Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Massachusetts

Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Massachusetts (Authority Hub Guide)

Last updated: August 2025


Quick help box (emergency and urgent contacts)

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

Table: Fast contacts at a glance

Service What they do How to reach
Veterans Crisis Line 24/7 crisis support for veterans and families Call 988 then 1; text 838255; chat at Veterans Crisis Line
Local Veterans’ Service Officer (VSO) Help with Chapter 115, VA claims, state benefits, and local aid Find your VSO via Executive Office of Veterans’ Services
VA Homeless Programs Shelter, rapid rehousing, HUD-VASH, SSVF Call 877-4AID-VET; visit VA Homeless Programs
MassOptions Answers and referrals for aging, disability, caregiving 1-844-422-6277; MassOptions
MA Behavioral Health Help Line 24/7 mental health and substance use support 833-773-2445; MA Behavioral Health Help Line
VA Health Care Enrollment Apply for VA health care Apply at VA Health Care—How to apply

Tip: Your municipal VSO is often the fastest way to unlock Massachusetts-specific benefits (like Chapter 115). If you’re not sure where to start, start there.


How this guide helps

This guide brings together the major benefits available to older veterans in Massachusetts: money, health care, housing, tax relief, transportation, and more. We focus on state-specific programs and offices first, and then show how they connect with federal VA benefits. We include direct links to official state and federal pages so you can verify details and apply online.

Reality check: Each city and town in Massachusetts runs parts of the state veterans’ benefits system locally through its VSO. Rules can be complex. Expect some paperwork, proof of income, and follow-up. This guide points you to the right offices to make it easier.


What to do first: a simple starting plan

  1. Contact your local VSO for a benefits check
  1. Gather core documents (make copies)
  • DD214 (or other discharge papers)
  • Massachusetts ID/driver’s license
  • Proof of income (Social Security, pension, VA compensation/pension)
  • Bank statements
  • Rent/mortgage, utility bills, lease
  • Medical records for disability claims
  • Marriage certificate; spouse or survivor paperwork if applicable

Table: Document checklist

Document Why it matters
DD214 or separation papers Proves military service and discharge characterization
Photo ID and proof of residency Required for state/local benefits
Income and bank statements Needed for needs-based programs (e.g., Chapter 115)
Housing/utility bills To request help with rent, fuel, or utilities
Medical records Supports disability, Aid & Attendance, caregiver programs
Marriage/birth/death certificates Confirms dependents and survivor status
  1. Check your health coverage
  1. If housing is unstable, call now

Warning: Don’t wait to apply because you’re unsure. Most programs start help from the date you apply—not before.


Money and financial benefits in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has some unique supports for veterans and their families. Many run through your city or town VSO and the Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans’ Services (EOVS).

Chapter 115 benefits (Massachusetts state veterans’ financial assistance)

  • What it is: A Massachusetts program offering income-based financial help for eligible veterans and their dependents. It can cover rent, utilities, fuel, medical costs, and other basic needs. It is administered locally by VSOs and reimbursed by the state.
  • Who qualifies: Eligibility includes Massachusetts residency and income/asset limits set by EOVS. Surviving spouses/dependents may also qualify.
  • How to apply: Contact your local VSO. Be ready to share income, assets, and expenses.
  • Learn more: Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans’ Services: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/executive-office-of-veterans-services

Reality check: Chapter 115 is generous compared to many states, but it’s paperwork heavy. If your situation changes (income, housing), tell your VSO promptly—benefit levels can change month-to-month.

Massachusetts annuity for certain disabled veterans and Gold Star families

  • What it is: An annual Massachusetts annuity for eligible 100% disabled veterans, Gold Star spouses, and Gold Star parents, paid in two installments each year.
  • How to apply: Through EOVS; your VSO can assist.
  • Official info: Executive Office of Veterans’ Services: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/executive-office-of-veterans-services

Note: The payment amount can change via state law. Always check the official EOVS page for the current amount.

