggravated by active military services of the U.S. The application for title and registration should be accompanied by an approval letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs stating a disability of the following: Loss or permanent loss of use of one (1) or both feet or Loss or permanent loss of use of one (1) or both hands. Permanent impairment of vision of both eyes as enumerated by statute Service connected disability, which is determined by the Veterans Administration to constitute 100% permanent total disability. Additional plates (over and above two free plates) may be obtained upon payment of the regular fee for plates and the actual cost of production ($25.75 first year, $21.50 for renewal). If applicant chooses to have a plate without the without the wheelchair emblem, such plate may be issued; however, only the license plate with a wheelchair emblem entitles the disabled Veteran to park in disabled parking areas. The applicant should be made aware that they would be relinquishing disabled parking privileges by choosing a plate without the wheelchair emblem.
Lifetime Hunting/Fishing license: A one-time $10.00 fee for a lifetime hunting and fishing license.
Eligibility: A Tennessee Veteran who is 30% disabled and whose disability is the result of injury or illness from wartime service or 100% disabled from service connected cause.
Property Tax: Disabled Veterans and their surviving spouse may qualify for a rebate or exemption of taxes on a specified portion of the value of property used as their residence. The Veteran or surviving spouse must own and use property as primary residence. The maximum market value on which tax relief is calculated is $175,000. If residence is a mobile home, a copy of the title or bill of sale is required. Apply through the county trustee; or, if property is within the city limits, application can also be made by contacting your city collecting official.
Eligibility:
For Surviving Spouse of Disabled Veteran*--Surviving spouse must have been eligible for disabled Veteran's property tax relief at the time of the disabled Veteran's death. If a subsequent amendment to the law would have made the deceased Veteran eligible, then property tax relief shall also be extended to the surviving spouse. Qualifying Veteran must have been eligible due to a service-connected disability (that resulted in paraplegia OR permanent paralysis of both legs and lower part of the body resulting from traumatic injury or disease to the spinal cord or brain OR loss of or the loss of use of, two or more limbs OR legal blindness), a total and permanent disability rating from a service-connected disability, or a 100% total and permanent disability rating from being a prisoner of war; or death must have resulted from a service-connected, combat-related, cause or KIA (killed in action). Spouses must provide a form of personal identification (Driver's License, Military ID, or Social Security Card) and, a copy of the disabled Veteran's death certificate. A surviving spouse must have been married to the Veteran at the time of death and must NOT be remarried in order to be eligible.
*Determination of eligibility will be made based on information provided by the VA through use of consent forms (F-16) for a Disabled Veteran, or (F16S) for a Widow(er) of a Disabled Veteran available at the county trustee's office or the city collecting officials' office.
Dependent Children's Scholarship: Free tuition and/or maintenance fees, and/or student activities fees, and/or registration fees required at any college or university in TN, owned, operated, and maintained by the state.
Eligibility: Dependent children (under 23 years of age) or spouse of Armed Forces Members killed or who died as a result of injuries received or officially reported as being either a prisoner-of-war or missing-in-action while serving as a member of the Armed Forces during a qualifying period of armed conflict are eligible. Must be a TN resident and under the age of 23. To be eligible for these benefits, the dependent child or spouse must present a certificate from the United States Government, and he/she cannot be receiving benefits under Public Law 634 or such other Federal Laws offering like or similar benefits, and must meet the above requirements. Notice of the waiver program must be published in the institutional catalogs and class schedules. Application available at Financial Aid Office, Records Office, or Bursar's Office at the school selected by the student.
Enemy Evadee: Available to Tennessee residents certified as an enemy evadee by the VA. Initial Fee is $25.75. Annual Fee is $21.50. The application must be accompanied by discharge papers from the U.S. Armed Forces that have been certified by the VA. A copy of the death certificate should be supplied in the event a surviving spouse wishes to renew such plate.
Ex-Prisoner of War (Ex-POW) License Plate: Residents of Tennessee who are former prisoners of WWI, WWII, the Korean War or the Vietnam War or the surviving spouse of such former prisoner of war. First two plates are free and additional plates are $21.50. The application should be accompanied by a certificate from the U.S. Defense Department stating the period of time the applicant was a prisoner of war. In the case of an application for continuation of a license plate or plates held by a deceased spouse of the prisoner of war, a copy of the death certificate should be submitted. A surviving spouse is entitled to the plates until they remarry.
