Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Montana (Ultimate Authority Guide)

Last updated: August 2025

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Quick help box (keep this handy)

• In crisis now: Call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or use chat at Veterans Crisis Line. Private support 24/7. Source: Veterans Crisis Line (https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/)
• VA health advice (24/7 Nurse advice line): Call MyVA411 at 800-698-2411 (TTY: 711). Source: VA Contact Center (https://www.va.gov/contact-us/)
• VA benefits questions: Call 800-827-1000 or check VA benefits online. Source: VA Benefits (https://www.va.gov/disability/)
• VA Montana Health Care System: Start at VA Montana Health Care. Source: VA Montana (https://www.va.gov/montana-health-care/)
• Find a local (free) accredited representative: VA accreditation search. Source: VA OGC Accreditation (https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp)
• Statewide help finding services: Montana 2‑1‑1 (dial 211) or visit Montana 211 (https://montana211.org/)

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What this guide does

This is a practical, Montana‑specific guide for senior veterans and families. You’ll find step‑by‑step tips, contacts, and direct links to official sources. We cover urgent help first, then health care, money and taxes, housing and long‑term care, transportation, legal records, and inclusive resources for groups who often face extra barriers.

We use plain language and link to government or well‑established sources so you can double‑check details. Programs and phone numbers can change; always verify on the official site before you apply.

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Emergency and urgent help (start here)

If safety is at risk or you need urgent support, use the quickest option below.

• Mental health crisis or thoughts of self‑harm: Call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat online. Source: Veterans Crisis Line (https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/)
• Immediate medical emergency: Call 911. If you’re enrolled in VA health care and were taken to a community ER, notify VA within 72 hours so they can review coverage. Source: VA Emergency Care (https://www.va.gov/COMMUNITYCARE/programs/veterans/Emergency_Care.asp)
• Domestic or intimate partner violence: The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 800‑799‑7233 or chat online. VA has confidential support through Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program. Sources: The Hotline (https://www.thehotline.org/), VA IPV Assistance (https://www.socialwork.va.gov/IPV/)
• At risk of homelessness: Contact the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877‑4AID‑VET (877‑424‑3838). Source: VA Homeless Programs (https://www.va.gov/homeless/)
• Need immediate food, heat, or shelter referrals: Dial 211 or use Montana 211 (https://montana211.org/)

Table: Emergency contacts at a glance

Reality check: In rural Montana, winter weather, long distances, and spotty cell coverage can slow response times. If possible, keep a charged phone, written contacts, and a basic winter car kit. For VA emergency care decisions, timing and documentation matter—keep discharge papers and receipts.

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How to get one‑on‑one benefits help in Montana

• Work with an accredited representative (free). They help file claims, appeals, pensions, and more.
  • Search the VA accreditation database by city/county. Source: VA OGC Accreditation (https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp)
  • You can also get help from the Montana Veterans Affairs Division (state service officers). Find Montana service offices and contacts on the MVAD website/directory. Source: Montana Veterans Affairs Division (https://dma.mt.gov/) then navigate to Veterans Affairs Division.
• Gather key documents:
  • DD214 (or equivalent discharge): Request online. Source: National Archives (https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records)
  • Marriage, divorce, and birth records if applying for dependents benefits.
  • Medical evidence (private or VA records), income and asset info for needs‑based benefits (like VA pension). Source: VA Pension (https://www.va.gov/pension/)

Tip: If you have limited mobility or live far from a city, ask the VSO for phone/virtual appointments and mail‑in or online filing. VA now accepts many forms online with digital signatures. Source: VA Online Filing (https://www.va.gov/)

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VA health care in Montana

The VA Montana Health Care System is centered at Fort Harrison near Helena and serves veterans across the state through clinics and telehealth. Source: VA Montana Health Care (https://www.va.gov/montana-health-care/)

• Enroll in VA health care (it’s not automatic). Apply online, by phone, by mail, or in person. Source: VA Health Care Enrollment (https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/)
• If you live far from a VA clinic, you may qualify for care in the community under the MISSION Act (based on drive time/wait times/availability). Source: VA Community Care (https://www.va.gov/communitycare/)

Major VA Montana facilities

Use the VA Montana locations directory for addresses, clinic hours, and phone numbers. Source: VA Montana Locations (https://www.va.gov/montana-health-care/locations/)

Reality check: Appointment availability can vary by clinic and specialty, and winter travel can be hard. If you cannot safely reach a VA clinic, ask your VA team about video visits or community care options.