Massachusetts Veterans’ Bonus Program (State Treasurer)

  • What it is: One-time bonuses for veterans who served during specific wartime periods and deployments (e.g., World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Persian Gulf, and more recent conflicts).
  • Who qualifies: Massachusetts residents who served honorably during eligible periods; amounts and criteria vary by conflict.
  • How to apply and details: State Treasurer’s Veterans’ Bonus Division: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/veterans-bonus-division

Property tax relief for Massachusetts veterans

  • What it is: Property tax exemptions (often called Clause 22 exemptions) for eligible disabled veterans, Purple Heart recipients, and some surviving spouses. The benefit level depends on disability rating and other factors, and may be increased by local options.
  • How to apply: Through your local city/town Assessor’s Office. Bring your VA disability award letter and proof of residency.
  • Official guidance: Massachusetts Department of Revenue—Property Tax Personal Exemptions (includes veterans): https://www.mass.gov/info-details/personal-exemptions-for-property-tax

Tip: Ask your Assessor about motor vehicle excise exemptions for certain disabled veterans and about local option increases.

Senior Circuit Breaker tax credit (age 65+)

  • What it is: A Massachusetts income tax credit for eligible seniors 65+ who pay property taxes or rent on their primary residence. It’s not veteran-specific but can help.
  • How to claim: On your Massachusetts state tax return. Income and home value limits apply and change each year.
  • Learn more: Massachusetts Department of Revenue—Senior Circuit Breaker: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/senior-circuit-breaker-tax-credit

VA pension with Aid and Attendance or Housebound

  • What it is: Needs-based monthly pension for low-income wartime veterans age 65+ or with disabilities. Aid and Attendance/Housebound can increase the pension if you need help with daily activities or are largely confined to home.
  • How to apply: File online or with help from a VSO.
  • Official info: VA Pension and Aid & Attendance: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-and-attendance-housebound/

Food and utility help

Table: Money and tax relief—quick comparison

Program What it covers Who it’s for Where to start
Chapter 115 (state) Rent, utilities, medical, basic needs Income-based MA veterans/survivors Executive Office of Veterans’ Services (contact your VSO)
State Annuity Annual payment (twice a year) 100% disabled veterans; Gold Star families Executive Office of Veterans’ Services
Veterans’ Bonus One-time cash bonus Eligible service by conflict Veterans’ Bonus Division (MA Treasurer)
Property Tax Exemptions Local property tax relief Disabled veterans, Purple Heart, survivors DOR overview; apply with local Assessor
Senior Circuit Breaker State income tax credit Massachusetts residents age 65+ DOR—Senior Circuit Breaker
VA Pension (A&A/Housebound) Monthly income support Low-income wartime veterans age 65+ or disabled VA Pension—Aid & Attendance

Example: A 74-year-old Vietnam veteran renting in Worcester with limited income brought his DD214, lease, and bank statements to the city VSO and was approved for Chapter 115 to help with rent and utilities. The same VSO helped him file for VA pension with Aid and Attendance due to mobility limits. Results can vary, but many veterans qualify for more than one program at the same time.


Health care, Medicare, and long-term care

Enroll in VA health care (and keep Medicare)

Reality check: Medicare Advantage and Medigap rules can be confusing next to VA care. Use SHINE to compare your options before making changes.

Major VA health systems in Massachusetts

Long-term care options

Mental health and caregiver support

Table: Health and long-term care pathways

Need Program Where to start
Primary/specialty care, prescriptions VA Health Care Apply online at VA Health Care—How to apply
Medicare choices help SHINE counseling SHINE
Home care and supports MassOptions and EOEA network MassOptions
Skilled nursing for veterans Veterans’ Homes (Chelsea, Holyoke) EOVS—Veterans’ Homes
Caregiver support VA Caregiver Support; MA Family Caregiver Support VA Caregiver Support; MA Family Caregiver Support
Mental health/substance use VA mental health; MA Behavioral Health Help Line VA mental health; MA Behavioral Health Help Line

Housing and homelessness help

Tip: If you’re at risk of eviction, call your VSO first and also reach the VA Homeless hotline at 877-424-3838. Early intervention can prevent a court filing.

Table: Housing supports

Situation Program Contact/Link
Homeless now or within days VA Homeless Programs 877-424-3838; VA Homeless Programs
Need long-term rental subsidy + case management HUD-VASH HUD-VASH
Need short-term rent/utility help to prevent homelessness SSVF (local providers) SSVF
Transitional housing VA GPD providers GPD
State fuel assistance LIHEAP LIHEAP
Energy-saving upgrades Mass Save Mass Save

Transportation and mobility

Reality check: Paratransit and volunteer ride programs often require advance booking and medical or eligibility paperwork. Plan ahead for specialty appointments.


