Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Nevada

Last updated: August 2025

This practical guide pulls together federal and Nevada-specific benefits for older veterans and their families. It includes direct links to official sources so you can verify details and apply.


Quick Help Box

If you need help now, start here.

Need What to do Official resource
Medical or safety emergency Call 911 Local emergency services
Mental health crisis Call 988, then press 1 for Veterans Veterans Crisis Line: 988 (Press 1) or chat at the Veterans Crisis Line website: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
Homeless or at risk Call 877-424-3838 (24/7) National Call Center for Homeless Veterans: https://www.va.gov/homeless/
Not sure where to start Call 2-1-1 or search the website Nevada 211 statewide help: https://www.nevada211.org/
Enroll in VA health care Apply online or by phone Apply for VA health care online: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
Find your VA in Nevada Choose your system VA Southern Nevada (Las Vegas): https://www.va.gov/southern-nevada-health-care/ — VA Sierra Nevada (Reno): https://www.va.gov/sierra-nevada-health-care/
Emergency care at non-VA ER VA may cover if you notify in time VA guide to non-VA emergency care and 72-hour notification: https://www.va.gov/resources/emergency-medical-care-in-non-va-facilities/
Speak with a Nevada Veterans Service Officer (free claims help) Schedule a call/visit Nevada Department of Veterans Services (NDVS) service officers: https://veterans.nv.gov/benefits-and-services/claims/

Emergency help in Nevada

Reality check: Don’t wait on paperwork in an emergency. Get care first, then notify VA as soon as possible using the instructions on VA’s emergency care page. Keep copies of bills and discharge papers.


How VA health care works in Nevada

Nevada has two main VA health care systems. You can enroll in either based on where you live. Both offer primary and specialty care, urgent care, and connections to community providers when needed.

Nevada VA medical systems and services

VA system Where it serves Key services for seniors Start here
VA Southern Nevada Health Care System (North Las Vegas) Clark County and southern Nevada Primary care, cardiology, cancer care, surgery, mental health, audiology, low-vision, home-based primary care, caregiver support Visit VA Southern Nevada Health Care: https://www.va.gov/southern-nevada-health-care/
VA Sierra Nevada Health Care System (Reno) Washoe County and northern Nevada Primary care, geriatrics and extended care, rehab, mental health, telehealth, specialty clinics, community care referrals Visit VA Sierra Nevada Health Care: https://www.va.gov/sierra-nevada-health-care/
Vet Centers (readjustment counseling) Las Vegas, Reno, and mobile/outstations Confidential counseling for combat veterans and survivors of MST; family and group counseling Las Vegas Vet Center: https://www.va.gov/las-vegas-vet-center/ — Reno Vet Center: https://www.va.gov/reno-vet-center/
  • Enroll or check eligibility: Apply online, by mail, in person, or by phone. Details: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
  • Geriatrics and long-term services: Home-based primary care, adult day health care, respite, and more may be available depending on need. Learn more: https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/
  • Caregiver support: Find training, stipends (if eligible), and respite through VA’s Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers and other supports: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/
  • Community Care (seeing non-VA specialists): VA may refer you to non-VA care if VA can’t provide the service you need in a timely manner. Overview: https://www.va.gov/communitycare/

Reality check: Appointment wait times can vary. Ask for Patient Advocacy at your VA if delays are causing problems, and ask whether Community Care is appropriate for your situation.


Money, pensions, and tax relief

Core federal benefits for older veterans

Tip: Pension rules have income/asset limits and look-back periods for transfers. Review VA’s official pension pages and consider free guidance from an accredited VSO through NDVS: https://veterans.nv.gov/benefits-and-services/claims/

