Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Minnesota

Last updated: August 2025

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Quick Help Box

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What’s inside this guide

This guide focuses on Minnesota-specific steps, contacts, and benefits for veterans age 60+. You’ll find how to get help fast, what programs cover, who qualifies, how to apply, and what to expect. We include realities and tips, not just the sunny parts. All claims include links to official or well‑established sources.

Tip: Save or print this guide. Use your CVSO to do applications with you.

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Emergency and urgent help (read this first)

• Mental health or suicidal thoughts: Call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line, text 838255, or chat online. It’s free and confidential 24/7. Source: Veterans Crisis Line (VA).
• Homeless or facing eviction: Call MACV at 1-833-222-6228. They coordinate housing, legal, and income supports for veterans statewide. Source: MACV.
• Any Minnesota veteran need: Call LinkVet at 1-888-LinkVet (546-5838) for information and warm referrals to state and federal programs. Source: LinkVet – Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA).
• Medical emergency: Call 911. If enrolled in VA health care, notify VA within 72 hours of emergency community care to help with coverage. Source: VA Emergency Medical Care.

Reality check: Emergency shelter and same‑day mental health support exist, but permanent housing and specialty appointments can take time. Keep calling and document every contact. Ask for a written safety plan.

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How to get one-on-one help to navigate benefits

• County Veterans Service Officers (CVSOs): Every Minnesota county has trained staff to help you apply for VA and state benefits at no cost. They can file claims, gather records, and appeal decisions. Source: Find a Minnesota CVSO (MDVA).
• Minnesota LinkVet: 1-888-LinkVet (546-5838). They point you to the right local office and can follow up. Source: LinkVet.
• VA Benefits Assistance: The St. Paul VA regional office provides benefits assistance and outreach. Source: St. Paul VA Regional Office.
• Accredited VSOs: Organizations like DAV, VFW, American Legion offer accredited service officers. Source: VA Office of General Counsel – Accreditation Search.

Tip: Bring your DD214, VA decision letters, Social Security award letter, bank info (for direct deposit), and a list of current meds and doctors to any appointment.

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Money, taxes, and everyday bills

Minnesota’s Disabled Veterans’ Property Tax Exclusion (big savings for many)

Minnesota reduces your taxable home value if you have a qualifying VA disability rating.

• 100% permanent and total (or IU): Up to $300,000 of market value excluded.
• 70% to 90% service-connected: Up to $150,000 of market value excluded.
• Certain surviving spouses and line-of-duty survivors may also qualify.

Apply through your county assessor with your VA rating letter. Deadlines and proof requirements apply. Source: Minnesota Department of Revenue – Disabled Veterans’ Homestead Market Value Exclusion.

Reality check: You must reapply if your status changes (for example, after a re‑rating). File early with your assessor; processing can take weeks.

Other Minnesota property tax programs for seniors

• Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral: If you’re 65+ and meet income and equity limits, your taxes can be deferred (paid later, often at sale). Source: MN Dept. of Revenue – Senior Citizens Property Tax Deferral.
• Homestead Credit Refund and Renter’s Property Tax Refund: Helps homeowners and renters with property tax burden. Source: MN Dept. of Revenue – Property Tax Refunds.

State Soldiers Assistance Program (SSAP)

Temporary financial help for eligible Minnesota veterans and dependents. Can cover rent/mortgage, utilities, special needs (like car repair for work), and limited dental assistance. Apply with help from your CVSO. Source: MDVA – State Soldiers Assistance Program.

Reality check: Funds are limited and documentation is strict (proof of bills, income, and veteran status). Apply early; decisions can take time.

Food, energy, and utilities

• SNAP (food assistance): Monthly grocery benefit; seniors can use a simpler application. Apply online at MNbenefits or through your county/tribe. Sources: MN DHS – SNAP • Apply at MNbenefits.
• NAPS (Senior Food Program): Extra shelf‑stable food for low‑income seniors 60+ through the USDA CSFP program, operated by Second Harvest Heartland in Minnesota. Source: NAPS – Second Harvest Heartland.
• Energy Assistance Program (EAP): Helps pay heat and electric bills and prevent shutoffs. Source: Minnesota Energy Assistance – Dept. of Commerce.
• Lifeline/Affordable phone: Discounted phone/internet for low-income households. Sources: FCC Lifeline • MN Public Utilities Commission – Telephone Discounts.

