State Taxes
Education Benefits
Employment Benefits
Unemployment Insurance
Department of Driver Services (DDS) Benefits
Health Insurance Benefits
Parks and Recreation Benefits
Miscellaneous Benefits
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Facilities in Georgia
Georgia Military Resource Locator
Resources
Summary of Georgia Military and Veterans Benefits: Georgia offers special benefits for service members, Veterans and their families including property tax exemptions, state employment preferences, education and tuition assistance, free driver's licenses, vehicle tags, nursing home care for war Veterans, as well as hunting and fishing license privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component, and Veteran disability status.
Georgia Department of Veterans Service, Veteran Field Service Offices: The Georgia Department of Veterans Service (GDVS), Veteran Field Service Offices (VSO) assists Veterans, retired service members and their families find and apply for Veterans benefits under federal, state and local laws.
GDVS, Veteran Field Service Offices Directory
Learn more about the Georgia Department of Veterans Service, Veteran Field Service Offices
Georgia State Military and Veteran Benefit Highlights and Eligibility
What are my Georgia Military and Veterans State Taxes Benefits?
Georgia Taxes on Military Pay: Georgia resident service members serving in the U.S. Armed Forces are subject to Georgia State taxes on their military pay.
Service members serving outside the continental U.S. are offered a six month extension to file their state income taxes. During this six months no penalties or interest will accrue.
Service members serving in a combat zone are offered state tax exclusions to the same extent they are eligible for when filing their federal income tax return.
Internal Revenue Service, Tax Exclusion for Combat Service
Georgia Department of Revenue, Individual Income Tax Booklet
Learn more about Georgia Taxes on Military Pay
Georgia Income Tax Exemption for Nonresident Military Spouses: Nonresident military Spouses do not have to pay Georgia income tax when they are stationed in Georgia.
Who is eligible for the Georgia Income Tax Exemption for Nonresident Military Spouses? To be eligible nonresident military Spouses must meet the following requirements:
- Service member and their Spouse are residents of the same state other than Georgia
- Service member is in Georgia to comply with military orders
- Military Spouse is in Georgia only to be with the service member
Learn more about the Georgia Income Tax Exemption for Nonresident Military Spouses
Georgia State Income Tax Extension: The tax filing deadline for service members deployed to a combat area is extended until 180 days after their deployment ends.
Learn more about Georgia State Income Tax Extension
Georgia Tax Exemption for Military Retired Pay: Retired service members are eligible for the following state tax exemptions on military retired pay:
- Under 62 years old - up to $17,500
- Under 62 years old and have at least $17,500 of earned income – an additional $17,500
- 62 to 64 years old - up to $35,000
- 65 years old or older - up to $65,000
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) does not withhold taxes for state or local income tax, but it is reported annually on IRS Form 1099-R. All TSP distributions are subject to state taxes and early distributions may incur higher taxes.
Learn more about Georgia Tax Exemption for Military Retired Pay
Georgia State Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs 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 payments considered disability benefits include:
- Disability compensation and pension payments for disabilities paid either to Veteran or their family
- Grants for homes designed for wheelchair living
- Grants for motor vehicles for Veterans who lost their sight or the use of their limbs, or
- Benefits under a dependent-care assistance program
See IRS Publication 525 for more information.
Georgia State Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Disability and Dependency 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-connected injury or disease.
Georgia State Taxes on Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Reserve Component SurvivorBenefit Plan (RCSBP), and Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Annuities: SBP, RCSBP and RSFPP are treated as taxable income.
Surviving spouses who meet age or disability requirements are eligible for the following exclusions:
- Under 62 years old and have a permanent disability that prevents them from working - up to $35,000
- 62 to 64 years old - up to $35,000
- 65 years old or older - up to $65,000
Georgia Department of Revenue, Individual Income Tax Instruction Booklet
Georgia National Guard Income Tax Credit: Georgia provides a tax credit for resident National Guard service members serving on active duty, or active duty for training in the U.S. Armed Forces for more than 90 consecutive days. The tax credit is offered for the amount the service member pays for their Servicemember’s Group Life Insurance premiums while they are on active duty.
Georgia Code 48-7-29.9
Learn more about the Georgia National Guard Income Tax Credit
Georgia Homestead Tax Exemption for Disabled Veteran, Surviving Spouse or Minor Children: Georgia offers a homestead property tax exemption for eligible disabled Veterans, their surviving spouse or minor children. The amount for 2023 is $109,986. The value of the property that is more than of this exemption remains taxable.
Who is eligible for the Georgia Homestead Tax Exemption for Disabled Veteran, Surviving Spouse or Minor Children? To be eligible Veterans must meet the following requirements:
- Georgia resident
- Received an honorable discharge
- Has a service-connected, 100% permanent and total disability rating from the VA, or
- Entitled to compensation from the VA at the 100% rate due to unemployability, or
- Entitled to compensation from the VA for:
- Loss or permanent loss of use of one or both feet
- Loss or permanent loss of use of one or both hands
- Loss of sight in one or both eyes
- Permanent impairment of vision of both eyes
The unremarried surviving spouses and/or surviving minor children of deceased Veterans are also eligible for this exemption. Applicants should contact their local Georgia tax officials for more information and to apply.