Gold Star Family Plate: Available to a person whose spouse, parent, sibling, or child served and died in the line of duty in the armed forces of the United States or its allies, or died as a result of injuries sustained in such service. The first plate is free. Additional plates will be $25.75 initial issuance and $21.50 for renewal. Applicant must provide a DD Form 1300 Report of Casualty.
Tennessee State Veterans Home: The first home opened in Murfreesboro on June 10, 1991. Located on a seven-acre lot, deeded to the Board by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, adjacent to the Alvin C. York V.A. Medical Center, this is a 140-bed facility offering intermediate and skilled levels of nursing care in a one-story building encompassing 69,278 square feet. Legislation passed by the General Assembly in 1993 provided for construction of a second facility in Humboldt Tennessee. Also a 140-bed facility offering intermediate and skilled levels of nursing care, this one-story building encompassing some 74,870 square feet opened February 7, 1996. The third home in Knoxville opened in December 2006. This 140-bed facility, offers intermediate and skilled levels of nursing care in a spacious 73,065 square foot, one-story building. In each of the three facilities, 20 of the beds are located in a secure, special needs unit. All residents are cared for in such a manner and in such an environment as to promote enhancement of their quality of life without abridging the safety and rights of other residents. An interdisciplinary team approach to resident life is utilized to assure the quality of life. Residents and Family members are involved in the care planning process, and resident participation is encouraged through a functioning resident council. Residents' rights are posted and enforced as delineated in current federal and state standards.
Eligibility: Veterans who are entitled to medical treatment and/or other benefits from the USDVA, and who also meet at least one of the additional requirements: 1) Resident of Tennessee at time of admission; 2) Born in Tennessee; 3) Entered the U.S. Armed Forces in Tennessee; 4) Tennessee address is official Home of Record on Veteran's Military Record; 5) Has an immediate Family member (Parent, Spouse, Sibling or Child) or Legal Guardian, who would serve as primary caregiver, who is a resident of Tennessee. Spouse Widow/Widower or Gold Star Parent may also be eligible for admission on a space available basis. Upon meeting the eligibility requirements, the applicant's name will be placed on our Potential Admissions Wait List. Complete the application and provide a copy of the Veteran's discharge papers (DD214); if the applicant is not the Veteran, additional information will be requested.
Tennessee State Cemetery for Active Duty Veterans: There is no cost for interment or cremation for Veterans who meet eligibility requirements. There is a $700.00 fee for the interment or cremation of a Veteran's spouse of eligible dependent children that must be paid prior to or the day of the burial.
Eligibility: 1) Any person who served on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States who was discharged or released there from before September 7, 1980 under conditions other than dishonorable. 2) Any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who died while on active duty. 3) Any person who served on active duty who entered active duty as an enlisted person after September 7, 1980, and officers commissioned who entered active duty after October 17, 1981, and whose discharge or separation from active military service was under "other than dishonorable" conditions. A person whose first tour of duty began or after the dates listed above is eligible if he or she completed a continuous period of active duty of at least 24 months or the full period for which called or ordered to active duty, whichever is shorter or was released because of a hardship discharge, or has a compensable service connected disability or was released because of a service connected disability.
Tennessee National Guard Scholarship Program: Tennessee National Guard Association offers six (6) $1,500.00 scholarships in the following categories: one (1) exclusively for an active Army National Guard member; two (2) for active members of the NGATN or their dependents; two (2) active members of the Tennessee National Guard. If an active member of the Tennessee Army or Air National Guard does not qualify for the stipend, these scholarships may be awarded to any qualified son or daughter of an active member of the Tennessee National Guard.; one (1) for a current member of the TN National Guard or qualified son or daughter who participated in Operation Desert Storm, Noble Eagle, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.
Eligibility: National Guard Service member.
Employment Assistance: State employee receives 15 days paid military leave per year.
Eligibility: State employee on orders for Annual Drill or active duty.
