Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in New York

Last updated: August 2025

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Quick help box

If you need help now, start here. These are official, direct contacts.

• Emergencies: Call 911
• Veterans Crisis Line (24/7): Call or text 988, then press 1; chat via the VA: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net
• New York State Department of Veterans’ Services (NYS DVS): 888-838-7697; book an appointment: https://veterans.ny.gov/appointments
• VA Health Care Enrollment and Eligibility: 877-222-8387; enroll online: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
• VA Benefits (disability, pension, burial): 800-827-1000; info: https://www.va.gov/
• NY Connects (statewide aging and disability help): 800-342-9871; https://www.nyconnects.ny.gov/
• 2-1-1 New York (local social services and housing): Dial 2-1-1; https://www.211ny.org/
• Adult Protective Services (report abuse/exploitation): 844-697-3505; https://ocfs.ny.gov/programs/aps/
• New York State Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline (24/7): 800-942-6906; text 844-997-2121; https://opdv.ny.gov/get-help
• NYC Veterans Services (VetConnectNYC): https://www.nyc.gov/veterans

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Emergency help first

• Mental health or suicidal thoughts: Call/text 988 and press 1, or chat at the Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net. You do not need to be enrolled in VA care to use it.
• Medical emergency: Call 911 or go to the nearest ER. If you’re enrolled (or later found eligible) in VA care, emergency care may be covered in certain situations—report the visit to VA within 72 hours. Learn more: https://www.va.gov/communitycare/programs/veterans/Emergency_Care.asp
• Homelessness or at immediate risk:
  • Call 2-1-1 for local shelters and services: https://www.211ny.org/
  • VA Homeless Programs: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ (HUD-VASH, SSVF). You can also ask the VA Medical Center social work office or your local County Veterans Service Agency for rapid help: https://veterans.ny.gov/counties
• Abuse, neglect, or exploitation:
  • Adult Protective Services (NYS): 844-697-3505; info: https://ocfs.ny.gov/programs/aps/
  • Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline (NYS): 800-942-6906; text 844-997-2121; https://opdv.ny.gov/get-help

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How this guide works

This guide focuses on practical, New York–specific steps for veterans roughly age 60+ (some programs start at 60; others at 65). You’ll see direct links to official sources, realistic timelines, and ways to get help with applications. A state Veterans Benefits Advisor can sit with you, review your record, and submit claims at no cost: book with NYS DVS at https://veterans.ny.gov/appointments.

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Table 1. Key numbers and links (save this)

All numbers and links go to official government or established nonprofit pages.

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What to expect and what to watch out for

• Claims take time. Disability and pension claims can take months. New York State and County Veterans Service Officers can help you file a “fully developed claim” to speed things up.
• Bring documents. Discharge papers (DD214), medical records, marriage/divorce certificates, and banking info make applications smoother.
• Avoid paid “consultants.” Accredited help is free. Verify representatives through VA’s accreditation search: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp
• Benefits can affect other programs. For example, pension income may impact SNAP or Medicaid. Ask a benefits advisor or a NY Connects counselor before you switch coverage.

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Core VA benefits most senior veterans use

The federal Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) runs these programs. New York State and County offices can help you apply.

Disability compensation

• What it is: Monthly tax-free payments for injuries or illnesses that were caused or worsened by your service.
• Why it matters: Higher ratings can open doors to more care and state benefits (like property tax exemptions).
• How to apply: Online or with accredited help. Start here: https://www.va.gov/disability/
• Get help in New York: Book with NYS DVS: https://veterans.ny.gov/appointments, or find your county office: https://veterans.ny.gov/counties

Official info: VA Disability Compensation—https://www.va.gov/disability/

VA pension with Aid & Attendance/Housebound

• What it is: A needs-based payment for wartime veterans with limited income and assets. Aid & Attendance (A&A) and Housebound increase the pension for veterans who need help with daily activities or are mostly housebound.
• Why it matters: For seniors who need in-home help or live in assisted living, A&A can be critical.
• How to apply: https://www.va.gov/pension/; A&A details: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• New York tip: Get free help with paperwork from NYS DVS; they know what medical forms show daily living needs.

