tdiu Fl - Florida Veterans Benefits

[jason]

State of Florida Department of Veterans Affairs

Benefits

Certification of Discharge or Separation

The Clerk of the Circuit Court shall record, without cost to the veteran, certificates of discharge or separation form the Armed Forces of the United States. FS 28.222(3)(d)

Disabled Veteran's Identification Card

The Department of Veterans' Affairs may issue an identification card to any veteran who is a permanent resident of the state and who has been adjudged by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or its predecessor to have a 100-percent, service-connected permanent and total disability rating for compensation, this could also be a rating of Individual Unemployability from the VA, or who has been determined to have a service-connected total and permanent disability rating of 100 percent and is in receipt of disability retirement pay from any branch of the United States Armed Services, upon the written request of such veteran. Such card may be used by the veteran as proof of eligibility for any benefit provided by state law for 100-percent, service-connected permanently and totally disabled veterans except this card may not be used as proof of eligibility for Exemption of Homesteads. The identification card shall bear a statement that it is unlawful for any person other than the veteran to whom it was issued to use the card. FS 295.17

To obtain a card:

Contact the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs' at 1-800-827-1000, extension 7400 or commercial at (727) 319-7440 and request an application or contact the local County Veteran Service Office.

Veterans' Preference: An Updated Overview

I. GENERAL

Chapter 295, Florida Statutes, sets forth certain requirements for public employers to accord preferences, in appointment, retention, and promotion, to certain veterans and spouses of veterans who are Florida residents. The relevant portions of the law apply to "the state and its political subdivisions." Public utilities, state universities, school districts, and special taxing districts are subject to the requirements of Chapter 295.

II. CATEGORIES OF PROTECTED INDIVIDUALS

Section 295.07, Florida Statutes, extends veterans' preference to:

· A veteran with a service-connected disability who is eligible for or receiving compensation, disability retirement, or pension under public laws administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense.

· The spouse of a veteran who cannot qualify for employment because of a total and permanent service-connected disability, or the spouse of a veteran missing in action, captured, or forcibly detained by a foreign power.

· A veteran of any war who has served on active duty for one day or more during a wartime period, excluding active duty for training, and who was discharged under honorable conditions from the Armed Forces of the United States of America.

· The unremarried widow or widower of a veteran who died of a service-connected disability.

· Any Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, as well as the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal are qualifying for Veterans' Preference, provided the individual is otherwise eligible.

III. REQUIRED NOTICE BY EMPLOYERS

Public employers must give notice in all announcements and advertisements of vacancies, that preference in appointment will be given to eligible veterans and spouses, and application forms must inquire whether the applicant is claiming veterans' preference, and whether the applicant has claimed such a preference. The regulations provide that an applicant claiming preference is responsible for providing required documentation at the time of making application, but also state that the covered employer must inform applicants of the requirements for documentation.

IV. PREFERENCE REQUIRED AT EACH STEP

An eligible veteran is entitled to preference at each stage of the hiring process; however, the preference is not absolute.

V. EMPLOYMENT PREFERENCE WHEN A NUMERICALLY BASED SELECTION PROCESS IS USED

· Employment preferences, where numerically based examinations are used as a device for selections, consists of adding ten points to the score of the first category of applicants (disabled veterans and spouses of disabled or missing veterans) and five points to the score of other preference-eligible applicants.

· The rules provide that where the requisite points (ten points to individuals in the first category, and five points to other applicants) have been adjusted to test scores, the names of all the preference-eligible applicants shall be placed on a register or employment list, beginning with those disabled veterans with disability ratings of 30 percent or more, and followed by all other preference-eligible applicants in the order of their augmented ratings.

· The regulations state that "appointments to positions will be made from the appropriate register or employment list in the rank order of their augmented ratings."

VI. PREFERENCE WHEN A NUMERICALLY BASED SELECTION PROCESS IS NOT USED

Preference must be given to protected individuals provided such persons possess the minimum qualifications necessary to the discharge of the duties involved. The rule defines "minimum qualifications" to mean a "specification" of the kinds of experience, training, education and/or licensure or certification that provides "appropriate job-related evidence that an applicant possesses the minimum required knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to the discharge of the duties involved."

VII. OTHER PROVISIONS REGARDING PREFERENCE

· Single entitlement event: A veteran's employment preference expires after a person eligible pursuant to s.295.07 has applied and been employed by the state or any agency of a political subdivision in the state. (Chapter 295.101, FS)

· Preference in layoffs: Where a layoff is necessitated in a covered position, similar preferences must be given to the covered employee in the retention process.

