State Taxes
Education Benefits
Employment Benefits
Unemployment Insurance
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
Health and Insurance Benefits
Parks and Recreation
Miscellaneous Benefits
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Facilities
Delaware Military Resource Locator
Resources
Summary of Delaware Military and Veterans Benefits: Delaware offers special benefits for Service members, Veterans and their Families including state employment preferences and assistance, education and tuition assistance, special vehicle tags, Veterans homes, burial benefits as well as hunting and fishing licenses. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component and Veteran disability status.
Delaware Office of Veterans Services, Veterans Service Officers: The Delaware Office of Veterans Services has Veterans Service Officers that can assist Service members, Veterans, retired Service members and their Families find and apply for military / Veteran’s benefits under federal, state and local laws. All services are provided free of charge.
Delaware Office of Veterans Services, Veterans Service Officers Directory
Learn more about the Delaware Office of Veterans Services, Veterans Service Officers
Delaware Military and Veterans State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility
What are my Delaware Military and Veterans State Tax Benefits?
Delaware State Sales Tax: Delaware does not impose a state or local sales tax.
Learn more about Delaware State Sales Tax
Delaware Military Retired Pay Income Taxes: Delaware residents 60 years old or older are eligible for a pension exclusion of up to $12,500. For residents under age 60 the exclusion amount is limited to $2,000.
In addition, $2,000 may be excluded by those who have a permanent disability and their earned income in the taxable year is less than $2,500 and their adjusted gross income is $10,000 or less. Delaware Code 30-11-II-1106
Delaware Personal Income Tax Forms and Instructions
Learn more about Delaware Military Retired Pay Income Taxes
Delaware Taxes on Military Disability Retirement Pay: Military Disability Retirement Pay received as a pension, annuity or similar allowance for personal injury or sickness resulting from active service in the U.S. Armed Forces should not be included in taxable income. Some of the payments which are considered disability benefits include:
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Disability compensation and pension payments for disabilities paid to Veterans or their Families
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Grants for homes designed for wheelchair living
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Grants for motor vehicles for Veterans who lost their sight or the use of limbs, or
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Benefits under a dependent-care assistance program.
If you are a retired Service member and receive disability benefits from the VA, see IRS Publication 525 for more information.
Learn more about Delaware Taxes on Military Disability Retirement Pay
Delaware State Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): DIC is a tax-free monetary benefit paid to eligible survivors of military Service members who died in the line of duty or eligible survivors of Veterans whose death resulted from a service-related injury or disease.
Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP)/ Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP)/ Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Delaware State Tax Benefits: Delaware residents receiving a military survivor’s pension 60 years old or older are eligible for a pension exclusion of up to $12,500. For residents under age 60 the exclusion amount is limited to $2,000.
In addition, $2,000 may be excluded by survivors who have a permanent disability and their earned income in the taxable year is less than $2,500 and their adjusted gross income is $10,000 or less. Delaware Code 30-11-II-1106
Delaware Personal Income Tax Forms and Instructions
What are my Delaware Military and Veterans Education Benefits?
Delaware National Guard Tuition Assistance: Deleware offers eligible Delaware National Guard Service members up to 100% tuition at state supported colleges / university or the average of in-state tuition at a private college or university in Delaware.
Service members are eligible for one associates and one bachelor’s degree. They can also receive one certificate but it must be approved by the Education Review Board. Masters Degrees may be reimbursed if funding for all undergraduates has been paid. All tuition assistance is dependent on state funding.
Who is eligible for Delaware National Guard Tuition Assistance? To be eligible students must be a Delaware National Guard Service member in good standing and must serve at least 6 years. Serice members have 10 years of eligibility to use the program once they begin receving financial assistance. State assistance can be used in conjunction with federal tuition assistance up to the total cost of tuition.
To continue to be eligible students must meet their academic instituitions definition of satisfactory academic progress.
For more informatiion and to apply please contact the Delaware National Guard education office at 302-326-7012. Delaware Code 14-34-XI-3480
Learn more about Delaware National Guard Tuition Assistance
Delaware Educational Benefits for Children of Deceased Veterans, Prisoners of War (POW) and Service Members Declared Missing in Action (MIA): Delaware will provide educational financial assistance for the Children of Delaware resident deceased Veterans, Prisoners of War (POW) and Service members declared Missing in Action (MIA). Students will receive tuition and required institutional fees for up to four years at a at state supported colleges / university or the average of in-state tuition at a private college or university in Delaware. The amount of financial assistance cannot exceed the amount of tuition and fees per academic year.
Who is eligible for Delaware Educational Benefits for Children of Deceased Veterans, POW or MIA? To be eligible the Child must be between 16 and 24 years old and a Delaware resident for at least three years prior to receiving benefits. Students must also meet one of the following requirements:
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Child of a Service member in the U.S. Armed Forces who was killed while serving on active duty or died from disease, wounds, injuries or disabilities as a result of their service
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Child of a POW
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Child of a Service member declared MIA.