Work, education, and small business

Tip: If you’re a surviving spouse using VA education benefits, your campus veterans’ office can help coordinate school billing with VA.


Taxes, legal help, and consumer protection

Warning: Beware of firms that charge to file VA claims. For VA disability and pension, use accredited VSOs or VA-accredited attorneys/agents only: https://www.va.gov/ogc/accreditation.asp


Burial and memorial benefits

Tip: Pre-need eligibility determination for VA national cemeteries can reduce stress later: https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/pre-need-eligibility/


Inclusive supports: specific groups of senior veterans

Women veterans

Reality check: Many women veterans aren’t connected to VA care. The WVN and VA Women Veterans Program Managers can help with enrollment and gender-specific care.

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

Tip: If your discharge was impacted by “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” or similar policies, discuss discharge upgrade options with an accredited advocate or legal clinic (see legal help section).

Disabled senior veterans

Rural senior veterans and limited access

Reality check: Cell/data dead zones can affect telehealth. Ask your VA team about options such as device lending or in-clinic telehealth rooms.

Tribal connections and Native veterans in Massachusetts

Tip: If you’re a tribal member, ask your VSO and your tribal government about coordination with VA and state programs.


Resources by region (Massachusetts)

Table: Regional highlights for senior veterans

Region Key VA and veteran resources Links
Greater Boston VA Boston (Jamaica Plain, West Roxbury); New England Center and Home for Veterans; MBTA discounts VA Boston Healthcare; NECHV; MBTA Senior CharlieCard
North Shore/Merrimack Valley VA Bedford main campus; local CBOCs; VSOs in every city/town VA Bedford Healthcare; EOVS (find your VSO)
Central Massachusetts VA clinics in Worcester area; Veterans Inc. (Worcester HQ) VA Central Western MA; Veterans Inc.
Western Massachusetts VA Central Western MA (Leeds/Northampton); State Veterans’ Cemetery (Agawam) VA Central Western MA; EOVS
South Shore/Cape & Islands VA Boston clinics; Massachusetts National Cemetery (Bourne) VA Boston Healthcare; VA Burials and Memorials

Note: Every municipality in Massachusetts has a local VSO. Use the EOVS org page to locate your local office: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/executive-office-of-veterans-services


Step-by-step: common applications

Chapter 115 (state financial assistance)

  1. Find and call your local VSO (have your DD214 ready): https://www.mass.gov/orgs/executive-office-of-veterans-services
  2. Bring proof of income, assets, rent/utility bills, and ID.
  3. Complete the application with your VSO.
  4. Respond to any follow-ups; report changes in income or housing.

VA health care

  1. Apply online with VA Form 10‑10EZ: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
  2. If you prefer, apply by phone (877-222-8387) or in person at a VA medical center.
  3. After enrollment, choose a VA primary care site and schedule your first visit.

Property tax exemption

  1. Get your current VA disability rating letter (if applicable).
  2. Contact your local Assessor’s Office to request the veterans’ exemption application.
  3. File by the local deadline; ask about required proofs (residency, occupancy).

State veterans’ bonus

  1. Review eligibility for your conflict period at the Veterans’ Bonus Division.
  2. Submit DD214 and proof of residency for the eligible period.
  3. Track your application via the Treasury’s system.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I find my local Veterans’ Service Officer (VSO)?
A: Each Massachusetts city or town has a VSO to help with state and federal benefits. Start at the Executive Office of Veterans’ Services page: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/executive-office-of-veterans-services

Q: What is Chapter 115, and can seniors qualify?
A: Chapter 115 is Massachusetts’ income-based financial assistance for veterans and their families. Many seniors qualify because of fixed incomes and high living costs. Your VSO will check eligibility and help you apply. Learn more via EOVS: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/executive-office-of-veterans-services

Q: Can I get VA health care and keep Medicare?
A: Yes. Many Massachusetts veterans use both. VA can handle your care and prescriptions; Medicare can be used for non-VA providers. Get free advice from the SHINE program: https://www.mass.gov/serving-the-health-insurance-needs-of-everyone-shine