· Preference in reinstatement or reemployment: When an employee in a covered position leaves employment for the purpose of serving in the armed forces, he or she is entitled to reinstatement or reemployment upon release or discharge from active military service.

· Promotion preference: Promotion preference applies only to a veteran's first promotion after reinstatement or reemployment, without exception.

VIII. EXEMPT POSITIONS

Chapter 295, Florida Statutes, provides for a preference in employment for certain classes of covered positions. However, Ch. 98-33, s. 2, Laws of Fla., exempts from the law positions that are exempt from the state career service system under Section 110.205 (2), Florida Statutes.

The 2001 session of the Florida Legislature enacted a significant change to the law concerning exempt positions for veteran's preference at the political subdivision level. Governor Bush signed the bill and the change became effective July 1, 2001. Chapter 2001-273, Laws of Florida, eliminates the exemption for some of the previously exempted positions. As of the effective date of the law, city managers, county managers, and management and policymaking positions of political subdivisions of the state are now eligible for preference in appointment and retention as provided in s. 295.07(1).

IX. ENFORCEMENT

If an applicant claiming veterans' preference for a vacant position is not selected, he/she may file a complaint with the:

Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs (FDVA)

11351 Ulmerton Road, Suite 311-K

Largo, FL 33778-1630

A complaint must be filed within twenty-one days of the applicant receiving notice of the hiring decision made by the employing agency or within three months of the date the application is filed with the employer if no notice is given. The enforcement mechanism established by the regulations provide for an initial investigation by the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs, followed by an evidentiary proceeding before the Public Employees Relations Commission if the matter cannot be earlier resolved.

Technical Bulletin 2: Campaigns and Expeditions of the Armed Forces Since WWII Which Qualify for Veterans' Preference

(Click the link to view info)

Technical Bulletin 3: Uniformed Services Reemployment Rights Act of 1994

For additional information concerning veterans' preference, please contact:

The Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs

By phone at: (727) 518-3202, ex. 548

By email: burnsj@fdva.state.fl.us

Or write:

Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs (FDVA)

Mary Grizzle Building, Suite 311-K

11351 Ulmerton Road

Largo, Fl 33778-1630

Education Benefits

For information about educational benefits, contact:

Steve Turbee, Bureau Chief

State Approving Agency

9500 Bay Pines Blvd.

Bay Pines, FL 33744

TEL: (727) 319-7402

Education for Children of Deceased or Disabled Florida Veterans:

The State of Florida provides scholarships for dependent children of Florida veterans or servicemen who died in action or died from service-connected diseases or disabilities, have been verified by the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs as having service-connected 100% total and permanent disabilities, have been determined to have service-connected total and permanent disability ratings of 100% and are in receipt of disability retirement from any branch of the United States Armed Services, or are classified as prisoners of war or missing in action. Specific residency requirements apply and the veteran must have served during specific wars, conflicts or events.

Students apply online at www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org

FS 295.01, .015, .016, .017, .018, .019, and 240.404

Tuition Deferment:

Any veteran or other eligible student who receives benefits under Chapters 30, 31, 32, or 35 of Title 38, U.S.C. or Chapter 1606 of Title 10, U.S.C., and is attending one of Florida's public universities, community colleges or vocational schools is entitled to one tuition deferment each academic year and an additional deferment each time there is a delay in the receipt of benefits.

FS 239.117, 240.235, and 240.345

Reduced Tuition For National Guard:

Active Florida Guard members in good standing as of June 30, 1997 are exempt from payment of one-half of tuition and fees. Individuals who enlist in the Guard after June 30, 1997 are eligible for full exemption of tuition and fees. Contact your National Guard Unit for details.

FS 250.10

High School Diploma for Korean War Veterans

Effective July 1, 2002, Florida veterans who served during the Korean War may be eligible to receive a high school diploma. Senate Bill 292 provides for the award of a high school diploma to certain Korean War veterans who started high school between 1946 and 1950. Veterans who were inducted into the armed forces between June 1950 and January 1954 and scheduled to graduate between 1950 and 1954 are eligible recipients. The revised law amends s. 232.246, F. S., which originally awarded high school diplomas to World War II veterans.

Veterans who meet the following criteria will be eligible:

must be a Florida resident;

inducted into military service between June 1950 and January 1954;

received an honorable discharge;

started high school between 1946 and 1950; and

scheduled to graduate from high school between 1950 and 1954.

The Departments of Education and Veterans' Affairs work together to assist veterans with the application process for their diplomas. Interested veterans should contact the Department of Veterans Affairs' at 1.727.319.7400 or Melissa Auter, Division of Workforce Development, Florida Department of Education, at 850-245-0446.

