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

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help Box (fast support for urgent needs)

• Crisis line (free, 24/7): Call 988, then press 1, or text 838255, or use chat on the Veterans Crisis Line website: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net
• Homelessness or eviction risk: Call the VA National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838 or visit VA Homeless Programs: https://www.va.gov/homeless
• One-on-one benefits help in Maryland: Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) Service & Benefits Program: https://veterans.maryland.gov
• Health care and appointments: VA Maryland Health Care System (VAMHCS): https://www.va.gov/maryland-health-care
• Food, housing, money, and local help in any Maryland county: 211 Maryland (free, 24/7) at https://211md.org or dial 2-1-1
• Long-term care for veterans in Maryland: Charlotte Hall Veterans Home info: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Tip: Keep your DD214, VA decision letters, and photo ID in one folder. Most programs will ask for these.

How to use this guide

This guide covers the most-used benefits for older veterans and their families in Maryland. It puts emergency steps first, then walks through health care, money and taxes, housing, food, transportation, legal help, and more. It links directly to official sources so you can apply or get help without guesswork.

• If you’re in crisis, start with the Quick Help Box.
• If you’re not sure where to begin, call 2-1-1 or contact an MDVA Service Officer for free claims help: https://veterans.maryland.gov
• If you’re a caregiver, see Caregiver Support under Health Care below.

Reality check: Some benefits take time. You may face waitlists, paperwork, and follow-ups. If something is denied, you can appeal or ask a Service Officer to review it with you.

Table: Fast-track contacts and links

Eligibility basics (quick overview)

• “Veteran” usually means you served on active duty and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. Many benefits also cover National Guard and Reserve members (rules vary).
• Maryland programs may ask for proof of residency.
• Senior-focused programs often start at age 60 or 62 (varies by program).
• Surviving spouses and some dependents can be eligible for several benefits.
• If you have a service-connected disability, you may get extra benefits like property tax relief or priority access for some services.

For personal guidance, contact an MDVA Service Officer: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Emergency help and immediate steps

1. Safety and mental health

• Call 988 (press 1), text 838255, or chat with the Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net
• Maryland Crisis resources (local hotlines): Start at 211 Maryland: https://211md.org

2. Homelessness or eviction risk

• Call the VA National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838. They can connect you to HUD-VASH vouchers, outreach teams, and local shelters: https://www.va.gov/homeless
• Also reach out to your local Continuum of Care via 211 Maryland: https://211md.org

3. Food today

• Find nearby food pantries and hot meals: 211 Maryland: https://211md.org
• Apply for SNAP (food stamps): Maryland DHS SNAP: https://dhs.maryland.gov/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program

4. Health and meds

• If you are already a VA patient, message your team or call through My HealtheVet (secure messaging): https://www.myhealth.va.gov
• If you’re new to VA: Enroll online or by phone: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply

5. Talk to a Service Officer

• Free help applying for VA benefits, Maryland benefits, and appeals: MDVA Service & Benefits Program: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Reality check: If you can’t gather every document right now, start with what you have. Most programs will help you figure out the rest.

Get one-on-one benefits help in Maryland

• Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) – Service & Benefits Program
  What they do: File VA disability/pension claims, request records, submit evidence, track appeals, and connect you to state benefits (tax, burial, nursing home, trust fund).
  Where to start: https://veterans.maryland.gov
• VA Maryland Health Care System (VAMHCS) Patient Advocates and Social Work
  What they do: Help with care coordination, social support, housing resources, caregiver services, and community referrals.
  Info and contacts: https://www.va.gov/maryland-health-care
• Maryland Access Point (MAP)
  What they do: Local “no wrong door” for seniors and caregivers—helps with home care, transportation, meals, benefits screening, and more.
  Find your local MAP office: https://aging.maryland.gov

Tip: Bring your DD214, VA rating letters, proof of income, IDs, and a list of medications to your first appointment.