Students eligible for this benefit should contact their education institution for more information and to apply.
Delaware High School Diploma for Wartime Veterans: Delaware will award a high school diploma to Veterans who did not graduate because they left school to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II (WW II), Korea or Vietnam.
Who is eligible for Delaware High School Diploma for Wartime Veterans? Veterans must have received an honorable discharge following service in the following time periods:
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WW II - December 7, 1941 through December 11, 1946 and also during occupation of defeated territories up to September 8, 195
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Korean War - June 27, 1950 through January 31, 1955
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Vietnam - May 1, 1961 through April 30, 1975.
For more information and to apply please contact the Delaware Office of Veterans Services at 800-344-9900 or 302-739-2792.
Delaware Office of Veterans Services Contact Information
Learn more about Delaware High School Diploma for Wartime Veterans
Delaware Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children (MIC3): The purpose of this compact is to remove barriers to educational success imposed on Children of military Families because of frequent moves and deployment of their parents by:
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Facilitating the prompt enrollment of Children of military Families and ensuring that they are not placed at a disadvantage due to difficulty in the transfer of educational records from the previous school district or variations in entrance or age requirements
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Facilitating the student placement process through which Children of military Families are not disadvantaged by variations in attendance requirements, scheduling, sequencing, grading, course content or assessment. Facilitating the qualification and eligibility for enrollment, educational programs and participation in extracurricular academic, athletic and social activities
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Facilitating the on-time graduation of Children of military Families
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Providing for the enforcement of administrative rules implementing the provisions of this compact
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Providing for the uniform collection and sharing of information between and among member states, schools and military Families under this compact
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Promoting coordination between this compact and other compacts affecting military Children.
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Promoting flexibility and cooperation between the educational system, parents and the student in order to achieve educational success for the student.
Primary Point of Contact
Phone: 302-857-3356
Learn more about Delaware Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children
Purple Star School Program for Delaware Military-Friendly Schools : Recent legislation authorized the Delaware Purple Star School program for military-friendly schools. The Purple Star School program recognizes schools that show a major commitment to students and Families connected to the U.S. Armed Forces. Schools that earn the award will receive a special Purple Star recognition to display on site.
For a school to qualify for the Purple Star Award they must appoint a school liaison that is specially trained to handle the unique challenges experienced by military Families. This liaison will ensure that other teachers at their school are aware of special considerations that students from military Families can benefit from. Each school will also have a dedicated page on their school website featuring resources for military Families.
Delaware Senate Bill 117, Purple Star School Program
Military Child Education Coalition Purple Star School Program
Learn more about the Delaware Purple Star School Program Military-Friendly Schools
What are my Delaware Military and Veterans Employment Benefits?
Delaware State Employee Leave for Military Duty: Delaware State Merit Employees who are members of the National Guard or Reserves that are ordered to attend training or special duty training during scheduled work hours are eligible for paid military leave for 112.5 hours (based on a 37.5 hour work week) or 120 hours (based on a 40 hour work week). This leave accrues at the beginning of each calendar year.
Service members that use all their military leave are authorized unpaid leave or they may request to use annual leave. Military leave is pro-rated for part-time employees.
State Merit Employees, who enter active duty in the U.S. Armed forces are eligible for a leave of absence for the duration of their active duty service plus 90 calendar days after their discharge.
Who is eligible for Delaware State Employee Leave for Military Duty? Delaware National Guard and Reserve Service members that are State Merit Employees (employees that have completed their initial probationary period for full time employment) are eligible for leave for military duty.
Learn more about Delaware State Employee Leave for Military Duty
Delaware State Employee Salary Continuation During Military Duty: If a Delaware state employee is called to federal active duty and their military base pay is less than their state base salary the state will pay the difference.
Employees must request salary continuation from their human resources representative within 90 days of their release from active duty.
Learn more about Delaware State Employee Salary Continuation During Military Duty
Delaware Professional License Services for Military Personnel: The Delaware Division of Professional Regulation offers several benefits for Services members, Veterans and Spouses. A short description of these services is below. All those interested in these benefits must use the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation Online Portal (DELPROS) .
Continuation of Delaware Professional License/ Permit for Active Military Personnel: The Delaware Professional license of deployed Service members remains active for the duration or their deployment. Service members must continue to meet all license requirements of applicable laws and regulations.
Delaware Provisional License/ Permit for Service Members and Spouses: Service members and their Spouses may apply for a provisional Delaware professional license to practice in Delaware for up to six months while their application is pending.
Military Education, Training or Experience: Delaware professional licensing boards to will consider military education, training, or experience (METE) when determining qualifications for a professional license. To give credit for the METE, education, training, must be generally equivalent to the license requirements and regulations for their profession. Applicants must meet all other licensure requirements and meet all the following criteria:
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Active or reserve component Service member in the U.S. Armed Forces, retired Service member or a Veteran
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Filing a license application at the same time as this request, or have already filed the application and it is still pending
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Can only meet licensure requirements only if given credit for METE.