Georgia Application for Homestead Exemption
Georgia Code 48-5-48
Georgia Homestead Exemption for the Surviving Spouse of U.S. Armed Forces Service Member: Georgia offers a homestead property tax exemption to the surviving spouse of a service member who was killed or died as a result of any war or armed conflict. The amount for 2023 is $109,986. The value of the property that is more than of this exemption remains taxable.
Who is eligible for the Georgia Homestead Exemption for the Surviving Spouse of U.S. Armed Forces Service Member? The unremarried surviving spouse of a service member who died or dies as a result of any war or armed conflict is eligible.
Applicants should contact their local Georgia tax officials for more information and to apply.
Georgia Application for Homestead Exemption
Georgia Code 48-5-52.1
Forgiveness of Georgia State Income Taxes for Service Members Killed as a Result of Combat: Service members who die as
a result of wounds, disease, or injury they received while serving in a combat zone while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, are exempt from all Georgia income taxes for the taxable year of their death. In addition, taxes will not apply for any prior taxable year ending on or after the first day they served in the combat zone.
Georgia Code 48-7-37
Georgia Sales Tax Exemption on Vehicles Purchased through U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Grant: A disabled Veteran who receives a VA grant for the purchase and modification of a specially adapted vehicle to accommodate their disability is exempt from paying the state sales and use tax on the vehicle (only on the original grant).
Georgia Code 48-8-3
Georgia Ad Valorem Tax Exemption on a Vehicle Owned by a Disabled Veteran: Certain disabled Veterans may be exempt from Ad Valorem taxes on one vehicle they own.
Who is eligible for the Georgia Ad Valorem Tax Exemption? To be eligible the Veteran must have received an honorable discharge and have a disability rating from the VA that meets one of the following criteria:
- Service-connected 100% total and permanent
- Individually unemployable and is compensated at the 100% rate, or
- Eligible to receive compensation from the VA for:
- Loss of or permanent loss of use in one or both feet
- Loss of or permanent loss of use in one or both hands
- Loss of sight in one or both eyes
- Permanent impairment of vision of both eyes to a prescribed degree
*New* Recent legislation has eliminated the requirement that a Veteran must have a Georgia Disabled Veteran license plate to be eligible for this tax exemption. Eligible Veterans can choose any Georgia license plate and are still eligible for an exemption.
Georgia 2023 House Bill 175
Veterans should contact their local Georgia tax officials for more information and to apply.
Georgia Code 48-5-478
Learn more about the Georgia Ad Valorem Tax Exemption on a Vehicle Owned by a Disabled Veteran
Georgia State Tax Exemption for Social Security Benefits: Georgia does not tax Social Security benefits.
Learn more about Georgia State Tax Exemption for Social Security Benefits
What are my Georgia Military and Veterans Education Benefits?
Georgia High School Diplomas for War Time Veterans: Veterans who did not receive a high school diploma due to leaving high school to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II, Korea, or Vietnam are eligible to receive a high school diploma. Applications can be made through the board of education of the school district where the Veteran attended high school.
Georgia Department of Education, Schools and Districts Directory
Learn more about Georgia High School Diplomas for War Time Veterans
Georgia HERO (Helping Educate Reservists and their Offspring) Scholarship: The GeorgiaHERO Scholarship provides scholarships to service members serving in the Georgia National Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves who were deployed 
to a combat zone and their spouse and children.
HERO Scholarship Benefits:
- Recipients may receive up to $2,000 per academic school year
- Students who meet the eligibility requirements of Categories 1, 3, or 4 may receive up to $8,000 for the equivalent of four academic years
- Students who meet the eligibility requirements in Category 2 may receive up to $2,000 per academic year for each qualifying term of service of at least 181 cumulative days, or for a qualifying term of service of less than 181 cumulative days if the parent was evacuated because of severe injuries
- Students in Category 2 gain eligibility for $2,000 per qualifying term of service, for a maximum of four qualifying terms of service, not to exceed a total of $8,000 for the equivalent of four academic years.
Who is eligible for a Georgia HERO Scholarship?To be eligible for a Georgia HERO Scholarship, applicants must meet the requirements of one of the following four categories:
Category 1: Service member serving in the Georgia National Guard, or a Georgia resident U.S. Armed Forces Reserves service member who is deployed outside the U.S. for active duty service to a location designated as a combat zone. Applicants must have served there for at least 181 cumulative days, or served less than 181 cumulative days, but was evacuated because of severe injuries.
Category 2: The child of a service member serving in the Georgia National Guard, or a Georgia resident U.S. Armed Forces Reserves service member who is deployed outside of the U.S. for active duty service to a location designated as a combat zone. The service member must have deployed for at least 181 cumulative days, or served less than 181 cumulative days, but was evacuated because of severe injuries.
The child must have been born prior to the qualifying term of service or within nine months of the beginning of the qualifying term of service and must have been 25 years old or younger during the qualifying term of service.
Category 3: The child of a former service member who served in the Georgia National Guard or a Georgia resident U.S. Armed Forces Reserves service member who was deployed outside of the U.S. for active duty service to a location designated as a combat zone. The service member must have been killed, died from, or became 100% disabled as a result of injuries received in the combat zone.
