Your Florida homestead is fully exempt from property tax.
Who qualifies
Florida resident homeowner with an honorable discharge and a service-connected total and permanent disability (or 100% paid as TDIU, per the property appraiser). Can carry over to the surviving spouse.
How to apply
File Form DR-501 with your county property appraiser and include your VA letter. You can apply before VA paperwork arrives and send it later.
Deadline
Own the home on January 1; file by March 1 of the tax year.
A homestead tax discount equal to your disability percentage, for veterans 65+ with combat-related disabilities.
Who qualifies
Age 65+, partially or totally permanently disabled, combat-related disability, honorable discharge, and entered service as a Florida resident (per the statute).
Veteran Designation on Florida Driver Licenses and ID Cards
Any veteranVehicles
Florida veterans can add a "Veteran" designation to their driver license or ID. A replacement card that only adds the designation is free.
Who qualifies
Veterans must provide a copy of their DD214, VA Health ID, Veteran ID issued by the VA, or other acceptable form of documentation that indicates they received an honorable discharge from active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces. Veterans can apply at any .
Florida Disabled Toll Permit Program for People with Disabilities
Check eligibilityVehicles
Disabled drivers who are driving a specially adapted vehicle and are certified by a licensed physician, or by the VA as having a severe permanent disability that does not allow them to place coins in a toll basket are allowed to pass free through tollgates. The Florida Department of Transportation will issue a window sticker to authorize free use. Applicants must mail a completed and required documentation (listed on the application) to: Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged 605 Suwannee Street, MS-49 Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0450 Phone: 800-983-2435
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
Applicants must mail a completed and required documentation (listed on the application) to: Florida Commission for the Transportation Disadvantaged 605 Suwannee Street, MS-49 Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0450 Phone: 800-983-2435
Florida Special Veteran and Military License Plates
Any veteranVehicles
Florida offers many military and veteran specialty plates. Most are available at a local motor vehicle service center; Medal of Honor and certain valor-award plates must go to FLHSMV.
Who qualifies
Honorably discharged resident Veterans who have a 100%, total and permanent service-connected disability rating from the VA or their branch of service, and Veterans who received financial assistance from the VA to purchase a specially adapted vehicle are eligible for one free set of Disabled Veteran License Plates. Additional license plates are charged regular fees. Veterans are required to provide a Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs, 100% Service-Connected Permanently and Totally Disabled Veteran ID Card, or a as proof of eligibility. Veterans requesting the wheelchair symbol are required to provide certification from a physician or medical practitioner. Florida Veteran License Plate: Florida resident Veterans are eligible for the Florida Veteran license plate. Veterans must provide proof of discharge or release from the U.S. Armed Forces. Florida Gold Star License Plate: Family M
How to apply
Eligibility and application instructions are located on the application form. Most military plates are available at local FLHSMV, Motor Vehicle Service Centers.
A free Lifetime Military Entrance Pass (same benefits as the Family Annual Pass, up to 8 people per vehicle). Other honorably discharged veterans get 25% off annual passes.
Who qualifies
Honorably discharged veteran with any service-connected disability.
How to apply
In person only, at a state park with a staffed ranger station. Bring your DD-214 and VA letter.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Military Gold Sportsman's License
Any veteranOutdoors & parksFor retiree
Florida offers the annual Florida Military Gold Sportsman’s License to eligible service members and retired service members for a reduced price of $20. The Florida Military Gold Sportsman’s License authorizes: Saltwater Fishing; Freshwater Fishing; Hunting licenses Deer; Wildlife Management Area; Archery season; Muzzle loading gun season; Crossbow season; Turkey; Florida waterfowl; ; Snook; Lobster permits;
Who qualifies
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements to be eligible: Nonresident active duty service members stationed in Florida; Florida resident service members; Florida resident retired service members who served in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces; The Military Gold Sportsman's License is available at the , through an online verification process. Licenses are also available at Florida tax collectors’ office with proof of residency and a current military ID card.
How to apply
Armed Forces; The Military Gold Sportsman's License is available at the , through an online verification process. Licenses are also available at Florida tax collectors’ office with proof of residency and a current military ID card.
Florida Military and Disabled Veteran Event License Exemption
Check eligibilityOutdoors & parks
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission offers a Military/Disabled Veteran Event License Exemption Permit for organizations that hold recreational hunting or fishing events for Disabled Veterans, service members, and their immediate family members. Participants in these events are exempt from Florida recreational hunting and fishing licenses or permit requirements. Organizations can apply for a permit online at .
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
Florida Operation Outdoor Freedom provides free recreational and rehabilitative opportunities for eligible Veterans on state forest, agricultural and private land throughout Florida.