Health care and mental health care

VA Maryland Health Care System (VAMHCS)

• What it is: VA’s health network for Maryland, including major facilities in Baltimore, Perry Point, and Loch Raven (Community Living Center), plus outpatient clinics across the state.
• Services: Primary care, specialty care, mental health, telehealth, home-based primary care (HBPC), rehab, and more.
• Where to learn more and enroll: https://www.va.gov/maryland-health-care

Reality check: New patient appointments can take time. Ask about telehealth, Community Care referrals when appropriate, and medication refills by mail. Use My HealtheVet for secure messages: https://www.myhealth.va.gov

Mental health and substance use care

• Crisis support: 988 (press 1), text 838255, or https://www.veteranscrisisline.net
• VA mental health overview: https://www.va.gov/mental-health
• Substance use treatment at VA: https://www.va.gov/health-care/mental-health/substance-use-problems

If you’re not enrolled in VA, call 2-1-1 for local clinics or counseling: https://211md.org

Caregiver support

• VA Program of General Caregiver Support Services and Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers: training, support lines, possible stipends for eligible veterans who need in-home care.
  Start here: https://www.caregiver.va.gov

Home-based care and telehealth

• VA Home Based Primary Care (HBPC) is available in many parts of Maryland for veterans with complex care needs. Ask your VA provider.
• VA Video Connect lets you meet your VA team by smartphone, tablet, or computer: https://telehealth.va.gov and https://mobile.va.gov/app/va-video-connect

Long-term care: Charlotte Hall Veterans Home (State Veterans Home)

• What it is: Maryland’s state veterans home providing skilled nursing and assisted living for eligible veterans and qualified spouses.
• Services: Nursing care, rehab, memory care support, activities, and on-site medical services coordinated with VA.
• Admissions and eligibility: Contact MDVA or the Home directly.
  Learn more: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Tip: If you need nursing home level care, ask VA about Community Living Center beds, community nursing home placements, or the State Veterans Home option.

Table: Health and long-term care options at a glance

Money and income support

VA disability compensation and Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)

• Monthly tax-free payments for service-connected disabilities.
• Some seniors qualify for extra SMC if they need help with daily tasks or have severe disabilities.
• Learn, file, or check status: https://www.va.gov/disability
• Free claims help: MDVA Service & Benefits Program: https://veterans.maryland.gov

VA pension, Aid and Attendance (A&A), Housebound

• VA pension helps low-income wartime veterans who are elderly or disabled.
• Aid and Attendance and Housebound can increase pension if you need help with daily living or can’t leave home.
• Details and forms: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound
• Get help from a Service Officer: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Reality check: Pension and A&A have income and asset rules. You’ll need medical proof if you claim A&A or Housebound.

Social Security Retirement, SSDI, and SSI

• Social Security benefits can be combined with VA benefits.
• Apply, verify, or manage benefits: https://www.ssa.gov
• SSI (for very low income/limited resources) and SSDI (disability) have different rules. If unsure, ask Social Security.

Maryland Veterans Trust Fund (emergency financial help)

• What it is: A Maryland fund that may provide short-term help for eligible veterans facing hardship (for example, utilities or rent due to temporary crisis).
• Where to learn more and how to apply: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Maryland tax relief for veterans and retirees

• Maryland offers several tax provisions that may help older veterans, including a property tax exemption for certain 100% service-connected disabled veterans and qualifying surviving spouses, and an income tax subtraction for some retired military pay (eligibility and amounts can change).
• Get the official details and verify current rules:
  • Comptroller of Maryland (individual income tax): https://www.marylandtaxes.gov
  • Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation (property tax programs): https://dat.maryland.gov
  • MDVA overview of state benefits (tax, housing, burial): https://veterans.maryland.gov

Reality check: Property tax exemptions and credits require applications and documentation. Processing can take time—apply early.

Table: Money and tax benefits overview

Housing and homelessness support

If you’re homeless or about to be

• Call 877-424-3838 (VA Homeless Hotline) or visit https://www.va.gov/homeless
• Ask about HUD-VASH (housing vouchers with VA case management): https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash
• Connect with your county’s coordinated entry (via 211 Maryland): https://211md.org

Rent, mortgage, and utility help

• Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP) – help with electric and heating bills: https://dhs.maryland.gov/office-of-home-energy-programs
• Weatherization Assistance (reduce energy costs): https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/Pages/Weatherization.aspx
• Maryland WholeHome Program (home repairs and accessibility): https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/Pages/WholeHome.aspx

Homeownership for veterans

• Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP) – fixed-rate loans and down payment assistance; ask about veteran-focused options: https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/Pages/MDMortgageProgram.aspx
• VA Home Loan benefit: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/home-loans

Property tax relief

• Learn about the Disabled Veteran Exemption (primary residence) through SDAT and confirm with your county: https://dat.maryland.gov
• MDVA’s benefits overview page: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Reality check: Local rental aid programs can open and close depending on funding. If one office says funds are out, ask when to check back or try neighboring jurisdictions.