Official info: VA Pension—https://www.va.gov/pension/

VA health care

• What it is: Comprehensive medical care with copays based on priority group and income, including primary, specialty, mental health, prescriptions, and community care referrals when needed.
• Enroll: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
• Find NY facilities: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
• Using Medicare: Many seniors use Medicare for some care and VA for others. Ask your VA eligibility office about how to coordinate.

Official info: VA Health Care—https://www.va.gov/health-care/

Long-term care, home and community-based services

• What it is: VA supports in-home care, adult day health care, respite, and nursing home options (Community Living Centers, State Veterans Homes, Community Nursing Homes).
• Start here: https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/Long_Term_Services_and_Supports.asp
• New York State Veterans Homes: see “State Veterans Homes” below.

Caregiver support

• What it is: Education, support lines, and in some cases, a monthly stipend for eligible family caregivers of veterans with serious injuries or illnesses.
• Start here: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/

Burial benefits

• What it is: Burial in a national or certain state veterans cemeteries, headstone/marker, burial flag, and possible burial allowances.
• Federal info: https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/
• New York State Veterans Cemetery — Finger Lakes: https://veterans.ny.gov/programs/new-york-state-veterans-cemetery-finger-lakes

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New York State veteran benefits (state-run)

NYS benefits can stack with federal VA benefits. Rules vary by county and city.

Property tax exemptions for veterans

New York offers local-option property tax exemptions. Not every municipality or school district adopts each exemption, and amounts vary.

• Alternative Veterans Exemption (for wartime service; extra for combat and disability): Overview—https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/exemption/alt_vet_exempt.htm
• Cold War Veterans Exemption: Overview—https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/exemption/cold-war.htm
• Eligible Funds Exemption (if you used certain veteran funds to buy your home): Overview—https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/exemption/eligiblefunds.htm
• NYC-specific Veterans Exemption: https://www.nyc.gov/site/finance/benefits/benefits-veterans.page

Apply through your local assessor (or NYC Department of Finance). Your County Veterans Service Agency can help: https://veterans.ny.gov/counties

Table 2. New York veteran property tax relief (at-a-glance)

Tip: Deadlines are often March 1 (outside NYC) but vary. Always check your assessor’s office website.

State annuities

• Blind Annuity Program: Monthly annuity for legally blind wartime veterans or their unremarried surviving spouses. Details change with the state budget. Info and application: https://veterans.ny.gov/programs/blind-annuity-program
• Gold Star Parent Annuity: For parents whose child died in service. Amount set in state law and subject to change. Info: https://veterans.ny.gov/programs/gold-star-parent-annuity-program

Education and training

• Veterans Tuition Awards (VTA): Helps pay tuition at approved NYS institutions; generally up to SUNY in-state tuition. Eligibility and application via HESC: https://www.hesc.ny.gov/pay-for-college/military-corner/veterans-tuition-awards.html
• Military credit at SUNY/CUNY: Learn how your training can count: SUNY—https://system.suny.edu/veterans/; CUNY—https://www.cuny.edu/about/administration/offices/sa/veterans-affairs/

Employment and civil service

• Veterans’ credits on civil service exams: Additional points for eligible veterans (higher for service-connected disabled). Info: https://www.cs.ny.gov/vetcredits/
• Veteran job services and priority at NYS Career Centers: https://dol.ny.gov/veterans

Parks, recreation, hunting and fishing

• Lifetime Liberty Pass (for certain disabled veterans and Gold Star parents): Free or discounted access to NYS parks and facilities. Verify current eligibility and application: https://parks.ny.gov/admission/lifetime-liberty-pass.aspx
• Access Pass (for residents with qualifying disabilities): Free entry to parks, boat launches, etc.: https://parks.ny.gov/admission/access-pass/
• Discounted sporting licenses for resident active duty and veterans with disabilities: https://www.dec.ny.gov/permits/6097.html