Who qualifies
To be eligible to participate Veterans must be Florida residents and meet one of the following requirements: Received an honorable discharge and have a service-connected disability rating of 30% or greater from the VA; Purple Heart recipient; Veterans can see scheduled events and register at the . For more information, please call 863-224-7013 or 863-221-6146.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
Florida Dept. of Education scholarship toward tuition and fees at eligible Florida schools, for the dependents of 100% P&T veterans.
Who qualifies
Dependent child or spouse of a veteran rated 100% service-connected P&T (or who died of a service-connected disability). Florida residency rules apply.
How to apply
Student completes the Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA). The veteran's documents are uploaded to the FDVA portal. Questions: FDVA (727) 319-7440.
Deadline
The FFAA opens around Oct 1 and closes April 1. Upload FDVA documents before April 1.
C.W. Bill Young Veteran Tuition Waiver (out-of-state fees waived)
Any veteranEducationFor family
Florida waives out-of-state tuition and fees for honorably discharged veterans who live in Florida and enroll at Florida public colleges and universities.
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
For more information regarding all these benefits students should contact the academic institution they plan to attend.
Florida Honorably Discharged Graduate Assistance Program (HDGAP)
Any veteranEducationAuto-imported · verify
The Florida HDGAP is a supplemental need-based financial benefit for eligible resident Veterans and service members to be used to assist in paying unmet living expenses during holiday and semester breaks. Students can receive up to $50 per day for a maximum of 20 days per academic year. Living expenses are the essentials to sustain life and may include food, shelter, utilities, and personal care products.
Who qualifies
To be eligible students must be a Florida resident service member serving on active duty or a Veteran who was honorably from active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces on or after September 11, 2001. Students will be required to demonstrate financial need by completing the . For more information, please call 888-827-2004, or email OSFA@fldoe.org . Learn more about the Florida Honorably Discharged Graduate Assistance Program The Purple Heart Waiver provides tuition waivers at a , a , or a for service members and Veterans who have received a Purple Heart or a combat decoration that is “superior in precedence”. The waiver covers the tuition for a degree or certificate program up to 110% of the required hours of study. The waiver does not cover other costs, such as textbooks, housing, and food. Who is eligible for the Florida Tuition Waiver for Recipients of the Purple Heart or Superior Co
How to apply
Veteran or service member must meet these requirements: Florida resident for tuition purposes; Full or part-time student; Enrolled in a certificate or degree program (non-degree seeking courses do not qualify for the waiver); Submit documents showing receipt of the Purple Heart or superior combat decoration; Combat decorations superior in precedence to the Purple Heart includes: Medal of Honor; Navy Cross, Air Force Cross, Distinguished Service Cross; Silver Star; Legion of Merit; Distinguished
The Florida Department of Education will award a standard high school diploma to honorably discharged Veterans who did not complete high school graduation requirements due to entering the U.S. Armed Forces.
Who qualifies
The Veteran must meet the following criteria: Left a public or non-public school prior to graduation to enter the U.S. Armed Forces; Current resident of Florida, or was previously enrolled in a high school in Florida, or was a resident of Florida at the time of their death; Received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Armed Forces; Family members may apply posthumously for the Veteran’s diploma. Applicants must provide a completed application and the Veteran’s DD214 or other honorable discharge documentation. Please mail completed applications and required documentation to: Florida Department of Education Veterans High School Diploma Program 325 West Gaines Street, Room 714 Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0400 Phone: 850-245-0446
How to apply
Armed Forces; Family members may apply posthumously for the Veteran’s diploma. Applicants must provide a completed application and the Veteran’s DD214 or other honorable discharge documentation.
Florida Local Business Tax Exemption for Veterans, Spouses of Veterans and Service Members
Any veteranJobsFor familyAuto-imported · verify
Florida offers an exemption from local business taxes and fees imposed under for eligible Veterans, their spouse or surviving spouse, and spouses of service members who are stationed in Florida.
Who qualifies
The following individuals are eligible for an exemption of business taxes and fees: Honorably discharged Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces; Spouse or unremarried surviving spouse an eligible Veteran; Spouse of an active duty service member stationed in Florida
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
Florida public service employees who are service members serving in the National Guard, or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves are authorized a leave of absence for required training and active military service. The first 30 days of their leave of absence is with full pay. Service members keep all seniority rights, efficiency ratings, promotional status, and retirement privileges during their leave of absence.
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
Florida Veteran Business Enterprise Opportunity Act
Any veteranJobs
The Department of Management Services' Office of Supplier Diversity certifies veteran-owned small businesses. Certified veteran businesses get preference when state agencies compare equal bids.
