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 in Delaware
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 who can assist Veterans, retired Service members and their Families find and apply for 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 have state or local sales taxes.
Learn more about Delaware State Sales Tax
Delaware State Taxes on Military Pay: Delaware resident Service members are required to pay state taxes on their military pay.
Learn more about Delaware State Taxes on Military Pay
Delaware Military Retired Pay Income Taxes: Delaware residents are eligible for a military retired pay exclusion of up to $12,500.
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 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:
- Disability compensation and pension payments for disabilities paid to Veterans or their Families
- Grants for homes designed for wheelchair living
- Grants for motor vehicles for Veterans who lost their sight or the use of limbs, or
- Benefits under a dependent-care assistance program
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-connected 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
Delaware Disabled Veterans School Tax Credit: Delaware resident disabled Veterans may be eligible for a tax credit of 100% of their school district property tax. This credit may only be used against property taxes assessed on their primary residence.
Who is eligible for the Delaware Disabled Veterans School Tax Credit? Veterans must meet the following requirements to be eligible:
- Legal resident of Delaware for the past three years
- Receives compensation from the VA for a service-connected 100% permanent and total disability, or
- Receives compensation from the VA at the 100% rate due to individual unemployability
Applications are due by April 30th. Once approved Veterans do no need to reapply. Applicants must provide a copy of their driver’s license or state ID, documentation of their VA disability rating, a copy of their Social Security card and a completed Delaware Division of Revenue, Application for Disabled Veteran School Property Tax Credit to their County Assessment Office:
New Castle County
Assessment Division
87 Read’s Way
New Castle, DE 19720
Phone: 302-395-5520
Kent County
Assessment Division
55 Bay Road
Dover, DE 19901
Phone: 302-744-2401
Sussex County
Billing Services
P.O. Box 589
Georgetown, DE 19947
Phone: 302-855-7871
Delaware Disabled Veterans School Tax Credit Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about Delaware Disabled Veterans School Tax Credit
What are my Delaware Military and Veterans Education Benefits?
Delaware National Guard Tuition Assistance:Delaware National Guard Service members can receive up to 100% tuition at state supported
colleges and universities or the average of in-state tuition at a private college or university in Delaware.
Service members are eligible to receive tuition assistance for one certificate, associate or bachelor’s degree. Master’s 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 six years. Service members have 15 years of eligibility to use the program once they begin receiving 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 Service members must meet their academic institutions definition of satisfactory academic progress.
For more information and to apply please contact the Delaware National Guard education office at 302-326-7012. Delaware Code 14-34-XI-3480
Delaware National Guard State Education Assistance Program Application
Learn more about Delaware National Guard Tuition Assistance
Delaware Educational Benefits for Children of Deceased Veterans and Service Members Declared a Prisoner of War/Missing in Action (POW/MIA): Delaware will provide tuition and required fees for the Children of certain Veterans and Service members who were current or former POW/MIA. Students can receive tuition assistance for up to four years at a state supported colleges, or university. Students are authorized to attend a private college in Delaware, if their program of study is not offered at a Delaware public college; or an out-of-state public or private college, if there is no institution in Delaware offering their program of study.
Who is eligible for Delaware Educational Benefits for Children of Deceased Veterans and Service Members Declared a POW/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 the date of application. In addition, the Child’s parent must meet the following requirements:
- Resident Service member who was killed while serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces
- Resident Veteran who died from disease, wounds, injuries, or disabilities as a result of their service
- Resident who was a current or former POW/MIA (must have been a resident at the time they were declared POW/MIA)
Students can apply online using the Delaware Higher Education Financial Aid Portal. Applications open on January 2, 2024, and close on May 15, 2024.
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 Diplomas for Wartime Veterans? Veterans must have received an honorable discharge following service in the U.S. Armed Forces during the following time periods:
- WW II - December 7, 1941, through December 11, 1946, and during occupation of defeated territories until September 8, 1951
- Korean War - June 27, 1950, through January 31, 1955
- Vietnam - May 1, 1961, through April 30, 1975
For more information and to apply please contact the Delaware Office of Veterans Services at 302-739-2792, or 800-344-9900.