The child must have been born prior to the qualifying term of service or within nine months of the beginning of the qualifying term of service and must have been 25 years old or younger during the qualifying term of service.
Category 4: The spouse of a former service member who served in the Georgia National Guard or a Georgia resident U.S. Armed Forces Reserves service member who was deployed outside of the U.S. for active duty service to a location designated as a combat zone. The service member must have been killed, died from or became 100% disabled as a result of injuries received in the combat zone.
Applicants must file a Georgia HERO application for their initial HERO Scholarship award no later than two years after gaining eligibility. A renewal application must be completed each academic year. For more information, please call the Georgia Student Finance Authority at 770-724-9249, or 800-505-4732.
Participating Colleges and Universities
Learn more about the Georgia HERO Scholarship
University System of Georgia Resident Tuition rates for Nonresident Service Members, Separated Service Members and their Dependents: The University System of Georgia will charge resident tuition rates for eligible nonresident service members, separated service members, their spouse and dependent children.
Who is eligible University System of Georgia Resident Tuition rates for Nonresident Service Members, Separated Service Members and their Dependents? Students must meet one of the following conditions to be eligible:
Active Duty:
- Service member who is currently stationed in or assigned to Georgia
- Service member who was previously stationed in or assigned to Georgia who was reassigned outside of Georgia, and the student remains continuously enrolled in a Georgia educational institution
- Service member who is reassigned outside of Georgia and their spouse and dependent children remain in Georgia
- Service member who is stationed in a state next to the Georgia border and lives in Georgia
- Dependent children of a service member, previously stationed in or assigned to Georgia within the previous five years, or the child completed at least one year of high school in Georgia
- Any student using VA educational benefits transferred from a currently serving service member
Reserve Component:
Active members of the Georgia National Guard stationed in or assigned to Georgia, or service members serving in the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves based in Georgia, their spouses and their dependent children are eligible.
Separated Service Members:
Service members separated from the U.S. Armed Forces and their dependents who meet one of the following requirements are eligible:
- Separated within 36 months, enrolled in an academic program, and demonstrate intent to become a Georgia resident
- Spouses and dependent children of an eligible former service member
- Separated service member or student using transferred VA educational benefits, who physically live in Georgia
University System of Georgia, Resident Waiver of Mandatory Fees for U.S. Armed Forces Reserve and Georgia National Guard Combat Veterans: Combat Veterans attending a University System of Georgia institution can receive a waiver of all mandatory fees. This waiver does not apply to housing, elective food service, any other elective fees, special fees, or other user fees and charges (e.g., application fees). Veterans must meet the admissions requirements of the applicable institution and be accepted for admission.
Who is eligible for University System of Georgia Resident Waiver of Mandatory Fees for U.S. Armed Forces Reserve and Georgia National Guard Combat Veterans? Georgia National Guard and Georgia resident U.S. Armed Forces Reserve service members who were called to active duty and deployed to a combat zone on or after September 11, 2001, can receive a waiver of all mandatory fees if they meet one of the following requirements:
- Served a cumulative period or periods totaling 181 days in a combat zone
- Received full disability as a result of injuries received in a combat zone
- Evacuated from a combat zone due to severe injuries
University System of Georgia Military Service Refunds: The University System of Georgia offers full refunds of tuition, mandatory fees and prorated refunds of elective fees for students who are:
- Reserve component service members who receive orders to active duty or are reassigned for temporary duty or mandatory training that prevents completion of the term
- Active duty service members who are reassigned, placed on temporary duty assignment or a training assignment that prevents completion of the term
- Students who are significantly affected by the activation of a reserve component service member or the deployment of an active duty service member and can show a need for a refund
Learn more about the University System of Georgia Military Service Refunds
Georgia Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children (MIC3): Thepurpose of this compact is to remove barriers to educational success imposed on children of military families due to frequent moves and deployment of their 
parents by:
- 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
- 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
- Facilitating the on-time graduation of children of military families
- Providing for the enforcement of administrative rules implementing the provisions of this compact
- Providing for the uniform collection and sharing of information between and among member states, schools, and military families under this compact
- Promoting coordination between this compact and other compacts affecting military children
- Promoting flexibility and cooperation between the educational system, parents, and the student to achieve educational success for the student
Primary Point of Contact:
Phone: 478-954-6274
Learn more about the Georgia Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children
Georgia Military Flagship School Award: Georgia's Military Flagship School Award recognizes schools that show a major commitment to students and families connected to the U.S. Armed Forces. Military Flagship Schools provide specific outreach to military families and recognize and accommodate their unique needs. Schools are chosen through a yearly application process that is open to every school in the state.
Learn more about the Georgia Military Flagship School Award
What are my Georgia Military and Veterans Employment Benefits?
Georgia State Employee Paid Leave for Military Service: State employees receive 18 days ofpaid leave per federal fiscal year when ordered to military duty and while going to and returning from their place of duty. 
Who is eligible for Georgia State Employee Paid Leave for Military Service? National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserve service members who are state employees are eligible for paid military leave.
Learn more about Georgia State Employee Paid Leave for Military Service
Georgia State Employment Veterans Hiring Preference: Georgia offers Veterans employment preference for Veterans and their spouse when hiring for state jobs. Preference is given by adding points to passing pre-employment examination scores.