Who qualifies
Registered to do business in Florida as a for-profit organization; Based in Florida; Owned and managed by a Florida resident(s); 51% owned and managed by a Veteran; Engaged in commercial transactions; Have a net worth of less than $5 million; Employs 200 or fewer full-time permanent employees; Have a professional license, if required by the industry, in the name of the Veteran business owner; To become certified Veterans must register as a new vendor on and select Veteran in the “Company Information" tab of their profile. Veterans will be able to attach any to their application. For more information, please email OSDHelp@dms.fl.gov , or call 850-414-6122. Florida Statutes 295-187
How to apply
Veterans will be able to attach any to their application.
With funding from the , the Florida Department of Commerce administers the Jobs for Veterans’ State Grant Program to promote the employment of Florida Veterans and their spouses. Disabled Veterans Outreach Program Specialists and Local Veterans Employment Representatives at CareerSource Florida Centers provide services to Veterans and their spouses. Disabled Veterans Outreach Program Specialists focus on intensive case management services for those with barriers to employment, particularly disabled Veterans. Local Veterans Employment Representatives build relationships with employers and…
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
For a Veteran’s spouse to be eligible they must meet the following requirements: Spouse of a Veteran who has a 100% service-connected disability rating from the VA or who died while the rating was in place; Spouse of a service member serving on active duty who is listed as missing in action, captured in the line of duty or is forcibly detained for at least 90 days; For more information, please contact a local CareerSource Center, or email VETS@Commerce.fl.gov .
The Employ Veterans website is a gateway to information and resource links that will assist Veterans, and their families meet their employment goals. The website has information about the that will match job seekers with employers and other employment-related services. Veterans can also search for jobs in Florida based on their Military Occupational Specialty.
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
Florida Professional License Benefits for Service Members, Military Spouses, Surviving Spouses and Veterans
Any veteranJobsFor survivor
Florida has numerous professional licensing benefits for service members, Military spouses, surviving spouses and Veterans. Benefits vary for each professional licensing agency. Some of the benefits offered include: Applicants who hold a valid professional license from another state can receive an equivalent license in Florida; Renewal exemptions; Fee waivers; Credit for military training and experience toward licensing requirements; Expedited license processing; To determine which benefits are available, please contact the licensing agency that governs the profession. ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ;…
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
Some of the benefits offered include: Applicants who hold a valid professional license from another state can receive an equivalent license in Florida; Renewal exemptions; Fee waivers; Credit for military training and experience toward licensing requirements; Expedited license processing; To determine which benefits are available, please contact the licensing agency that governs the profession.
Florida Basic Law Enforcement Training Exemption for Former U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) Service Members
Any veteranJobs
Former special operations forces members may be exempt from basic law enforcement recruit training. Experienced officers from other states or federal service may skip the full basic recruit program (conditions apply).
Who qualifies
Service members currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, honorably discharged Veterans and their spouses are eligible. For more information, please call 850-201-8320, or email FV2T@tcc.fl.edu .
How to apply
Former service members must apply within four years of their last USSOCOM duty assignment. Program Benefits: Waiver of application and exam fees for current service members, Veterans, and their spouses; Veterans who have not earned their bachelor’s degree may be able to qualify for a temporary certificate; Veterans employed on or after 1 July 2023 can receive a $4,000 sign-on bonus if they commit to teaching for two years and an additional $1,000 if they teach a high-demand subject; Who is eligi
Deadline
Former service members must apply within four years of their last USSOCOM duty assignment.
The Veterans Florida Entrepreneurship Program offers resources and education to Veterans, active and reserve component service members, and their spouses to help them to succeed in business. The program will provide the tools necessary to successfully launch and operate a new business or grow an existing venture. Those eligible can receive training, as well as connection to resources, mentors, and networking opportunities.
Who qualifies
Florida resident Veterans who have received a discharge other than dishonorable, active and reserve component service members, and their spouses are eligible. For more information and to apply Veterans can register online on the .
How to apply
For more information and to apply Veterans can register online on the .
Florida Disabled Veterans Building License Fee Exemption
100% P&TJobs
Florida veterans rated total and permanently disabled are exempt from county and municipal building license or permit fees when making improvements to make their home habitable or safe.
Who qualifies
Florida resident Veterans who have a service-connected 100% disability rating from the VA or their branch of service and are receiving disability retirement pay are eligible.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
Florida State Veterans' Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facility
Any veteranHealth care
FDVA runs eight skilled nursing homes and one assisted living facility. Admission requires an honorable discharge, Florida residency and a VA physician's certification of need.