Key health programs seniors ask about:

• Geriatrics and Extended Care: Home‑based primary care, palliative care, and facility care. Source: VA Geriatrics (https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/)
• Caregiver support: Education, respite, and, for eligible cases, a stipend under the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. Sources: VA Caregiver Support (https://www.caregiver.va.gov/), PCAFC (https://www.caregiver.va.gov/support/support_benefits.asp)
• Long‑term services: See Montana State Veterans Homes in the Housing section and VA’s long‑term care overview. Source: VA Long‑Term Care (https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/Long-Term_Care.asp)
• Dental care: Eligibility is limited; many veterans qualify only in specific situations. Check official criteria. Source: VA Dental Eligibility (https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care/)

Travel and mileage pay:

• If eligible, VA can reimburse travel to VA or VA‑approved community appointments. Enrollment, income, or disability status can affect eligibility. File within required time limits. Source: VA Beneficiary Travel (https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/)

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Money and taxes: Benefits seniors use most

Here’s a quick overview. Each listing links to the official page and what to expect.

Reality check: Many programs have income limits, asset tests, application windows, or need medical paperwork. Property tax relief applications often run in spring—don’t miss deadlines. Always use the official form and keep copies.

Tips for success:

• Work with a VSO to complete pension/A&A forms; missing medical evidence causes delays. Source: VA Pension (https://www.va.gov/pension/)
• For Montana property tax relief, review current income limits on the Department of Revenue site and file before the yearly deadline. Source: MT Dept. of Revenue (https://mtrevenue.gov/)
• If your income changes mid‑year (for example, if you start receiving DIC), report it to programs like SNAP/LIEAP to avoid overpayments. Source: DPHHS SNAP (https://dphhs.mt.gov/hcsd/snap)

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Housing and long‑term care

If you need a place to stay fast, or you’re planning for assisted living or nursing care, here’s where to look.

Homelessness prevention and rapid rehousing

• Call 877‑424‑3838 to reach VA Homeless Programs and get routed to local help like Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF), HUD‑VASH (housing vouchers), and Grant & Per Diem transitional housing. Source: VA Homeless Programs (https://www.va.gov/homeless/)
• If you use state or local shelters, ask if they partner with SSVF for veteran‑specific case management. Source: VA SSVF (https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/)

Montana State Veterans Homes

• Montana has state veterans homes offering skilled nursing, and some offer assisted living. Admissions criteria vary (service, discharge, residency, medical need). Check the current details and contacts in the VA’s State Veterans Homes directory, then call the facility for bed status and applications. Source: VA State Veterans Homes (https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/Guide/LongTermCare/State_Veterans_Homes.asp)

Other long‑term care pathways

• VA long‑term care: Depending on service connection, income, and need, VA may provide or subsidize nursing home care, community living centers, or home‑based services. Source: VA Long‑Term Care (https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/Long-Term_Care.asp)
• Medicaid long‑term care and Home & Community‑Based Services (HCBS): For low‑income seniors who meet level‑of‑care criteria. Apply through Montana DPHHS. Source: Montana Healthcare Programs (Medicaid) (https://dphhs.mt.gov/montanahealthcareprograms)
• Veteran Directed Care (self‑directed in‑home support where available): Ask your VA Montana social worker if offered in your area. Program overview: https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/Veteran-Directed_Care.asp

Reality check: Beds in popular facilities can be limited, and Medicaid/VA approvals take time. Start early and keep a Plan B. If you live far from a facility, ask about tele‑tours, waitlists, and whether they accept Medicaid pending.

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Transportation and getting to care

Montana distances are real. Here’s how to make travel manageable.

