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Florida Veterans Information

We're proud to support our veterans, and we've included a section on our website that provides information on the benefits and resources available to them. Whether you're a veteran yourself or you're looking to support those who have served our country, you'll find valuable information on our website.

Honoring Service: A Comprehensive Guide to Veteran Services and Benefits in Florida
Florida, known for its sunny weather and vibrant communities, also stands as a beacon of support for its veterans. With a wide array of services and benefits tailored to meet the unique needs of those who have served in the military, Florida offers a welcoming environment for veterans to thrive. This article serves as a comprehensive guide to veteran services and benefits in Florida, with a particular focus on the resources available near The Villages of Citrus Hills.

1. Statewide Veteran Services and Benefits:
    Florida boasts a robust network of veteran services and benefits designed to assist veterans in various aspects of their lives. These services encompass healthcare, education, employment assistance, housing support, financial aid, and more.
    The Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs (FDVA) serves as the primary agency responsible for administering veteran services and benefits throughout the state. Veterans can access a wide range of resources through the FDVA, including assistance with disability claims, pension programs, and access to state veterans' homes.

2. Healthcare Services for Veterans:
   Veterans in Florida have access to comprehensive healthcare services through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system. This includes medical treatment at VA hospitals, clinics, and community-based outpatient centers across the state.
   Additionally, Florida offers several state-operated veterans' nursing homes and assisted living facilities that provide specialized care for veterans in need of long-term care services.

3. Education and Employment Assistance:
    Veterans seeking to further their education or transition into the civilian workforce can take advantage of various education and employment assistance programs available in Florida.
    The state offers tuition assistance programs, vocational training, and career counseling services to help veterans acquire new skills and pursue meaningful employment opportunities. Additionally, veterans may be eligible for priority hiring preferences for state and local government jobs.

4. Housing Support and Financial Aid:
    Florida provides housing support and financial aid programs to assist veterans in securing stable housing and achieving financial stability.
    Veterans may access programs such as the State Housing Initiative Partnership (SHIP) program, which offers down payment assistance and homebuyer education to eligible veterans. Additionally, the FDVA provides financial assistance to veterans facing financial hardship through its emergency financial assistance program.

5.  Benefits for Disabled Veterans:
     Disabled veterans in Florida are entitled to a range of benefits and services to support their unique needs and challenges. This includes disability compensation, vocational rehabilitation, adaptive housing grants, and assistance with accessing assistive technology and medical equipment.
   The FDVA also operates several Veterans' Benefits Counselor Program offices throughout the state, where veterans can receive personalized assistance with navigating the complex process of applying for disability benefits and accessing other available resources.

6. Veteran Services Near The Villages of Citrus Hills:
   Veterans residing near The Villages of Citrus Hills have access to a variety of veteran services and resources conveniently located within the surrounding area.
   The Citrus County Veterans Service Office, located in nearby Inverness, provides assistance to veterans and their families with accessing federal, state, and local benefits. Services include help with disability claims, pension programs, education benefits, and more.
   Additionally, The Villages VA Outpatient Clinic offers primary care, mental health services, and specialty care to eligible veterans in the area, providing convenient access to healthcare services closer to home.

  Florida stands as a stalwart supporter of its veterans, offering a comprehensive array of services and benefits to honor their service and sacrifice. From healthcare and education assistance to housing support and financial aid, Florida provides a welcoming environment for veterans to thrive in civilian life. Near The Villages of Citrus Hills, veterans can access a range of services and resources tailored to meet their unique needs, ensuring that they receive the support and care they deserve as they transition to civilian life. As veterans continue to enrich their communities with their skills, experience, and dedication, Florida remains steadfast in its commitment to honoring their service and upholding their well-being.

Lecanto VA Clinic

The closest VA clinic is located in Lecanto, Fl.  They offer primary care and mental health care for Florida veterans. 

Address:

2804 West Marc Knighton Court, Suite A

Lecanto, FL 34461

Phone numbers

Main phone: 352-746-8000

VA health connect: 877-741-3400

Clinic hours:

  • Mon: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

  • Tue: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

  • Wed: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

  • Thu: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

  • Fri: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

  • Sat: Closed

  • Sun: Closed

James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital

The closest VA hospital to Citrus Hills is the James A. Haley Hospital in Tampa.  Florida veterans receive primary care, cardiology, podiatry, mental health care, spinal cord treatment, prosthetics, diabetes treatment, dental....