Housing and homeownership

• SONYMA “Homes for Veterans” mortgages (low interest; down payment assistance): https://sonyma.org/programs/homes-for-veterans
• Access to Home for Heroes (home accessibility modifications for low- and moderate-income disabled veterans): https://hcr.ny.gov/access-home-heroes
• RESTORE (Emergency home repairs for seniors 60+, income limits apply): https://hcr.ny.gov/restore
• Weatherization Assistance Program (to reduce energy costs): https://otda.ny.gov/programs/wap/

Health, prescriptions, and aging supports

• New York EPIC (Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage) helps Medicare-enrolled seniors 65+ with Part D drug costs. Info: https://aging.ny.gov/programs/elderly-pharmaceutical-insurance-coverage-epic
• NY Connects for long-term care options and caregiver help statewide: https://www.nyconnects.ny.gov/
• State Veterans Homes (nursing home care): NY State Veterans Homes at Batavia, Montrose, Oxford, St. Albans, and the Long Island State Veterans Home at Stony Brook. Info: https://health.ny.gov/facilities/long_term_care/veterans/

DMV and taxes

• “Veteran” status on your NYS driver license or ID: https://dmv.ny.gov/more-info/veteran-status-designation
• Military retirement pay is not taxed by New York State. See NYS tax guidance on military pensions: https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/file/military-pay-and-pensions.htm
• STAR program (school property tax relief; Enhanced STAR for 65+ if income-eligible): https://www.tax.ny.gov/star/

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Table 3. Major VA Medical Centers in New York

Find all VA locations (including clinics and Vet Centers): https://www.va.gov/find-locations/

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Income, food, utilities, and money-saving programs

• SNAP (food assistance): Seniors can apply online or by phone; some may qualify for simplified options. Start here: https://otda.ny.gov/programs/snap/ and https://www.mybenefits.ny.gov/
• Meals on Wheels and congregate meals: Use NY Connects to find providers: https://www.nyconnects.ny.gov/
• HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program): Helps with heating/cooling costs; also emergency benefits and equipment repairs in some cases. Info: https://otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/
• Lifeline (phone/internet discount): The federal Lifeline program reduces monthly phone or internet bills for low-income households. Info and application: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/
  • Note: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) stopped new funding in 2024. See the FCC’s update: https://www.fcc.gov/acp
• Property tax relief: See State exemptions above and STAR: https://www.tax.ny.gov/star/

Tip: VA pension and other benefits can change your income for means-tested programs. Ask NY Connects (800-342-9871) or a County Veterans Service Officer to review your full picture before you apply.

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Table 4. Housing and home repair options

For NYC-specific veteran housing and benefits navigation: https://www.nyc.gov/veterans

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Transportation and mobility

• Reduced-fare public transit (65+ or qualifying disability):
  • MTA (NYC): https://new.mta.info/fares/reduced-fare
  • NYC Paratransit (Access-A-Ride): https://new.mta.info/accessibility/paratransit (Phone: 877-337-2017)
  • Westchester Bee-Line, Nassau NICE, Suffolk County Transit, and others offer senior discounts—check your county transit site or call 2-1-1.
• County veteran vans: Many county Veterans Service Agencies provide rides to VA medical appointments. Ask your county office: https://veterans.ny.gov/counties
• Disabled parking permits: Your municipality issues them based on NYS DMV guidance: https://dmv.ny.gov/parking-placards-disabled-persons

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Table 5. Documents checklist (most-common)

Bring originals if possible; bring copies to leave behind.

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Step-by-step: Filing common applications in New York

1. Disability compensation

• Call NYS DVS (888-838-7697) or your county VSA to start. They’ll help you decide the best path: standard claim, fully developed claim, or supplemental.
• Gather medical evidence and “nexus” letters (if applicable).
• File online: https://www.va.gov/disability/ or with your accredited representative.

2. Pension with Aid & Attendance

• Get your average monthly unreimbursed medical expenses (home care, assisted living, Medicare/Part D premiums, etc.).
• Doctor fills out VA forms documenting help needed with activities of daily living.
• Apply: https://www.va.gov/pension/ and https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/.

