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Georgia
Review State Benefits/Programs
Education
In Georgia, veterans and members of the National Guard have access to state-funded education benefits. These include the Georgia Veterans Education Career Transition Resource (VECTR) Center, which provides comprehensive support services for veterans, and the Georgia National Guard Tuition Assistance Program (GA NGTA), offering financial assistance for National Guard members pursuing undergraduate and graduate studies. The Georgia Hero Scholarship Program provides scholarships to children and spouses of service members who made the ultimate sacrifice or became permanently disabled in the line of duty. Additionally, there is the Georgia National Guard Service Cancelable Loan program and the Georgia Military College State Service Scholarship Program, both offering financial support for qualifying National Guard members. Veterans who are not Georgia residents can also benefit from the Georgia Resident In-State Tuition Program. For the most up-to-date information, it is recommended to consult the Georgia Department of Veterans Service directly.
- Offers Tuition programs for National Guard
- One of the primary programs is the Georgia National Guard Tuition Assistance Program (GNG-TAP). The GNG-TAP provides eligible Georgia National Guard members with financial assistance to cover a portion of their tuition expenses at eligible public and private colleges and universities in Georgia. Under the GNG-TAP, eligible Georgia National Guard members may receive a specified amount of tuition assistance per credit hour, up to a maximum annual limit. The program is administered by the Georgia National Guard and has specific eligibility criteria and application processes. We recommend contacting the Georgia National Guard or the Georgia Student Finance Commission to get detailed information about the current programs, eligibility requirements, and application procedures for state-funded tuition programs and waivers for National Guard members in Georgia. They will be able to provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the available benefits and opportunities.
- Offers College Tuition waivers for Veterans
- Georgia Military College (GMC) State Service Scholarship: This program provides scholarships to Georgia residents who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. It covers a portion of tuition and fees at Georgia Military College. University System of Georgia (USG) Military Programs: The USG offers various tuition assistance programs for veterans, including the Military Academic Degree Completion Program (MADCP) and the Georgia Military Academic Degree Completion Program (G-MADCP). These programs provide financial support for veterans to complete their degree programs at participating colleges and universities within the University System of Georgia. HOPE Career Grant: This grant is available to Georgia residents pursuing certain high-demand career programs at eligible colleges and universities. Veterans may be eligible for this grant, which covers a portion of tuition and fees.
- Tuition Programs to Spouses & Dependents
- Georgia’s HERO Scholarship Program provides educational scholarship’s to spouses and the children of members of the Georgia National Guard and U.S. Military Reserves who served in combat zones. If you qualify, you may receive up to $8,000 for the equivalent of four academic years of study. There are three ways for a spouse or dependent child to qualify: Be the child of a qualifying veteran who was deployed outside of the U.S. for active duty for at least 181 cumulative days, beginning on or after Feb. 1, 2003, or served less than 181 cumulative days in a combat zone, beginning on or after Feb. 1, 2003, but was evacuated because of severe injuries. Be the child of a qualifying veteran who was deployed outside of the U.S. for active duty service to a location designated as a combat zone, beginning on or after Feb. 1, 2003, and who was killed while serving in such combat zone, or died or became 100 percent disabled as a result of injuries received. Be the spouse of a qualifying veteran deployed outside of the U.S. for active duty service to a location designated as a combat zone, beginning on or after Feb. 1, 2003, and who was killed while serving in such combat zone, or died or became 100 percent disabled as a result of injuries received.
- Offers Military Spouse Interstate License Recognition
- (State must recognize military spouse license if home state has equivalent training) State agencies shall issue expedited licenses by endorsement to military spouses who hold current licenses in good standing that are substantially similar in qualifications and scope to the requirements of Georgia within 90 days of application. Military spouses may be required to pass an examination to demonstrate their knowledge of state-specific rules and regulations.
- Participates in CDL Even Exchange Program (Knowledge Test Waiver) as of May 2022
Business Benefits
The Georgia Veterans Education Career Transition Resource Center (VECTR) is a valuable resource for veterans and transitioning service members, offering comprehensive services to support their entrepreneurial endeavors. VECTR provides a wide range of assistance, including business planning, access to capital, and government contracting opportunities. Understanding the unique needs of veteran entrepreneurs, the Georgia Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is committed to providing business counseling, training, and resources specifically tailored to their requirements. Through the SBDC, veterans can receive guidance on essential aspects such as business planning, market research, financial management, and accessing capital. Additionally, SBDC advisors are equipped to assist veterans in exploring government contracting opportunities. For veteran-owned businesses venturing into the government procurement process, the Georgia Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) is an invaluable asset. The PTAC offers expert guidance on navigating the complexities of registering as a government contractor, finding bidding opportunities, understanding requirements, and submitting proposals. While Georgia does not have a specific certification program for veteran-owned businesses, the advantages and opportunities associated with being a veteran-owned business are acknowledged and recognized. Veterans in Georgia can leverage their status to pursue government contracts and procurement successfully. Recognizing the importance of financing, Georgia provides 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 Georgia Department of Economic Development, in collaboration with local financial institutions, plays a vital role in offering and facilitating these programs, ensuring veterans have the necessary financial resources to thrive in their business ventures.
