(512) 454-7300 membership@ngat.org

Benefits

The National Guard Association of Texas seeks to provide the best services and benefits to promote, safeguard, and advance the interests of our members, communities, and partnerships.

Benefits

As NGAT Members, you have access to several benefits and discount programs. Click on each tab below for more information.

The National Guard Association of Texas Educational Foundation (NGATEF) exist exclusively and solely, for furthering the educational opportunities of young people and for the carrying on a support of education, literary or scientific activities, including the granting of educational scholarships to members of the National Guard Association of Texas and/or the children of members of the National Guard Association of Texas.  The foundation will award several educational grants of various amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000.  High school seniors, college undergraduates and graduate students will be considered for educational grants. 

You must be a NGAT Life or Annual Member or the spouse/son/daughter of a NGAT Life or Annual Member in order to apply for the  scholarship program.

The Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS) provides Educational Scholarships Annually to EANGUS Members, their spouses/son/daughters.  In order to join EANGUS you must be a member of NGAT. NGAT Annual membership does include membership in EANGUS. There are two types of scholarships available. The CSM Virgil R. Williams and the Patriot Scholarships are paid by EANGUS directly to the school the selectee is attending. The second type of scholarships are presented by specific universities that EANGUS has partnered with. If at anytime you have questions, please contact scholarship@eangus.org and someone will respond to your inquiry or request for assistance.

EANGUS accepts online applications only. Deadline to apply for most scholarships is 1 April unless listed otherwise.
Click here to learn more.

The National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) scholarship information.

The AFBA NGAUS Active Life Member Scholarship awards two $5,000 scholarships every July to Active Life members of NGAUS or dependents of Active Life members seeking an undergraduate, graduate or post-graduate degree. The applicant must be a full-time student. The application period runs March 1 through June 1.

The Van Hipp Heroes Scholarship Fund established in 2015, Van Hipp donates 100% of the proceeds from his book, The New Terrorism – How to Fight It and Defeat It to The Van Hipp Fallen Heroes Scholarship Fund which will award scholarships to Guardsmen wounded in action in the War on Terror. This initiative is administered by the National Guard Educational Foundation. The application period runs through July 1.

Leonardo DRS Guardian Scholarship Fund. Since September 11, 2001, nearly 800 Guardsmen have made the ultimate sacrifice in support of the Global War on Terrorism. These heroes left behind more than 1,000 children. Established in 2011 and underwritten by Leonardo DRS, the Leonardo DRS Guardian Scholarship Fund provides college scholarships to the children of National Guardsmen who have been lost in service to our nation since 9/11. Over the past decade, NGEF has awarded 94 scholarships to students through the Leonardo DRS Guardian Scholarship Fund. The application period runs through June 30.

Enlisted NGAT Annual Membership includes membership in EANGUS and the Association of the United States Army (AUSA). AUSA provides many scholarships for their members. Click here for more information on available scholarships.

 

NATIONALLY APPROVED APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

At Swift, we’re proud to be part of the VA on-the-job training and apprenticeship program. Not only will you receive a world-class education from caring, knowledgeable instructors, but you’ll earn your Class A CDL. and join a company that honors your commitment to your country – and your family. You can find additional information about the apprenticeship program here.

https://www.swifttrans.com/veterans

VETERAN CDL SCHOLARSHIP

As a Veteran, you understand the value of loyalty. Swift offers fully-paid tuition scholarships to service members, their spouses or dependents, to attend a Swift Academy. Our military scholarship covers the cost of tuition and any applicable housing. You can start your career as a truck driver without any concern for costs. It’s our way of saying thank you for your service. Contact a recruiter at 888-829-4191 to learn more about our scholorship.

BEST KEPT SECRET IN EDUCATION

Get a free degree plan
Free College Courses & Discounts
Fast Track Your Degree
Real Savings on Real Life
Dare to Compare **** College Credits at Home **** Tuition Free College Classes **** Save Money on Your Degree
As a member of NGAT you and your family have unlimited access to “Making Education Possible” (MEP) suite of benefits. As a MEP member you will have free access to automated degree planning so you can find the fastest path to degree completion. You will also have access to free resources and discounts.

Texas National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program (STA). STA is an education benefit that provides money for college to eligible members of the Texas Military Department pursuing their educational and career goals.soldier taking notes

Undergraduate applicants are prioritized to receive an award up to $1,000 in tuition and fees per semester. Service members in an Early Commissioning Program or students registered in a STEM degree program will have top priority. Award upgrades are possible for applicants with tuition and fee charges more than $1,000 in a semester. If approved, the upgrade maximum is the equivalent of up to 12 credit hours of tuition and mandatory fees, not to exceed $4,500.

Award amounts are based on, available funding, the number of eligible applicants for that semester and a student’s successful completion of courses.

State Tuition Assistance funding is.

  • Available for Fall and Spring academic semesters only, payments are issued only at the end of the standard Fall and Spring semesters
  • Private school awards are based on the average amount of awards for public schools each semester, which is normally around $1800 for undergraduate students and $2,000 for graduate students
  • Out-of-State/ nonresident tuition charges are not eligible for reimbursement
  • State tuition assistance is available for five academic years or ten semesters
  • Incomplete, dropped or failed classes are not eligible for reimbursement
  • Continuing education classes that do not earn academic credits do not qualify for funding

Texas STA Online Application

Who is eligible for STA?