- Five points are added to a Veteran’s score
- 10 points are added to a Veteran’s surviving spouse’s score
- 10 points are added to the score of a Veteran with a 10% or more disability rating from the VA
- 10 points are added to the score of a spouse of a disabled Veteran with a 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA
Who is eligible for Georgia State Employment Veterans Hiring Preference? Veterans, Disabled Veterans, their spouse, or surviving spouses are eligible.
Applicants must submit the following documentation to the Georgia Department of Administrative Services, Human Resources Administration:
- Veteran’s DD214
- Official documentation from the VA, dated within the last six months of the Veterans service-connected disability (if applicable)
- Marriage certificate (for spouse or surviving spouse)
- Veteran’s Death Certificate (for surviving spouse)
Veteran's Preference cannot be awarded until copies of the appropriate documentation have been received. For more information, please call 404-656-2705 or 877-318-2772, or email HRA@doas.ga.gov.
Learn more about Georgia State Employment Veterans Hiring Preference
Georgia Veterans Education Career Transition Resource Center (VECTR): The VECTR Center helps Veterans and their families by providing career counseling, educational coaching, workforce training, and more. VECTR provides a one-stop-shop for Veterans seeking benefits, educational opportunities, employment services as well as links to community resources.
They offer:
- Community Support - Connect Veterans or their family members to housing, healthcare, financial or legal assistance
- Education Financing -Assist with VA educational benefits, state and federal grants and scholarships
- Education and Training - Higher education, diplomas, and short-term certifications
- Employment - Connect to employment opportunities throughout the nation
- Testing Center - Test for college exemption and certifications
- Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) - VBOC provides entrepreneurial training and support
- Workshops - Offers workshops available for service members, Veterans, and their families
They also provide accelerated programs in high demand and strategic industries tailored to shorten the process of receiving post-secondary certificates and degrees by recognizing the training Veterans receive during their military service.
VECTR advisors will:
- Help find the right career based on experience and interest
- Evaluate military and civilian transcripts to maximize any prior learning credit applicable toward a program of study
- Financial aid application assistance
- On-site accelerated training courses or bachelor’s degree program, counselors will help with enrollment and help while attending a course
- Provide tools to enable educational success
- Help with resume and interviewing skills
- Provide employment assistance
In addition, in-residence courses are taught on site by Central Georgia Technical College.
VECTER Services Information
Georgia VECTR Center Central Georgia Technical College Programs
Learn more about the Georgia Veterans Education Career Transition Resource Center
Georgia Disabled Veteran Business Certificate of Exemption: Disabled Veterans are exempt from payment of occupational taxes, administration fees, and regulatory fees imposed by local governments for peddling, conducting a business, or practicing a profession or semi profession for 10 years.
Who is eligible for a Georgia Disabled Veteran Business Certificate of Exemption? Veterans must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Discharged under honorable conditions
- Have a 10% or greater service-connected disability rating from the VA
Learn more about a Georgia Disabled Veteran Business Certificate of Exemption
Federal Employment Veteran’s Hiring Preferences: By Federal law, Veterans who are disabled orwho 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:
- During a war, or
- During the period April 28, 1952, through July 1, 1955, or
- 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
- During the Gulf War from August 2, 1990, through January 2, 1992, or
- 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
- 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:Ten 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): Ten 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): Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of:
- 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
- A Veteran who received a Purple Heart
10-Point Derived Preference (XP): Ten 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:
- Is rated by appropriate military or VA authorities to be 100% disabled and/or unemployable, or
- Has retired, been separated, or resigned from a civil service position because of a disability that is service-connected in origin, or
- 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 Veterans’ 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 anindividual 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 U.S. Armed Forces 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 to102% 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, U.S. Armed Forces Reserve 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 who have claims under USERRA, including Federal and Postal Service employees.
employees.
VETS Regional Office Locations
Learn more about Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act
What are my Georgia Military and Veterans Unemployment Insurance Benefits?
Georgia Unemployment Insurance (UI): The Georgia UI program provides temporary income forworkers who are unemployed through no fault of their own and are either looking for another job, have a definite recall to their jobs within six weeks of the last 
day worked, or in an approved training program. The funding for UI benefits comes from taxes paid by employers, workers do not pay any costs.
Eligibility for benefits is determined based on past wages, reason for job separation, availability, and job search requirements. Claims are effective on the date they are filed and are not retroactive to the last day worked.
Information Required to File a Claim:
- Social Security Number
- Valid government-issued unexpired picture ID
- Employer-issued separation notice or letter, if available
- Names, addresses, and dates of employment of all employers for the last 18 months
- Alien number and expiration date for non-citizens
- SF-50 or SF-8 form and paystubs for federal employment in the last two years
- Most recent DD214, orders to report or release, Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), or W-2 form(s) for former service members
- Personal banking account and routing numbers for direct deposit
- Copy of most recently filed income tax return or quarterly estimated income tax payment record(s), if applying for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) and are self-employed or a farmer
UI claims can be filed in person at any Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL), Career Center or by using the GDOL, MyUI Claimant Portal.
Learn more about Georgia Unemployment Insurance
What are my Georgia Military and Veterans Department of Driver Services (DDS) Benefits?