Nevada state benefits that can save you money

Benefit What it is Who may qualify Where to apply
Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption Reduces your property tax bill by a set exemption amount based on your disability rating Nevada resident veterans with a qualifying service-connected disability; surviving spouses may also qualify in some cases Overview and statutes via Nevada Department of Taxation: https://tax.nv.gov/LocalGovt/PropertyTax/Exemptions/ — Apply through your County Assessor (example: Clark County Disabled Veteran Exemption): https://www.clarkcountynv.gov/government/assessor/disabled_veterans_exemption.php
Vehicle plates and driver ID with “Veteran” Specialty plates (including Disabled Veteran) and a veteran designation on your driver license/ID Honorably discharged veterans; extra plate types for awards and disabilities Nevada DMV Veterans page: https://dmv.nv.gov/veterans.htm
Nevada State Parks pass for veterans with disabilities Discounted or free day-use/camping at Nevada State Parks (eligibility and fees vary) Nevada resident veterans with qualifying service-connected disabilities See State Parks discounts for veterans: https://parks.nv.gov/fees/discounts
Hunting & fishing discounts Reduced-fee licenses for qualifying veterans Nevada resident veterans; additional discounts for disabled veterans Nevada Department of Wildlife veterans licensing: https://www.ndow.org/learn-discover/veterans/
No state income tax Nevada does not levy a personal income tax All Nevada residents Nevada Department of Taxation overview site: https://tax.nv.gov/

Reality check: Property tax exemptions aren’t automatic. You must apply (and re-file if required by your county). Bring proof of disability rating and Nevada residency.

Help with everyday bills

Program What it helps with Where to apply
SNAP (food assistance) Monthly funds on an EBT card for groceries Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services (DWSS): https://dwss.nv.gov/
Energy Assistance Program (EAP) Helps pay power/gas bills for income-eligible households Apply through DWSS: https://dwss.nv.gov/Energy/energy_assistance_program/
Medicaid and long-term care waivers Medical coverage and, if eligible, home care or nursing home coverage Nevada Division of Health Care Financing and Policy: https://dhcfp.nv.gov/
Medicare counseling (free) Compare plans, Part D drug coverage, Extra Help Nevada SHIP via ADSD: https://adsd.nv.gov/Programs/Seniors/SHIP/SHIP/
Senior Rx/Disability Rx (state pharmacy help) State assistance that may help with prescription costs for eligible residents Nevada Aging and Disability Services programs: https://adsd.nv.gov/ (search “Senior Rx” on the ADSD site)

Tip: If you use VA pharmacies and also have Medicare Part D, talk to Nevada SHIP about how to avoid paying for duplicate coverage: https://adsd.nv.gov/Programs/Seniors/SHIP/SHIP/


Housing, home repairs, and avoiding homelessness

Reality check: Don’t sign contracts with “pension planners” who promise to qualify you for Aid & Attendance in exchange for moving assets. VA warns about “pension poaching” scams here: https://www.va.gov/pension/pension-poaching/


Long-term care and Nevada State Veterans Homes

Nevada operates two State Veterans Homes that provide skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and memory care for eligible veterans and some family members.

Tip: Ask about payer sources (Medicare, Medicaid, VA benefits, and private pay) directly with the admissions office for the latest details.


Transportation to medical care

Getting to appointments can be tough in Nevada’s wide-open spaces. Here are realistic options to line up rides.

Option Area How it works Learn more
VA transportation and DAV rides Statewide Volunteer rides to VA medical appointments. Availability varies by county. Schedule early. Start at your VA facility’s transportation page or use DAV’s ride request: https://www.dav.org/veterans/i-need-a-ride/
RTC Southern Nevada reduced fares Las Vegas/Clark County Reduced fares for seniors and veterans (with valid ID). RTC reduced fares info: https://www.rtcsnv.com/ways-to-travel/reduced-fares/
RTC Washoe reduced fares Reno/Sparks/Washoe County Discounted fares for seniors and veterans. RTC Washoe discount fares: https://www.rtcwashoe.com/ride/fares/discount-fares/
Medicaid Non-Emergency Medical Transport (NEMT) Statewide (for Medicaid members) Rides to covered medical visits if you qualify for Medicaid. Nevada Medicaid overview (ask about NEMT): https://dhcfp.nv.gov/
VA telehealth Rural and statewide Video visits from home or local sites; devices and data help may be available. VA telehealth overview: https://telehealth.va.gov/

Reality check: Volunteer ride programs fill up fast. Book as early as allowed, and keep backup plans like telehealth if your provider offers it.