Quick look: Money and tax benefits

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Health care, long-term care, and daily support

VA health care in Minnesota

• Minneapolis VA Health Care System and St. Cloud VA Health Care System provide primary care, specialty care, mental health, and geriatrics, with clinics across the state. Sources: Minneapolis VA Health Care System • St. Cloud VA Health Care System.
• Geriatrics and Extended Care: VA offers programs like Home Based Primary Care, Adult Day Health Care, respite, and hospice. Source: VA Geriatrics & Extended Care.
• Enroll or check eligibility: Apply online, by phone, by mail, or in person. Source: Enroll in VA health care.

Reality check: Specialty referrals and dental care have limits. Most veterans do not qualify for full VA dental unless certain criteria are met (for example, 100% SC P&T). Source: VA Dental Benefits.

Aid and Attendance and Housebound (long-term care add-on)

For wartime veterans and survivors who get a VA pension and need help with daily activities or are housebound, VA pays a higher amount to help with in‑home care or assisted living. Source: VA Aid & Attendance and Housebound.

Apply: Submit VA Form 21-2680 (and 21-0779 if in a facility). Your CVSO can help.

Reality check: This benefit is for pension-eligible veterans/survivors, not for those only on VA disability compensation.

Minnesota Veterans Homes (state-run)

Minnesota operates skilled nursing and other levels of care for eligible veterans and, in some cases, spouses. There are locations statewide, including the three newer homes opened in 2023.

Source: Minnesota Veterans Homes (MDVA)

Reality check: Wait lists exist, especially for memory care. Apply early and keep your information updated. You may be responsible for a portion of costs based on income/assets. Source: MDVA – Veterans Homes.

Medicare, Medicaid (Medical Assistance), and state long-term services

• Medicare: Health insurance for 65+. Veterans often use Medicare plus VA. Enroll on time to avoid penalties. Source: Medicare.gov.
• Medical Assistance (Minnesota Medicaid): For low-income seniors; may cover long-term services and supports. Source: MN DHS – Medical Assistance.
• Elderly Waiver (EW): Home- and community-based services to help you stay at home instead of a nursing home. Source: MN DHS – Elderly Waiver.
• Veterans Directed Care (where available): Gives you a budget to hire caregivers you choose. Ask your VA primary care team or social worker. Source: VA – Veterans Directed Care.
• Caregiver Support: For family caregivers of veterans, including coaching, respite, and in some cases a stipend. Source: VA Caregiver Support Program.

Tip: Call the Senior LinkAge Line to compare Medicare plans with your VA care and check Medicaid/Elderly Waiver options. Source: Senior LinkAge Line (MN Board on Aging) – 1-800-333-2433.

Transportation to medical care

• VA Beneficiary Travel: Mileage reimbursement or special transport for eligible veterans traveling to VA appointments. Source: VA Travel Pay.
• DAV Transportation Network: Free rides to VA medical appointments, coordinated from VA medical centers. Source: DAV MN Transportation.
• Metro Mobility (Twin Cities): Shared-ride service for people with disabilities who can’t use regular buses. Source: Metro Mobility – Metropolitan Council.
• Medical Assistance Nonemergency Medical Transportation (NEMT): For MA enrollees. Source: MN DHS – Medical Transportation.

Reality check: Book rides early, expect wait times, and confirm appointment times in writing. Keep receipts for travel pay claims.

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Housing and homelessness support

• MACV: Rapid re-housing, landlord mediation, legal services, employment help, and Stand Down events across Minnesota. Source: MACV.
• HUD-VASH: Housing Choice Voucher with VA case management for homeless veterans. Apply through VA social work. Sources: HUD-VASH (VA) • HUD Minnesota – Public Housing Agencies.
• Minnesota Housing: State programs for rental help and homeowner assistance (when available). Source: Minnesota Housing Finance Agency.
• Housing Support (formerly Group Residential Housing): Helps pay for room and board in certain facilities. Source: MN DHS – Housing Support.

Tip: If you get a denial, ask for the reason in writing and appeal by the deadline. Your CVSO or legal aid can help.

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Legal, financial counseling, and consumer protection

• MACV Legal Clinics: Help with housing, benefits, expungement, and more. Source: MACV Legal Services.
• Minnesota Attorney General: Report scams, elder abuse, and get consumer help. Source: MN Attorney General – Seniors and Consumers.
• Social Security: Claiming strategies, retirement/SSDI/SSI, and survivor benefits. Source: SSA – Veterans and Military.
• Senior LinkAge Line: Free, unbiased benefits counseling. Source: MN Board on Aging.