  • Actively drilling Service members in “Good Standing” in the Texas National Guard
  • Pay grades E1-E9 (enlisted), O1-O5 (commissioned officers) and W1-W3 (warrant officers)
  • Service members must be accepted and registered in a Texas qualifying college or university for a minimum of 3 semester credit hours, part-time or full-time students are eligible
  • Applicants must have completed basic training prior to the start of the semester
  • Service members must continue to serve through the end of the semester, the Service member’s Expiration of Term of Service (ETS) or Mandatory Retirement Date (MRD) must be after the official last day of class
  • ROTC (Guaranteed Reserve Forces Duty) Cadets utilizing the Room and Board scholarship option or non-scholarship contracts are eligible
  • STA can be used with other federal and state tuition assistance
  • Active Guard Reserve (AGR) Service members are not eligible
  • Service members must attend a public or private college or university with headquarters in Texas, for profit schools are not eligible
  • Must maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA

Learn more about the Texas National Guard State Tuition Assistance Program

Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Benefit for Veterans. The Texas Hazlewood Act provides qualified Veterans, a tuition exemption of most fee charges for up to 150 credit hours at Texas hazelwood act logopublic institutions of higher education. This does not include living expenses, books, or supply fees.
Who is eligible for Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Benefit for Veterans. Veterans must meet the following requirements.

  • Designated Texas as their home of record at the time of entry into the U.S. Armed Forces, entered the U.S. Armed Forces from Texas, or was a Texas resident
  • Received an honorable discharge or separation (must be indicated on the Veteran’s DD214 or certificate of release)
  • Served at least 181 days on active duty (excluding training)
  • Have no federal Veteran’s education benefits remaining that exceed the value of Hazlewood benefits (Pell and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant recipients may still apply)
  • Not be in default on a student loan made or guaranteed by Texas
  • Enroll in classes for which the college receives tax support (meaning a course that does not depend only on student tuition and fees to cover its cost)
  • Meet the GPA requirements and show satisfactory academic progress in a degree or certificate program as an undergraduate student and not considered to be taking an excessive amount of credit hours

Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption Application, Supporting Documentation Instructions
Texas Education Code 54.341

Learn more about Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Benefit for Veterans

Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Benefit for Spouses and Dependent Children. The Spouse and dependent Children of certain active and reserve component Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for a tuition waiver at Texas state supported higher education institutions. Students can receive an exemption for 150 credit hours.
Who is eligible for Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Benefit for Spouses and Dependent Children? Veteran requirements for a Spouse or Child eligibility.

  • Designated Texas as their home of record at the time of entry into the U.S. Armed Forces, entered the U.S. Armed Forces from Texas, or was a Texas resident
  • Served in the U.S. Armed Forces and.
    • Was killed in action (KIA)
    • Declared missing in action (MIA)
    • Has a service-connected 100% permanent and total disability rating or is declared individually unemployable by the VA
    • Died from a service-connected illness or injury

Spouse and Children eligibility requirement.

  • Not be in default on a student loan made or guaranteed by Texas
  • Have no federal Veteran’s education benefits remaining that exceed the value of Hazlewood benefits, (Pell and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant recipients may still apply)
  • Texas resident for tuition purposes
  • Meet the GPA requirements and show satisfactory academic progress in a degree or certificate program as an undergraduate student and not considered to be taking an excessive amount of credit hours, (this requirement does not apply to the Spouse or Child of a MIA, KIA, or service-connected deceased Veteran)

Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption Application, Supporting Documentation Instructions
Texas Education Code 54.341

Learn more about Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Benefit for Spouses and Dependent Children

Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Child Legacy Act. Veterans who are eligible for the Texas Hazlewood Act (see above) may assign unused tuition exemption hours to their Child under certain conditions. Exemptions may be used at any Texas state supported higher education institution.
Who is eligible for Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Child Legacy Act? 
Child eligibility requirements.

  • Texas resident for tuition purposes
  • Be the biological Child, stepchild, adopted Child, or claimed as a dependent in the current or previous tax year
  • 25 years old or younger on the first day of the semester or term that the exemption is claimed (unless granted an extension due to a qualifying illness or debilitating condition)
  • Meet the GPA requirements and show satisfactory academic progress in a degree or certificate program as an undergraduate student and not considered to be taking an excessive amount of credit hours

Legacy recipients will receive an exemption for the number of degree certified hours. The maximum number of hours awarded depends on the degree or certificate program and should be within the normal length of time to complete their degree or receive their certificate.

If a Child does not use all the assigned hours, a Veteran may re-assign the unused hours to another dependent Child. Only one Child can use the Hazlewood Act at a time.
Texas Hazlewood Act Exemption Application, Supporting Documentation Instructions
Texas Education Code 54.341

Learn more about Texas Hazlewood Act Tuition Exemption Child Legacy Act

ARMY TIMESAIR FORCE TIMES

We have teamed up with the Army & Air Force Times Publishing Company to offer all NGAT members a discounted subscription to Army Times or Air Force Times. Subscribe today by calling 1-800-368-5718 and mention that you are an NGAT member to receive the discounted subscription.

  • 52 issues of Army Times or Air Force Times for $39.95
  • Total access to the Army Times or Air Force Times website
  • The Insider’s Guide to Military Benefits
  • The Guard and Reserve Handbook
  • A $5.00 gift to NGAT to support your Association

Click here to subscribe today!!

 


Join AAA today for only $45.00 when you enroll in automatic renewal. Plus, get a free first-year membership for an eligible family member.