Mail in Renewal of Georgia Driver’s Licenses and ID Cards for Service Members and their Dependents: U.S. Armed Forces service members and their dependents who have a Georgia Driver’s license or ID card who are stationed outside of Georgia can renew their documents by mail. Completed Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS), Mail in Renewal Application and required documentation (listed in the application packet) can be mailed to:
DDS Special Issuance
2206 Eastview Parkway
Conyers, GA 30013
If the license, permit or ID is a Real ID document, applicants can renew them online at the DDS Online Services webpage.
Processing of applications usually takes about 30 days, it is recommended that applicants submit their completed application at least 60 days prior to the expiration of their license.
Free Veteran Designation on Georgia Driver’s License and ID Card: The Georgia Department ofDriver’s Services (DDS) offers eligible Veterans a free Veteran designation on Georgia driver’s licenses or ID cards. 
Who is eligible for the Free Veteran Designation on Georgia Driver’s License and ID Card? Georgia resident Veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge or National Guard service members who served for 20 years are eligible.
To apply Veterans must provide a copy of their DD214 or a Georgia DDS, Certificate of Eligibility for Veterans, Surviving Spouses and Allies Driver's License/ID Card (endorsed by a Georgia Department of Veterans Service (GDVS) representative) and required documents to a DDS Customer Service Center location. For more information, please call 678-413-8400, or visit a DDS Customer Service Center.
GDVS, Veteran Field Service Office Directory
DDS Customer Service Center Locations
DDS Veteran Driver's License Fact Sheet
Learn more about the Free Veteran Designation on Georgia Driver’s License and ID Card
Free Honorary Georgia Driver's License for Spouses: The Georgia Department of Driver’s Services (DDS) offers a free honorary version of a Georgia driver’s license for the eligible spouse or surviving spouse of a Veteran.
Who is eligible for a Free Honorary Georgia Driver's License for Spouses? Applicants must be a Georgia resident and meet the following requirements:
- Spouse of a Veteran, whose disabilities prevent them from operating a motor vehicle
- Unremarried surviving spouse of a deceased Veteran
To apply for an honorary driver's license, applicants must take proof of the Veteran spouse's qualifying service, Georgia residency, and verification of the Veteran's disabilities or a copy of the Veteran's death certificate (whichever is applicable) to a Georgia Department of Veterans Service Veteran Field Service Office for verification. A service officer will verify eligibility and issue a completed Georgia DDS, Certificate of Eligibility for Veterans, Surviving Spouses and Allies Driver's License/ID Card.
The spouse must then take the completed Certificate of Eligibility, and all required documents to a DDS office to apply. For more information, please call 678-413-8400, or visit a DDS Customer Service Center.
DDS Customer Service Center Locations
Learn more about the Free Honorary Georgia Driver's License for Spouses
Free Georgia Driver's License for National Guard Service Members: Service members serving in the Georgia National Guard who are in good standing and have completed at least one year of satisfactory service are eligible for a free Georgia driver’s license.
Service members must bring a completed Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS), Certificate of Eligibility for Georgia National Guard Driver's License signed by the service member’s commanding officer to a local DDS Customer Service Center.
For more information, please call 678-413-8400, or visit a DDS Customer Service Center.
DDS Customer Service Center Locations
Learn more about the Free Georgia Driver's License for National Guard Service Members
Georgia Commercial Driver's License (CDL), Military Skills Test Waiver and Even Exchange: Georgia offers CDL testing waivers to service members and honorably discharged former service members (discharged within the past year) based on their military training and experience.
Even Exchange Program allows service members who have certain Military Occupational Specialties/Ratings in the U.S. Armed Forces to have their CDL knowledge and skills testing waived. To be eligible service members must have worked in one of the following Military Occupational Specialties/Ratings:
- Army – 88M, 92F, 14T
- Air Force – 2T1, 2F0, 3E2
- Marine Corps – 3531
- Navy – EO
The skills waiver option is available to service members who have military commercial driving training and experience but do not have the Military Occupational Specialties/Ratings for the Even Exchange Program. Applicants must have been licensed for at least two years on a military vehicle like the commercial vehicle class they are applying for. This option only allows a waiver of the road test and does not include the knowledge testing requirement.
Applicants must submit the online Application for Military Skills Test Waiver or Even Exchange Form. A Certificate of Commercial Driving Experience will be emailed to the applicant's Commanding Officer (CO). The Certificate must be completed and signed by the CO. The CO must certify what kind of vehicle(s) the applicant has operated, and they have two years of operator experience. If approved applicants will receive an approval letter with further instructions.
Georgia In-State Grace Period for Expired Service Member Driver's Licenses: Georgia offers a six-month grace period for service members whose Georgia driver's license expires while they are serving on active duty outside Georgia. This grace period is not added to the expiration date.
Service members can drive in Georgia on an expired Georgia driver's license for six months after the date they are discharged or reassigned back into the state.
They are exempt from being cited for driving with an expired license. If cited, a copy of the official military orders or a written verification signed by their commanding officer must be brought into a Customer Service Center and a waiver will be issued.
