Florida

State Population: 17,416,244
Veteran Population: 1,356,882

Education

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In Florida, veterans and members of the National Guard can access state-funded education benefits. These include the Florida GI Bill, which provides tuition waivers for qualified veterans and National Guard members attending Florida state universities, community colleges, or career centers. The Florida National Guard Tuition Assistance Program offers financial assistance for eligible National Guard members pursuing undergraduate and graduate studies in Florida. Additionally, the Florida Department of Education Veterans' Affairs provides resources and support services to help veterans and National Guard members navigate education benefits and pursue their educational goals. For the most up-to-date information, it is recommended to consult the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs directly.
  • Offers Tuition programs for National Guard
    • Does not offer a specific statewide tuition program or waiver for members of the National Guard. However, it's important to note that state-level benefits and programs can change over time, so I recommend checking with the Florida National Guard or the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs for the most up-to-date information on available educational benefits for National Guard members in the state. Additionally, it's possible that there may be other federal or state-level financial assistance programs and scholarships available to National Guard members in Florida. I recommend exploring resources such as the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) website, the Florida Department of Education, or contacting educational institutions in Florida directly to inquire about any potential tuition assistance programs or benefits for National Guard members.
  • Offers College Tuition waivers for Veterans
    • The State of Florida offers qualifying veterans free undergraduate tuition at state universities and community colleges (excludes textbooks, housing, and food). This Florida state military educational benefit is intended for Florida residents who have received the Purple Heart or one of the following decorations: Medal of Honor Navy Cross/Air Force Cross/Distinguished Service Cross Distinguished Service Medal with Combat V Silver Star Legion of Merit with Combat V Distinguished Flying Cross Bronze Star with Combat V
  • Tuition Programs to Spouses & Dependents
    • The Scholarships for Children and Spouses of Deceased or Disabled Veterans (CSDDV) provides a financial award to dependent children or spouses of qualified Florida veterans. These scholarships provide financial help with tuition and fees at any eligible public or private school. The dependent child of the qualified veteran must be between the ages of 16 and 22. The spouse of the disabled veteran must have been a Florida resident for one year and be married to the disabled veteran for one or more years. The spouse of a deceased veteran must be unremarried and apply for the scholarship within five years after the veteran’s death. The scholarship is for funding up to 110 percent of the number of the required credit hours of an initial bachelor’s degree or certificate program. Once awarded, you don’t need to reapply for subsequent benefits.
  • Offers Military Spouse Interstate License Recognition
    • (State must recognize military spouse license) State agencies shall issue licenses to military spouses licensed in another state. Military spouses must submit to required background checks. Some licensing fees are waived.
  • Participates in CDL Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver) as of May 2022
    • working on implementation

Business Benefits

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The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is dedicated to supporting veteran entrepreneurs by offering comprehensive business counseling, training, and resources. They provide guidance on essential aspects such as business planning, market research, financial management, and access to capital. In addition, SBDC advisors specialize in assisting veterans with government contracting opportunities, ensuring they have the necessary tools to navigate the procurement process successfully. For further assistance in serving veteran-owned businesses, the Florida Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) provides valuable guidance on registering as a government contractor, finding bidding opportunities, understanding requirements, and submitting proposals. To cater specifically to the needs of veteran entrepreneurs, the Florida Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) offers targeted resources and support. This includes business counseling, training, access to capital, networking opportunities, and other valuable resources to help veterans thrive in their entrepreneurial endeavors. While Florida does not have a specific certification program for veteran-owned businesses, being a veteran-owned business in the state can still provide advantages and open doors to government contracts and procurement opportunities. Recognizing the significance of financing, Florida offers various financing programs to support veteran-owned businesses. These programs may include loans, grants, and assistance in accessing capital for business development and expansion. The Florida SBDC, in collaboration with local financial institutions, plays a pivotal role in providing access to these programs, ensuring veteran entrepreneurs have the necessary financial support to grow their businesses. To access the specific resources and benefits available for veteran business owners in Florida, I recommend visiting the official websites of the Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at https://floridasbdc.org/, the Florida Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) at https://www.fptac.org/, and the Florida Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) at https://flvec.com/vboc. These websites should provide information on programs, certifications, financing options, counseling services, and other resources available for veteran entrepreneurs. Additionally, you may consider reaching out to local veteran organizations, chambers of commerce, or the local Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in Florida for further assistance and guidance tailored to veteran business owners in the state.
  • Business License Exemption/Extension/Fee Waiver
  • Preferred Vendor Status, Certification Program, or State Procurement Program
  • Business Resource and Education Programs
  • VOB Networking and Mentorship
  • Offers or proposed SSBCI CAP and OCSP Funding Programs
    • - State Department: Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Enterprise Florida, Inc. & First Florida Capital Finance Corporation Enterprise Florida, Inc. & Florida Opportunity Fund Enterprise Florida, Inc, & First Florida Capital Finance Corporation
      - Program Types: Collateral Support Program Equity Capital Program (Funds) Loan Participation Program Loan Guarantee Program Capital Access Program
      - Program Names: Florida Small Business Loan Program Florida Venture Capital Program Florida Small Business Loan Program Florida Small Business Loan Program Florida Capital Access Program
      - Contact Information: [email protected]