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Education, work, and community

• Minnesota GI Bill (state): Education and training funding for eligible veterans, current service members, and some spouses/dependents. Seniors can use it for approved training or certifications. Source: Minnesota GI Bill – Office of Higher Education.
• Veterans Preference in public employment: Extra points/preference for qualified veterans applying to public sector jobs. Source: MDVA – Veterans Preference.
• SCSEP (Senior Community Service Employment Program): Paid training for low-income job seekers 55+. Source: MN DEED – Older Workers.

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Burial and survivor support

• Minnesota State Veterans Cemeteries: Little Falls, Preston, Duluth, and Redwood Falls (newer). Burial is at no cost to the veteran; fees may apply for spouses/dependents. Source: MDVA – State Veterans Cemeteries.
• Military Funeral Honors: Coordinate through MDVA. Source: MDVA – Military Funeral Honors.
• VA burial benefits and planning: Headstones, markers, burial flags, and survivor benefits. Source: VA Burial Benefits.
• VA Survivors Pension and DIC: Monthly benefits for eligible surviving spouses/dependents. Source: VA Survivors and Dependents.

Tip: Keep discharge papers, marriage certificates, and VA decision letters in one folder. Tell a trusted family member where they are.

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Minnesota outdoor and licensing perks

• State Parks: Free annual vehicle permit for Minnesota residents with 100% service-connected disability. Source: MN DNR – Free State Park Permit for 100% Disabled Veterans.
• Hunting and fishing: Reduced-fee or no-fee licenses for eligible veterans with disabilities; check specific criteria. Source: MN DNR – Military and Veteran Licenses.
• Driver’s license and plates: Veteran designation on MN driver’s license/ID; Disabled Veteran plates available. Sources: MN DPS – Veteran Designation • MN DPS – License Plates.

Reality check: Bring proof of eligibility (VA letter) for DNR perks and plates. Benefits may not apply to nonresidents.

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Health and long-term care summary (at a glance)

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Application steps you can follow with your CVSO

• VA Disability Compensation
  • Gather: DD214, medical records, buddy statements.
  • Apply online or via your CVSO. Source: File for VA Disability.
  • Reality check: Evidence quality matters. Keep copies of everything. Appeals take time.
• VA Pension and Aid & Attendance
  • Check wartime service, income/assets, and care needs. Source: VA Pension.
  • Submit VA Forms 21-527EZ/21-534EZ and medical forms. Source: Aid & Attendance.
• Minnesota Property Tax Exclusion for Disabled Veterans
  • Contact your county assessor. Provide VA rating letter and proof of occupancy/ownership.
  • Source: MN Revenue – DV Exclusion.
• State Soldiers Assistance Program
  • Work with your CVSO. Bring bills, lease/mortgage, ID, proof of income.
  • Source: SSAP (MDVA).
• SNAP and Energy Assistance
  • Apply online or with county/tribal office.
  • Sources: MNbenefits • Energy Assistance.

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Inclusivity: tailored help for different groups

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

• Each VA medical center has an LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator to help with inclusive care and benefits. Sources: VA LGBTQ+ Health Program.
• Minneapolis and St. Cloud VAs provide affirming primary and mental health care; ask your Patient Aligned Care Team for a referral. Sources: Minneapolis VA • St. Cloud VA.

Tip: If you face any barrier, ask for the facility’s Patient Advocate and the LGBTQ+ Care Coordinator by name.

Disabled senior veterans

• Combine supports: Minnesota Disabled Veterans’ Property Tax Exclusion, VA Specially Adapted Housing grants, vehicle grants/adaptations, and caregiver programs. Sources: MN Revenue – DV Exclusion • VA SAH Grants • VA Auto Allowance.
• Transportation: DAV vans, VA travel pay, Metro Mobility (Twin Cities), and NEMT for MA enrollees. Sources above.

Reality check: Home modification grants require medical documentation, property ownership, and time for approvals. Start early.