Q: I’m a surviving spouse. What can I apply for?
A: Depending on circumstances, you may be eligible for Chapter 115 (state), property tax relief, and federal VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) or Survivors Pension. A VSO can help you apply. VA survivors info: https://www.va.gov/family-member-benefits/

Q: Are there Massachusetts property tax breaks for veterans?
A: Yes. Disabled veterans and certain others may qualify for veterans’ exemptions. Apply with your local Assessor and see DOR guidance: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/personal-exemptions-for-property-tax

Q: Does Massachusetts have a bonus for veterans of recent conflicts?
A: Yes. The Veterans’ Bonus Division manages bonuses for specific wartime service. Check eligibility and apply: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/veterans-bonus-division

Q: How can I get help with a discharge upgrade?
A: Use VA-accredited advocates and legal aid. In Massachusetts, contact Veterans Legal Services: https://veteranslegalservices.org or the Harvard Veterans Legal Clinic: https://legalservicescenter.org/project/veterans-legal-clinic/

Q: I can’t drive to appointments. What are my options?
A: Ask your VA team about the DAV Transportation Network, VA Beneficiary Travel reimbursement, and MBTA Senior CharlieCard or The RIDE in Greater Boston. Links: VA travel pay, MBTA Senior CharlieCard, The RIDE.

Q: Can Chapter 115 help with fuel bills in winter?
A: Yes, Chapter 115 can help with basic needs, which may include fuel or utilities based on eligibility. Also apply for LIHEAP fuel assistance: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap

Q: I’m LGBTQ+ and had issues accessing care. What should I do?
A: Contact your VA facility’s LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator or Patient Advocate. National program page: https://www.patientcare.va.gov/LGBT/index.asp

Q: I’m a woman veteran and don’t use VA care. Where can I learn more?
A: Start with the Women Veterans’ Network at EOVS for state navigation: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/women-veterans-network and with VA Women’s Health: https://www.va.gov/womenvet/

Q: Does Massachusetts have veterans’ long-term care homes?
A: Yes, in Chelsea and Holyoke. They provide skilled nursing for eligible veterans. Learn more and apply via EOVS: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/veterans-homes

Q: Where do I start if I’m at risk of homelessness?
A: Call 877-424-3838 (VA Homeless hotline), contact your VSO, and ask about SSVF and HUD-VASH. See VA Homeless Programs: https://www.va.gov/homeless/


Tables: one-page summaries you can print

Table: Who to call for what

Need First call or link
State veterans’ benefits (Chapter 115, annuity) Executive Office of Veterans’ Services (find your VSO)
VA disability, pension, survivors benefits VA (800-827-1000); https://www.va.gov
Health care enrollment VA Health Care—How to apply
Medicare/Medigap advice SHINE counseling
Home care and aging services MassOptions
Behavioral health support MA Behavioral Health Help Line
Housing crisis VA Homeless Programs hotline (877-424-3838)
Legal help Veterans Legal Services; Harvard Veterans Legal Clinic

Table: Key Massachusetts state benefits for veterans

Program Administered by How it helps
Chapter 115 EOVS via local VSOs Income-based financial assistance for basic needs
State Annuity EOVS Annual payment for eligible disabled veterans and Gold Star families
Veterans’ Bonus MA State Treasurer One-time bonus for eligible wartime service
Property Tax Exemptions Local Assessors, DOR guidance Reduces property tax for eligible veterans/survivors

Resources (official and well-established)

State of Massachusetts

Federal/VA

Nonprofit and established providers (Massachusetts)

Tribal governments (Massachusetts)


Reality checks, tips, and common roadblocks

  • Proof matters: Programs often require current proof of income, assets, and residency. Keep a folder with updated documents.
  • Timing: Many benefits start the month you apply. Don’t delay.
  • Appeals: If you’re denied, ask why in writing and how to appeal. VSOs can help.
  • Care coordination: If you use both VA and non-VA providers, carry a current medication list and share records.
  • Scams: If anyone guarantees a VA rating for a fee, walk away. Use accredited assistance only: https://www.va.gov/ogc/accreditation.asp

Disclaimer

Program rules, amounts, contact details, and eligibility can change. Always verify information with the official agency or program website before applying or making decisions. Links in this guide point to official government sources and established organizations for that reason.


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.