Learn more about Delaware Professional License Services for Military Personnel
Delaware State Employment Veterans’ Hiring Preference: Delaware offers Veterans’ hiring preference to Veterans, disabled Veterans and certain Spouses for state employment. Preference is given by awarding points that can be added to passing entrance exam scores. Applicants must meet all eligibility requirements for the position.
Who is eligible for Delaware State Employment Veterans’ Hiring Preference? The following applicants are eligible for five points added to their score:
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Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces that received an honorable discharge
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Service members and retired Service members that received an honorable discharge from the Delaware National Guard or the Reserves that have at least 20 years of service.
Honorably discharged Veterans or reserve component Service members that have at least 20 years of service that have a service-connected disability are eligible for 10 points.
Spouses that meet one of the following requirements are eligible for five preference points:
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Unremarried Spouse of an eligible deceased Veteran or Service member
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Spouse of a Service member that is:
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Missing in action
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Declared a Prisoner of War
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Forcibly detained or interned in line of duty by a foreign government or power
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Spouse of a Veteran or Service member that has a service-connected disability.
In addition, state employees that leave their position to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces will be given credit for seniority purposes for the time served, up to three years.
Delaware Code 29-59-III-5939
Learn more about Delaware State Employment Veterans’ Hiring Preference
Federal Employment Veteran's Hiring Preferences: By Federal law, Veterans who are disabled or who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during certain specified time periods or in military campaigns are entitled to preference over non-Veterans in hiring into the Federal civil service and in retention during reduction in force. Veterans may be entitled to 5 or 10 points included in any scoring process for examination or interviews.
5-point Hiring Preference: Five points are added to the examination score or rating of a Veteran who served:
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During a war, or
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During the period April 28, 1952, through July 1, 1955, or
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For more than 180 consecutive days, other than for training, any part of which occurred after January 31, 1955, and before October 15, 1976, or
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During the Gulf War from August 2, 1990, through January 2, 1992, or
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For more than 180 consecutive days, other than for training, any part of which occurred during the period beginning September 11, 2001, and ending on August 31, 2010, the last day of Operation Iraqi Freedom, or
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In a campaign or expedition for which a campaign medal has been authorized. Any Armed Forces Expeditionary medal or campaign badge, including El Salvador, Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, Southwest Asia, Somalia, and Haiti, qualifies for preference.
10-point Compensable Disability (CP) Preference: 10 points are added to the examination score or rating of a Veteran who served at any time and who has a compensable service-connected disability rating of at least 10% but less than 30%.
10-Point 30% Compensable Disability Preference (CPS): 10 points are added to the passing examination score or rating of a Veteran who served at any time and who has a compensable service-connected disability rating of 30% or more.
10-Point Disability Preference (XP): 10 points are added to the passing examination score or rating of:
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A Veteran who served at any time and has a present service-connected disability or is receiving compensation, disability retirement benefits, or pension from the military or the VA but does not qualify as a CP or CPS, or
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A Veteran who received a Purple Heart.
10-Point Derived Preference (XP): 10 points are added to the passing examination score or rating of Spouses, Surviving Spouses, or mothers of Veterans. Both a mother and a Spouse (including Surviving Spouse) may be entitled to preference based on the same Veteran's service if they both meet the requirements. However, neither may receive preference if the Veteran is living and is qualified for Federal employment.
Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of the Spouse of a disabled Veteran who is disqualified for a federal position along the general lines of their usual occupation because of a service-connected disability. Such a disqualification may be presumed when the Veteran is unemployed and
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Is rated by appropriate military or VA authorities to be 100% disabled and/or unemployable, or
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Has retired, been separated, or resigned from a civil service position because of a disability that is service-connected in origin, or
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Has attempted to obtain a civil service position or other position along the lines of their usual occupation and has failed to qualify because of a service-connected disability.
Preference may be allowed in other circumstances but anything less than the above warrants a more careful analysis.
A campaign medal holder or Gulf War Veteran who originally enlisted after September 7, 1980, (or began active duty on or after October 14, 1982, and has not previously completed 24 months of continuous active duty) must have served continuously for 24 months or the full period called or ordered to active duty. The 24-month service requirement does not apply to 10-point preference eligible Veterans separated for disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty, or to Veterans separated for hardship or other reasons under Title 10 U.S.C. 1171 or 1173.
Learn more about Federal Employment Veteran's Hiring Preferences
Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA): USERRA protects civilian job rights and benefits for Veterans and members of reserve components. USERRA also protects Service member rights and benefits by clarifying the law, improving enforcement mechanisms, and adding Federal Government employees to those employees already eligible to receive Department of Labor assistance in processing claims.