Tips:

• Winter can cancel van routes. Book early, ask about weather policies, and confirm the day before.
• Keep appointment letters and have your itinerary handy for travel claims. Source: VA Beneficiary Travel (https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/)

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Montana taxes, vehicles, outdoor benefits

Property tax relief for disabled veterans and seniors

• Disabled Veterans Property Tax Assistance (MDV/PTAP): For qualifying disabled veterans and certain surviving spouses. Reduces property taxes on a primary residence; reduction depends on income. Confirm current limits, documentation, and deadlines with the Montana Department of Revenue. Source: MT Dept. of Revenue—Property Tax Relief Programs (https://mtrevenue.gov/taxes/property-tax/property-tax-relief-programs/)
• Property Tax Assistance Program (PTAP): For low‑ to moderate‑income homeowners (not veteran‑specific). Source: MT Dept. of Revenue—PTAP (https://mtrevenue.gov/taxes/property-tax/property-tax-relief-programs/)
• Elderly Homeowner/Renter Credit (age 62+): Refundable state income tax credit. Source: MT Dept. of Revenue—Elderly Credit (https://mtrevenue.gov/taxes/individual-income-tax/credits/elderly-homeownerrenter-credit/)

Vehicle and driver services

• Disabled Veteran license plates/fee considerations: See Montana Department of Justice Motor Vehicle Division for military and veteran plates and any fee reductions tied to disability status. Source: Montana DOJ MVD—License Plates (https://dojmt.gov/vehicle/license-plates/)
• Veteran designation on driver licenses/ID: Verify documentation and fees with MVD. Source: Montana DOJ MVD (https://dojmt.gov/driving/)

Outdoor licenses and parks

• Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks offers certain discounts for resident disabled veterans (e.g., reduced‑cost licenses). Check eligibility and current fees. Source: Montana FWP—Licenses (https://fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply)
• State Parks access is governed by FWP; review current resident rules and any veteran discounts. Source: Montana State Parks (https://fwp.mt.gov/stateparks)

Reality check: Benefits change. Always check the current year’s fee schedule and eligibility on the official site before you pay.

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Work, education, and training

• GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon: Use with Montana colleges and training programs. Verify your school’s certifying official and programs covered. Source: VA Education Benefits (https://www.va.gov/education/)
• Veteran campus support: Contact Veteran Services at University of Montana or Montana State University for credit for military training, VA certifying officials, and tutoring. Sources: UM Veterans Services (https://www.umt.edu/veterans/), MSU Veteran Services (https://www.montana.edu/veteran/)
• Montana University System waivers: Some waivers exist for specific groups (e.g., war orphans, certain veterans). Check MUS policies and your campus financial aid office for current rules. Source: Montana University System (https://mus.edu/) — search “veteran waiver”.
• Employment help: Job Service Montana has veteran representatives for resume help and priority of service. Source: Job Service Montana (https://wsd.dli.mt.gov/job-service-montana/)

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Legal help and military records

• DD214 and service records: Request online. Source: National Archives (https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records)
• Discharge upgrades/character of service issues: Learn the process and deadlines. Source: VA Character of Discharge (https://www.va.gov/discharge-upgrade-instructions/)
• Free/low‑cost legal help: Montana Legal Services Association may assist with civil legal issues (housing, benefits, consumer). Check availability. Source: Montana Legal Services (https://www.mtlsa.org/)
• Consumer scams and identity protection: Report to the Montana Office of Consumer Protection. Source: Montana DOJ—Consumer Protection (https://dojmt.gov/consumer/)

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Burial and memorial benefits in Montana

• State Veterans Cemeteries: Montana has state veterans cemeteries (Western Montana, Eastern Montana, and Fort Harrison). Check eligibility, scheduling, and contacts using the National Cemetery Administration’s directory of state veterans cemeteries, then select Montana. Source: NCA State Cemeteries (https://www.cem.va.gov/cem/state.asp)
• National burial benefits: Headstone/marker, burial flag, Presidential Memorial Certificate, and burial allowance (eligibility applies). Source: VA Burial Benefits (https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/)
• Military funeral honors: Coordinate through the funeral home and the appropriate service branch. Overview: DoD Military Funeral Honors (https://www.dmdc.osd.mil/mfh/)

Tip: Keep the DD214 accessible and tell your family which cemetery you prefer. Funeral homes can help coordinate VA paperwork.