  • 24-hour Roadside Assistance – Free Towing, Free Tire Change, Free Lock-Out Service, Free Battery Jump-Start
  • Shopping Discounts
  • Free Identity Theft Protection for AAA Members
  • Full Service Leisure Travel Agency
  • (Click here for a details)

POC is Rose Washington at 972-837-6763 or Washington.Rose@aaa-texas.com

Dell Discount Program. With the speed you want, great designs and the latest technology in entertainment – a Dell Windows PC brings it all together at your fingertips. To receive an extra 10% off using your .mil email address. Just go to www.dell.com/Military and enter your military email address. You will then receive a coupon code in your inbox. Enter that coupon code in the online checkout and it will take 10% off your purchase!

National Guard Association of Texas
– Shop. www.dell.com/NGA/Texas or 800-695-8133
– Member ID. 130874424
– Register for Dell Advantage. www.dell.com/NGA/Texas/Advantage

 

Legal Assistance for NGAT Members
O’Connell – West, PLLC will provide the following service to NGAT members.
•  30 min legal consultation at no charge

•  10% legal fee discount for Annual Members

•  15% legal fee discount for Life Members

512-547-7265     doug@dougoconnell.com
Attorney Doug O’Connell is a NGAT Life Member and partner at O’Connell & West, PLLC. 

 

 

Choice Hotels
Thank you to Choice Hotels for offering the members of the National Guard Association of Texas this great discount on hotel rooms. Don’t forget to use the code when booking your room online at any of the Choice Hotel properties. Call 800-424-6423 and give the National Guard Association of Texas Preferred Rate ID 297260.  Click the photo below for more details.

Choice Hotels – NGAT members can save money at any one of the 5,000 locations worldwide. Call 1-800-424-6423 to obtain a discount and use special rate ID# 297260. If booking online, be sure to choose “Special Rate/Corporate ID” in the rate program to receive the discount.

La Quinta Inn – NGAT members can save money at any one of the almost 300 locations nationwide. Call 888-312-2399 or book online and use code “Veteran/Military” to receive discount.

Motel 6 – Motel 6 now offers a 10% discount off their best available rate at all Studio 6 Extended Stay and Motel 6 properties for NGAT members and families. Book online or by phone at 855-445-3388 and give the reservation agent code CPS2QUSP. Discount is available anytime your travel, for Business or Leisure.

Omni Hotels & Resorts Omni Hotels offers luxury hotels and resorts throughout North America. They are also proud supporters of the military. Check out their government rates for active and retired military personnel. **

Holiday Inn San Antonio Downtown – NGAT members – Market SquareSave at the Holiday Inn in San Antonio, Texas Downtown-Market Square. A special National Guard rate of $85.00 a night. 318 W. Cesar Chavez Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78204 (210) 200-9008. Rate may not be available during special occasions or peak times. POC – April McCoy, Sales Manager.

U.S. Military Campgrounds and RV Parks – Check out campgrounds and RV parks and read reviews from recent visitors.**

Bed & Breakfast Inns Online – Bed & Breakfast Inns across Texas wants to thank you for your service to our country with various discounts for weekend stays. **

Armed Forces Vacation Club – The Armed Forces Vacation Club® (AFVC) is a “space available” program that offers military and other Department of Defense-affiliated personnel the opportunity to enjoy vacations at popular destinations around the world – for the incredibly low price of just $349* USD per unit, per week. **

Government & Armed Forces Travel Cooperative – If you are in the military or work for federal, state, or local government, GovArm provides military discount travel, federal government travel discounts and state and local government employee travel discounts. **

Hale Koa Hotel – An all-ranks, all-service hotel bent on providing first-class service without regard to an individual’s status. This is echoed in the mission of the hotel that has remained unchanged from its inception, “To operate a first-class hotel and recreation facility at affordable prices for military members and their families.” **

Kilauea Military Camp – The Big Island of Hawai’i is home to Pele, the legendary Goddess of Volcanoes. In her fiery and majestic domain lies one of the military’s timeless Hawaiian resorts. Kilauea Military Camp (KMC) puts you in the heart of creation, with full-service amenities and recreation near the active Kilauea Volcano. **

**Please note in most cases to qualify for the above hotel discounts you must be one of the following – Active, National Guard, Reservists, Retired, or a Disabled Veteran.

 

ADVANTAGE RENT-A-CAR – NGAT members can save money by renting cars at Advantage Rent a Car. Call 1-800-777-5500 to get a 5% discount off of their already low rates.

ALAMO – Special car rental discount from Alamo Rent a Car. Call 1-800-354-2322 for details, and ask for plan “BY” and use NGAT ID#93706.

BUDGET – NGAT is a proud member of the Budget Business Program. NGAT members can save on car rentals by using the Budget Corporate Discount (BCD) number X338109. To make a reservation call 1-800-218-7992.

Prescription Drug Discount Program

The RxCut® Prescription Savings Card is FREE with NO enrollment, activation or expiration date.
There are over 63,000 participating pharmacies across the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
Click here to print flyer with card and to Start Saving Immediately! Tell your Friends and Family too!

Life Line Screening

NGAT has partnered with Life Line Screening, the nation’s largest mobile vascular screening provider in the country. Anywhere our members are located, Life Line Screening has local presence through community events at various locations and times of the year, which you can take advantage of through our discounted member program.