Absence from Work for Military Duty: USERRA establishes the cumulative length of time that an individual may be absent from work for military duty and retain reemployment rights to five years. Exceptions to the five-year limit, include initial enlistments lasting more than five years, periodic National Guard and Reserve training duty, and involuntary active duty extensions and recalls, especially during a time of national emergency. USERRA establishes that reemployment protection does not depend on the timing, frequency, duration, or nature of an individual's service if the basic eligibility criteria are met.
Disability Accommodation: USERRA provides protection for disabled Veterans, requiring employers to make reasonable efforts to accommodate the disability. Service members recovering from injuries received during service or training may have up to two years from the date of completion of service to return to their jobs or apply for reemployment.
Return to Work without Loss of Seniority: USERRA provides that returning Service members are reemployed in the job that they would have attained had they not been absent for military service, with the same seniority, status and pay, as well as other rights and benefits determined by seniority. USERRA also requires that reasonable efforts (such as training or retraining) be made to enable returning Service members to refresh or upgrade their skills to help them qualify for reemployment. USERRA also provides that while an individual is performing military service, they are deemed to be on a furlough or leave of absence and are entitled to the non-seniority rights accorded other individuals on non-military leaves of absence.
Extension of Health and Pension Plans: Health and pension plan coverage for Service members is provided for by USERRA. Individuals performing military duty of more than 30 days may elect to continue employer sponsored health care for up to 24 months; however, they may be required to pay up to 102% of the full premium. For military service of less than 31 days, health care coverage is provided as if the Service member had remained employed. USERRA clarifies pension plan coverage by making explicit that all pension plans are protected.
Who is eligible for USERRA Benefits? Veterans, Reservists, or National Guard Service members who leave a position for training or active military service are eligible.
The Department of Labor, through the Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) helps all that have claims under USERRA, including Federal and Postal Service employees.
employees.
VETS Regional Office Locations
Learn more about the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act
Delaware Office of Pensions Military Service Credit: Delaware state employees that were hired before July 1, 1976, can receive military service credit for up to five years, for active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces. Former Service members must become a state employee within five years after their completion of active duty military service or completion of professional or vocational training. The course of professional or vocational training must be started within five years of discharge from military service and lead to a certificate, diploma or degree approved by the Department of Education. Former Service members must be enrolled on a continuous, full-time basis successfully complete their course of instruction to be eligible.
State employees that are called into, or volunteer for active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces that return to the state employment within 90 days of the discharge will receive full service credit for the time they serve on active duty
Those that do not qualify above may purchase up to five years of service credit for full-time active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces by paying an amount equal to the actuarial value of the service credit. Purchased service credit cannot be used to determine eligibility for a pension but will be used to calculate the amount of their retirement benefit.
For more information, please contact the Delaware Office of Pensions.
Delaware Office of Pensions Contact Information
Learn more about Delaware Office of Pensions Military Service Credit
Compensation for Delaware National Guard State Active Duty: Delaware National Guard Service members called to state active duty during an emergency or impending emergency will receive per diem equal to twice what would be authorized for active duty Service members of the same grade and length of service in the U.S. Armed Forces.
For state active duty including training or other nonemergency response, Delaware National Guard Service members will receive per diem equal to what would be authorized for active duty Service members of the same grade and length of service in the U.S. Armed Forces.
For radiological emergency preparedness events Delaware National Guard Service members receive twice their base pay and all authorized allowances.
Learn more about Compensation for Delaware National Guard Duty
What are my Delaware Military and Veterans Unemployment Insurance Benefits?
Delaware Unemployment Insurance (UI): The Delaware Division of Unemployment Insurance administers the UI program that provides temporary financial assistance for workers that are unemployed through no fault of their own. UI is a partial, short-term replacement of lost wages while workers are seeking other work and is not intended to be a permanent source of income. Benefits are not based on financial need.
Before filing a claim, applicants will need the following information:
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Social Security Number
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Names, addresses, and phone numbers of all employers for the last 18 months
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Name and local number of union hall, if applicable
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Telephone number
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State issued driver's license, or ID Card information
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Non U.S. citizens, must provide their alien registration number and expiration date.
To be eligible for UI applicants must meet the following requirements:
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Unemployed through no fault of your own
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Be able and available for work
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Actively seeking work, and willing to accept work they are qualified for.
Applicants can file claim for UI benefits at the Delaware UI Online Claimant Portal.
Applicants may not use this option if they:
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Are filing a partial claim through use of partial / low earnings slips
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Were employed in another state during the previous 18 months
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Live outside the U.S.
If any of these exceptions apply applicants must contact the UI office to file a claim at 302-761-8446 or by email to dol dui wilmington claims@delaware.gov .
Unemployment Insurance Information Hotline:
New Castle County residents: 302-761-6576
Residents outside New Castle County: 800-794-3032
Delaware UI Claimant Handbook
Delaware UI Frequently Asked Questions
Delaware Department of Labor Office Directory
Learn more about Delaware Unemployment Insurance
What are my Delaware Military and Veterans Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Benefits?