National Guard Member License Plate: Officers and enlisted members of the Tennessee National Guard and spouses. Initial Fee is $25.75. Annual Fee is $21.50 for Officers, free first plate for enlisted members and $21.50 additional plates for enlisted members. Plates expire for Enlisted and Officers- September 30, Retired and Honorably Discharged- Staggered. County clerks will receive an eligibility list provided by the Adjutant General from the Title and Registration Warehouse. National Guard officer's plates are produced annually. Only one plate per officer will be produced. The officer will provide a letter of eligibility indicating the plate number. These plates are only issued in September since there is no statutory provision to prorate the registration fee. If an officer fails to register in September, they must use a passenger vehicle registration until the following September. Each year the lettering embossed on the plate will change from red to blue to distinguish the year of issuance. Each National Guard enlisted member must provide a letter of eligibility identifying them by name, social security number, indicating they are in good standing with the unit and are eligible to have National Guard plates issued if they are not on the eligibility list. If discharged from the guard prior to the expiration of the registration under which it was issued, the special plate may remain valid for display on the vehicle until the expiration date of the registration. National Guard retirees may obtain this plate with a retired decal affixed. Application must be accompanied by current and valid Armed Forces of Tennessee card stating retired status.
Medical claims must be submitted; Guard members remain on active duty while under doctor's care.
Eligibility: National Guard Service member on State active duty.
Worker's Compensation: Same as State employees. Increased monetary benefit of Guard member's death gratuity who are killed in action at $100,000.
Eligibility: National Guard Service member on State active duty.
Group Insurance: Tennessee National Guard offers Guard members $10,000.00-$50,000.00 for $4.40 to $20.40 month. Spouse: $5,000.00 - $10,000 - $25,000.00 for $2.40 - $4.40 - $10.40 month. Dependents: $5,000.00 - $10,000.00 for $3.35 - $6.70 (all rates monthly). Free $10,000 coverage for new members of the National Guard (first year in TN NG).
Eligibility: National Guard Service member.
Injury/Death Benefits: Same as Worker's Compensation.
Eligibility: Disease, Injury, or Death occurs while serving on State active duty.
State Parks National Guard Benefits: Guard members enjoy same benefits at state parks as state employees including reduced lodging, fees, etc.
Eligibility: TN National Guard member.
Burial in Tennessee State Cemetery for Reserve and National Guard Members: Reserve and National Guard members who are in receipt of compensation or pension from the VA are eligible for burial and do not have to pay the plot allowance, except when their claim is denied by the VA. Reserve and National Guard members who completed twenty or more years of reserve or guard service and are entitled to retirement pay. Reserve and National Guard members are also eligible for burial under the following five (5) categories and do not have to pay the plot allowance cost, except when their claim is denied by the VA:
1) Dies under honorable conditions while undergoing active duty for training.
2) If called to active duty, completes the full period for which called up.
3) Dies under honorable conditions while performing full time AGR service.
4) Completed at least 24 months of active service.
5) Discharged due to service connected disability while on active duty.
Recording of Discharges: County Clerks will provide free recording of the official discharge of each Veteran who served in the U.S. Armed Forces, as a confidential record.
Eligibility: Military Veteran with DD214.
Employment Assistance: State employee receives 15 days paid military leave per year.
Eligibility: State employee on orders for Annual Drill or active duty.
Burial in Tennessee State Cemetery for Reserve and National Guard Members: Reserve and National Guard members who are in receipt of compensation or pension from the VA are eligible for burial and do not have to pay the plot allowance, except when their claim is denied by the VA. Reserve and National Guard members who completed twenty or more years of reserve or guard service and are entitled to retirement pay. Reserve and National Guard members are also eligible for burial under the following five (5) categories and do not have to pay the plot allowance cost, except when their claim is denied by the VA:
1) Dies under honorable conditions while undergoing active duty for training.
2) If called to active duty, completes the full period for which called up.
3) Dies under honorable conditions while performing full time AGR service.
4) Completed at least 24 months of active service.
5) Discharged due to service connected disability while on active duty.
Recording of Discharges: County Clerks will provide free recording of the official discharge of each Veteran who served in the U.S. Armed Forces, as a confidential record.
Eligibility: Military Veteran with DD214.
Military Installations in Tennessee
Army
There are no Army installations in Tennessee (although part of Fort Campbell, Kentucky crosses over the Tennessee border).