3. Property tax exemptions

• Confirm your municipality/school district has adopted the exemption and what documents they need.
• Apply by the local deadline to your assessor (NYC uses the Department of Finance online portal).
• Guidance:
  • State overview: https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/exemption/vetexempt.htm
  • NYC Veterans Exemption: https://www.nyc.gov/site/finance/benefits/benefits-veterans.page

4. Health care enrollment

• Apply online or by phone (877-222-8387). If you have Medicare, tell VA so they can put you in the right priority group and copay status.
• Find your nearest VA facility: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/

5. Education (VTA)

• Check eligibility and apply via NYS HESC: https://www.hesc.ny.gov/pay-for-college/military-corner/veterans-tuition-awards.html

6. State nursing homes

• Contact the home directly to ask about admissions, waitlists, and payer sources (Medicare, Medicaid, VA, private pay). Info hub: https://health.ny.gov/facilities/long_term_care/veterans/

Reality check: Processing can take weeks to months. Keep copies, get receipts, and ask for status updates. If you get a denial, appeal deadlines apply—talk to your representative promptly.

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Health care: using VA, Medicare, Medicaid, and state supports together

• VA health care: Primary and specialty care, prescriptions, prosthetics, mental health, and long-term care options. Enroll: https://www.va.gov/health-care/
• Medicare: Most seniors use Medicare; VA care and Medicare do not “coordinate benefits,” but you can choose where to get care. Many use Medicare for community doctors and VA for prescriptions/specialty care.
• Medicaid: Helps with long-term care and copays if income/assets are limited. Start with your local Department of Social Services or NY Connects: https://www.nyconnects.ny.gov/
• EPIC: If you use Medicare Part D, New York’s EPIC can lower drug costs (65+, income limits). Info: https://aging.ny.gov/programs/elderly-pharmaceutical-insurance-coverage-epic
• Community Care: If VA cannot provide care you need within drive/time standards, VA may refer you to community providers. Learn how it works: https://www.va.gov/communitycare/

Tips:

• Bring all insurance cards to each visit.
• Ask your VA Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT) how refills, labs, and specialty referrals work.
• Keep a list of your medications to avoid duplication between VA and non-VA providers.

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Long-term care, caregivers, and staying at home

• VA Home and Community-Based Services: Homemaker/home health aide, respite, adult day health care, skilled home care. Overview: https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/Home_and_Community_Based_Services.asp
• New York State Veterans Homes: State-run nursing homes dedicated to veterans. Info: https://health.ny.gov/facilities/long_term_care/veterans/
• NY Connects: Free counseling on home care, caregiver support, and Medicaid Managed Long Term Care options. https://www.nyconnects.ny.gov/
• VA Caregiver Support: Education, coaching, support line, and eligibility for stipends (for certain veterans). https://www.caregiver.va.gov/

Reality checks:

• Waitlists exist for in-home aides and State Veterans Homes.
• A&A helps but may not cover full assisted living costs. Plan for out-of-pocket or other supports.
• For safety at home, look into Access to Home for Heroes for modifications: https://hcr.ny.gov/access-home-heroes

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Work, money, and legal help

• Job help with veteran priority: NYS Department of Labor veterans page: https://dol.ny.gov/veterans
• Senior employment (SCSEP): Contact NY State Office for the Aging for local providers: https://aging.ny.gov/employment-and-volunteer-programs
• Free tax preparation: IRS VITA/TCE locator: https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers; AARP Tax-Aide: https://www.aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_taxaide/
• Legal help for veterans (examples):
  • New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) Veterans Practice: https://nylag.org/veterans/
  • Legal Services NYC (veterans): https://www.legalservicesnyc.org/
  • Veterans Defense Program (criminal justice involved veterans): https://www.nysda.org/page/VeteransDefenseProgram
  • VA’s free legal clinics locator: https://www.va.gov/ogc/locations.asp

Scam warning: No one can “guarantee” a rating or pension. Don’t sign over benefits or pay large “consulting” fees. Use accredited help: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp

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Special focus: Inclusive supports

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

• SAGEVets (statewide): Helps LGBTQ+ veterans with benefits, housing, and aging services in New York. https://www.sageusa.org/what-we-do/sagevets/
• VA LGBTQ+ health: Inclusive services and care coordination. https://www.patientcare.va.gov/LGBT/
• NYC resources: NYC Department of Veterans’ Services (navigate benefits and community supports): https://www.nyc.gov/veterans

Tip: Ask your VA or NYS DVS advisor to note your preferred name and pronouns on your record; VA policy supports this.