Senate Bill 292 is available on the Legislative Home Page at http://www.leg.state.fl.us/.

High School Diploma for World War II Veterans

The State Legislature has approved and the Governor has signed a bill sponsored State Senator George Kirkpatrick and State Representative Howard Futch, together with the Florida Department of Education and the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs that will grant a high school diploma to any World War II veteran who was not able to complete their high school curriculum due to their military service (HB 2105/SB 1864).

Veterans who meet the following criteria will be eligible:

inducted into military service between Sept. 16, 1940, and Dec. 31, 1946

received an honorable discharge

started high school between 1937-1946

scheduled to graduate from high school between 1941-1950

These diplomas are for any veteran who currently resides in Florida, regardless of whether they were living in Florida at the time they went to high school. Also, family members who would like to apply for a diploma posthumously for a veteran who has died, may do so.

The Department of Education will send a standard Florida high school diploma upon receiving a completed and notarized application. They will also notify the local school superintendent of the new graduate and encourage appropriate ceremonies and recognition.

Applications are available at the following places:

Call the Department of Veterans' Affairs 727-319-7400

Call the Department of Education 850-245-0446

Contact your County Veterans' Service Officer

Licenses

Hunting and Fishing License

In order to receive a no-cost Resident Disabled Person's Hunting and Fishing Certificate from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, applicants must attach a copy of one of the following certifying him or her as totally and permanently disabled:

Certification by the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board

Certification by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces

A Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs 100% Service-connected Disabled Veteran Identification Card (must have a statement of "total and permanent disabled")

Florida Department of Labor and Employment Security/AWI Division of Workers Compensation (LES Form DWC-4)

An order from a Judge of Compensation claims

Written confirmation by the carrier providing Workers' Compensation benefits

OR

Documentation of current (dated within the last 12 months) eligibility for Disability Benefits from Social Security Administration.

Applicants must also attach proof of Florida residency as outlined on the application.

No license shall be required for military service personnel who are Florida residents while they are home on leave for periods of 30 days or less.

Active-duty and retired military Florida residents can get a low cost Military Gold Sportsman's License. The license covers hunting, freshwater and saltwater fishing and a variety of associated permits at a greatly reduced cost. The Military Gold Sportsman's License is available at tax collectors' offices only. Applicants must present a current military ID card plus a Florida driver's license or orders showing they are stationed in Florida as proof of eligibility.

Disabled Veteran Motor Vehicle License Plate

One free motor vehicle license number plate shall be issued by the department for use on any motor vehicle owned or leased by any disabled veteran who has been a continuous resident of Florida for the last five years or has established a domicile as provided by FS 222.17(1) or (2) and (3), upon application accompanied by proof that:

the vehicle was acquired through financial assistance from the VA, or

the veteran has been determined by the VA to have a service-connected disability of 100% rating for compensation, or

the veteran has been determined to have a service- connected disability of 100% and is in receipt of disability retirement pay from any branch of the uniformed Armed Forces. A plate fee is charged. FS 320.084(1),(a),(b),©

Homestead Exemptions

Any real estate used and owned as a homestead by a veteran who was honorably discharged with a service-connected permanent and total disability and for whom a letter from the United States Government or VA or its predecessor has been issued certifying that the veteran is totally and permanently disabled is exempt from taxation, provided the veteran is a permanent resident of the state on January 1 of the tax year for which exemption is being claimed or on January 1 of the year the veteran died.

The production by a veteran or the spouse or surviving spouse of a letter of total and permanent disability from the United States Government or VA or its predecessor before the property appraiser of the county in which property of the veteran lies shall be prima facie evidence of the fact that the veteran or the surviving spouse is entitled to such exemption.

In the event the totally and permanently disabled veteran pre-deceases his or her spouse and upon the death of the veteran, the spouse holds the legal or beneficial title to the homestead and permanently resides thereon as specified in FS 196.031, the exemption from taxation shall carry over to the benefit of the veteran's spouse until such time as he or she remarries or sells or otherwise disposes of the property. If the spouse sells the property, an exemption not to exceed the amount granted from the most recent ad valorem tax roll may be transferred to his or her new residence as long as it is used as his or her primary residence and he or she does not remarry. FS 196.081

Veterans who are paraplegic, hemiplegic, are permanently and totally disabled, must use a wheelchair for mobility, or are legally blind are exempt from real estate taxation if gross annual household income does not exceed the adjusted maximum allowed. The veteran must be a resident of the State of Florida to qualify. Certificate of such disability from two licensed doctors of this state or from the VA or an award letter from the Social Security Administration to the property appraiser is prima facie evidence of entitlement to such exemption. FS 196.101