Learn more about the Georgia In-State Grace Period for Expired Service Member Driver's Licenses
Georgia Special Military and Veterans License Plates:Georgia offers 186 distinctive license plates to honor the service and sacrifice of eligible service members, Veterans, retired service members, and certain family members. Specific eligibility and documentation requirements apply.
All Special Veterans license plates are free for one vehicle. One additional set of plates may be purchased by paying the manufacturing fee and the annual registration fee.
Applicants are required to complete a Georgia Department of Revenue, Request for Manufacture of a Special Veteran License Plate Form, provide official documentation (listed on the application) as proof of eligibility at a Georgia County Tag office to apply.
Georgia Department of Revenue, How to Order Prestige and Specialty License Plates Information
Learn more about the Georgia Special Military and Veterans License Plates
Georgia Army Medal of Honor License Plate: Recipients of the Medal of Honor are eligible for a 
free set of Georgia Medal of Honor license plates. Eligible Veterans are exempt from vehicle Ad Valorem taxes on one vehicle they own that has Medal of Honor license plates. Only one additional set of plates may be issued.
Unremarried surviving spouses may request/retain these license plates upon the death of an eligible Veteran.
Learn more about the Georgia Army Medal of Honor License Plate
Georgia Army Purple Heart License Plate: Recipients of the Purple Heart may apply for a free setof Georgia Purple Heart license plates. Eligible Veterans are exempt from vehicle Ad Valorem taxes on one vehicle they own that has Purple Heart license plates. Only one additional set of plates may be issued.
Unremarried surviving spouses may request/retain these license plates upon the death of an eligible Veteran.
Learn more about the Georgia Army Purple Heart License Plate
Georgia Disabled Veteran License Plate: Georgia offers a free set of Disabled Veteran license 
plates to eligible Veterans. These license plates authorize parking in disability accessible parking spaces. Eligible Veterans are exempt from vehicle Ad Valorem taxes on one vehicle they own that has Disabled Veteran license plates. Only one additional set of plates may be issued.
Who is eligible for the Georgia Disabled Veteran License Plate? The Veteran must have a 100% service-connected disability rating or was rated individually unemployable and paid at the 100% rate.
Unremarried surviving spouses of deceased Veterans who were issued the Georgia Disabled Veteran license plates may continue to receive free special license plates and revalidation decals for the rest of their lives.
Learn more about the Georgia Disabled Veteran License Plate
Georgia Army Veteran License Plate: Honorably discharged Army Veterans are eligible for a free set of Georgia Army Veteran license plates. Only one additional set of 
plates may be issued.
Unremarried surviving spouses may request/retain these license plates upon the death of an eligible Veteran.
Learn more about the Georgia Army Veteran License Plate
Georgia Gold Star Family License Plate: The Georgia Gold Star Family license plate is offered free 
to the immediate family members of a service member who died in the line of duty while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Family Members who are Georgia residents are eligible for up to two sets of free license plates. Family members who were not Georgia residents at the time of the death of the service member are required to purchase Gold Star license plates.
Who is eligible for the Georgia Gold Star Family License Plate? The following family members of deceased service members are eligible:
- Surviving spouse
- Parent or stepparent
- Sibling (and the sibling’s surviving spouse)
- Child
Applicants will be required to provide either a copy of the DEERS (Department of Eligibility and Enrollment Services) report dated prior to the death of the service member or a DD1300 (Report of Casualty) listing the family member and their relationship to the deceased service member.
Learn more about the Georgia Gold Star Family License Plate
What are my Georgia Military and Veterans Health and Insurance Benefits?
Georgia National Guard Medical Coverage and Compensation for Injury, Illness and Death Incurred on State Active Duty: Georgia 
National Guard service members serving on state active duty who are injured, become ill, become disabled or die in the line of duty are eligible for medical coverage and compensation under Georgia Workers’ Compensation Laws.
Who is eligible Georgia National Guard Medical Coverage and Compensation for Injury, Illness and Death Incurred on State Active Duty? Georgia National Guard service members serving on state active duty are eligible for worker’s compensation benefits.
Georgia Guard Insurance Trust (GGIT), State Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI): SSLI offered through the GGIT to Georgia National Guard service members is made up of several voluntary group life policies that are designed to help meet 
the needs of National Guard service members and their families. Every member of the Georgia National Guard is covered with $1,000 SSLI at no cost to the service member.
Key Benefits of the SSLI:
- Up to $50,000 in coverage available through a combination of the SSLI plans
- Coverage available for spouse and children
- Service members can keep the coverage when they separate until age 65
- Coverage 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
- No war or aviation exclusion
- No hazardous duty or civilian occupation restriction
- New Recruits are eligible for $10,000 SSLI coverage without providing proof of insurability if they enroll within 90 days of joining the Georgia National Guard
Who is eligible for GGIT, SSLI? Georgia National Guard service members and their dependents are eligible for SSLI.
GGIT Application
Learn more about Georgia Guard Insurance Trust, State Sponsored Life Insurance
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:
- Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI)
- Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI)
- Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI)
- Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection Program (TSGLI)
- Service-Disabled Veterans’ Life Insurance (S-DVI)
- Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI)
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance
TRICARE Reserve Select Health Insurance: TRICARE Reserve Select is a premium-based plan, available worldwide for Selected Reserve, (U.S. Armed Forces Reserve and National Guard service members) and their families who meet the following qualifications:
- Not on active duty orders
- Not covered under the Transitional Assistance Management Program
- 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 a service member is not activated and covered by active duty TRICARE benefits.