Tribal veterans (Native American and Alaska Native veterans in Minnesota)

• Native American Direct Loan (NADL): Home loans for eligible Native American veterans on trust land. Source: VA Native American Direct Loan.
• Indian Health Service – Bemidji Area: Health services for eligible tribal members. Source: IHS Bemidji Area.
• Tribal Veteran Service Officers (TVSOs): Many Minnesota tribal nations have TVSOs who can file claims and coordinate with MDVA/VA. Ask your tribal office or use the MDVA CVSO locator. Source: Find a CVSO (MDVA).
• Minnesota Indian Affairs Council: Tribal government contacts and resources. Source: Minnesota Indian Affairs Council.

Rural senior veterans with limited access

• Telehealth: Use VA Video Connect from home or local sites; ask about loaner tablets and data support. Source: VA Video Connect.
• Local rides: Ask your CVSO about DAV vans and volunteer driver networks in your county. Sources: DAV MN Transportation.
• Broadband help: Check Minnesota’s Office of Broadband Development for expansion and line extension programs. Source: MN Office of Broadband Development.

Reality check: Rural broadband and rides can be limited. Book early, and keep a back‑up plan with neighbors, family, or faith groups.

Women senior veterans

• Women Veterans Coordinator (MDVA): State-level help navigating health, benefits, and outreach. Source: MDVA – Women Veterans.
• VA Women’s Health: Gender‑specific primary care, mammography, osteoporosis screening, and MST (military sexual trauma) care. Sources: VA Women Veterans Health Care.

Tip: Ask your VA facility for the Women Veterans Program Manager for care coordination.

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Who can help me apply? (quick reference)

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Resources by region in Minnesota

This is not exhaustive, but it gives you strong starting points near you.

Twin Cities Metro (Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, Washington)

• VA Care: Minneapolis VA Health Care System
• CVSO: Use the MDVA CVSO locator.
• Area Agency on Aging: Trellis (Metro AAA) – 651-641-8612
• Rides: Metro Mobility

Northeast (St. Louis, Lake, Cook, Carlton, Itasca)

• VA Care: Duluth CBOC (through Minneapolis VA) • Duluth VA Clinic info
• State Veterans Home: Silver Bay
• AAA: Arrowhead Area Agency on Aging – 1-800-232-0707

Northwest and West-Central (Beltrami, Polk, Clay, Becker, Otter Tail)

• VA Care: Bemidji VA Clinic • Fergus Falls VA Clinic
• State Veterans Homes: Bemidji, Fergus Falls, Montevideo
• AAA: Dancing Sky Area Agency on Aging – 1-800-333-2433

Central Minnesota (Stearns, Benton, Sherburne, Wright, Morrison)

• VA Care: St. Cloud VA Health Care System
• State Veterans Cemetery: Little Falls
• AAA: Central MN Council on Aging – 320-253-9349

Southeast (Olmsted, Winona, Mower, Fillmore)

• VA Care: Clinics in Rochester and Austin (see system locators) • Minneapolis VA Clinics
• State Veterans Home: Preston
• AAA: Southeastern MN Area Agency on Aging – 1-800-333-2433

Southwest and South-Central (Blue Earth, Nicollet, Brown, Nobles, Rock)

• VA Care: Clinics in Mankato, St. James, Worthington (see VA locators) • St. Cloud/Minneapolis VA Clinics
• State Veterans Homes: Luverne, Montevideo
• AAA: Minnesota River Area Agency on Aging – 1-800-333-2433

If you are unsure which office to call, start with LinkVet at 1-888-LinkVet.

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Common realities, tips, and warnings

• Watch deadlines: Property tax programs and appeals have strict dates. Always ask for a receipt or confirmation when you apply.
• Keep one folder: Put all benefits letters, decisions, and copies of forms in a single, labeled folder. It saves hours later.
• Scams: If anyone guarantees VA benefits for a fee, walk away. Help from CVSOs and accredited VSOs is free. Report scams to the Minnesota Attorney General. Source: MN AG – Report a Scam.
• Hospital visits: If you go to a non‑VA ER, contact VA within 72 hours to discuss coverage. Source: VA Emergency Care.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I find my County Veterans Service Officer in Minnesota?
A: Use the official locator to find phone and address by county. Source: Find a Minnesota CVSO (MDVA).

Q: I’m a 100% service-connected disabled veteran. What Minnesota tax breaks apply to my home?
A: You may qualify for up to a $300,000 market value exclusion on your homestead, which can significantly reduce your property taxes. Apply with your county assessor. Source: MN Dept. of Revenue – Disabled Veterans’ Exclusion.