Disabled senior veterans

• VA disability compensation may increase with worsening conditions—file for an increase if your health has changed: https://www.va.gov/disability/file-disability-claim-form-21-526ez/
• Special Monthly Compensation, A&A, Housebound: https://www.va.gov/disability/compensation-rates/special-monthly-compensation-rates/
• Accessibility: Access to Home for Heroes (home mods): https://hcr.ny.gov/access-home-heroes; MTA Access-A-Ride (NYC): https://new.mta.info/accessibility/paratransit

Tribal-specific resources

• VA Office of Tribal Government Relations (Eastern Region) can connect Native veterans to VA care and benefits: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/
• Native American Direct Loan (NADL) for homes on trust land: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/home-loans/loan-types/native-american-direct-loan/
• Contact your Nation/Tribe social services and health programs; many work directly with local VA facilities.

Rural senior veterans and limited access

• VA Video Connect and telehealth: https://telehealth.va.gov/
• Community Care (when drive/time standards aren’t met): https://www.va.gov/communitycare/
• Transportation: Ask your County Veterans Service Agency about van schedules; explore DAV Transportation Network via your VA facility’s Voluntary Service office.

Female senior veterans

• Women Veterans Program Manager (at every VA Medical Center): Coordinates gender-specific care, mammography, menopause, MST care, and more—ask your VAMC’s WVPM. Find your facility: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
• VA Women Veterans Health: https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/
• NYS DVS Women Veterans Program: https://veterans.ny.gov/programs/women-veterans

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Table 6. Getting from need to program (quick match)

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Resources by region (New York)

Use these to find care nearby. You can always search the full VA locator: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/ and the county VSAs directory: https://veterans.ny.gov/counties

New York City

• VA Medical Centers: Bronx (James J. Peters) https://www.va.gov/bronx-health-care/; VA NY Harbor (Manhattan and Brooklyn) https://www.va.gov/new-york-harbor-health-care/
• NYC Department of Veterans’ Services (VetConnectNYC): https://www.nyc.gov/veterans
• Property tax (NYC Veterans Exemption): https://www.nyc.gov/site/finance/benefits/benefits-veterans.page
• Transit: MTA Reduced-Fare MetroCard: https://new.mta.info/fares/reduced-fare; Access-A-Ride: https://new.mta.info/accessibility/paratransit

Long Island

• Northport VA Medical Center: https://www.va.gov/northport-health-care/
• County Veterans Service Agencies: Suffolk and Nassau via directory: https://veterans.ny.gov/counties
• Recreation: Check Lifetime Liberty Pass: https://parks.ny.gov/admission/lifetime-liberty-pass.aspx

Hudson Valley

• Closest VAMCs: Bronx, Montrose (Hudson Valley HCS clinics), Albany depending on county. Use locator: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
• State Veterans Home at Montrose: https://health.ny.gov/facilities/long_term_care/veterans/
• Property tax: Contact your local assessor (see links under NYS Tax and Finance).

Capital Region

• Albany Stratton VAMC: https://www.va.gov/albany-health-care/
• County VSAs (Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga, etc.): https://veterans.ny.gov/counties
• Saratoga National Cemetery (for burial planning): https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/saratoganc.asp

Central New York

• Syracuse VAMC: https://www.va.gov/syracuse-health-care/
• Access to Home for Heroes and RESTORE for home modifications/repairs: https://hcr.ny.gov/access-home-heroes and https://hcr.ny.gov/restore

Western New York

• Buffalo and Batavia (VA WNY Healthcare System): https://www.va.gov/buffalo-western-new-york-health-care/
• NYS Veterans Home at Batavia (state-operated): https://health.ny.gov/facilities/long_term_care/veterans/