Learn more about TRICARE Reserve Select Health Insurance
What are my Georgia Military and Veterans Parks and Recreation Benefits?
Georgia One-Time Honorary Veterans Hunting and Fishing License: A One-Time VeteransHunting and Fishing License is available
free to Georgia resident Veterans. This free license is valid for one year from date of issue.
The One-Time Veterans License includes hunting, big game, Georgia Migratory Bird Stamp, salt and freshwater fishing, alligator hunting and mountain trout licenses.
Who is eligible for the Georgia One-Time Honorary Veterans Hunting and Fishing License? To be eligible Veterans must meet the following requirements:
- Have not previously received this license
- Served on federal active duty for 90 or more days
- Discharge date is July 1, 2005, or later
- Current Georgia resident
Applicants born after January 1, 1961, who have not completed a hunter education course are only eligible for a One-Time Veterans Fishing License.
Veterans must attach a copy of their DD214, hunter safety course completion certificate (not required for fishing only) and current Georgia Driver’s License or ID card to the application. Mail completed applications and documentation to:
DNR – LBRU - Veterans
2605 U.S. Highway 278 SE
Social Circle, GA 30025
Learn more about the Georgia One-Time Honorary Veterans Hunting and Fishing License
Georgia Military and Veteran Discounted Lifetime Sportsman’s License: Eligible service members and Veterans are offered a reduced rate Georgia Lifetime Sportsman License. The Military and Veterans Lifetime Sportsman’s License fee is $603. The Lifetime 
Sportsman License includes these licenses:
- Hunting
- Big game
- Wildlife Management Area (WMA)
- Quota Alligator Harvest Permit - if drawn for an alligator through the quota system
- Waterfowl and Migratory Bird Stamp
- Salt and Freshwater Fishing
- Mountain Trout
Who is eligible for the Georgia Military and Veteran Discounted Lifetime Sportsman’s License? Resident service members and honorably discharged resident Veterans are eligible for discounted lifetime licenses.
Applicants born after January 1, 1961, are required to complete a hunter safety course.
Applicants can submit completed applications, required documentation (listed on the application) and fees to:
LBRU - Lifetime
2605 U.S. Highway 278 SE
Social Circle, GA 30025
Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Application for Lifetime Sportsman's License
Learn more about the Georgia Military and Veteran Discounted Lifetime Sportsman’s License
Georgia Annual and 3 Year Disability Hunting and Fishing License: Georgia offers discounted 
disability hunting and fishing licenses for disabled Georgia residents.
Disability License Prices:
- Resident Disability Sportsman’s License
3 Year = $18
Annual = $8 - Resident Disability Hunting License
3 Year = $12
Annual = $6 - Resident Disability Fishing License
3 Year = $12
Annual = $6
Who is eligible for a Georgia Annual or Three Year Disability Hunting and Fishing License? To be eligible Veterans must be Georgia residents and have a 100% disability rating from the VA.
To apply for a disability license, Veterans must send a completed application, a copy of their VA Benefit Summary Letter, proof of residency and required fees to:
LBRU - Disability
2605 U.S. Highway 278 SE
Social Circle, GA 30025
Licenses may be renewed 60 days before expiration by sending documentation that show continued disability.
Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Application for Disability Hunting and Fishing License
Learn more about the Georgia Annual and Three Year Disability Hunting and Fishing License
Georgia State Parks Discounted Fees for Disabled Veterans: The Georgia Department of Natural Resources offers a 25% discount for disabled Veterans on individual accommodations, recreation fees such as mini-golf and boat rental, golf fees and historic site admission.
To receive the 25% discount Veterans must apply for a Georgia State Park Discount Card, eligible Veterans should take a copy of their military discharge certificate (DD214), a copy of their VA Benefit Summary Letter, and proof of residency to a Georgia Georgia Department of Veterans Service State Park Fee Reduction Information
Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites Directory
Learn more about Georgia State Parks Discounted Fees for Disabled Veterans
What are my Georgia Military and Veterans Miscellaneous Benefits?
Georgia War Veterans Homes: The Georgia Department of Veterans Service (GDVS) has two skilled nursing care homes that provide high-quality care for wartime Veterans while seeking to improve their quality of life and overall health.
Georgia War Veterans Nursing Home at Augusta – 192 bed facility
1101 15th Street
Augusta, GA 30901
Admission Phone number: 706-721-2405
Fax: 706-721-7530
*This facility provides medical and nursing services and serves as a teaching facility for medical students.
Georgia War Veterans Home at Milledgeville – 375 bed facility 
2249 Vinson Highway
Milledgeville, GA 31061
Admission Phone number: 478-445-4295
Fax: 478-445-4524
Who is eligible for care at a Georgia War Veterans Home?Veterans must meet the following requirements to be eligible for admission:
- Georgia resident
- Lived in Georgia two years immediately prior to application, or
- Lived in Georgia five or more of the past 15 years
- Served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during one of the following wartime periods:
- World War II - December 7, 1941, through December 31, 1946
- Korea - June 27, 1950, through January 31, 1955
- Cold War - January 31, 1955, through August 1, 1990
- Vietnam - July 1, 1964, through May 7, 1975
- Persian Gulf - August 2, 1990, through the present
- Received a discharge under other than dishonorable conditions
- Approved by the VA for skilled nursing care
- Does not have a contagious infectious disease, behavioral or psychiatric problems
- Must not need to be sustained by line-operated mechanical means
To apply for admission Veterans can contact the Veterans Home directly, or by contacting a GDVS, Veteran Field Service Office.