Homestead Exemption (10% to 100% BUT not Permanent in nature)

Eligible veterans with service-connected disabilities of 10% or more shall be entitled to a $5000 property tax exemption. To qualify for homestead exemption a veteran must be a bonafide resident of the state. FS 196.24

Every person who is entitled to homestead exemption in this state and who is serving in any branch of the Armed Forces of the United States may file a claim for homestead exemption. Servicemen unable to file in person may file through next of kin or duly authorized representatives. FS 196.071

Permits and Fees

Disabled Veterans Exempt from Certain License or Permit Fees

No totally and permanently disabled veteran who is a resident of Florida shall be required to pay license or permit fees to any county or municipality in order to make certain improvements to assist with his or her disability on any mobile home owned by the veteran and used as his/her residence. Improvements are limited to ramps, widening of doors, and similar improvements for the purpose of making the mobile home habitable for veterans confined to wheelchairs. FS 295.16

Handicapped Toll Permit

Any handicapped person who has a valid driver's license, who operates a vehicle specially equipped for use by the handicapped, and who is certified by a licensed physician or by the VA Adjudication Officer as being physically disabled and having permanent impairments which impair the person's ability to deposit coins in toll baskets shall be allowed to pass free through all tollgates. A vehicle window sticker will be issued. FS 338.155(3)

Exemption Parking Permit: Persons With Permanent Mobility Problems

A disabled veteran who is a resident of this state and honorably discharged, and has been determined by the VA or the Federal Government to have a service-connected disability rating for compensation of 50% or greater and has a signed physician's statement of qualification is eligible for the permit. The fees are $1.50 for the initial parking permit, and $1.50 for renewal parking permit and for each additional renewal parking permit. The fee must be paid to the tax collector of the county in which the fee was generated. The department shall not issue to any one eligible applicant more than two exemption parking permits upon request of the applicant. FS 320.0848(2),©

TUITION DEFERMENT

Available to any veteran or other eligible student covered under Title 38, U.S.C. Allows one tuition deferment each academic year and an additional deferment when a delay in benefits occurs. FS 239.117

REDUCED TUITION FOR NATIONAL GUARD

Active Florida Guard members in good standing as of June 30, 1997 are exempt from payment of one-half of tuition and fees. Individuals who enlist in the Guard after June 30, 1997 are eligible for full exemption of tuition and fees. Contact your National Guard Unit for details. FS 250.10.

For additional assistance check with the Financial Aid office in the school you will be attending

Homeless Veteran

The Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs held its first Statewide Homeless Veterans' Conference in partnership with the US departments of Veterans' Affairs, Housing and Urban Renewal, and Labor October 23 & 24 in Orlando, FL, in conjunction with the Florida Coalition for the Homeless.

PARTNERING WITH:

US Dept of Veterans' Affairs

Volunteers of America

Homeless Stand Downs

National Coalition of Homeless Veterans

US Dept of Housing and Urban Development

US Dept of Labor

About one-third of the adult homeless population have served their country in the Armed Services. On any given day, as many as 250,000 veterans (male and female) are living on the streets or in shelters, and perhaps twice as many experience homelessness at some point during the course of a year. Many other veterans are considered near homeless or at risk because of their poverty, lack of support from family and friends, and dismal living conditions in cheap hotels or in overcrowded or substandard housing.

Right now, the number of homeless male and female Vietnam era veterans is greater than the number of service persons who died during that war -- and a small number of Desert Storm veterans are also appearing in the homeless population. At this time, scientific studies indicate that there is no known, direct connection between military service, service in Vietnam, or exposure to combat and any increased risk of becoming homeless. Family background, access to support from family and friends, and various personal characteristics (rather than military service) seem to be the stronger indicators of risk of homelessness.

Almost all homeless veterans are male (about three percent are women), the vast majority are single, and most come from poor, disadvantaged backgrounds. Homeless veterans tend to be older and more educated than homeless non-veterans. But similar to the general population of homeless adult males, about 45% of homeless veterans suffer from mental illness and (with considerable overlap) slightly more than 70% suffer from alcohol or other drug abuse problems. Roughly 56% are African American or Hispanic.

http://www.va.gov/health/homeless/overview.htm

[Ruben]

does anyone know if after using tuition benefits from voc rehab can I use my GI Bill?