Delaware Veteran ID Cards: Free Veteran ID Cards are issued by the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles to resident Veterans that served in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge.
To apply for a Veteran ID card, Veterans must have a valid Delaware driver license or ID card and provide proof of military service at any Delaware Division of Motor Vehicle locations.
Forms of proof:
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Military ID
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DD214
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Deployment Orders
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Discharge Certificate.
To schedule an appointment, please call
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Dover DMV at 302-744-2515
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Georgetown at 302-853-1003
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Wilmington DMV at 302-434-3220
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Delaware City DMV at 302-832-5176
Hours of operation are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Wednesday from noon to 8:00 p.m.
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicle Office Locations
Learn more about Veteran Designation on Delaware Driver Licenses and ID Cards
Delaware Military and Veteran License Plates: Delaware offers 37 license plate designs to honor the service and sacrifice of eligible Service members, Veterans, retired Service members and Family members for use on private passenger vehicles and trucks with a ¾ ton or smaller rated capacity. Applications for Delaware military and Veteran license plates can be made at any Delaware Division of Motor Vehicle Offices.
Learn more about Delaware Military and Veteran License Plates
Delaware Disabled American Veterans License Plates: Disabled Veterans are eligible for the Delaware Disabled American Veteran license plate 
. Applicants are charged a $10 administrative fee for this license plate. Applicants must request a certification of eligibility letter from the Wilmington VA regional office by calling 800-827-1000.
Who is eligible for the Delaware Disabled American Veterans License Plates? Veterans with a disability they received during any war that the U.S. Armed Forces fought on foreign soil are eligible. Surviving Spouses may retain this license plate upon the death of the Veteran.
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles, Application for Special Disabled American Veteran License Plates
Learn more about the Delaware Disabled American Veterans License Plates
Delaware Purple Heart License Plates: Purple Heart recipients are eligible for the Delaware Purple Heart license plate. Applicants are charged a $10 administrative fee for this license plate.
Who is eligible for the Delaware Purple Heart License Plates? Veterans that received the Purple Heart for wounds in combat are eligible. Veterans must provide official documentation that they received the Purple Heart when they apply. Surviving Spouses may retain this license plate upon the death of the Veteran.
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles, Application for Purple Heart License Plates
Learn more about the Delaware Purple Heart License Plates
Delaware Retired Military Plates: Retired Service members are eligible for the Delaware Retired Military license plates. Applicants are charged a $10 administrative fee for this license plate.
Who is eligible for the Delaware Retired Military Plates? To be eligible an applicant must have served in the U.S. Armed Forces for 20 years and received an honorable discharge. Surviving Spouses may retain this license plate upon the death of the retired Service member.
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles, Application for Retired Military Specialty License Plates
Learn more about the Delaware Retired Military Plates
Delaware Gold Star Family License Plates: Immediate Family members of a Service member that dies while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces is eligible for the Delaware Gold Star Family license plates. There is no fee for this license plate.
Who is eligible for the Delaware Gold Star Family License Plates? Gold Star Family license plate may be issued to:
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Surviving Spouse
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Child, stepchild, adopted Child
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Mother, stepmother, adoptive mother, foster mother
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Father, stepfather, adoptive father, foster father
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Sibling, half sibling.
Applicant must provide a copy of the Service member’s DD1300 Report of Casualty when they apply.
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles, Application for Gold Star Family License Plate
Learn more about the Delaware Gold Star Family License Plates
What are my Delaware Military and Veterans Health and Insurance Benefits?
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance: The VA provides valuable life insurance benefits to Veterans, active and reserve component Service members and their Families to provide financial security given the extraordinary risks involved in military Service. The VA provides the following life insurance benefit programs:
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Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI)
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Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI)
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Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI)
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Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection Program (TSGLI)
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Service-Disabled Veterans’ Life Insurance (S-DVI)
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Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI).
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance
.jpg "Tricare Reserve Select")
TRICARE Reserve Select Health Insurance: TRICARE Reserve Select is a premium-based plan, available worldwide for Selected Reserve, (Reserve and National Guard) and their Families who meet the following qualifications:
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Not on active duty orders
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Not covered under the Transitional Assistance Management Program
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Not eligible for or enrolled in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program or currently covered under FEHB, either under their own eligibility or through a Family member.
The plan provides comprehensive health care coverage when you are not activated and covered by active duty TRICARE benefits.
Learn more about TRICARE Reserve Select Health Insurance
Delaware National Guard Compensation for Illness, Injury or Death While on State Active Duty: Delaware National Guard Service members serving on state active duty that become ill, are injured, disabled or die will receive compensation from the state under Delaware Workers' Compensation laws.