Who qualifies
To be eligible for admission at a Florida Veterans’ Home or the assisted living facility, Veterans must have received an honorable discharge, be a legal Florida resident prior to admission, and be certified by a VA physician that they require skilled nursing care or assisted living. Spouses may be admitted if space is available.
How to apply
Veterans' Domiciliary Home – 150 bed assisted living facility provides a combination of housing, supportive services and primary medical care; Veterans must be able to feed and dress themselves and require assisted living care 751 SE Sycamore Terrace Lake City, FL 32025 Phone: 386-758-0600 All of the following state nursing homes use the to apply for admission.
FDVA issues a 100% Disabled Veteran ID card to permanent Florida residents rated 100% service-connected P&T (or 100% P&T with military disability retirement pay). It proves eligibility for state 100% P&T benefits, except the homestead and property exemptions. Call (727) 319-7440.
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
For application information, please call 727-319-7440.
Florida National Guard Service members who are at least 62 years old and served 30 good years in the Florida National Guard are eligible to receive pay from the state that is in addition to their federal military retired pay. This pay is equal to one half of the base pay for their grade and time in service. Any person who is at least 60 years old, but less than 62 years old and is otherwise qualified to receive retirement pay, may elect to retire and receive a reduced benefit. When calculating time in service in the Florida National Guard for purposes of retirement, service on federal…
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
Armed Forces during the following time periods will count double: August 27, 1940, through December 31, 1946; June 29, 1950, through January 31, 1955; August 5, 1964, through May 7, 1975; August 1, 1990, through September 1, 1991; For more information, please contact the Florida National Guard Retirement Services Office by calling 904-823-0329.
Florida Concealed Weapons or Firearms Licenses Benefits for Service Members and Veterans
Any veteranOtherAuto-imported · verify
Florida offers several concealed weapons or firearm license benefits to service members and Veterans. These benefits include: Expedited processing of applications; Can be issued licenses under age 21; Military service meets firearms training/competency requirement; In addition, service members who have a concealed weapon or firearm license who are on orders for duty over 35 miles away from their Florida residence are authorized an extension of the license expiration date until 180 days after they return from their assigned duty.
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
Florida Military and Veterans Assistance Program (MVAP)
Any veteranOtherAuto-imported · verify
MVAP was created to help educate service members and Veterans regarding the types of scams that target their communities, what they can do to protect themselves, and how to protect others by reporting scams and deceptive business practices. In addition, members of the MVAP team work directly with service members and Veterans who have been targeted, to help resolve their consumer protection related issues or find other outside assistance if necessary. Those affected by a scam or deceptive business practice can file a complaint using the . For more information, please call 866-9NO-SCAM…
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
Florida Hometown Heroes offers lower first-mortgage rates, reduced fees, and down payment and closing cost help: up to 5% of the loan ($10,000–$35,000) for eligible borrowers, including veterans.
Who qualifies
Service members serving in an active or reserve component of the U.S. Armed Forces and Veterans who receive a discharge other than dishonorable and are employed by a Florida employer are eligible to participate. Those interested can use the to find loan officers in the area where they are looking to purchase a home. For more information, please call 850-488-4197.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
Florida Veterans Courts handle criminal cases involving defendants who are service members and Veterans, to help them successfully integrate back into the community and avoid further legal issues. The courts try to address the underlying issues of post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and untreated substance abuse. Veterans Courts operate through a coordinated effort among Veterans service agencies (local, state, and federal), community-based providers, and the court. Veterans courts also have volunteer Veteran mentors to provide a supportive relationship to participants…
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
Any veteranOtherFor survivorAuto-imported · verify
Florida SOS honors Gold Star Families by providing SOS Support Coordinators who can connect survivors to supportive services. SOS Support Coordinators can provide long term assistance with: Expertise on state and federal survivor benefits; Guidance and assistance regarding entitlements and local resources; Estate and financial advice; Networks and support groups to provide peer support; Referrals to mental health support and counseling
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.
Through collaborations with private businesses, faith-based organizations, nonprofits, and government agencies, the Hope Florida Program offers Veterans personalized pathways to prosperity and economic self-sufficiency. Hope Navigators, the program’s subject matter experts, offer one-on-one support to help Veterans define their goals, overcome obstacles, and connect with relevant resources. Hope Navigators also assist with accessing resources for: Housing; Medical treatment; Education; Childcare; Financing and budgeting; Employment; Transportation; Substance abuse treatment; Utility…
Who qualifies
See the official source for full eligibility rules.
How to apply
See the official source linked below for how to apply.