State of Florida Department of Veterans Affairs

Benefits

Certification of Discharge or Separation

The Clerk of the Circuit Court shall record, without cost to the veteran, certificates of discharge or separation form the Armed Forces of the United States. FS 28.222(3)(d)

Disabled Veteran's Identification Card

The Department of Veterans' Affairs may issue an identification card to any veteran who is a permanent resident of the state and who has been adjudged by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs or its predecessor to have a 100-percent, service-connected permanent and total disability rating for compensation, this could also be a rating of Individual Unemployability from the VA, or who has been determined to have a service-connected total and permanent disability rating of 100 percent and is in receipt of disability retirement pay from any branch of the United States Armed Services, upon the written request of such veteran. Such card may be used by the veteran as proof of eligibility for any benefit provided by state law for 100-percent, service-connected permanently and totally disabled veterans except this card may not be used as proof of eligibility for Exemption of Homesteads. The identification card shall bear a statement that it is unlawful for any person other than the veteran to whom it was issued to use the card. FS 295.17

To obtain a card:

Contact the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs' at 1-800-827-1000, extension 7400 or commercial at (727) 319-7440 and request an application or contact the local County Veteran Service Office.

Veterans' Preference: An Updated Overview

I. GENERAL

Chapter 295, Florida Statutes, sets forth certain requirements for public employers to accord preferences, in appointment, retention, and promotion, to certain veterans and spouses of veterans who are Florida residents. The relevant portions of the law apply to "the state and its political subdivisions." Public utilities, state universities, school districts, and special taxing districts are subject to the requirements of Chapter 295.

II. CATEGORIES OF PROTECTED INDIVIDUALS

Section 295.07, Florida Statutes, extends veterans' preference to:

· A veteran with a service-connected disability who is eligible for or receiving compensation, disability retirement, or pension under public laws administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense.

· The spouse of a veteran who cannot qualify for employment because of a total and permanent service-connected disability, or the spouse of a veteran missing in action, captured, or forcibly detained by a foreign power.

· A veteran of any war who has served on active duty for one day or more during a wartime period, excluding active duty for training, and who was discharged under honorable conditions from the Armed Forces of the United States of America.

· The unremarried widow or widower of a veteran who died of a service-connected disability.

· Any Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, as well as the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal are qualifying for Veterans' Preference, provided the individual is otherwise eligible.

III. REQUIRED NOTICE BY EMPLOYERS

Public employers must give notice in all announcements and advertisements of vacancies, that preference in appointment will be given to eligible veterans and spouses, and application forms must inquire whether the applicant is claiming veterans' preference, and whether the applicant has claimed such a preference. The regulations provide that an applicant claiming preference is responsible for providing required documentation at the time of making application, but also state that the covered employer must inform applicants of the requirements for documentation.

IV. PREFERENCE REQUIRED AT EACH STEP

An eligible veteran is entitled to preference at each stage of the hiring process; however, the preference is not absolute.

V. EMPLOYMENT PREFERENCE WHEN A NUMERICALLY BASED SELECTION PROCESS IS USED

· Employment preferences, where numerically based examinations are used as a device for selections, consists of adding ten points to the score of the first category of applicants (disabled veterans and spouses of disabled or missing veterans) and five points to the score of other preference-eligible applicants.

· The rules provide that where the requisite points (ten points to individuals in the first category, and five points to other applicants) have been adjusted to test scores, the names of all the preference-eligible applicants shall be placed on a register or employment list, beginning with those disabled veterans with disability ratings of 30 percent or more, and followed by all other preference-eligible applicants in the order of their augmented ratings.

· The regulations state that "appointments to positions will be made from the appropriate register or employment list in the rank order of their augmented ratings."

VI. PREFERENCE WHEN A NUMERICALLY BASED SELECTION PROCESS IS NOT USED

Preference must be given to protected individuals provided such persons possess the minimum qualifications necessary to the discharge of the duties involved. The rule defines "minimum qualifications" to mean a "specification" of the kinds of experience, training, education and/or licensure or certification that provides "appropriate job-related evidence that an applicant possesses the minimum required knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to the discharge of the duties involved."

VII. OTHER PROVISIONS REGARDING PREFERENCE

· Single entitlement event: A veteran's employment preference expires after a person eligible pursuant to s.295.07 has applied and been employed by the state or any agency of a political subdivision in the state. (Chapter 295.101, FS)

· Preference in layoffs: Where a layoff is necessitated in a covered position, similar preferences must be given to the covered employee in the retention process.

· Preference in reinstatement or reemployment: When an employee in a covered position leaves employment for the purpose of serving in the armed forces, he or she is entitled to reinstatement or reemployment upon release or discharge from active military service.