Veterans Preference for Admission to the Delaware, Governor Bacon Health Center: The Department of Health and Social Services will give Veterans of World War II, the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam era who are eligible for admission to the Governor Bacon Health Center a preference over other applicants.
Governor Bacon Health Center Information
Governor Bacon Health Center Contact Information
Learn more about Veterans Preference for Admission to the Delaware, Governor Bacon Health Center
Delaware National Guard, Line of Duty Death Benefit: Delaware will pay $200,000 in $40,000 annual installments to the beneficiary of a National Guard Service member who dies while on state active Duty and will provide tuition assistance for four years for their surviving Children to attend a university or college.
The state will also provide health insurance coverage for the Service member’s Children (unless covered by a federal health insurance program) until they reach the age of 26.
Learn more about the Delaware National Guard, Line of Duty Death Benefit
Delaware Pension Benefits for Paraplegic Veterans: Paraplegic Veterans can receive a pension from the state, of $3,000 per year, payable in equal monthly installments.
Who is eligible for the Delaware Pension Benefits for Paraplegic Veterans? To be eligible Veterans must meet the following requirements:
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Paraplegic, has no voluntary control over either leg
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Rated by the VA as totally disabled
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Disability is a direct result of wartime service in the U.S. Armed Forces
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Delaware resident.
For more information, please contact the Delaware Office of Pensions at 800-722-7300.
Learn more about the Delaware Pension Benefits for Paraplegic Veterans
What are my Delaware Military and Veterans Parks and Recreation Benefits?
Delaware Hunting, Trapping and Fishing License Exemption for Disabled Veterans: Free Delaware hunting, trapping and fishing licenses are available for qualifying disabled Veterans.
Who is eligible for Delaware Hunting, Trapping and Fishing License Exemption for Disabled Veterans? Any honorably discharged Veteran that has a 60% or more service-connected disability from the VA, is exempt from the licensing requirements. Delaware Code 7-5-I-502
Applications and documentation verifying disability can be mailed, emailed or faxed to:
Division of Fish and Wildlife
Attn: Recreational Licensing
89 Kings Highway
Dover, DE 19001
Email: DFWreclic@delaware.gov
Fax: 302-736-7925
Delaware Disabled Veterans Hunting/ Trapping/ Fishing Exempt Application
Learn more about Delaware Hunting, Trapping and Fishing License Exemption for Disabled Veterans
Delaware Resident Hunting, Trapping and Fishing Privileges for Nonresident Members of the U.S. Armed Forces Stationed in Delaware: Nonresident active duty Service members stationed in Delaware and nonresident Delaware National Guard Service members are eligible to purchase recreational licenses at the resident price.
Service members can only purchase licenses from Dover Airforce Base Outdoor Recreation Center, or they must complete the Military Nonresident License Application and submit it directly to the Division of Fish and Wildlife. Delaware Code 7-5-I- 505
Applications and documentation can be mailed, emailed or faxed to:
Division of Fish and Wildlife
Attn: Recreational Licensing
89 Kings Highway
Dover, DE 19001
Email: DFWreclic@delaware.gov
Fax: 302-736-7925
Delaware Military Nonresident Hunting/ Trapping/ Fishing/ Conservation Access Pass Application
Delaware Resident Military One Time Hunting / Fishing License for Wartime Veterans: Delaware residents who served 90 or more days in Operation Iraqi Freedom or Enduring Freedom are eligible for a one-time license exemption for the first 12 months following the date they were honorably discharged or removed from active status. Delaware Code 7-5-I-502
Applications and documentation can be mailed, emailed or faxed to:
Division of Fish and Wildlife
Attn: Recreational Licensing
89 Kings Highway
Dover, DE 19001
Email: DFWreclic@delaware.gov
Fax: 302-736-7925
Delaware Resident Military One Time Hunting/ Fishing Application
Learn more about Delaware Resident Military One Time Hunting/Fishing License for Wartime Veterans
Delaware Hunting, Trap and Fishing License for Hospitalized Service Members: A Service member in the U.S. Armed Forces who is a patient in a military hospital may be issued a license to hunt, trap and fish in Delaware without charge. The Service member must provide a written statement signed by their commanding officer certifying the nature of their disability and place of duty. Delaware Code 7-5-I-502
Learn more about Delaware Hunting, Trapping and Fishing License for Hospitalized Service Members
“Delaware Military Pass” Reduced Fee State Park Passes: The Delaware Division of Parks and Recreation offers a 50% discount on annual park passes to Delaware resident Service members, Veterans and Retired Service members
Who is eligible for the Delaware Military Pass? Individuals must be a Delaware resident and meet one of the following requirements:
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Active duty Service member in the U.S. Armed Forces
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Service member in the Delaware National Guard
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Honorably discharged Veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces
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Retired Service member who served honorably for 20 or more years.
Reduced price park passes are issued at any Delaware State Park Office.