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:
- 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 in order to achieve educational success for the student
Learn more about Delaware Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children
Delaware Purple Star Distinguished School Designation Program for Military-Friendly Schools: The Delaware Purple Star Distinguished 
School Designation program for military-friendly schools recognizes schools that show a major commitment to students and Families connected to the U.S. Armed Forces.
For a school to qualify for the Purple Star Designation they must appoint a school liaison who is specially trained to handle the unique challenges experienced by military Families. This liaison will ensure 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.
Military Child Education Coalition Purple Star School Program
What are my Delaware Military and Veterans Employment Benefits?
Delaware State Employee Leave for Military Duty:Delaware State Merit Employees who are serving in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserves who 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 who 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? National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service members who are State Merit Employees (employees who 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 Benefits for Service Members, Veterans and their Spouses: 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) to apply for, or renew a professional license.
Continuation of Delaware Professional License or Permit for Active Duty Service Members: The Delaware Professional license of deployed Service members remains active for the duration or their deployment. Service members must continue to meet all applicable license 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.
Delaware Division of Professional Regulation, Application of Military Member for a Provisional License
Delaware Division of Professional Regulation, Application of Military Spouse for a Provisional License
Military Education, Training or Experience: Delaware professional licensing boards will consider military education, training, or experience (METE) when determining qualifications for a professional license. To receive credit for METE, the education and 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:
- Active or reserve component Service member serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, retired Service member, or a Veteran
- Filing a license application at the same time as this request, or have already filed the application and it is still pending
- Applicant believes they can meet licensure requirements only if given credit for METE
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:
- Veterans who served in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces and received a discharge other than dishonorable
- Service members serving in the Delaware National Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves who have at least 20 years of service and continue to serve
- Unremarried Surviving Spouse of an eligible deceased Veteran or Service member
- Spouse of a Service member who is declared for at least 90 days as:
-
- Missing in action
- Prisoner of War
- Forcibly detained or interned in line of duty by a foreign government or power
- Spouse of a Veteran or Service member who has a service-connected disability
Honorably discharged Veterans or reserve component Service members who have at least 20 years of service who have a service-connected disability are eligible for 10 points.
In addition, state employees who leave their state employment 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:
- 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: 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:
- 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): 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:
- 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 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 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 the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act
Delaware Office of Pensions Military Service Credit: Delaware state employees who 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 service or completion of professional or vocational training. The course of professional or vocational training must be started within five years of discharge from U.S. Armed Forces 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 and successfully complete their course of instruction to be eligible.
State employees who are called into, or volunteer for active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces and return to the state employment within 90 days of their discharge will receive full service credit for the time they serve on active duty
Those who 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 by email at pensionoffice@delaware.gov, or by calling 800=722-7300, or 302-739-4208.
Delaware Office of Pensions Contact Information
Learn more about Delaware Office of Pensions Military Service Credit
Compensation for Delaware National Guard Service Members While Serving on 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 federal active duty Service members of the same grade and time in service.
For state active duty including training or other nonemergency response, Delaware National Guard Service members will receive per diem equal to what is authorized for active duty Service members of the same grade and length of service in the U.S. Armed Forces.
For radiological emergency preparedness eventsService members receive twice their base pay and all authorized allowances.
What are my Delaware Military and Veterans Unemployment Insurance Benefits?
Delaware Unemployment Insurance (UI): The Delaware Division of UI administers the UI program that provides temporary financial assistance for workers who 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.
To be eligible for UI applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Unemployed through no fault of your own
- Be able and available for work
- Actively seeking work, and willing to accept work they are qualified for
Before filing a claim, applicants will need the following information:
- Social Security Number
- Names, addresses, and phone numbers of all employers for the last 18 months
- Name and local number of union hall, if applicable
- Telephone number
- State issued driver's license, or ID Card information
- Non-U.S. citizens, must provide their alien registration number and expiration date
Required information can be found on the Delaware UI, Starting a Claim webpage.
Applicants can file claim for UI benefits at the Delaware UI Online Claimant Portal. Applicants may not file online if they:
- Are filing a partial claim through use of partial/low earnings slips
- Were employed in another state during the previous 18 months
- Lived 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
All others: 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 Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Benefits?