Life Line Screening offers painless, noninvasive ultrasound screenings for stroke and vascular disease. These are tests that are often not part of routine physicals and can only be ordered by your doctor if symptoms are present, and by then, many times it can be too late. Prevention is key.

The 4-test package includes.
1.  Stroke Screening/Carotid Artery $60
Screens for buildup of fatty plaque in the carotid artery, the #1 cause of stroke.
2.  Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening $60
Screens for the existence of an aneurysm (enlargement) in the abdominal aorta that could lead to a ruptured aortic artery.
3.  Peripheral Arterial Disease Screening $60
Screens for peripheral arterial disease in the lower extremities, which is linked to coronary artery disease.
4.  Atrial Fibrillation Screening $60
Screens for the most common irregular heart beat, which increases the risk of stroke 5-fold.

NGAT members & family – sign up for all 4 tests and pay member price of only $135.

Additional tests include.

  • Heart disease risk
  • Osteoporosis risk
  • Elevated C-reactive protein
  • 6 for Life
  • High cholesterol
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Elevated liver enzymes

Call to find the next event in your area or make an appointment for you and your family members by calling 1-866-964-5845. Please mention priority code CSMS-011 when calling to get our special price.
FAQ Page

Health Care Discount Program

CAREINGTON International Corporation

Total Care Plan only $29.95 a month

Datasheet
Brochure
Provider Search
Enroll Here

Disclosures.

1. THIS PLAN IS NOT INSURANCE
2. The plan provides discounts at certain health care providers for medical services.
3. The plan does not make payments directly to the providers of medical services
4. Plan members are obligated to pay for all health care services but will receive a discount from those   healthcare providers who have contracted with the discount medical plan organization.
5. Discount Medical Plan Organization and administrator – CAREINGTON International Corporation, 7400 Gaylord Parkway, Frisco, TX 75034; phone 800-441-0380.

When enrolling on the phone use organizational code NGAT-TC.

Note to Utah residents – This contract is not protected by the Utah Life and Health Guaranty Association. The program and its administrators have no liability for providing or guaranteeing service by providers or the quality of service rendered by providers. *This program is not available in Vermont and Montana.

 

         

Click here for more information about the Texas Resident Active Duty Military License & the Disable Veteran Combination License Package

Click here to find out where you can get your Hunting & Fishing License.

WANT TO HUNT WITH THE TEXAS MILITARY DEPARTMENT

WHO CAN HUNTTexas Military Department (TMD) members, their dependents, and other eligible personnel.

WHAT CAN THEY HUNT – Training Center Garrison Command (TCGC) hosts the 2018 TMD Hunting Program at Camp Bowie, Fort Wolters, Camp Swift and Camp Maxey. The purpose of the TMD Hunting Program is threefold.

1) Management of game species (i.e., white-tailed deer)
2) Management of non-game species (i.e., feral hogs)
3) Provide safe, hunting opportunities to TMD members, their dependents, and other eligible personnel.

WHEN/HOW CAN THEY HUNTRegistration for the 2018 Archery Season will be open 27 August – 21 September 2018. Registration for the 2018 General Season (rifle, shotgun, muzzle loader) will be open 24 of September – 12 of October 2018. Requests will be filled on a “first come, first served” basis. Participants will be registered based upon their eligibility category and the availability of their requested dates. Priority of registration begins with Category 1 and follows through Category 5. Participants are limited to three days to maximize opportunities and effectively achieve targeted game management goals.

ELIGIBILITY CATEGORIES.
Category 1. 
TMD Members and Native Americans; this includes TXARNG ID Card Holders, TXANG ID Card Holders, TXSG ID Card Holders, TMD State Employee ID Card Holders, TMD Non-Dual Status Employee ID Card Holders and Native Americans with Tribal Identification Card.
Category 2. 
Dependents of TMD Members.
Category 3. 
TMD Hunting Program Volunteers, Retired TMD Personnel.
Category 4. 
Dependents of Retired TXMF Members.
Category 5. 
Non TMD Active Component, Reserve Component, and DoD Civilians.

PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTSEligible participants must possess a valid DoD Common Access Card (CAC) or Uniformed Services ID Card, a Hunting License, and a valid Hunter Education Certification Card (regardless of age). Native Americans participants must possess a valid Tribal Identification Card, valid Hunting License, and a valid Hunter Education Certification Card (regardless of age).

TMD HUNTING DATES.
TBD
*Hunting dates are subject to change due to soldier training.

 

Hunting with the Texas Military Department

POC’S FOR TMD TRAINING AREAS

Camp Bowie Training Center
5611 FM 45S
Brownwood, Texas 76801
(325) 646-0159 X 716-4400
Judy.d.lamb.nfg@mail.mil

Camp Swift Training Center
1705 HWY 95 N.
Bastrop, TX 78602
512-321-4122 ext. 719-4175
Michael.d.bland4.mil@mail.mil

Fort Wolters Training Center
7705 Wagner Drive
Mineral Wells, Texas 76067
940-325-6872 X 13
940-325-6872 ext. 20

Camp Maxey Training Center
6351 US HWY 271 N
Powderly, Texas 75473
512-782-5001 ext. 4517
Timothy.c.moree.mil@mail.mil

SPECIALTY MILITARY LICENSE PLATES

Specialty Plates for current and former military personnel without the Specialty Fee. *Provided you are not customizing your plate numbers and letters.

As the Nation continues to honor those who have served in the United States Armed Forces, the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) reminds veterans and their families that they can display recognition of their service with special military license plates.