Delaware State Park Contact Information
Learn more about the “Delaware Military Pass” Reduced Fee State Park Passes
Delaware Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom Park Pass: The Delaware Division of Parks and Recreation offers a free pass to Veterans of Operations Iraqi Freedom or Enduring Freedom. This pass is available for the first 12 months following the date the Veteran was honorably discharged or released from active status.
Who is eligible for the Delaware Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom Park Pass? Applicants must be resident Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces and served honorably for 90 or more consecutive days in Southwest Asia associated with Operation Iraqi Freedom and/or Operations Enduring Freedom. Veteran must provide a copy of their DD214.
Applications and documentation can be mailed, emailed or faxed to:
Division of Parks and Recreation
Attn: Delaware State Park Annual Pass
89 Kings Highway
Dover, DE 19001
Email: DFWreclic@delaware.gov
Fax: 302-739-3817
Learn more about the Delaware Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom Park Pass
Out of State Military Vehicle Pass for Active Duty Service Members Stationed in Delaware: Active duty Service members stationed in Delaware, with a vehicle registration or driver’s license from another state are eligible for an out-of-state Military Vehicle Pass for half the price of a civilian out-of-state vehicle pass.
What are my Delaware Military and Veterans Miscellaneous Benefits?
Delaware Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): SSVF provides assistance to very low-income Veterans that have housing stability issues or are homelessness. Some of the services provided are case management, benefit application assistance. SSVF also provides financial assistance including rental assistance, security deposit assistance and utility assistance.
For more information, please contact the SSVF Outreach Coordinator in your county:
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New Castle County: 302-250-5868
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Kent County: 302-518-5338
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Sussex County: 302-332-0913
Learn more about the Delaware Supportive Services for Veteran Families
Delaware People's Place, Veteran's Outreach Program: The Delaware People's Place, Veterans Outreach program offers a wide range of services for Delaware Veterans who live in areas from lower New Castle County to the Delaware-Maryland line. Some of the services offered are:
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Career counseling
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Assistance applying for state and VA medical care
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Psychotherapy referrals
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Mental health counseling
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Transportation to medical facilities in the region
For more information contact:
Veterans Outreach Program
Address: 1129 Airport Road
Milford, DE 19963
Phone: 302-236-5301
Email: VO@peoplesplace2.com
Learn more about the Delaware People's Place, Veteran's Outreach Program
Delaware Office of Veterans Services, “The Centurion" (Newsletter): The Delaware Office of Veterans Services publishes a free quarterly newsletter, The Centurion that has information regarding current developments in benefits, legislative initiatives, community services and local events. To subscribe to The Centurion send a blank email to join-dcva_mail@lists.state.de.us .
Learn more about the Delaware Office of Veterans Services, "The Centurion" (Newsletter)
Delaware Certificate of Appreciation for Honorably Discharged Resident Service Members: Delaware will award a "Certificate of Appreciation" signed by the Governor to honorably discharged Veterans.
Who is eligible for the Delaware Certificate of Appreciation for Honorably Discharged Resident Service Members? To be eligible the Veteran must be a current resident of Delaware or was a resident when they entered the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge.
Veterans or a Family member may submit completed applications and their DD214 to the address on the application or contact the Delaware Office of Veterans Services at 800-344-9900 or 302-739-2792 for assistance.
Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs, Certificate of Appreciation Application
Delaware Repository of Resident Military Records: The Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs will provide copies of service records for Veterans that served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces if they were a Delaware resident at the time of entry into the service or had a Delaware address at the time of discharge. Veterans and their next of kin can call 800-344-9900 or 302-739-2792, to see if a copy is on file. Delaware Code 29-87-I-8721
Learn more about the Delaware Repository of Resident Military Records
Free Marriage and Death Certificates Provided for Delaware Resident Veterans: The next of kin of a Delaware Veteran can request one free certified death certificate from the State Registrar when used for a claim for benefits from the VA.
In addition, active duty Service members and their Spouses can request free certified copies of their marriage certificates. Delaware Code 16- 31-II-3132
Learn more about Free Marriage and Death Certificates Provided for Delaware Resident Veterans
No Charge for Notary Services for Delaware Veterans: Delaware notaries may not charge a fee to notarize documents for a Service member, Veteran or their Family members, when they are used to file a claim with the VA or for other benefits. Delaware Code 29-43-I-4312
Learn more about No Charge for Notary Services for Delaware Veterans
Auctioneer and Book Agent License Exemption for Delaware Veterans: Honorably discharged Veterans do not need an occupational license to work as a book agent (door-to-door book sales) or auctioneer.
Learn more about the Auctioneer and Book Agent License Exemption for Delaware Veterans
Delaware Veterans Home: The Delaware Veterans Home is a long-term care facility located on 24 acres in Milford, Delaware. The Home offers skilled nursing care on four units with a total of 150 beds.