Food and nutrition

• SNAP (food stamps) – apply online or get help by phone: https://dhs.maryland.gov/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (seasonal produce vouchers): Check Maryland Department of Agriculture for local distribution details: https://mda.maryland.gov
• Meals on Wheels (home-delivered meals for seniors): Find your local program—Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland is one example: https://www.mealsonwheelsmd.org
• VA Nutrition services: Talk to your VA primary care provider or dietitian: https://www.va.gov/maryland-health-care

Tip: If SNAP feels confusing, ask your local Maryland Access Point (MAP) office to help you apply: https://aging.maryland.gov

Transportation and access

• Reduced fares for seniors and people with disabilities on Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) services: https://www.mta.maryland.gov
• Mobility/Paratransit (MobilityLink) for riders who can’t use fixed-route buses: https://www.mta.maryland.gov/mobility
• County ride programs: Many counties have senior transit or demand-response rides. Start at Maryland Access Point: https://aging.maryland.gov
• DAV Transportation Network (rides to VA medical appointments in many areas): https://www.dav.org/veterans/i-need-a-ride
• VA Beneficiary Travel (mileage or common carrier fare, if eligible): https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay

Reality check: Paratransit and volunteer rides usually require advance scheduling and eligibility screening. Book early.

Table: Getting to care and services

Legal help and consumer protection

• Maryland Legal Aid (civil legal help; veterans projects vary by location): https://www.mdlab.org
• Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland (referrals to free legal help, clinics): https://www.probonomd.org
• Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service: https://mvlslaw.org
• Maryland Attorney General – Consumer Protection (scams, elder abuse, contracts): https://www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov
• VA Discharge Upgrade information: https://www.va.gov/discharge-upgrade-instructions

Tip: Bring letters, bills, contracts, and notes from calls when you meet with a lawyer or counselor.

Education, jobs, and small business

• VA Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) – job training and placement for eligible veterans with service-connected disabilities: https://www.va.gov/careers-employment/vocational-rehabilitation
• Maryland Department of Labor – veterans services (priority of service at American Job Centers, apprenticeships): https://labor.maryland.gov
• Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) – scholarships for veterans and families, including the Edward T. Conroy Memorial and Jean B. Cryor programs: https://mhec.maryland.gov
• Veteran-Owned Small Business Enterprise (VSBE) Program – state procurement opportunities for veteran-owned businesses: https://dgs.maryland.gov
• SBA (Small Business Administration) veteran programs and counseling: https://www.sba.gov

Reality check: Tuition and training funds can run on deadlines. Apply early and keep copies of everything you submit.

State parks, hunting, and recreation

• Maryland State Parks – passes and discounts:
  • Golden Age Pass (for Maryland residents age 62+): reduced or free entry/benefits at many state parks.
  • Benefits for certain disabled veterans (check eligibility).
    Learn about passes: https://dnr.maryland.gov
• Hunting and fishing licenses – discounts for certain veterans and people with disabilities: https://dnr.maryland.gov

Note: Rules and fees can change. Always confirm on the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website: https://dnr.maryland.gov

Burial and memorial benefits

• Five Maryland State Veterans Cemeteries (Crownsville, Cheltenham, Garrison Forest, Hurlock/Eastern Shore, Rocky Gap). Eligibility rules apply for veterans and qualified family members.
  Info: https://veterans.maryland.gov
• VA National Cemetery and Burial Benefits (headstones/markers, burial allowance, flags, Presidential Memorial Certificates): https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials

Tip: Pre-need eligibility determination can save time for families later. See VA pre-need burial eligibility: https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/pre-need-eligibility

Table: Key Maryland veteran services (state-level)

Inclusive resources and guidance

Older veterans are not all the same. Below are options meant to reduce gaps and improve access.

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

• VA LGBTQ+ Health provides affirming care and help with documentation and screening: https://www.patientcare.va.gov/LGBT
• Ask VAMHCS about LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinators and inclusive services: https://www.va.gov/maryland-health-care
• For mental health, you can request providers trained in LGBTQ+ care through VA or 211 Maryland (community side): https://211md.org

Tip: If your legal documents don’t reflect your current name or gender marker, ask the VA and SSA about update steps (VA: https://www.va.gov and SSA: https://www.ssa.gov).