In 2015 the Texas Legislature created 47 new military plates, and in 2016 the 36th Infantry Division plate was added to the list. Many of the new designs are for disabled veterans and feature military emblems. For the first time, Texas military plates will specifically recognize veterans’ combat and non-combat era service in theaters of battle in Korea, Vietnam and Iraq and display the award that the plate holder received. Additionally, there are also plates that recognize the service members for their duty in combat.

Legislators have also expanded acceptable military medals which allow registration fees to be waived. A military member who has received certain medals will be provided a free set of license plates, and vehicle registration fees will be waived as long as the vehicle is registered in the State of Texas.

Click here for additional information on special military plates.

DESIGNATE ON YOUR DRIVER’S LICENSE THAT YOU ARE A VETERAN


Fee Exemption for Disabled Veterans

A Texas driver license or ID card may be provided free-of-charge to a veteran of the United States Armed Forces if the veteran meets all four requirements.

  • was honorably discharged
  • has a service-related disability of at least 60 percent
  • receives compensation from the United States because of the disability, and
  • not subject to sex offender registration requirements

NOTE. The driver license fee exemption does not apply to commercial driver licenses.

Verification of Disability
To qualify for a fee exemption, veterans must present documents to verify their disability status while at the driver license office. If renewing by mail, the verification documents must be included with the renewal invitation. Verification documents should be copies; do not mail in originals. Once the disability status is established, the veteran will be eligible to use online services for fee-exempt driver license or identification card transactions.

To verify the disability, please present one of the following.

  1. A signed letter on disability status issued by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; or
  2. Official documents certifying conditions 1, 2, and 3 above.*

*If a veteran receives disability compensation but does not have a letter from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, verification of the disability must be provided by the veteran’s branch of military service.

 

Texas Driver License and ID Card Fee Exemption for Disabled Veterans. Eligible disabled Veterans can receive a fee exemption for Texas driver licenses and ID cards This exemption does not apply to commercial driver licenses. Application must be made prior to the expiration of the Veteran’s license or ID Card.
Who is eligible for a Texas Driver License and ID Card Fee Exemption for Disabled Veterans? Disabled Veterans must meet the following criteria.

  • Received an honorable discharge
  • Has a service-connected disability of at least 60%
  • Receiving compensation from the VA for their disability
  • Not subject to sex offender registration requirements

To receive the fee exemption, Veterans must provide a completed Texas Driver License or ID Card Application and documents to verify their disability and that they received an honorable discharge. Veterans must renew their license in person at a Texas Department of Public Safety Driver License Office or by mail at to.

Texas Department of Public Safety
Central Cash Receiving
P.O. Box 15999
Austin, TX 78761-5999

Once their disability status is established, the Veteran can use online services to renew their license or ID card. To verify their eligibility Veterans must provide one of the following documents.

  • Signed VA disability award letter
  • Official documents from the Veteran’s branch of service certifying character of discharge, percentage of disability and that they receive compensation for their disability

Learn more about the Texas Driver License and ID Card Fee Exemption for Disabled Veterans

 

CENTRAL TEXAS REGIONAL MOBILITY AUTHORITY


Qualified Veteran Discount Program

The Board Members and staff of the Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority honor and appreciate the service of the men and women of our military forces, past and present. The Qualified Veteran Discount Program allows qualified veterans to drive toll-free on 183A Toll, 290 Toll, the 71 Toll Lane, 45SW Toll, and 183 Toll. The MoPac Express Lane is not eligible for the program as price is determined by demand. Program participation is limited to one (1) vehicle per veteran, or for those who qualify for a hardship exemption, the limit is two (2) vehicles per veteran. Veterans must meet eligibility requirements and register for the program.

 Eligibility

Registration in the program is not automatic. To be eligible to participate in the Qualified Veteran Discount Program, the Mobility Authority requires that at the time of the transaction the vehicle be compliant with the following.

  • Standard registration with the State of Texas, Texas Department of Motor Vehicles
  • Vehicle must be registered in the name of the qualifying veteran
  • Issued a qualifying specialty plate and have it properly displayed
    • Congressional Medal of Honor
    • Legion of Valor recipients
    • Purple Heart recipients
    • Disabled veterans who qualify and meet the requirements for specialty license plates
  • Have no outstanding Mobility Authority toll violations
    • Please contact Cofiroute at (833) 762-8655 to address any outstanding balances.
    • Cofiroute bills in 30-day cycles, so you may not have received a bill for outstanding balances. Tolls incurred prior to successful registration in our program must be fully resolved to be eligible for participation in the discount program.
  • Electronic tag account properly displayed and associated with the vehicle’s license plate
    • If you do not have an electronic tag, you can click any of these links to be taken to the tag sites to learn more and/or register for a tag. TxTag, TollTag, EZ Tag, K-Tag, Pikepass, BancPass.TxTag Logo

      Veteran Discount Program

      Since 2012, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has waived tolls for eligible veterans to support those who have served and sacrificed for our country. The program serves veterans in vehicles registered with the state of Texas and displaying a qualified specialty license plate. Qualifying Texas license plates are for recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor, Air Force Cross (Legion of Valor), Distinguished Service Cross (Legion of Valor), Army Distinguished Service Cross (Legion of Valor), Navy Cross (Legion of Valor), and Purple Heart, and disabled veterans who qualify and meet the requirements for a disabled veteran license plate.
       
      Eligible veterans in vehicles with qualifying license plates may drive the following TxDOT toll roads free of charge.