· Promotion preference: Promotion preference applies only to a veteran's first promotion after reinstatement or reemployment, without exception.

VIII. EXEMPT POSITIONS

Chapter 295, Florida Statutes, provides for a preference in employment for certain classes of covered positions. However, Ch. 98-33, s. 2, Laws of Fla., exempts from the law positions that are exempt from the state career service system under Section 110.205 (2), Florida Statutes.

The 2001 session of the Florida Legislature enacted a significant change to the law concerning exempt positions for veteran's preference at the political subdivision level. Governor Bush signed the bill and the change became effective July 1, 2001. Chapter 2001-273, Laws of Florida, eliminates the exemption for some of the previously exempted positions. As of the effective date of the law, city managers, county managers, and management and policymaking positions of political subdivisions of the state are now eligible for preference in appointment and retention as provided in s. 295.07(1).

IX. ENFORCEMENT

If an applicant claiming veterans' preference for a vacant position is not selected, he/she may file a complaint with the:

Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs (FDVA)

11351 Ulmerton Road, Suite 311-K

Largo, FL 33778-1630

A complaint must be filed within twenty-one days of the applicant receiving notice of the hiring decision made by the employing agency or within three months of the date the application is filed with the employer if no notice is given. The enforcement mechanism established by the regulations provide for an initial investigation by the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs, followed by an evidentiary proceeding before the Public Employees Relations Commission if the matter cannot be earlier resolved.

Technical Bulletin 2: Campaigns and Expeditions of the Armed Forces Since WWII Which Qualify for Veterans' Preference

(Click the link to view info)

Technical Bulletin 3: Uniformed Services Reemployment Rights Act of 1994

For additional information concerning veterans' preference, please contact:

The Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs

By phone at: (727) 518-3202, ex. 548

By email: burnsj@fdva.state.fl.us

Or write:

Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs (FDVA)

Mary Grizzle Building, Suite 311-K

11351 Ulmerton Road

Largo, Fl 33778-1630

Education Benefits

For information about educational benefits, contact:

Steve Turbee, Bureau Chief

State Approving Agency

9500 Bay Pines Blvd.

Bay Pines, FL 33744

TEL: (727) 319-7402

Education for Children of Deceased or Disabled Florida Veterans:

The State of Florida provides scholarships for dependent children of Florida veterans or servicemen who died in action or died from service-connected diseases or disabilities, have been verified by the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs as having service-connected 100% total and permanent disabilities, have been determined to have service-connected total and permanent disability ratings of 100% and are in receipt of disability retirement from any branch of the United States Armed Services, or are classified as prisoners of war or missing in action. Specific residency requirements apply and the veteran must have served during specific wars, conflicts or events.

Students apply online at www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org

FS 295.01, .015, .016, .017, .018, .019, and 240.404

Tuition Deferment:

Any veteran or other eligible student who receives benefits under Chapters 30, 31, 32, or 35 of Title 38, U.S.C. or Chapter 1606 of Title 10, U.S.C., and is attending one of Florida's public universities, community colleges or vocational schools is entitled to one tuition deferment each academic year and an additional deferment each time there is a delay in the receipt of benefits.

FS 239.117, 240.235, and 240.345

Reduced Tuition For National Guard:

Active Florida Guard members in good standing as of June 30, 1997 are exempt from payment of one-half of tuition and fees. Individuals who enlist in the Guard after June 30, 1997 are eligible for full exemption of tuition and fees. Contact your National Guard Unit for details.

FS 250.10

High School Diploma for Korean War Veterans

Effective July 1, 2002, Florida veterans who served during the Korean War may be eligible to receive a high school diploma. Senate Bill 292 provides for the award of a high school diploma to certain Korean War veterans who started high school between 1946 and 1950. Veterans who were inducted into the armed forces between June 1950 and January 1954 and scheduled to graduate between 1950 and 1954 are eligible recipients. The revised law amends s. 232.246, F. S., which originally awarded high school diplomas to World War II veterans.

Veterans who meet the following criteria will be eligible:

must be a Florida resident;

inducted into military service between June 1950 and January 1954;

received an honorable discharge;

started high school between 1946 and 1950; and

scheduled to graduate from high school between 1950 and 1954.

The Departments of Education and Veterans' Affairs work together to assist veterans with the application process for their diplomas. Interested veterans should contact the Department of Veterans Affairs' at 1.727.319.7400 or Melissa Auter, Division of Workforce Development, Florida Department of Education, at 850-245-0446.

Senate Bill 292 is available on the Legislative Home Page at http://www.leg.state.fl.us/.