Nevada Department of Veterans Services (NDVS): your in-state hub

NDVS coordinates many state-level benefits and offers free help filing VA claims.

Tip: NDVS can also point you to county, city, or nonprofit partners for housing, legal help, and transportation.


Legal help and identity documents


Medicare, TRICARE, and VA: how they fit

Reality check: Doctors in your community may not accept new Medicare or TRICARE patients quickly. Plan ahead during Medicare Open Enrollment and keep your VA primary care active for backup options.


Inclusive supports

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

Disabled senior veterans

Tribal veterans in Nevada

Tip: If you receive Indian Health Service (IHS) care, you can still use VA and Medicare. Coordinate with your providers for referrals and billing.

Rural senior veterans with limited access

Female senior veterans


Applying for popular benefits: step-by-step

Benefit Steps to apply Need to know
VA disability compensation 1) Gather evidence (medical records, nexus letters if needed). 2) File online or with a VSO. 3) Attend C&P exam if scheduled. File here: https://www.va.gov/disability/ — Free help: NDVS VSOs: https://veterans.nv.gov/benefits-and-services/claims/
VA pension with Aid & Attendance 1) Review eligibility and income limits. 2) Complete forms (often VA Form 21P-527EZ or 21P-534EZ for survivors). 3) Submit medical evidence about ADL needs. Pension info and forms: https://www.va.gov/pension/ and A&A details: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
Nevada Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption 1) Get your VA disability rating letter. 2) Prove Nevada residency. 3) File with your County Assessor before the deadline. State overview: https://tax.nv.gov/LocalGovt/PropertyTax/Exemptions/ — Example county portal (Clark): https://www.clarkcountynv.gov/government/assessor/disabled_veterans_exemption.php
VA health care enrollment 1) Apply online or by phone/mail. 2) If accepted, pick a primary care team. 3) Ask about travel pay and telehealth. Enrollment page: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
Medicare plan review 1) Make a list of doctors and drugs. 2) Call Nevada SHIP for unbiased help. 3) Enroll or switch plans during allowed windows. Nevada SHIP: https://adsd.nv.gov/Programs/Seniors/SHIP/SHIP/

Reality check: Complex cases (pension plus Medicaid, or multiple VA claims) are easier with help. Accredited VSOs don’t charge for filing claims.


Resources by region

Southern Nevada (Las Vegas and Clark County)

Northern Nevada (Reno, Sparks, Washoe County)

Rural and Frontier Nevada


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I know if I qualify for the Nevada Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption?
A:Eligibility is defined in Nevada law and usually depends on your VA service-connected disability rating and Nevada residency. Start with the Nevada Department of Taxation’s exemptions page (https://tax.nv.gov/LocalGovt/PropertyTax/Exemptions/) and then file with your County Assessor (e.g., Clark County:  https://www.clarkcountynv.gov/government/assessor/disabled_veterans_exemption.php). Bring your VA rating letter and proof of residency.

Q: What’s the difference between VA pension Aid & Attendance and Medicaid in Nevada? Can I have both?
A: Aid & Attendance is a VA pension add-on for veterans or survivors needing help with daily activities. Nevada Medicaid is state-run medical coverage that can fund long-term care if you meet income, asset, and level-of-care rules. Some people receive both, but Medicaid may count part of the VA pension toward share of cost. Get counseling from NDVS (https://veterans.nv.gov/benefits-and-services/claims/) and Nevada Medicaid (https://dhcfp.nv.gov/).

Q: Can I go to any hospital in a medical emergency and have VA pay?
A: Sometimes. VA may cover non-VA emergency care if specific conditions are met and you notify VA within 72 hours. Review the rules and reporting steps here: https://www.va.gov/resources/emergency-medical-care-in-non-va-facilities/. Keep all receipts and discharge paperwork.