      Central Texas Turnpike System  – Austin Metro Area

      • SH 130 (Segments 1-4), from I-35 in north Austin to US 183
      • SH 45 North
      • Loop 1, from the non-tolled portion of Loop 1 at Parmer Lane north to SH 45N
      • SH 45 Southeast

      Grand Parkway (SH 99) – Houston Metro Area

      • Segments E, F-1, F-2, and G from I-10 to US 59N on the west and northwest side of Houston. This segment also includes a small portion of Segment D near I-10
      • Segment I-2 near Baytown, from I-10 south to Fisher Road in Chambers County

      TEXpress Lanes – Dallas/Fort Worth Area

      In the Dallas/Fort Worth area, only TEXpress Lanes managed by TxDOT offer the discount.
      • SH 183 TEXpress Lanes – Euless to Dallas
      • Loop 12 TEXpress Lanes – Dallas
      • SH 114 TEXpress Lanes – Grapevine to Dallas
      • I-635E TEXpress Lanes – US 75 to I-30
      • I-30 TEXpress Lanes – Dallas to Arlington
      • I-35E TEXpress Lanes – Denton County to Dallas County

Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union

JOIN A CREDIT UNION
Member of the National Guard Association of Rexas are now able to join Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union. Open your free account at rbfcu.org/join or at your nearest branch.

It’s Banking….only Better!
Really Free Checking – No monhtly maintenance fee or no minimum balance required.
2% CashBack Rewards Mastercard Credit Card – Make shopping a rewarding experience with unlimited cash back on every purchase.
RBFCU Mobile App – Use the free RBFCU Mobile app to deposit checks, transfer money and more.
Low-Rate Home & Auto Loans – Purchasing a home or vehicle? Refinancing an existing one? Our low rates will help you save money.

Paperless activity – eStatements, ePay and eDeposits can eliminate the paper activity from mailed statements, bills and documented checks, thru keeping thieves from stealing confidential information from trash and mailboxes.

Security features – RBFCU uses state-of-the-art security features to ensure your account information is protected when viewing your account, paying bills or depositing checks.

Tips and tools – RBFCU has online links to various sites to help educate you on online security and protection.

And remember as one of our Select Groups, NGAT members are already eligible to join. Stop by one of our branches or join online today at www. rbfcu.org!

Austin – San Antonio 1-800-580-3300


Sea World

Active/Drilling Guardsmen – Free tickets to Sea World and Busch Gardens for you and up to 3 direct dependents. Please see http://www.herosalute.com.

Six Flags

Active/Drilling Guardsmen – Get discount tickets to Six Flags at the nearest MWR Ticket Offices.

Six Flags Fiesta Texas, San Antonio

Six Flags Over Texas, Arlington

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, Arlington

Orlando, Florida

Active and retired military personnel planning a vacation to Central Florida, do not want to miss this best kept secret. Located less then 10 minues from the Orlando International Airport is a Navy Exchange and Navy MWR ITT Office.

The Navy MWR Attraction Ticket Office is located outside of the Navy Exchange in a trailer.

GPS Address – 8717 Avenue C, Orlando FL 32827

407-855-0116 or 407-851-4396
Please email for current pricing – mwrorl@gmail.com

Hours of Operation
Mon – Sat 0900-1700
Sunday 1000-1700

Discount Attractions include – Walt Disney WorldUniversal Studios OrlandoSea WorldBusch GardensLegoland FloridaKennedy Space CenterGatorland and more……

Discount Dinner Shows include – Arabian NightsMedieval TimesPirates Dinner AdventureSleuth’s MysteryOutta Control Magic ComedyWonder Works and more……

ALL SALES ARE FINAL. NO REFUNDS. NO EXCHANGES.
Tickets are subject to availability and prices are subject to change without notice.

MWR TICKET OFFICES

Fort Sam Houston (San Antonio)
Hours of Operation. Mon 10am – 3pm, Tue – Fri 9am – 4pm, Sat 10am – 2 pm
Phone. (210) 808-1378 or (210) 808-1376

Randolph AFB (San Antonio)
Hours of Operation. Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm
Phone. (210) 652-5142

Lackland AFB (San Antonio)
Hours of Operation. Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm, Sat 9am – 1pm
Phone. (210) 671-3059

Corpus Christi NAS
Hours of Operation. Mon – Fri 830am – 430pm
Phone. 361-961-3961

Fort Hood (KIlleen)
Hours of Operation. Mon – Fri 10am – 6pm
Phone. (254) 287-7310 or (254) 532-5292

NAS JRB Fort Worth Carswell Field
Hours of Operation. Mon – Thurs 9am – 5pm, Fri – Sat 8am – 6pm
Phone. (817) 782-6121

Resorts

Kilauea Military Camp (KMC)

Kilauea Military Camp (KMC), a Joint Services Recreation Center, is surrounded by the dramatic beauty of Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park. Nearby is the world’s most active volcano, Kilauea. The accommodations, amenities and tour packages offered by KMC let capture all the mystery and wonder of the Big Island.

KMC is open to all active and retired military, Reserve, and National Guard members, current and retired Department of Defense civilian employees, dependents, and sponsored guests.

KMC is a resort with a suprising array of amenities and activities. You can have a fulfilling vacation without leaving the grounds. For those of you who do, our tours cover the many wonders of the Big Island. Due to limited seating, advance reservations recommended.