Navy:
Naval Support Activity (NAVSUPPACT) Mid-South, Millington, TN: https://www.cnic.navy.mil/MidSouth/index.htm
Air Force:
Arnold Air Force Base (AFB): http://www.arnold.af.mil/
National Guard
McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base: http://www.angtec.ang.af.mil/
United States Army Reserve (USAR):
Regional Readiness Command (RRC) Headquarters, 81st RRC: http://www.usar.army.mil/ourstory/commands/81RSC/Pages/default.aspx
Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Facilities in Tennessee:
VA Medical Centers
Memphis: Memphis VA Medical Center, 1030 Jefferson Ave, 901-523-8990
Mountain Home: Mountain Home VA Medical Center, Corner of Lamont & Veterans Way,
423-926-1171
Murfreesboro: Tennessee Valley Healthcare System - Alvin C. York (Murfreesboro) Campus, 3400 Lebanon Pike, 615-867-6000
Nashville: Tennessee Valley Healthcare System - Nashville Campus, 1310 24th Ave South, 615-327-4751
Outpatient Clinics
Chattanooga: Chattanooga Clinic , 6200 Bldg Suite 5200, 6098 Debra Rd, 423-893-6500
Cookeville: Cookeville Clinic, 851 S. Willow Ave Suite 108, 931-284-4060
McMinnville: McMinnville, TN, 1014 S Chancery St, 931-474-7700
Nashville: Charlotte Avenue (Nashville, TN), 1919 Charlotte Ave, 615-873-6503
Nashville: Women Veterans Healthcare Center (Nashville, TN), 1919 Charlotte Ave, Suite 300, 877-873-1692
Community Based Outpatient Clinics
Arnold Air Force Base: Tullahoma Tennessee, 225 Von Karmon Rd, Arnold Air Force Base, 931- 454-6134
Bolivar: Bolivar, Tennessee CBOC, 107 Tennessee St, 731-658-6395
Clarksville: Clarksville, Tennessee (Veterans and Family who attended the Fort Campbell, Kentucky VA clinic should now visit the Clarksville VA Clinic for their healthcare service.) 1832 Memorial Dr, 931-645-3552
Dover: Dover (Stewart County), Tennessee, Stewart County Community Medical Center, 1021 Spring St, 931-232-5329
Dyersburg: Dyersburg, Tennessee CBOC, 433 East Parkview St, 731-287-7289
Jackson: Jackson, Tennessee, 180 Old Hickory Blvd, 731-661-2750
Knoxville: Knoxville Vet Center, 2817 E. Magnolia Ave, 865-633-0000
Knoxville: Knoxville, Tennessee CBOC, 8033 Ray Mears Blvd, 865-545-4592
Memphis: Covington, Tennessee (North Memphis), 3461 Austin Peay Highway, 901-261-4500
Memphis: Memphis, Tennessee (South), 1056 East Raines Rd, 901-271-4900
Morristown: Morristown, Tennessee, 925 E. Morris Blvd, 423-586-9100
Rockwood: Roane County CBOC, 450 South Chamberlain Ave, 865-354-7668
Rogersville: Rogersville, Tennessee CBOC, 401 Scenic Dr, Suite 201, 423-235-1471
Savannah: Savannah, Tennessee, 765 Florence Rd, 731-925-2300
Vet Centers
Chattanooga: Chattanooga Vet Center
Johnson City: Johnson City Vet Center
Memphis: Memphis Vet Center
Nashville: Nashville Vet Center
Veterans Integrated Services Network (VISN)
Nashville: VISN 9: VA Mid South Healthcare Network
Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) sections 49-3245, 3246 and 7-102.
Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) 70-2-104
Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) 5-8-102
Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) 8-30-306
Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) 55-4-237
Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) 67-5-704: Property Taxes, Disabled Veteran's Residence
Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) 55-4-228(e)
Brochure on Property Tax Relief:
http://www.tn.gov/comptrollerpa/VeteransBrochure.pdf
http://www.nationalguard.com/benefits/additional-guard-benefits/state-benefits
http://www.state.tn.us/veteran/
http://www.tn.gov/veteran/benefitsstate.shtml
http://www.tn.gov/veteran/burial_elg.shtml
http://www2.va.gov/directory/guide/home.asp?isFlash=1
http://www.military.com/Education/Content?file=soeast.htm
http://www.retirementliving.com/taxes-new-york-wyoming#TENNESSEE
Document Review Date: 12 September 2012