Taxes, Land, and Real Estate Benefits and Programs

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In Florida, veterans, military spouses, and dependents can access a range of tax, land, and real estate benefits and programs. Disabled veterans and surviving spouses may qualify for property tax exemptions based on their disability rating, providing relief from property taxes. Florida exempts military income, including active duty pay and military retirement pay, from state taxes, providing additional tax relief for service members and retirees. Under the Military Spouse Residency Relief Act, military spouses can maintain their previous state of residence for tax and voting purposes, even if they relocate to Florida due to military orders. Furthermore, the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs may offer land sales and leases at discounted rates or with favorable terms exclusively for veterans. These programs aim to provide financial relief, healthcare support, and favorable tax treatment to veterans and their families in Florida. It is advisable to consult the relevant state agencies or official sources for specific eligibility criteria and further details.
  • Offers property tax exemptions for Disabled Veterans
    • Any veteran 10% or more disabled is entitled to up to $5,000 exemption on property taxes, and 100% disabled veterans receive full exemption. (Disability Rating to Qualify: 10%+)
  • Offers complete homestead property tax exemption for 100 percent disabled veterans and surviving spouses
  • Offers reduced tax or tax exemption for military retirement pay
    • No state income tax
  • Offers a Military Family Relief Fund or Program
    • Program Name: The Florida Veterans Foundation
      Program Description: The Florida Veterans Foundation has teamed up with the American Legion of Florida to create the COVID-19 Project Vet Relief Fund. This will help with emergency assistance for those veterans who are affected by this pandemic around the state of Florida. “It is anticipated that we will receive a substantial increase in the number of applications requesting assistance over the next few months,” said Lew Wilson, president of the Florida Veterans Foundation. “We are committed to do what we can to support our veterans, but resources are limited.”
      Eligible Groups: - Veterans / Service Members
      - Military Families

State Employment Programs

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In the state of Florida, veterans, guard members, and reserve members have access to various state programs, preferences, and benefits to support their employment endeavors. The Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs (FDVA) offers comprehensive employment services, including job search assistance, career counseling, resume building, interview preparation, and access to job training programs. Florida provides veterans with preferences in public employment, granting additional points on civil service exams and priority consideration for state and local government positions. The Florida Workforce Development Programs offer job training, apprenticeships, and educational opportunities to enhance employment prospects and skills. The Veterans' Business Outreach Center (VBOC) provides resources, counseling, and training for veteran entrepreneurs interested in starting or expanding their own businesses. Florida also extends employment support to National Guard members through programs like the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), ensuring employment rights and protections. These state initiatives aim to promote employment opportunities, entrepreneurship, and career success for veterans, guard members, and reserve members in Florida.
  • Offers Military Service Credit in Retirement System
    • Florida does offer Military Service Credit in its retirement system for eligible state employees. The Florida Retirement System (FRS) allows members who have served in the military to receive credit for their military service towards their retirement benefits. Qualified individuals can apply to have their military service credited towards their retirement by submitting relevant documentation, such as a DD Form 214 or other proof of military service. The military service credit can help increase the member's total years of service, which can have a positive impact on their retirement benefits, such as a higher pension or earlier retirement eligibility. It is important to note that specific requirements and processes for obtaining military service credit may vary. It is recommended to contact the Florida Retirement System or visit their official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on eligibility criteria and the process for obtaining military service credit in Florida's retirement system.
  • Offers Reduced Cost Business and Occupational Licenses or business taxes

State DMV Programs

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No summary available.
  • Offers Veteran Designation on Driver License
  • Offers Vehicle Privilege or License Tax and Registration Fee Exemption
  • Offers Discounted Highway or Toll Programs

Recreation Programs

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Veterans can potentially benefit from a range of state recreation programs and benefits. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended you contact the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs or the Department of Parks and Recreation.
  • Offers discounted or free Hunting & Fishing Licenses
  • Offers State Parks Admission/Camping Discounts and Waivers
  • Offers Free or Discounted Firearms permit or license or exemptions
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