Finger Lakes and Southern Tier

• Canandaigua and Bath VAMCs: https://www.va.gov/finger-lakes-health-care/
• New York State Veterans Cemetery — Finger Lakes (burial planning): https://veterans.ny.gov/programs/new-york-state-veterans-cemetery-finger-lakes

North Country

• Care often coordinated through Albany or Syracuse VAMC and Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs). Use the locator to find the closest clinic: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
• Explore VA telehealth if travel is hard: https://telehealth.va.gov/

If you’re unsure which facility serves you, call VA at 877-222-8387 or ask your County Veterans Service Agency.

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Real-world examples (what it looks like in New York)

• A 78-year-old wartime veteran in Albany County with mobility issues applied for VA pension with Aid & Attendance. The County VSA helped gather medical letters and list out-of-pocket care costs. He qualified for pension and used Access to Home for Heroes to add a ramp and bathroom grab bars. Sources: VA Pension (https://www.va.gov/pension/); Access to Home for Heroes (https://hcr.ny.gov/access-home-heroes).
• A 66-year-old retired veteran homeowner in Queens got the NYC Veterans Property Tax Exemption, lowering her annual bill. She filed online with NYC Department of Finance and called a NYS DVS advisor for help scanning her DD214. Source: NYC Veterans Exemption (https://www.nyc.gov/site/finance/benefits/benefits-veterans.page).
• A 72-year-old veteran in the Southern Tier enrolled in VA health care and used VA Video Connect to meet a specialist, avoiding a two-hour drive. Source: VA Telehealth (https://telehealth.va.gov/).

These examples reflect typical steps and available programs; your results depend on your service record, income, assets, health needs, and local rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: I don’t have my DD214. How do I get it in New York?

• Request copies from the National Archives online: https://www.archives.gov/veterans. Your County Veterans Service Agency can also help you request records: https://veterans.ny.gov/counties.

Q2: I’m over 65. Should I use Medicare or the VA?

• Many seniors use both. Medicare covers non-VA providers; VA covers care at VA and some community care with authorization. Keep both if you can, and ask your VA facility how to coordinate. Info: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/

Q3: How do I book free help with a benefits claim in New York?

• Make an appointment with NYS DVS: https://veterans.ny.gov/appointments or find your County VSA: https://veterans.ny.gov/counties. Help is free and accredited.

Q4: Are there New York property tax breaks for veterans in condos or co-ops?

• Many localities, including NYC, extend veterans exemptions to eligible co-ops and condos, but rules vary. Check local rules and deadlines. NYC info: https://www.nyc.gov/site/finance/benefits/benefits-veterans.page. State overview: https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/exemption/vetexempt.htm.

Q5: What is the difference between VA pension and Aid & Attendance?

• is a needs-based benefit for wartime veterans. Aid & Attendance (A&A) is an add-on for those who need help with daily activities. Start here: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/.

Q6: Can my spouse get benefits if I pass away?

• Possibly. Survivors may be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), Survivors Pension, and burial benefits. Learn more: https://www.va.gov/family-member-benefits/.

Q7: Is there a state veterans cemetery in New York?

• Yes. New York State Veterans Cemetery — Finger Lakes provides interments for eligible veterans and families. Info: https://veterans.ny.gov/programs/new-york-state-veterans-cemetery-finger-lakes. Federal national cemeteries also operate in the state: https://www.cem.va.gov/.

Q8: I’m a disabled veteran. Do I get free entry to state parks?

• Eligible disabled veterans and Gold Star parents may qualify for the Lifetime Liberty Pass. Requirements can change; check current details: https://parks.ny.gov/admission/lifetime-liberty-pass.aspx.

Q9: I’m a senior living in NYC and can’t ride the subway easily. What are my options?

• Apply for Reduced-Fare MetroCard (65+): https://new.mta.info/fares/reduced-fare and consider Access-A-Ride paratransit: https://new.mta.info/accessibility/paratransit.

Q10: Where can I get housing help fast?