Disabled senior veterans

• Recheck your VA disability rating if conditions have worsened: https://www.va.gov/disability
• Ask VA about adaptive equipment, home safety evaluations, and Home Based Primary Care.
• For home modifications (ramps, grab bars), see Maryland WholeHome: https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/Pages/WholeHome.aspx and VA SAH/HISA programs (ask your VA clinician about referrals).

Women senior veterans

• VA Women Veterans Health Program – primary care, screenings, gynecology, maternity coordination, and trauma-informed care: https://www.va.gov/womenvet and https://www.va.gov/maryland-health-care
• For intimate partner violence assistance: VA IPV Assistance Program and local shelters via 211 Maryland: https://www.va.gov/health-care/health-needs-conditions/violence-abuse/ and https://211md.org

Rural senior veterans (limited access or broadband)

• Use VA Video Connect for telehealth: https://telehealth.va.gov
• Ask about ATLAS telehealth sites and community access points; if internet is limited, request phone-based visits when allowed.
• Transportation: pair county senior rides (MAP) with DAV rides if available: https://aging.maryland.gov and https://www.dav.org/veterans/i-need-a-ride

Tribal-specific note for Maryland

• Maryland does not have federally recognized reservations, but Native veterans in Maryland can work with VA’s Office of Tribal Government Relations for outreach and benefits navigation: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment
• Use 211 Maryland to find culturally competent clinics or services: https://211md.org

Resources by region (Maryland)

Use these as starting points. For exact addresses and schedules, visit the linked official directories.

Baltimore Metro and Central Maryland (Baltimore City/County, Anne Arundel, Carroll, Harford, Howard)

• VA Maryland Health Care System (Baltimore VAMC and clinics): https://www.va.gov/maryland-health-care
• MDVA Cemeteries (Garrison Forest, Crownsville) and Service & Benefits Program: https://veterans.maryland.gov
• Maryland Access Point (local offices): https://aging.maryland.gov
• MTA Reduced Fare and MobilityLink: https://www.mta.maryland.gov

Suburban Washington (Montgomery, Prince George’s)

• VA care (check nearest clinics and referral options): https://www.va.gov/maryland-health-care and VA Find Locations: https://www.va.gov/find-locations
• MDVA Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery info: https://veterans.maryland.gov
• County aging services (MAP): https://aging.maryland.gov
• Ride On/County transit plus MTA connections: https://www.mta.maryland.gov

Western Maryland (Allegany, Garrett, Washington)

• State veterans cemetery at Rocky Gap (Allegany) via MDVA: https://veterans.maryland.gov
• VA care may be through VAMHCS or nearby VA systems (use VA Find Locations): https://www.va.gov/find-locations
• County senior rides and aging services (MAP): https://aging.maryland.gov

Southern Maryland (Calvert, Charles, St. Mary’s)

• Charlotte Hall Veterans Home (St. Mary’s): https://veterans.maryland.gov
• MDVA Service & Benefits and Cheltenham Cemetery info: https://veterans.maryland.gov
• MAP (local aging offices) and county ride programs: https://aging.maryland.gov

Eastern Shore (Caroline, Cecil, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s, Somerset, Talbot, Wicomico, Worcester)

• Eastern Shore Veterans Cemetery (Hurlock) via MDVA: https://veterans.maryland.gov
• VA clinics/partners and telehealth options: https://www.va.gov/maryland-health-care and https://www.va.gov/find-locations
• County-based aging and transportation via MAP: https://aging.maryland.gov

