Georgia Department of Veterans Affairs

Peach State Patriots: Georgia's Top 10 Most Valuable Veterans Benefits

Georgia demonstrates a deep commitment to its large veteran population with a robust array of benefits designed to enhance financial stability, promote education, and improve the quality of life for those who have served. Administered by the Georgia Department of Veterans Service (GDVS), these programs offer significant advantages. While the value of each benefit is unique to the individual, a clear top tier emerges based on monetary impact, broad applicability, and life-altering support.

Here are the top ten, most valuable veterans benefits offered through the Georgia Department of Veterans Affairs:

1. Full Exemption of Military Retirement Pay from State Income Tax: A major financial benefit for career military members, Georgia completely exempts military retirement income from state income taxes for individuals under the age of 62. For those 62 and older, a significant portion of retirement income, including military retirement, is also excludable. This allows retired veterans to keep more of their hard-earned pension.
2. Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans: This benefit provides substantial financial relief to Georgia's disabled veterans. Veterans with a 100% disability rating (or less than 100% with unemployability) are exempt from paying property taxes on their home and up to five acres of land. The current exemption amount is indexed for inflation, providing thousands of dollars in annual savings.
3. State Veterans Nursing Homes: Georgia operates two high-quality State Veterans Homes in Augusta and Milledgeville. These facilities provide skilled nursing care at a cost significantly lower than private-sector alternatives, ensuring veterans have access to affordable, dignified long-term care in a setting dedicated to their needs.
4. Georgia Hero Scholarship Program: This invaluable program provides educational scholarships for the children of Georgia National Guard and U.S. Military Reservists who were deployed to a combat zone. It also covers the children of veterans who were severely injured in combat or who died as a result of their service. The scholarship can provide up to $2,000 per academic year for tuition, fees, and housing, opening doors to higher education for families who have sacrificed immensely.
5. Free Driver's License or ID Card: Honorably discharged Georgia veterans can receive a free driver's license or state identification card. A veteran with a 100% disability rating is also exempt from ad valorem taxes on one vehicle, providing additional recurring savings.
6. State Employment Preference: Veterans receive a hiring preference when applying for state government jobs. Five points are added to the examination scores of qualified veterans, and ten points are added for those with a VA disability rating of 10% or more. This preference provides a crucial advantage in securing stable, long-term employment.
7. Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses: Georgia honors its resident veterans with free lifetime hunting and fishing licenses. This benefit is available to veterans who are permanently and totally disabled, as well as those over the age of 65, encouraging participation in the state's rich outdoor heritage.
8. State Veterans Memorial Cemeteries: With two locations in Glennville and Milledgeville, Georgia's State Veterans Memorial Cemeteries provide a dignified and honorable final resting place for veterans, their spouses, and eligible dependents. The state provides the plot, vault, opening and closing of the grave, and perpetual care at no cost to the veteran's family, alleviating a significant financial and emotional burden.
9. Discount on State Park Admission and Recreation: Veterans and their families can enjoy Georgia's beautiful state parks with a 25% discount on annual park passes, camping fees, and other recreational activities. This makes it more affordable to access the state's natural treasures.
10. "VETERAN" Designation on Driver's Licenses: Georgia offers a "VETERAN" emblem on driver's licenses and ID cards. While a simple gesture, this easily identifies a veteran for the numerous public and private-sector discounts and services offered as a sign of appreciation throughout the state.

These top-tier benefits showcase Georgia's strong commitment to its veteran community. For detailed eligibility requirements and to connect with a service officer for assistance, veterans are encouraged to visit the official website of the Georgia Department of Veterans Service.

Georgia Department of Veterans Service

Contact Information:

Address:
2 MLK Jr Drive SE
Atlanta, GA 30334 US

Phone: 404-656-2300

Return to the WeSalute State Veterans Benefits Directory