Outside of the VA's disability compensation system, different states also offer additional benefits for Veterans that may be based (at least, in
part) on your VA rating. State benefits for Veterans living in Florida range from a hefty property tax exemption to education benefits. This list includes some, but not all, of the benefits that may be available.
Florida Veterans' Home and Property Benefits
Florida offers property tax exemptions or discounts for resident Service members, honorably discharged disabled Veterans and unremarried Surviving Spouses. All exemptions or discounts are applied for through the applicant's local property appraiser.
Veterans with a service-connected total and permanent disability or who are confined to a wheelchair are eligible for a total exemption from property taxes on their homesteads. Veterans who have a combat-related disability of 10% or more are eligible for up to a $5,000 discount on their homestead property taxes. Veterans 65 or older that have a service-connected, permanent, partial disability can receive a discount on the assessed value of their homesteads.
Free Driver's License Benefit for Florida Veterans
Though it may be a smaller perk, permanently and totally disabled veterans can get a Florida driver's license for free.
Recreation Benefits for Florida Veterans
Hunting and Fishing License
One hundred percent permanently and totally disabled service-connected veterans are entitled to a free five year hunting and fishing license.
State Park Passes
The Florida Parks Service offers both current and retired service members a 25% discount on annual entrance passes to Florida's state parks. Additionally, veterans who have service-related injuries receive a free lifetime military pass. Find out more on their website.
Education and Training Benefits for Florida Veterans
Tuition Waiver for Certain Veterans
Florida waives undergraduate-level tuition at state universities, community colleges, and career and technical training facilities for Florida recipients of the Purple Heart and higher combat decorations.
Education Benefits for Veterans' Children and Spouses
Florida provides four-year college educational opportunities for dependent children and spouses of veterans who died from a service-connected disability or who are 100% percent service-connected totally and permanently disabled veterans. For more information, call toll-free (888) 827-2004.
Veterans Florida Agriculture Program
The Veterans Florida Agriculture Program is a six-month training fellowship that provides veterans and servicemembers a comprehensive, hands-on experience and equips Veterans with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to be competitive for leading careers in Florida’s $149 Billion agriculture industry. Find out more about the program here.
Discuss Your Benefits as a Veteran in Florida With Experienced VA Claims Attorneys
Our firm works with Veterans in Florida and across the United States. While the nationwide nature of our work means we are not experts on each state's veterans benefits, we are VA disability benefits claims attorneys and Veterans' appeals experts. Contact us today for a free screening of your VA disability benefits appeals.