High School Diploma for World War II Veterans

The State Legislature has approved and the Governor has signed a bill sponsored State Senator George Kirkpatrick and State Representative Howard Futch, together with the Florida Department of Education and the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs that will grant a high school diploma to any World War II veteran who was not able to complete their high school curriculum due to their military service (HB 2105/SB 1864).

Veterans who meet the following criteria will be eligible:

inducted into military service between Sept. 16, 1940, and Dec. 31, 1946

received an honorable discharge

started high school between 1937-1946

scheduled to graduate from high school between 1941-1950

These diplomas are for any veteran who currently resides in Florida, regardless of whether they were living in Florida at the time they went to high school. Also, family members who would like to apply for a diploma posthumously for a veteran who has died, may do so.

The Department of Education will send a standard Florida high school diploma upon receiving a completed and notarized application. They will also notify the local school superintendent of the new graduate and encourage appropriate ceremonies and recognition.

Applications are available at the following places:

Call the Department of Veterans' Affairs 727-319-7400

Call the Department of Education 850-245-0446

Contact your County Veterans' Service Officer

Licenses

Hunting and Fishing License

In order to receive a no-cost Resident Disabled Person's Hunting and Fishing Certificate from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, applicants must attach a copy of one of the following certifying him or her as totally and permanently disabled:

Certification by the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board

Certification by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces

A Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs 100% Service-connected Disabled Veteran Identification Card (must have a statement of "total and permanent disabled")

Florida Department of Labor and Employment Security/AWI Division of Workers Compensation (LES Form DWC-4)

An order from a Judge of Compensation claims

Written confirmation by the carrier providing Workers' Compensation benefits

OR

Documentation of current (dated within the last 12 months) eligibility for Disability Benefits from Social Security Administration.

Applicants must also attach proof of Florida residency as outlined on the application.

No license shall be required for military service personnel who are Florida residents while they are home on leave for periods of 30 days or less.

Active-duty and retired military Florida residents can get a low cost Military Gold Sportsman's License. The license covers hunting, freshwater and saltwater fishing and a variety of associated permits at a greatly reduced cost. The Military Gold Sportsman's License is available at tax collectors' offices only. Applicants must present a current military ID card plus a Florida driver's license or orders showing they are stationed in Florida as proof of eligibility.

Disabled Veteran Motor Vehicle License Plate

One free motor vehicle license number plate shall be issued by the department for use on any motor vehicle owned or leased by any disabled veteran who has been a continuous resident of Florida for the last five years or has established a domicile as provided by FS 222.17(1) or (2) and (3), upon application accompanied by proof that:

the vehicle was acquired through financial assistance from the VA, or

the veteran has been determined by the VA to have a service-connected disability of 100% rating for compensation, or

the veteran has been determined to have a service- connected disability of 100% and is in receipt of disability retirement pay from any branch of the uniformed Armed Forces. A plate fee is charged. FS 320.084(1),(a),(B),©

Homestead Exemptions

Any real estate used and owned as a homestead by a veteran who was honorably discharged with a service-connected permanent and total disability and for whom a letter from the United States Government or VA or its predecessor has been issued certifying that the veteran is totally and permanently disabled is exempt from taxation, provided the veteran is a permanent resident of the state on January 1 of the tax year for which exemption is being claimed or on January 1 of the year the veteran died.

The production by a veteran or the spouse or surviving spouse of a letter of total and permanent disability from the United States Government or VA or its predecessor before the property appraiser of the county in which property of the veteran lies shall be prima facie evidence of the fact that the veteran or the surviving spouse is entitled to such exemption.

In the event the totally and permanently disabled veteran pre-deceases his or her spouse and upon the death of the veteran, the spouse holds the legal or beneficial title to the homestead and permanently resides thereon as specified in FS 196.031, the exemption from taxation shall carry over to the benefit of the veteran's spouse until such time as he or she remarries or sells or otherwise disposes of the property. If the spouse sells the property, an exemption not to exceed the amount granted from the most recent ad valorem tax roll may be transferred to his or her new residence as long as it is used as his or her primary residence and he or she does not remarry. FS 196.081

Veterans who are paraplegic, hemiplegic, are permanently and totally disabled, must use a wheelchair for mobility, or are legally blind are exempt from real estate taxation if gross annual household income does not exceed the adjusted maximum allowed. The veteran must be a resident of the State of Florida to qualify. Certificate of such disability from two licensed doctors of this state or from the VA or an award letter from the Social Security Administration to the property appraiser is prima facie evidence of entitlement to such exemption. FS 196.101