GDVS, Application for Admission to a Georgia War Veterans Home
Georgia War Veterans Homes Eligibility Information
Learn more about the Georgia War Veterans Nursing Homes
Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemeteries (GVMC): Georgia has two GVMC that provide a dignified final resting place for Veterans and their eligible family members.
GVMC Locations:
GVMC at Milledgeville
2617 Vinson Highway
Milledgeville, GA 31061
Phone: 478-445-3363
Fax: 478-445-3360
Application for Burial, GVMC - Milledgeville
GVMC at Glennville
8819 U.S. Highway 301
Glennville, GA 30427
Phone: 912-654-5398
Fax: 912-654-2963
Application for Burial, GVMC - Glennville
At a GVMC there is no charge for the gravesite, a government provided grave marker, vault, and use of the committal chapel for the burial service. The cemeteries can accommodate casketed burials, cremated remains burials and a columbaria niche for the placement of cremated remains. All costs for a casket, preparation of the body for burial, and other funeral costs (transportation, use of funeral home, minister, etc.) must be arranged through a funeral home and paid for by the Veteran, the Veteran's estate, or survivors.
Who is eligible for Burial at a GVMC? Eligibility requirements for the burial at a GVMC are the same as for VA National Cemeteries. Complete eligibility requirements can viewed at the VA, National Cemetery Administration Eligibility webpage. The following are the general eligibility requirements:
- Discharged from active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces under conditions other than dishonorable, or
- Died while serving on active duty, or
- Served at least 20 years in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserves and qualified for military retired pay (or would have qualified except death occurred before age 60), or
- Reserve component service members if they were activated for federal service, (active duty for training does not qualify)
- 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 who develops a lifelong disability prior to age 21)
For more information, please contact the GVMC directly.
Learn more about Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemeteries
Georgia Motor Fuel Full-Service for Disabled Veterans: When a gasoline station offers both full-service and self-service, a station employee, upon request, will provide full-service at the self-service price to a disabled Veteran under the following conditions:
- Disabled Veteran is driving a vehicle with Disabled Veteran license plates, and
- Disabled Veteran is not accompanied by a person capable of pumping fuel (16 years or older and not disabled)
Learn more about Georgia Motor Fuel Full-Service for Disabled Veterans
Guardianship for Georgia Veterans and their Children: The Georgia Uniform Guardianship Act authorizes the appointment of a guardian for an incompetent Veterans and for the Veteran’s children when VA benefits are involved.
Learn more about Guardianship for Georgia Veterans and their Children
Georgia Veterans, Dependents and Veterans Organizations may Receive Vital Statistics Records Free of Charge: Veterans and their families can request free copies of marriage, divorce, birth, and death documents, when they are used for establishing disability or death benefits claims. For assistance, please contact the Georgia Department of Public Health, Office of Vital Records at 404-679-4702.
Georgia Department of Public Health Vital Records Website
Georgia Women Veterans Office: The Georgia Women Veterans Office provides information, advocacy, outreach and support to Georgia women Veterans and their families.
The Women Veterans Office helps Veterans file benefit claims and provides counseling and support for those who have suffered military sexual trauma. The Women Veterans Office also provides mentorship and advocates for Veterans working with Georgia's Veterans Treatment Courts.
Learn more about Georgia Women Veterans Office
Georgia Veterans Treatment Courts: Georgia Veterans Treatment Courts help Veterans who are involved in the Georgia court system. Veterans Treatment Courts use a combination of drug court and mental health court principles to promotes sobriety, recovery, and stability.
Georgia Veterans Treatment Courts Directory
Learn more about Georgia Veterans Treatment Courts
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Georgia
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Georgia: The VA has numerous resources available for Veterans and family members. Please see the local location listing for the nearest facility.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Georgia
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Georgia: The VA National Cemetery Administration maintains two national cemeteries in Georgia. Please see the local location listing for the nearest cemetery.
Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Georgia
Military Installations in Georgia
Please see the Georgia Military Resource Locator for additional information.
Active Duty
Army
Fort Moore
Fort Eisenhower
Fort Stewart / Hunter Army Airfield
Air Force
Moody Air Force Base
Robins Air Force Base
Navy
Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay
Marines
Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany
National Guard
Georgia National Guard
Georgia Army National Guard
Georgia Air National Guard
116 th Air Control Wing
165 th Airlift Wing
U.S. Army Reserve (USAR)
81 st Readiness Division
Georgia Department of Veterans Service
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Facility Directory, Georgia
U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Veterans' Preference
U.S. Department of Labor, Veteran's Employment and Career Transition Advisor
Georgia Department of Veterans Service, State Benefits for Georgia Veterans eBook
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Service Organization Directory