• For immediate risk, call 2-1-1. For veteran-specific programs, ask about SSVF (prevention/rapid rehousing) and HUD-VASH (voucher + case management): https://www.va.gov/homeless/. NYC veterans can use VetConnectNYC: https://www.nyc.gov/veterans.

Q11: Does New York tax my military retirement pay?

• New York State does not tax military retirement pay. See: https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/file/military-pay-and-pensions.htm.

Q12: Are there special programs for LGBTQ+ veterans in New York?

• Yes. SAGEVets works statewide: https://www.sageusa.org/what-we-do/sagevets/. VA also provides LGBTQ+ affirming care: https://www.patientcare.va.gov/LGBT/.

Q13: How do I find a State Veterans Home near me?

• New York’s list is here: https://health.ny.gov/facilities/long_term_care/veterans/. Call the home to ask about waitlists and eligibility.

Q14: Can I still get help if I was discharged with less than Honorable?

• Some benefits depend on character of discharge. You can seek a discharge upgrade or a “character of discharge” review. Info: https://www.va.gov/discharge-upgrade-instructions/.

Q15: Does VA help with internet or phone bills?

• VA does not. The federal Lifeline program may help based on income: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/. The ACP program ended new funding in 2024: https://www.fcc.gov/acp.

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Practical tips to avoid delays

• Use accredited help (free) for claims: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp
• Upload clear scans and label files (e.g., “DrSmith_AA_form_May2025.pdf”).
• For A&A, ask your doctor to list help needed with bathing, dressing, toileting, feeding, and mobility—these details matter.
• Keep a benefits folder at home. Put award letters, decisions, and tax forms where you can find them quickly.
• If your health worsens, tell VA. You may qualify for a higher rating or new benefits.

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Reality checks and warnings

• Local differences: Property tax exemptions and park pass rules can vary by county/city and change year to year. Always verify with the official office before applying.
• Beware of “pension poachers”: Some sellers push annuities or trusts to “qualify” for VA pension. Talk to NYS DVS or a legal aid group before buying financial products.
• Don’t miss appeal deadlines: VA decisions come with time limits. If you disagree, contact your representative promptly.

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Resources (official, state, federal, and established nonprofits)

• NYS Department of Veterans’ Services: https://veterans.ny.gov/
• County Veterans Service Agencies (directory): https://veterans.ny.gov/counties
• VA benefits and health: https://www.va.gov/
• VA health enrollment: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
• VA facility locator: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
• Veterans Tuition Awards (HESC): https://www.hesc.ny.gov/pay-for-college/military-corner/veterans-tuition-awards.html
• NYS property tax exemptions for veterans: https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/exemption/vetexempt.htm
• NYC Veterans Exemption: https://www.nyc.gov/site/finance/benefits/benefits-veterans.page
• State Veterans Homes: https://health.ny.gov/facilities/long_term_care/veterans/
• SONYMA Homes for Veterans: https://sonyma.org/programs/homes-for-veterans
• Access to Home for Heroes: https://hcr.ny.gov/access-home-heroes
• RESTORE (seniors): https://hcr.ny.gov/restore
• SNAP in New York: https://otda.ny.gov/programs/snap/
• HEAP: https://otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/
• EPIC (prescription help): https://aging.ny.gov/programs/elderly-pharmaceutical-insurance-coverage-epic
• SSVF: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/
• HUD-VASH: https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash/
• SAGEVets: https://www.sageusa.org/what-we-do/sagevets/
• Women Veterans Health: https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/
• VA Caregiver Support: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/
• Lifeline: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/
• 2-1-1 New York: https://www.211ny.org/
• NY Connects: https://www.nyconnects.ny.gov/
• NYC Department of Veterans’ Services: https://www.nyc.gov/veterans

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About this guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

• Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
• Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
• Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

• Last Updated: August 2025
• Sources Verified: August 2025
• Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only. Benefits, eligibility, dollar amounts, and application steps can change. Always verify details with the official agency or program. For personal advice, speak with a NYS Department of Veterans’ Services representative, your County Veterans Service Agency, or the VA.