Q: Are there nursing homes specifically for veterans in Minnesota?
A: Yes. Minnesota operates Veterans Homes in Minneapolis, Hastings (domiciliary), Silver Bay, Fergus Falls, Luverne, and the newer homes in Bemidji, Montevideo, and Preston. Wait lists are common. Source: MDVA – Veterans Homes.

Q: Can I get both VA health care and Medicare?
A: Yes. Many veterans use both. VA does not bill Medicare for VA services, but Medicare covers care in the community. Enroll in Medicare on time to avoid penalties. Source: Medicare.gov – Veterans.

Q: What if I need help with daily activities at home?
A: Ask about VA Aid & Attendance (if you receive a VA pension), VA Homemaker/Home Health Aide, and Minnesota’s Elderly Waiver. Your VA social worker, CVSO, or Senior LinkAge Line can help. Sources: Aid & Attendance (VA) • Elderly Waiver (MN DHS).

Q: I’m homeless or about to be. Who do I call first?
A: Call MACV at 1-833-222-6228 and your nearest VA medical center Social Work office. Ask about HUD‑VASH, SSVF, and emergency shelter. Sources: MACV • VA Homeless Programs.

Q: I’m a surviving spouse. What benefits should I check?
A: Ask about VA DIC, Survivors Pension, state property tax benefits (where applicable), and burial benefits. Source: VA Survivors and Dependents.

Q: Are there special benefits for women veterans in Minnesota?
A: Yes. MDVA has a Women Veterans Coordinator, and each VA has a Women Veterans Program Manager for gender‑specific care. Sources: MDVA – Women Veterans • Women’s Health (VA).

Q: I’m a Native American veteran living on tribal land. Can I use VA home loans?
A: You may qualify for the VA Native American Direct Loan (NADL) on trust land, if your tribe has a MOU with VA. Source: VA NADL.

Q: How do I get free or reduced-fee fishing and state park access?
A: Minnesota DNR offers certain license and park permit benefits to eligible veterans (especially 100% disabled). Bring your VA letter. Source: MN DNR – Military/Veteran Licenses.

Q: Where can I get help understanding Medicare and long-term care?
A: Call the Senior LinkAge Line at 1-800-333-2433 for free counseling. Source: Senior LinkAge Line.

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Program comparison tables

Minnesota Veterans Homes vs. Private Nursing Homes (high-level)

Sources: MDVA – Veterans Homes • Medicare Care Compare.

Housing help options for senior veterans

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Key official links (bookmark these)

• Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA): Homepage
• County Veterans Service Officers: Find your CVSO
• LinkVet (24/7): Info and referrals
• VA.gov: All VA benefits
• Minneapolis VA Health Care: Services and locations
• St. Cloud VA Health Care: Services and locations
• MACV: Housing, legal, employment
• Senior LinkAge Line: Get help with Medicare and LTSS
• MN Dept. of Revenue: Property tax benefits
• MN DHS: Aging and long-term services

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Resources (alphabetical)

• Aid & Attendance (VA): Program page
• DAV Minnesota (rides and advocacy): Transportation and services
• Elderly Waiver (MN DHS): Overview
• Energy Assistance (MN Commerce): Apply/learn more
• IHS Bemidji Area: Services
• LinkVet (MDVA): 24/7 helpline
• MACV: Get help
• MDVA – State Soldiers Assistance Program: SSAP info
• Medicare: Official site
• Minneapolis VA Health Care System: Official site
• Minnesota DNR – Military/Veterans Licenses: Benefits
• Minnesota GI Bill: State program
• Minnesota Office of Broadband Development: Programs
• MN Dept. of Revenue – Disabled Veterans’ Exclusion: Program
• MN DHS – Medical Assistance: Program
• Senior LinkAge Line: Get help
• SNAP – Minnesota DHS: Program info
• State Veterans Cemeteries (MDVA): Locations and eligibility
• St. Cloud VA Health Care System: Official site
• VA Benefits – Apply: VA.gov
• VA Caregiver Support: Program
• VA Dental Care: Eligibility
• VA Travel Pay: Reimbursement
• Veterans Crisis Line: 988 press 1
• Women Veterans – MDVA: Coordinator

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Disclaimer

Programs, eligibility, and dollar amounts change. This guide is for general information only and is not legal or financial advice. Always verify details with the agency or program using the official links provided. If you find an error or a broken link, please contact the agency directly and consider telling your CVSO.

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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.