For reservation and pricing information, please visit their website. www.kmc-volcano.com

Texas Homestead Tax Exemption for 100% Disabled or Unemployable Veterans. Property tax in Texas is a locally assessed and locally administered tax. There is no state property tax. The Comptroller’s publication Texas Property Tax Exemptions offers a short summary of the available property tax exemptions.

Veterans who receive compensation from the VA for a service-connected disability rating of 100% disabled or of individual unemployability are eligible for 100% property tax exemption on their homestead.

An unremarried Surviving Spouse can continue to receive this exemption if they continue to live on the homestead after the Veteran dies. A Surviving Spouse can receive this exemption on a subsequent homestead if they do not remarry. The amount of the exemption on the subsequent homestead will be the same dollar amount of the exemption on the first homestead.

A Veteran who qualifies for more than one property exemption is only eligible for one exemption but may choose the greatest exemption they qualify for. Please view the Texas Residence Homestead Exemption Application for more information and how to apply. Texas Property Tax Code 11.131
Texas Homestead Property Tax Exemption, 100% Disabled Veteran and Surviving Spouse Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about Texas Homestead Tax Exemption for 100% Disabled or Unemployable Veterans

Texas Property Tax Exemption for Partially Disabled Veterans and Veterans over age 65: Texas offers a partial property tax exemption for partially disabled Veterans. The amount of the exemption is based on the percentage of service-connected disability the VA awarded the Veteran.

Disability Exemption Amounts:

  • $5,000 for 10% – 29% disability rating

  • $7,500 for 30% – 49% disability rating

  • $10,000 50% – 69% disability rating

  • $12,000 70% – 99% disability rating

Disabled Veterans 65 years old or older can receive a property tax exemption of $12,000 and must meet the one of following requirements:

  • Service-connected disability rating of at least 10%

  • Totally blind in one or both eyes

  • Lost the use of one or more limbs

An unremarried Surviving Spouse or Child (under 18 and unmarried) of a qualifying disabled Veteran who dies are eligible for this exemption.

A Veteran who qualifies for more than one property exemption is only eligible for one exemption but may choose the greatest exemption they qualify for. Please view the Texas Application for Disabled Veteran’s or Survivor’s Exemption for more information and how to apply. Texas Property Tax Code 11.22

Learn more about Texas Property Tax Exemption for Partially Disabled Veterans and Veterans over age 65

Texas Property Tax Exemption for the Surviving Spouse of a Service Member Killed in the Line of Duty: An unremarried Surviving Spouse of a Service member who was killed in the line of duty while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces are eligible for 100% property tax exemption on their homestead.

Please view the Texas Residence Homestead Exemption Application for more information and how to apply.
Texas Property Tax Code 11.133

Learn more about the Texas Property Tax Exemption for the Surviving Spouse of a Service Member Killed in the Line of Duty

Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB) Loan Programs: The Texas VLB provides low-interest real-estate related loans to Veterans and Service members in Texas.

VLB offers land loans, home loans, and home improvement loans. Veterans may apply for any or all the loans at the same time. Once a Veteran or their successor has successfully paid off a VLB loan, they may apply for another.

VLB does not offer refinancing. If the Veteran has an existing loan on a home, VLB cannot provide refinancing to lower the interest rate, nor can the VLB loan program be used as a down-payment on a home. All VLB loans are subject to credit approval.
Who is eligible for VLB Loans? Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • At least 18 old

  • Resident of Texas on the date of application, and meet one of the following service criteria:

    • Active duty Service member

    • Member of the Texas National Guard

    • Reserve component Service member who completed 20 qualifying years for retirement

    • Honorably discharged Veteran who served at least 90 days on active-duty unless discharged sooner due to service-connected disability

    • Surviving Spouse of a Veteran listed as missing in action or whose death was service-connected

Texas VLB Land Loans: VLB provides financing on tracts up to $150,000 with a minimum 5% down payment and a fixed-rate 30-year loan term. A $325 appraisal fee is due at the time of application. To be eligible for a VLB Land Loan the land must meet the following criteria:

  • Land must be completely in Texas

  • Must be at least one acre, excluding any part beneath of a dedicated public roadway or navigable waterway, subject to frequent flooding, or otherwise unusable.

  • Has legal, usable access to a public road that is 60 feet wide or meets the county public road width requirements, whichever is greater

  • Flagpole access portion of the property must be drivable in inclement weather to the main body of the property

  • Properly described by either a Field Note description of the tract with the Surveyor’s Official Seal and Signature (original or copy), or a complete copy of the recorded subdivision plat if the description is by Lot and Block

  • Not zoned strictly for commercial use

  • Not have been owned by the Veteran or their Spouse within the previous three years

  • All trash, debris, tires or run down structures must be removed prior to closing

Texas VLB Home Loans: VLB Home Loans offer low-interest loans with little or no down payment. Applicants can receive up to $647,200 on a fixed-rate loan for 15, 20, 25 or 30 year terms. Veterans with a VA service-connected disability rating of 30% or greater qualify for a discounted interest rate. To qualify for a VLB Home Loan the home must meet the following criteria:

  • Veteran’s primary residence in Texas

  • Single Family attached or detached home, townhome or condominium

  • Duplexes or other multi-Family units must have been constructed at least five years prior to the closing date of the loan

  • New homes must have either an Energy Star certification or HERS Index score of 75 or less

  • Veteran’s primary residence for at least three years and must be occupied within 60 days after the loan closing

Texas VLB Home Improvement Loans: The VLB Home Improvement Loans provide below-market interest rate loans for home repairs and improvement to existing homes. VLB offers loans up to $50,000 for a 2 to 20-year term or loans from $7,500 – $10,000 for a 2 to 10 year term. Veterans with a VA service-connected disability rating of 30% or greater qualify for a discounted interest rate.