For a list of available services for Florida veterans, click the link  to be connected to the VA website.  

Address

13000 Bruce B. Downs Boulevard

Tampa, FL 33612-4745

Phone numbers

Main phone: 813-972-2000

VA health connect: 877-741-3400

Mental health care: 813-631-7100

Clinical hoursMon: 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.Tue: 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.Wed: 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.Thu: 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.Fri: 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.Sat: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.Sun: Closed

DMV Benefits for Florida Veterans

Florida Veterans and Military Driver Laws and Benefits in Florida

by Valerie Johnston on  May 17, 2016

The state of Florida offers a number of benefits and perks for those Americans who have either served in an Armed Forces branch in the past, or are current active military members.

Florida Vetrans Vehicle registration and fee waivers

Florida Veterans who are verified 100% disabled as a result of their military service are exempted from driver license fees as well as veteran designation fees. They may also receive a disabled Florida veterans license plate at no charge. Documentation from the Department of Veterans Affairs verifying the 100% service-connected disability is required. The DV license plate also entitles veterans to free parking throughout the state.

Military residents and non-residents, whether stationed inside Florida or in another state, are exempted from paying the initial, one-time $225 vehicle registration fee. You must provide form 82002 along with all other documents required for standard vehicle registration in order to claim this exemption.

In addition, active members of the Florida National Guard are eligible for a free license plate, by submitting form 83030.

Driver’s license veteran designation

Florida veterans are eligible for a military designation on their driver license, in the form of a simple blue “V” at the bottom right of the license or state ID. In order to obtain this designation you must provide a DD 214 and pay a one-time one dollar fee, in addition to regular renewal fees. The Florida Division of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles recommends visiting this website to determine what else you’ll need at the time of your visit.

Military honor plates

Florida offers a host of Florida veteran and military plates. The following are available to those who qualify and provide documentation of related service:

  • Veteran

  • Woman Veteran

  • National Guard

  • U.S. Reserve

  • Operation Enduring Freedom

  • U.S. Paratrooper

  • Pearl Harbor Survivor

  • Ex-Prisoner of War

  • Korean Conflict Veteran

  • Vietnam War Veteran

  • Combat Action Badge

  • Combat Action Ribbon

  • Combat Medical Badge

  • Air Force Combat Action Medal

  • Navy Submariner

  • Purple Heart

  • Medal of Honor

  • Air Force Cross

  • Navy Cross

  • Distinguished Service Cross

  • Silver Star

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

Most plates require that you fill out form HSMV 83034 except National Guard and U.S. Reserve, which require form HSMV 83030.

Florida Veteran Military skills test waiver

The more military skills you can apply in your civilian life, the better, and thanks to the Commercial Learner’s Permit rule you can use your heavy military vehicle driving experience to avoid taking the skills test to obtain a CDL when you come home. This rule was put in place in 2011 by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and gives states – including Florida – the power to waive the requirement for the road test, as long as you qualify. You have to have two years or more of experience driving military commercial type vehicles, and that driving must have been in the year prior to your application (if you’re still active) or your discharge from the military.

Certain motor vehicle violations can trigger a denial, so be sure to check out the waiver. You will still have to complete the written CDL test.

  • World War II Veteran

  • Combat Infantry Badge

  • Operation Desert Shield Veterans

  • Operation Desert Storm Veterans

  • Gold Star

  • Disabled Veteran (vehicle or motorcycle)

  • Disabled Veteran (wheelchair symbol)

  • Paralyzed Vets of America (vehicle or motorcycle)

The following plates are available to any FL motorist:

  • Florida Salutes Veterans

  • Support Our Troops

  • American Legion

  • U.S. Air Force

  • U.S. Army

  • U.S. Coast Guard

  • U.S. Marine Corps

  • U.S. Navy

Mesothelioma

Asbestos exposure is a significant problem that affects many veterans, increasing their risk of developing mesothelioma. At Mesothelioma Hope, they believe in helping our veterans by providing them with detailed information about mesothelioma, its impact, and resources to help increase their chances of fighting it. Approximately one in three mesothelioma patients are veterans, and their mission is to reach as many as we can and provide them with the support they need. Please click on the link below to be connected to their website. 

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