Veteran Designation on Delaware Driver Licenses and ID Cards: Free Veteran driver licenses and ID cards are offered by the 
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles to resident Veterans who 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 (must be original):
- Military ID
- NGB22
- DD214
- DD256
- Honorable Discharge Certificate
- Valid out-of-state driver license with Veteran designation
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicle Office Locations
Learn more about Veteran Designation on Delaware Driver Licenses and ID Cards
Delaware Driver License Renewals by Mail for Active Duty Service Members and their Dependents: The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) authorizes active duty Service members and their dependents who are stationed or deployed outside of Delaware to renew their driver licenses through the mail. License renewals are valid for eight years
The DMV will not charge late renewal fees for Service members, or their dependents when they renew their driver licenses after its expiration date if they were out of state at the time of expiration.
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 .
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles, Vehicle Services License Plates/Tags
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. 
Who is eligible for the Delaware Disabled American Veterans License Plates? Veterans must have a service-connected disability (as determined by the VA) they received during a time of war or conflict. Surviving Spouses may retain this license plate upon the death of the Veteran. Applicants will be required to provide official documentation from the VA that they have a service-connected disability.
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 who were awarded the Purple Heart are eligible. Veterans must provide official documentation as proof they received the Purple Heart when they apply. Surviving Spouses may retain this license plate upon the death of the Veteran. Applicants will be required to provide official documentation as proof they were awarded the Purple Heart.
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles, Application for Purple Heart License Plates
Learn more about the Delaware Purple Heart License Plates
Delaware Retired Military License Plates: Retired Service members are eligible for the Delaware Retired Military license plates that indicates their branch of service. 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. Veterans must provide official documentation (DD214 or equivalent) as proof they served 20 years in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge.
Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles, Application for Retired Military Specialty License Plates
Learn more about the Delaware Retired Military License Plates
Delaware Gold Star Family License Plates: Immediate Family members of a Service member who dies while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces are 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:
- Child, stepchild, adopted Child
- Parents, stepparents, foster parents (in loco parentis)
- 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:
- 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
Delaware National Guard Medical Coverage and Compensation for Illness, Injury or Death While on State Active Duty: Delaware National Guard Service members serving on state active duty who become ill, are injured, disabled or die will receive medical coverage and compensation from the state under Delaware Workers' Compensation laws.
Delaware National Guard, Line of Duty Death Benefit: Delaware will pay $200,000 in $40,000 annual installments to the beneficiary of a Delaware National Guard Service member who dies while serving 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:
- Paraplegic, has no voluntary control over either leg
- Rated by the VA as totally disabled
- Disability is a direct result of wartime service in the U.S. Armed Forces
- Delaware resident
For more information, please contact the Delaware Office of Pensions at 800-722-7300 or 302-739-4208.
Delaware Code 20-10-1001
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: The Delaware Department of Natural Resources 
and Environmental Control, Division of Fish and Wildlife will issue an exemption from hunting, trapping and fishing licenses for qualifying disabled Veterans.
Who is eligible for Delaware Hunting, Trapping and Fishing License Exemption for Disabled Veterans? Veterans must have received an honorable discharge and have a 60% or more service-connected disability rating from the VA to be eligible.
Delaware Code 7-5-I-502
To receive an exemption Veterans must mail, email or fax a completed Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife, Veterans with Disabilities Exempt Application and a letter from the VA certifying their honorable discharge and disability percentage to:
Division of Fish and Wildlife
Attn:Recreational Licensing
89 Kings Highway
Dover, DE 19001
Email: DFWreclic@delaware.gov
Fax:302-736-7925 (please call when faxing)
Phone: 302-739-9918
Learn moreabout Delaware Hunting, Trapping and Fishing License Exemption for Disabled Veterans
Delaware Resident Hunting, Trapping and Fishing Privileges for Nonresident Service Members: 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.