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Inclusive resources: tailored help for Montana seniors

Disabled senior veterans

• Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) for severe disabilities; home/auto adaptations through HISA and SAH/SHA. Sources: SMC (https://www.va.gov/disability/special-monthly-compensation/), HISA (https://www.prosthetics.va.gov/HISA2.asp), SAH/SHA (https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/)
• Mobility and equipment through VA Prosthetics; ask your VA provider for a referral. Source: VA Prosthetics (https://www.prosthetics.va.gov/)
• Transportation: Combine DAV vans, VA travel pay, and local paratransit. Sources: DAV Rides (https://www.dav.org/veterans/i-need-a-ride/), VA Travel Pay (https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/), MDT Transit (https://www.mdt.mt.gov/publictransit/)

Women veterans (including senior women)

• Women Veterans Program offers gender‑specific primary care, mammography referrals, maternity coordination, and care for military sexual trauma (MST). Source: VA Women Veterans (https://www.va.gov/womenvet/)
• MST care is available regardless of disability claim status. Source: VA MST (https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.asp)

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

• Every VA medical center has an LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator to help with respectful, affirming care. Source: VA LGBTQ+ Health (https://www.patientcare.va.gov/LGBT/)
• VA covers gender‑affirming mental health and hormone therapy when clinically indicated; check with your VA team for specifics. Source: VA LGBTQ+ Health (https://www.patientcare.va.gov/LGBT/)

Tribal and Native veterans in Montana

• Many American Indian and Alaska Native veterans use both IHS and VA. VA and IHS/tribes have reimbursement agreements so veterans can receive care at IHS/tribal facilities with VA reimbursement in many cases. Ask your local IHS/tribal clinic if they participate. Sources: VA Office of Tribal Government Relations (https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/), IHS Billings Area (https://www.ihs.gov/billings/)
• Montana has multiple tribal nations and reservations; a tribal veterans service officer or tribal health department can often help coordinate VA and IHS benefits.

Rural senior veterans with limited access

• Use VA Video Connect for appointments when roads are bad or travel costs are high. Source: VA Telehealth (https://telehealth.va.gov/)
• If home internet is limited, ask your clinic about telehealth sites or community libraries that host VA telehealth sessions; also ask about phone‑based visits when appropriate.
• Consider mail‑order pharmacy from VA to reduce trips. Source: VA Pharmacy (https://www.va.gov/health-care/refill-track-prescriptions/)

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Resources by region (Montana)

Use this section to find your closest hubs and who to call first.

Note: For the latest clinic addresses, hours, and phone numbers, always use VA’s Locations directory. Source: VA Montana Locations (https://www.va.gov/montana-health-care/locations/)

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Step‑by‑step: common Montana senior veteran goals

Apply for VA Pension with Aid & Attendance

1. Gather DD214, marriage status, income, assets, and medical evidence showing need for help with daily activities. Source: VA Pension/A&A (https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-and-attendance-housebound/)
2. File online or by mail (VA Form 21P‑527EZ for veterans; 21P‑534EZ for survivors). Source: VA Forms (https://www.va.gov/find-forms/)
3. Ask a VSO to review before submitting to avoid delays. Source: VA OGC Accreditation (https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp)

Reduce Montana property taxes (disabled veteran)

1. Review current eligibility and income bands on the Montana Department of Revenue site. Source: MT Dept. of Revenue (https://mtrevenue.gov/)
2. Complete the Disabled Veterans Property Tax Assistance application and submit by the annual deadline with proof of VA disability rating and income.
3. Keep copies; re‑certify if the program requires updates.

Get to a winter appointment from a rural area

1. Ask your VA clinic whether a video visit is appropriate. Source: VA Telehealth (https://telehealth.va.gov/)
2. If in‑person is required, book DAV van transport early and start a travel pay claim if eligible. Sources: DAV Rides (https://www.dav.org/veterans/i-need-a-ride/), VA Travel Pay (https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/)
3. Combine labs, imaging, and specialist visits in one trip when possible.

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Frequently Asked Questions (Montana‑specific)

Q: How do I enroll in VA Montana health care?