Q: Where can I get free help to file a VA claim in Nevada?
A: Contact the Nevada Department of Veterans Services (NDVS) for accredited Veterans Service Officers who assist at no cost: https://veterans.nv.gov/benefits-and-services/claims/.

Q: I’m a woman veteran. Is there a specific contact at my VA in Nevada?
A: Yes. Each VA system has a Women Veterans Program. Find contacts and services: https://www.va.gov/southern-nevada-health-care/women-veterans-care/ and Sierra Nevada: https://www.va.gov/sierra-nevada-health-care/women-veterans-care/.

Q: I live far from Reno or Las Vegas. Can I still get VA specialty care?
A: Ask about VA telehealth, mobile clinics, and Community Care referrals if travel time is long. Learn about rural options via the VA Office of Rural Health: https://www.ruralhealth.va.gov/.

Q: I lost my DD214. How do I replace it?
A: Request your military records online through the National Archives:  https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records.

Q: Are there Nevada State Veterans Cemeteries, and how do I apply?
A: Yes—Fernley and Boulder City. Eligibility is similar to national cemeteries. See NDVS for details and contacts:  https://veterans.nv.gov/locations/nevada-state-veterans-cemeteries/.

Q: Do Nevada State Veterans Homes take Medicare or Medicaid?
A: Many state veterans homes accept Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay, but policies can change. Contact the Sparks or Boulder City home directly via NDVS: https://veterans.nv.gov/benefits-and-services/state-veterans-homes/.

Q: How do I get discounted bus fare as a veteran or senior?
A: For the Las Vegas area, see RTC Southern Nevada reduced fares: https://www.rtcsnv.com/ways-to-travel/reduced-fares/. For Reno/Sparks, see RTC Washoe discount fares: https://www.rtcwashoe.com/ride/fares/discount-fares/.


More official resources (one place to bookmark)


Reality checks, warnings, and practical tips

  • Keep a benefits folder. Include your DD214, VA rating decisions, medical summaries, and any court orders (like POA). It speeds up every application.
  • Watch for scams. If someone says they can “qualify you for VA pension” for a fee, walk away and read VA’s warning on pension poaching: https://www.va.gov/pension/pension-poaching/
  • Re-apply deadlines. Property tax exemptions and some discounts require re-application or renewal. Put renewal dates on your calendar.
  • Telehealth is your friend. Nevada distances are large. Ask your VA team if your next visit can be virtual to save time and travel costs.
  • Don’t go it alone. Use NDVS VSOs for claims and appeals at no cost: https://veterans.nv.gov/benefits-and-services/claims/

Disclaimer

Programs, eligibility, amounts, and processes change. Always confirm details with the official agency or program website linked in this guide before you apply or make decisions. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, or medical advice.


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, 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 Reviewed: through October 2024; please verify any updates on the linked official sites
  • 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.

About the Authors

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Analic Mata-Murray holds a Communications degree with a focus on Journalism and Advertising from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello. With over 11 years of experience as a volunteer translator for The Salvation Army, she has helped Spanish-speaking communities access critical resources and navigate poverty alleviation programs.

As Managing Editor at Grants for Seniors, Analic oversees all content to ensure accuracy and accessibility. Her bilingual expertise allows her to create and review content in both English and Spanish, specializing in community resources, housing assistance, and emergency aid programs.

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor, BA Psychology

Senior Healthcare Editor

Yolanda Taylor is a Senior Healthcare Editor with over six years of clinical experience as a medical assistant in diverse healthcare settings, including OB/GYN, family medicine, and specialty clinics. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Sacramento.

At Grants for Seniors, Yolanda oversees healthcare-related content, ensuring medical accuracy and accessibility. Her clinical background allows her to translate complex medical terminology into clear guidance for seniors navigating Medicare, Medicaid, and dental care options. She is bilingual in Spanish and English and holds Lay Counselor certification and CPR/BLS certification.