Delaware Code 7-5-I-505
Service members can only purchase licenses from Dover Airforce Base Outdoor Recreation Center, or they can submit a completed Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife, Military Non-Resident License Application directly to the Division of Fish and Wildlife by mail, email, or fax to:
Division of Fish and Wildlife
Attn:Recreational Licensing
89 Kings Highway
Dover, DE 19001
Email: DFWreclic@delaware.gov
Fax: 302-736-7925 (please call when faxing)
Phone: 302-739-9918
Delaware Resident Military One Time Hunting and Fishing License for Wartime Veterans: Delaware residents who served 90 or more 
days in Operations Iraqi Freedom or Enduring Freedom are eligible for a one-time license exemption for the first 12 months following the date they are honorably discharged or removed from active status. Delaware Code 7-5-I-502
To receive an exemption Veterans must mail, email or fax a completed Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife. Resident Military One-Time Hunting/Fishing Application, and a copy of their DD214 to:
Division of Fish and Wildlife
Attn:Recreational Licensing
89 Kings Highway
Dover, DE 19001
Email: DFWreclic@delaware.gov
Fax:302-736-7925 (please call when faxing)
Phone: 302-739-9918
Delaware Hunting, Trapping and Fishing License for Hospitalized Service Members: A Service member serving in the U.S. Armed Forces who is a patient at a military hospital may be issued a free license to hunt, trap and fish in Delaware. The Service member must provide a written statement signed by their commanding officer certifying the nature of their disability and place of duty when they apply. Delaware Code 7-5-I-502
Learn more about Delaware Hunting, Trapping and Fishing License for Hospitalized Service Members
Delaware Fishing License Exemption for Veterans Hospitalized in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities: Veterans who are patients in a VA facility in Delaware are eligible to fish without a license in Delaware. Veterans must carry official documentation that they are a patient in a VA Facility when they are fishing. Delaware Code 7-5-I-502
“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:
- Active duty Service member serving in the U.S. Armed Forces or in the Delaware National Guard
- Veteran who served in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge
- Service member who served 20 or more years in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge
Reduced price park passes are issued at any Delaware State Park Office.
Delaware State Park Directory
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 Delaware resident Veterans who served for 90 or more days in the U.S. Armed Forces during Operations Iraqi Freedom or Enduring Freedom And received an honorable discharge.
To receive an exemption Veterans must mail, email or fax a completed Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, Resident Military One Time Hunting/Fishing/Park Pass Application anda copy of their driver’s license and DD214 to:
Delaware Division of Parks and Recreation
Office of Business Services
89 Kings Highway
Dover, DE 19901
Email: DFWreclic@delaware.gov
Fax:302-739-3817 (please call when faxing)
Phone: 302-739-99220
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.
Reduced price park passes are issued at any Delaware State Park Office.
Delaware State Park Directory
What are my Delaware Military and Veterans Miscellaneous Benefits?
Delaware Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): SSVF provides assistance to Veterans and their Families who have housing stability issues, or they are homeless. SSVF will provide case management, benefit application assistance, financial assistance 
(includes rental, security deposit and utility assistance) and access to benefit enrollment
For more information, please contact the nearest SSVF Outreach Coordinator:
- New Castle County: 302-250-5868
- Kent County: 302-518-5338
- Sussex County: 302-332-0913
Learn more about the Delaware Supportive Services for Veteran Families
Delaware People's Place, Veterans 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.
Services Offered:
- Career counseling
- Assistance applying for state and VA benefits
- Psychotherapy referrals
- Mental health counseling
- Transportation to medical facilities in the region
For more information contact:
Veterans Outreach Program
1129 Airport Road
Milford, DE 19963
Phone: 302-236-5301
Learn more about the Delaware People's Place, Veterans 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. Current and back issues of The Centurionare available online at the “Learn more…” link below
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 the Veteran’s DD214 to the address on the application or contact the Delaware Office of Veterans Services at 302-739-2792, or 800-344-9900 for assistance.
Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs, Certificate of Appreciation Application
Free Copies of Delaware Resident Military Records: The Delaware Office of Veterans Services will provide free certified copies of service records for Veterans who served on active duty. Veterans must have been a Delaware resident at the time of entry into the U.S. Armed Forces, or had a Delaware address at their time of discharge. Veterans and their next of kin can call the Delaware Office of Veterans Services at 302-739-2792 or 800-344-9900, to see if a copy is on file.
Delaware Code 29-87-I-8721
Learn more about Free Copies of Delaware Resident Military Records
Free Marriage and Death Certificates 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 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.