Homestead Exemption (10% to 100% BUT not Permanent in nature)

Eligible veterans with service-connected disabilities of 10% or more shall be entitled to a $5000 property tax exemption. To qualify for homestead exemption a veteran must be a bonafide resident of the state. FS 196.24

Every person who is entitled to homestead exemption in this state and who is serving in any branch of the Armed Forces of the United States may file a claim for homestead exemption. Servicemen unable to file in person may file through next of kin or duly authorized representatives. FS 196.071

Permits and Fees

Disabled Veterans Exempt from Certain License or Permit Fees

No totally and permanently disabled veteran who is a resident of Florida shall be required to pay license or permit fees to any county or municipality in order to make certain improvements to assist with his or her disability on any mobile home owned by the veteran and used as his/her residence. Improvements are limited to ramps, widening of doors, and similar improvements for the purpose of making the mobile home habitable for veterans confined to wheelchairs. FS 295.16

Handicapped Toll Permit

Any handicapped person who has a valid driver's license, who operates a vehicle specially equipped for use by the handicapped, and who is certified by a licensed physician or by the VA Adjudication Officer as being physically disabled and having permanent impairments which impair the person's ability to deposit coins in toll baskets shall be allowed to pass free through all tollgates. A vehicle window sticker will be issued. FS 338.155(3)

Exemption Parking Permit: Persons With Permanent Mobility Problems

A disabled veteran who is a resident of this state and honorably discharged, and has been determined by the VA or the Federal Government to have a service-connected disability rating for compensation of 50% or greater and has a signed physician's statement of qualification is eligible for the permit. The fees are $1.50 for the initial parking permit, and $1.50 for renewal parking permit and for each additional renewal parking permit. The fee must be paid to the tax collector of the county in which the fee was generated. The department shall not issue to any one eligible applicant more than two exemption parking permits upon request of the applicant. FS 320.0848(2),©

TUITION DEFERMENT

Available to any veteran or other eligible student covered under Title 38, U.S.C. Allows one tuition deferment each academic year and an additional deferment when a delay in benefits occurs. FS 239.117

REDUCED TUITION FOR NATIONAL GUARD

Active Florida Guard members in good standing as of June 30, 1997 are exempt from payment of one-half of tuition and fees. Individuals who enlist in the Guard after June 30, 1997 are eligible for full exemption of tuition and fees. Contact your National Guard Unit for details. FS 250.10.

For additional assistance check with the Financial Aid office in the school you will be attending

Homeless Veteran

The Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs held its first Statewide Homeless Veterans' Conference in partnership with the US departments of Veterans' Affairs, Housing and Urban Renewal, and Labor October 23 & 24 in Orlando, FL, in conjunction with the Florida Coalition for the Homeless.

PARTNERING WITH:

US Dept of Veterans' Affairs

Volunteers of America

Homeless Stand Downs

National Coalition of Homeless Veterans

US Dept of Housing and Urban Development

US Dept of Labor

About one-third of the adult homeless population have served their country in the Armed Services. On any given day, as many as 250,000 veterans (male and female) are living on the streets or in shelters, and perhaps twice as many experience homelessness at some point during the course of a year. Many other veterans are considered near homeless or at risk because of their poverty, lack of support from family and friends, and dismal living conditions in cheap hotels or in overcrowded or substandard housing.

Right now, the number of homeless male and female Vietnam era veterans is greater than the number of service persons who died during that war -- and a small number of Desert Storm veterans are also appearing in the homeless population. At this time, scientific studies indicate that there is no known, direct connection between military service, service in Vietnam, or exposure to combat and any increased risk of becoming homeless. Family background, access to support from family and friends, and various personal characteristics (rather than military service) seem to be the stronger indicators of risk of homelessness.

Almost all homeless veterans are male (about three percent are women), the vast majority are single, and most come from poor, disadvantaged backgrounds. Homeless veterans tend to be older and more educated than homeless non-veterans. But similar to the general population of homeless adult males, about 45% of homeless veterans suffer from mental illness and (with considerable overlap) slightly more than 70% suffer from alcohol or other drug abuse problems. Roughly 56% are African American or Hispanic.

http://www.va.gov/health/homeless/overview.htm

[Pete53]

Probably provided you have time left and I do know that you can't use both at same time.

[carlie]

Ruben,

When were you discharged ?

carlie

[Medic]

@ Ruben - If you still have money left on your GI Bill then No you can not use the Voc Rehab - I found this out because I went to the Voc Rehab Orientation and found out that I still had $18K available on my GI Bill.

Question...are you on the old GI Bill or on the new post 9/11 GI Bill.