A VLB Home Improvement Loan can be used for alterations, repairs and improvements that are eligible for financing under the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Federal Housing Administration (FHA), Title I Loan program.

No down-payment is required; however, the program requires a $10 flood certification fee and $125 title search fee at time of application, and payment of closing costs.

Some improvements may not be eligible, please consult the Texas Veterans Home Improvement Program, Eligible and Ineligible Improvements Fact Sheet for more information.

To qualify, the property must meet the following requirements:

  • Home being repaired must be completely in Texas

  • Applicant’s primary residence

  • Single Family dwellings, condominiums, duplexes, triplexes, and four-plexes are eligible; however, they must be at least 5 years old

  • Modular or manufactured homes that are on a permanent foundation and are part of the real property may also be eligible

  • Home must be inspected to determine that no work has begun, and no materials have been delivered prior to closing

  • For loans over $25,000, VLB must be in a first lien position

  • Borrower cannot begin construction or advance funds to the contractor or purchase material prior to receipt of the loan proceeds from VLB, loan proceeds will be available on the fourth business day after closing

  • Borrower must hire a general contractor

  • Appraisal report may be required to determine equity in the home for loans over $25,000

National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service members who are called to active duty service may be able to defer their loan payments under certain conditions. Please visit the Texas VLB Service members Civil Relief Act fact sheet for more information.

Learn more about the Texas Veterans Land Board Loan Programs

Texas State Veterans Cemetery Program: Texas has four State Veterans Cemeteries that serve as a dignified final resting place for Veterans and their eligible Family members.

Texas State Veterans Cemetery Locations.

There is no charge for the burial of eligible Veterans, their Spouse and dependents.

Burial Benefits Include.

  • Military honors for Veterans
  • Grave plot
  • Opening and closing of the grave
  • Concrete grave liner for casketed burials
  • Burial of cremated remains, placement in a columbarium niche or scattering garden
  • Headstone or marker
  • Presentation of the burial flag
  • Presidential certificate
  • Playing of Taps and gun salute
  • Perpetual care

Burial benefits do not cover funeral home charges such as the cost of a casket, cremation, viewing, flowers, or transportation of the remains and Family.
Who is eligible for Burial at a Texas State Veterans Cemetery? Eligibility requirements for the burial at a Texas State Veterans Cemetery are the same as for VA National Cemeteries. Exact eligibility requirements can viewed at the VA, National Cemetery Administration Eligibility webpage. The following are the general eligibility requirements:

  • Discharged from active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces under conditions other than dishonorable, or
  • Died while serving on active duty, or
  • Served at least 20 years in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserve and is eligible for military retired pay (or would have been eligible except their death occurred before age 60), or
  • Reserve component Service members if they were activated for federal service, (active duty for training does not qualify)
  • Spouses and dependents (burial of dependent Children is limited to unmarried Children under 21 years old or 23 years old if a full-time student at an approved educational institution or a Child that develops a lifelong disability prior to age 21)

All Veterans are encouraged to complete the Texas Veterans Cemeteries, Pre-Registration Form to establish eligibility prior to need. For question and more information please call 800-252-VETS (8387).
Texas Veterans Commission, Federal and State of Texas Burial Benefits Booklet

Learn more about the Texas State Veterans Cemetery Program

Texas License to Carry a Handgun (LTC) Age Waiver and Fee Waivers for Active Duty Service Members: Active Duty Service members can receive an age waiver which allows Service members under age 21 to receive an LTC, (those without a waiver must be 21 years old). Service members under 21 still cannot purchase handguns, but you can legally possess them.

In addition, Texas offers active duty Service members a fee waiver for new and renewal LTC permits.

 Learn more about Texas License to Carry a Handgun Age Waiver and Fee Waivers for Active Duty Service Members

Legislative

Since 1959, NGAT has been the voice advocating for the men and women of the Texas Army and Air National Guard.

State Sponsored Life Insurance (SSLI)

Group Term Insurance

This is a low-cost group term life insurance policy which provides coverage on the member, their spouse, and their dependent children. Starting at $3.66 a month for $10,000 policy.

 

Free $10,000 Life Insurance

NGAT is proud to offer you a benefit of a $10,000 life insurance policy. This policy is offered to new enlistees of the Texas National Guard. Enrollment needs to be completed within 90 days of your enlistment to take advantage of this offer.

 

Free $1,000 Life Insurance

All currently serving members of the Texas Army and Air National Guard are automatically covered with a FREE $1,000 NGAT Life Insurance policy.

 

Fed Protect

Low cost Group Level Term Life Insurance for current and former members of the Texas National Guard and Texas State Guard between the ages of 18-75 are eligible to apply with coverage continuing through age 121.

Want to join NGAT?

The National Guard Association of Texas (NGAT) appears before various state and national legislative committees to speak on behalf of the Soldiers and Airmen of the Texas Military Forces. This is why your membership is so important. The greater our membership numbers, the more influence NGAT can bring to the political decision-makers and continue the fight on top issues affecting you and your family. Join NGAT today and make a real difference in the fight for your benefits and your future as a member of the Texas Military Forces.