The Delaware Veterans Home’s mission is to provide outstanding long-term care to Delaware Veterans with dignity and respect while improving their quality of life.
The Delaware Veterans Home provides:
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24-hour professional nursing care
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Medical services
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Physical, occupational and speech therapies
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Social services
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Library, computer with internet access
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Gift shop
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Barbershop
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Multi-denominational chapel services.
Who is eligible for care at the Delaware Veterans Home? Admission to the Delaware Veterans Home is open to Veterans that meet the following requirements:
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Veterans that received an honorable discharge from active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces
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National Guard or Reserve Service members who are eligible for retirement pay at age 60 or have served on active duty at least 180 days (does not have to be consecutive)
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Delaware resident for three years or more prior to application
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Must require skilled nursing care
For more information or to apply contact the Admissions Office at 302-424-8572.
The Delaware Veterans Home
100 Delaware Veterans Boulevard
Milford, DE 19963
Main Phone: 302-424-6000
Fax: 302-424-6003
Admissions
Phone: 302-424-8572
Email: dosdvh_admissions@delaware.gov
Learn more about the Delaware Veterans Home
Delaware State Veterans Home Fund: The Veterans Home Fund is used for the operation of the Veterans Home in the Delaware. The Division of Revenue has provided a space on the Delaware State Income Tax Return form so that an individual may voluntarily designate a contribution to the Delaware Veterans Home Fund. Other individual donations can be mailed to the following address:
Delaware Veterans Home Fund
Department of State
401 Federal Street, Suite 3
Dover, DE 19901
Learn more about the Delaware State Veterans Home Fund
Delaware Veterans Trust Fund: The Delaware Veterans Trust Fund helps Delaware Veterans in financial crisis that need help with reintegration, housing, utilities, and incidental expenses for health and welfare. For more information or to request an application Veterans should contact their local Veterans Service Officer or the Delaware Office of Veterans Services main office at 800-344-9900 or 302-739-2792.
Delaware Office of Veterans Services, Veterans Service Officer Directory
Application for Delaware Veterans Trust
Learn more about the Delaware Veterans Trust Fund
Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemeteries: Delaware has two state Veterans Cemeteries that offer a dignified final resting place for Veterans and their eligible Family members.
Cemetery Locations:
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New Castle County Cemetery in Bear, Delaware
2465 Chesapeake City Road
Bear, Delaware 19701
Phone: 302-834-8046
Fax: 302-834-3787
Email: DOS_DCVA_DVMCBear@delaware.gov
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Sussex County Cemetery in Millsboro, Delaware
26669 Patriots Way
Millsboro, Delaware 19966
Phone: 302-934-5653
Fax: 302-934-5647
Who is eligible for interment at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemeteries? Eligibility requirements for the burial at a Delaware are the same as for VA National Cemeteries with the exception of a Delaware residency requirement. Exact eligibility requirements can viewed at the VA, National Cemetery Administration Eligibility webpage. The following are the general eligibility requirements:
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Veterans that served on active duty and received a discharge other than dishonorable, or
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Died while on active duty, or
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Served at least 20 years in the National Guard or Reserves and qualified for military retired pay (or would have qualified except death occurred before age 60), or
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Reserve component Service members qualify if they were activated for 180 days of federal service, active duty for training does not qualify as active service
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Spouses and dependents (burial of dependent Children is limited to unmarried Children under 21 years old or 23 years old if a full-time student at an approved educational institution or a Child that develops a lifelong disability prior to age 21).
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Resident of Delaware:
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Resident at the time of death, or
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Resident for three or more years (does not have to be consecutive), or
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Resident of Delaware when they entered the U.S. Armed Forces.
All Veterans are encouraged to complete the Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Memorial Cemeteries, Burial Application to establish eligibility prior to need.
Learn more about the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemeteries
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Delaware
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Delaware: The VA has numerous resources available for Veterans and Family members. Please see the local location listing for your nearest facility.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Delaware
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Delaware: VA National Cemetery Administration does not maintain any cemeteries in Delaware, they do however have two state operated Veterans cemeteries. Please see the local location listing for the nearest cemetery.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Delaware
Delaware Office of Veterans Services
802 Silver Lake Blvd, Suite 100
Dover, DE 19904
Phone: 302-739-2792
In State Toll Free: 800-344-9900
Fax: 302-739-2794
Delaware Office of Veterans Services Facebook Page
Learn more about the Delaware Office of Veterans Services
Military Installations in Delaware
Please see the Delaware Military Resource Locator for additional information.
Active Duty
Air Force
Dover Air Force Base
National Guard
Delaware National Guard
Delaware Air National Guard
166th Airlift Wing
U.S. Army Reserve (USAR)
99th Readiness Division
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Facility Directory Delaware
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Find Locations Search Engine
Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife
Delaware State Government Website
Delaware Office of Veterans Services
FEDSHIREVETS, Veterans Preference
Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission, Delaware
Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Resource Guide