Tip: When in doubt, start with an MDVA Service Officer and your local MAP office. They’ll guide you to the right local door.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How do I get free help to file a VA disability or pension claim in Maryland?
A: Contact the MDVA Service & Benefits Program. They’ll help gather evidence, file forms, and follow up with VA. Start here: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Q2: I’m 100% service-connected disabled. Can I get a Maryland property tax exemption?
A: Maryland law provides a property tax exemption on the primary residence for certain 100% service-connected disabled veterans and eligible surviving spouses. Apply through the State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). Check current rules and forms here: https://dat.maryland.gov and see MDVA’s benefits overview: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Q3: What is Charlotte Hall Veterans Home and who can apply?
A: It is Maryland’s state veterans home offering skilled nursing and assisted living. Eligible veterans (and certain spouses) can apply. Get admissions info through MDVA: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Q4: I need help with rent and utilities this month. What should I try first?
A: Call 2-1-1 to find local emergency funds, and apply for energy help through OHEP: https://dhs.maryland.gov/office-of-home-energy-programs. If you’re a veteran facing a temporary hardship, ask MDVA about the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Q5: How do I get VA health care if I’ve never used it before?
A: Apply online or by mail/phone through VA: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply. After you’re enrolled, pick a VA primary care site in the VA Maryland Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/maryland-health-care. If you need help, call 2-1-1 or ask an MDVA Service Officer.

Q6: What if I can’t travel for appointments?
A: Ask VA about telehealth (VA Video Connect), Home Based Primary Care, and Beneficiary Travel reimbursement if you qualify. For local rides, check MTA MobilityLink and county senior transport via MAP.
Links: https://telehealth.va.gov, https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay, https://www.mta.maryland.gov, https://aging.maryland.gov

Q7: Are there Maryland scholarships for veterans or their families?
A: Yes. The Maryland Higher Education Commission administers programs that include the Edward T. Conroy Memorial and Jean B. Cryor scholarships. Details and applications: https://mhec.maryland.gov

Q8: I was denied a benefit. Can I appeal?
A: Yes. VA decisions can be appealed through several lanes (Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, Board Appeal). Get free help from an MDVA Service Officer: https://veterans.maryland.gov and review VA’s appeal options: https://www.va.gov/decision-reviews

Q9: Where do I learn about senior discounts for Maryland parks and recreation?
A: See Maryland DNR for the Golden Age Pass (62+) and veteran benefits, plus hunting/fishing discounts. Check current rules: https://dnr.maryland.gov

Q10: I’m a surviving spouse. What benefits might apply to me?
A: Check VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), Survivor’s Pension (income-based), and burial/memorial benefits. State cemetery eligibility may also apply.
Links: https://www.va.gov/survivors, https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials, https://veterans.maryland.gov

Table: Common applications and where to file

Reality checks, tips, and common roadblocks

• Documents: Missing DD214s slow everything down. If you need records, request them early through the National Archives: https://www.archives.gov/veterans
• Timelines: VA decisions can take months. Keep copies, use certified mail if you must mail, and set calendar reminders to follow up.
• Denials: Many denials can be fixed with stronger medical evidence or service records. Ask an MDVA Service Officer to review your file.
• Scams: Be careful with “fee” helpers who promise fast approvals. Most veterans’ service help is free through MDVA and recognized VSOs. Check VA’s list of accredited representatives: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation
• Health care access: If you can’t get an appointment soon, ask about telehealth, Community Care (when eligible), and medication refills by mail.

Resources (official and well-established)

• Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA): https://veterans.maryland.gov
• VA Maryland Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/maryland-health-care
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (all benefits): https://www.va.gov
• Maryland Department of Aging and Maryland Access Point (MAP): https://aging.maryland.gov
• 211 Maryland (24/7): https://211md.org
• Maryland DHS – SNAP: https://dhs.maryland.gov/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program
• OHEP – Energy Assistance: https://dhs.maryland.gov/office-of-home-energy-programs
• Maryland DHCD – Maryland Mortgage Program: https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/Pages/MDMortgageProgram.aspx
• Maryland DHCD – WholeHome: https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/Pages/WholeHome.aspx
• Maryland DHCD – Weatherization: https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Residents/Pages/Weatherization.aspx
• Comptroller of Maryland (tax): https://www.marylandtaxes.gov
• Maryland SDAT (property): https://dat.maryland.gov
• Maryland DNR (parks, hunting/fishing): https://dnr.maryland.gov
• MTA (transit and MobilityLink): https://www.mta.maryland.gov
• Maryland Higher Education Commission: https://mhec.maryland.gov
• VR&E (VA): https://www.va.gov/careers-employment/vocational-rehabilitation
• DAV (rides to VA, claims help): https://www.dav.org
• Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net

Disclaimer

Programs, eligibility rules, dollar amounts, and application links can change. Always confirm details with the official agency or program website linked in this guide. 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, 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.