• Apply online, by phone, by mail, or in person. You’ll need your discharge papers and basic info. Source: VA Health Care Enrollment (https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/)

Q: I’m a 100% disabled veteran. Do I automatically get Montana property tax relief?

• Property tax relief is not automatic. You must apply, meet income limits, and the reduction applies to your primary residence. Check the current criteria with the Department of Revenue. Source: MT Dept. of Revenue—Property Tax Relief (https://mtrevenue.gov/taxes/property-tax/property-tax-relief-programs/)

Q: Can I use both IHS and VA in Montana?

• Yes. Many Native veterans use both. VA has reimbursement agreements with IHS and some tribes so eligible veterans can receive care at participating IHS/tribal facilities with VA reimbursement. Ask your local IHS clinic if they participate. Sources: VA Office of Tribal Government Relations (https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/), IHS Billings Area (https://www.ihs.gov/billings/)

Q: Is dental care included for all veterans at VA?

• No. VA dental eligibility is limited to certain categories (e.g., service‑connected dental conditions, former POWs). Many veterans don’t qualify for full VA dental. Check criteria and options. Source: VA Dental (https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care/)

Q: How do I get a ride to Fort Harrison or my local CBOC?

• Ask about DAV vans (book early) and check eligibility for VA travel pay. Your clinic’s Voluntary Service office can give local van schedules. Sources: DAV Transportation (https://www.dav.org/veterans/i-need-a-ride/), VA Travel Pay (https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/)

Q: What are Montana’s state veterans cemeteries and how do I apply?

• Montana has state veterans cemeteries in Helena (Fort Harrison), Missoula (Western Montana), and Miles City (Eastern Montana). Use the NCA directory for current contacts and eligibility, then coordinate through your funeral home. Source: NCA State Cemeteries (https://www.cem.va.gov/cem/state.asp)

Q: I’m a surviving spouse in my 70s. Should I apply for DIC or Survivors Pension?

• It depends. DIC is for deaths related to service. Survivors Pension is needs‑based for low‑income survivors of wartime veterans. Some survivors qualify for one, not both. A VSO can help you check. Sources: DIC (https://www.va.gov/disability/dependency-indemnity-compensation/), Survivors Pension (https://www.va.gov/pension/survivors-pension/)

Q: I live in a remote area without good internet. Can I still do VA telehealth?

• Often yes. Ask about phone visits, community telehealth sites, or cellular‑based solutions. Source: VA Telehealth (https://telehealth.va.gov/)

Q: How do I protect myself from scams targeting veterans?

• Never pay for forms or “guaranteed” claim services. Use accredited representatives and report scams to the Montana Office of Consumer Protection. Sources: VA OGC Accreditation (https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp), MT Consumer Protection (https://dojmt.gov/consumer/)

Q: Where can I find local, trusted help with food and heating bills this winter?

• Contact Montana 211 for local programs, apply for SNAP and LIEAP with DPHHS, and ask your county aging office about emergency funds. Sources: Montana 211 (https://montana211.org/), SNAP (https://dphhs.mt.gov/hcsd/snap), LIEAP (https://dphhs.mt.gov/hcsd/energyassistance)

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Key links and contacts (bookmark these)

Table: Montana senior veteran resources

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Reality checks, warnings, and tips

• Don’t pay for forms or quick‑fix services. Accredited VSOs file claims for free. Source: VA OGC Accreditation (https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp)
• Keep copies of everything (claims, tax relief applications, receipts). Mail with tracking or submit online if available.
• Winter and wildfire seasons can disrupt appointments and mail. Request 90‑day refills and use VA mail‑order pharmacy. Source: VA Pharmacy (https://www.va.gov/health-care/refill-track-prescriptions/)
• For needs‑based programs (VA pension, SNAP, Medicaid), report income changes quickly to avoid overpayments. Sources: VA Pension (https://www.va.gov/pension/), DPHHS programs (https://dphhs.mt.gov/)
• For property tax relief, verify the current year’s income bands and deadlines on the Department of Revenue site before applying. Source: MT Dept. of Revenue (https://mtrevenue.gov/)

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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. It is not legal, tax, medical, or financial advice. Programs change, and eligibility can vary. Always verify details on the official agency website or with an accredited representative before you apply or make decisions.