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 (DVH): The DVH is a 150-bed long-term care facility in Milford, Delaware that offers skilled nursing care to Delaware resident Veterans and their eligible Family members.
The DVH provides:
- 24-hour professional nursing care
- Medical services
- Physical, occupational and speech therapies
- Social services
- Library, computer with internet access
- Gift shop
- Barbershop
- Multi-denominational chapel services
Who is eligible for care at the DVH? To be eligible for admission to the DVH Veterans must meet the following requirements:
- Veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge, or
- National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service members who are eligible for retirement pay at age 60, or
- National Guard Service members who served a minimum of 180 days on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge, or
- U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service members who served a minimum of 181 days on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge, or
- Surviving Spouse or Parents of a Service member or Veteran who died from a service-connected cause, and
- Delaware resident for at least one year prior to application, and
- Must require skilled nursing care
DVH Eligibility and Application Information
For more information, please contact the Admissions Office at 302-424-8572. Applications can be faxed to 302-622-4155, emailed to DOSDVH_admissions@delaware.gov, or mailed to:
Delaware Veterans Home Admissions
100 Delaware Veterans Boulevard
Milford, DE 19963
DVH Application, Part 1
DVH Application, Part 2
DVH Application, Part 3
Learn more about the Delaware Veterans Home
Delaware Veterans Trust Fund: The Delaware Veterans Trust Fund helps Delaware Veterans in financial crisis who need help with reintegration, housing, utilities, and incidental expenses for health and welfare. For more information Veterans should contact their local Veterans Service Officer or the Delaware Office of Veterans Services main office at 302-739-2792 or 800-344-9900.
Complete applications may be emailed to dos_ovs@delaware.gov, or delivered in person to the following locations:
New Castle County
2465 Chesapeake City Road
Bear, DE 19701
Kent County
OVS Main Office
802 Silver Lake Boulevard, Suite 100
Dover, DE 19904
Sussex County
26669 Patriots Way
Millsboro, DE 19966
Delaware Office of Veterans Services, Veterans Service Officer Directory
Application for Delaware Veterans Trust Fund
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. Each cemetery can accommodate casketed and cremated remains.
Cemetery Locations:
New Castle County Cemetery
2465 Chesapeake City Road
Bear, DE 19701
Phone: 302-834-8046
Fax: 302-834-3787
Sussex County Cemetery
26669 Patriots Way
Millsboro, DE 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 Veterans Memorial Cemetery 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:
- 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 is eligible for military retired pay (or would have been eligible except their 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 dependent Children (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)
- Resident of Delaware:
- At time of death, or
- For three or more years (does not have to be consecutive), or
- When they entered the U.S. Armed Forces
All Veterans are encouraged to complete the online Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemeteries, Application for Burial to establish eligibility prior to need.
Learn more about the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemeteries
Delaware Veterans Treatment Court Program: The Delaware Veterans Treatment Court was established to divert Veterans from the traditional criminal justice system and provide them with the tools to lead a productive and law-abiding life. Veterans are referred by the Attorney General's Office or the Office of the Public Defender. Once a referral is made, the Veteran is offered the opportunity to participate on a voluntary basis.
Veterans who choose to participate will have their charges deferred pending successful completion of a treatment plan, at which time the charges will be dismissed. Veterans must comply with court ordered treatment and appear in court for progress assessments on a regular basis. Failure to comply will result in sanctions which can range from an admonishment to termination from the program.
Learn more about the Delaware Veterans Treatment Court Program
Delaware Joining Forces Network: The Delaware Joining Forces (DJF) network provide solutions that improve the quality of life and welfare of the Delaware military community. This community-level effort directly supports Service members, Veterans and their Families by addressing critical issues and needs including:
- Financial and legal assistance
- Job training and employment
- Homelessness and housing
- Behavioral health and wellness
- Education
DJF is a collaborative effort led by several state agencies, including the Delaware National Guard, Delaware Health and Social Services, and the Delaware Commission of Veteran Affairs. For more information, please call 302-326-7582 or 302-739-2293.
Learn more about Delaware Joining Forces Network
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 or 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
166 th Airlift Wing
U.S. Army Reserve (USAR)
99 th 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
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Service Organization Directory