To access the specific resources and benefits available for veteran business owners in Georgia, I recommend visiting the official websites of the Georgia Veterans Education Career Transition Resource Center (VECTR) at https://vectr.veterans.georgia.gov/, the Georgia Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at https://www.georgiasbdc.org/, and the Georgia Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) at https://www.gtpac.org/. 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 Georgia for further assistance and guidance tailored to veteran business owners in the state.
- Business License Exemption/Extension/Fee Waiver
- Business Certificate Fee Exemption
- Business Resource and Education Programs
- Offers or proposed SSBCI CAP and OCSP Funding Programs
- - State Department: Georgia Department of Community Affairs
Invest Georgia
- Program Types: Loan Participation Program Loan Guarantee Program Equity Capital Program (Funds) Equity Capital Program (Direct)
- Program Names: Georgia Loan Participation Program Georgia CDFI Program Georgia Small Business Credit Guarantee Program Georgia Venture Capital Program Georgia Equity Direct Program
- Contact Information: holly.hunt@dca.ga.gov
- - State Department: Georgia Department of Community Affairs
Invest Georgia
Taxes, Land, and Real Estate Benefits and Programs
In Georgia, veterans, military spouses, and dependents can access several 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. Georgia exempts military retirement income from state income tax, offering tax relief for retired service members. The state's Veterans' Home Loan Program provides low-interest loans specifically for veterans, facilitating home purchases or improvements. Eligible disabled veterans may also qualify for grants to assist with home purchase or adaptation. Additionally, 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 Georgia due to military orders. These programs aim to provide financial support, favorable loan options, and tax exemptions to veterans and their families in Georgia. For specific eligibility requirements and further details, it is advisable to consult the Georgia Department of Veterans Service or relevant state agencies.
- Offers property tax exemptions for Disabled Veterans
- 100% disabled status Georgia veterans, as well as those who are otherwise unemployable despite not being 100% disabled, receive a property tax exemption of up to $77,307 (Disability Rating to Qualify: 100%)
- Offers reduced tax or tax exemption for military retirement pay
- No special tax Treatment of military retirement pay
State Employment Programs
In the state of Georgia, veterans, guard members, and reserve members have access to a range of state programs, preferences, and benefits to support their employment goals. The Georgia Department of Veterans Service (GDVS) offers comprehensive employment services, including job search assistance, career counseling, resume building, interview preparation, and access to job training programs. Georgia provides veterans' preference, granting eligible individuals additional points in hiring and promotional exams for state government positions. The Georgia Veterans Education Career Transition Resource (VECTR) Center assists veterans in transitioning to civilian employment through career counseling, job placement assistance, skills assessment, and connections to employers. Georgia also provides resources and support for veterans interested in starting or expanding their own businesses through the Veterans' Small Business Program. Additionally, the Georgia Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) promotes cooperation between employers and military personnel, ensuring employment rights and protections. These state initiatives aim to facilitate employment opportunities, entrepreneurship, and successful career transitions for veterans, guard members, and reserve members in Georgia.
- Offers Military Service Credit in Retirement System
- Georgia does provide military service credit in its retirement system. The Georgia State Employees' Retirement System (ERS) and Teachers Retirement System (TRS) both offer provisions for military service credit. In the ERS, eligible members can purchase up to five years of creditable service for their military service. To be eligible, the individual must have at least five years of creditable service in the ERS and have been honorably discharged from the military. The cost of purchasing military service credit is based on actuarial calculations. In the TRS, eligible members can also purchase credit for military service. The cost and terms for purchasing military service credit in the TRS may vary, so it's best to contact the TRS directly for detailed information and requirements. It's important to note that the specific rules and requirements for military service credit may vary between different retirement systems within Georgia, so it's advisable to contact the relevant retirement system for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding military service credit.
- Offers Reduced Cost Business and Occupational Licenses or business taxes
State DMV Programs
- Offers Veteran Designation on Driver License
- Offers Vehicle Privilege or License Tax and Registration Fee Exemption
Recreation Programs
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 Discounted Hunting & Fishing Licenses
- Offers State Parks Admission/Camping Discounts and Waivers
Information
Capital
Atlanta
State Population
8,209,985
Veteran Population
595,743
Veteran Population Percentage
7.26%
Veteran Benefits
17