Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Kentucky

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help Box (tap to copy numbers)

Emergency Help First

When you or a spouse needs help right now, do this:

  1. Safety and mental health
  • Call 988 then press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line, or use chat. It’s confidential and free.
    Source: Veterans Crisis Line – About and How to Contact:
    https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
  1. Homelessness, eviction, or sleeping in a car
  • Call 877-424-3838 (24/7) to reach the VA’s National Call Center for Homeless Veterans.
  • Ask about SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) and HUD-VASH in Kentucky.
    Sources:
    • VA Homeless Programs (overview and “Get Help”): https://www.va.gov/homeless/
    • HUD-VASH program: https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash/
  1. Medical urgency
  1. Abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an older adult in Kentucky
  1. I’m overwhelmed—who can guide me?

Who This Guide Helps

  • Veterans age 60+ (many programs use 60, 62, or 65—this guide covers them all)
  • Spouses, surviving spouses, and family caregivers
  • Kentucky residents (or Veterans receiving care in Kentucky)

This guide focuses on Kentucky-specific steps and contacts. It also points to federal VA programs widely used by older Veterans, with direct links to the official pages.

Key Kentucky Offices and Numbers (Bookmark This)

The offices below are the starting points for most benefits. If you only do one thing today, contact KDVA and your nearest VA medical center.

Office What they do How to contact Source
Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs (KDVA) State benefits; help with VA claims; Kentucky Veterans Centers (nursing homes); state Veterans cemeteries; transportation in some areas. Visit the KDVA website for office locator and contacts. Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs: https://veterans.ky.gov/
Lexington VA Health Care System VA medical care for eligible Veterans (Leestown and Franklin Rd/Cooper locations), plus clinics across central/eastern KY. Facility info and appointment pages. Lexington VA Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/lexington-health-care/
Louisville VA Health Care System (Robley Rex) VA medical care for eligible Veterans in Louisville and surrounding areas. Facility info and appointment pages. Louisville VA Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/louisville-health-care/
VA Facility Locator Find VA hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and Vet Centers statewide. Search by ZIP. VA Find Locations: https://www.va.gov/find-locations
Area Agencies on Aging & Independent Living (AAAIL) Meals, in-home supports, caregiver help, options counseling, ADRC. Find your local AAAIL via Kentucky DAIL. Kentucky DAIL (Aging & Independent Living): https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dail/Pages/default.aspx
Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC) Statewide housing programs; links to local resources and partners. Explore programs and contacts. Kentucky Housing Corporation: https://www.kyhousing.org/
Legal Aid (by region) Civil legal help (evictions, benefits, elder law). Find your regional provider. KY Civil Legal Aid Finder: https://www.kyjustice.org/

Reality check: Many agencies are short-staffed. You may wait on hold or need to call back. Keep notes: who you spoke with, time, and what they said.

What Benefits Can Senior Veterans in Kentucky Get?

Think in four buckets: health care, long-term care/in-home help, money/taxes, and housing.

1) Health Care

2) Long-Term Care and In‑Home Help

3) Money, Taxes, and Everyday Bills

4) Housing and Homelessness

Snapshot Tables You Can Scan Quickly

Table 1 — Health & Long‑Term Care Options

Program Who it’s for What it covers How to apply Source
VA Health Care Eligible Veterans Primary/specialty care, prescriptions, mental health, more Apply online or with KDVA help VA Health Care: https://www.va.gov/health-care/
Medicare Most people 65+ Hospital (Part A), Medical (Part B), optional drug plans (Part D) Enroll via Social Security Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov/
TRICARE For Life Medicare-eligible military retirees Wraparound coverage with Medicare Automatic with Part A & B TRICARE For Life: https://tricare.mil/tfl
KY Veterans Centers Eligible Veterans needing nursing care Skilled nursing, memory care, rehab (state facilities) Contact the center admissions office KDVA: https://veterans.ky.gov/
KY Medicaid & Waivers Low-income seniors or disabled Nursing home and in-home/community services Apply via CHFS/DCBS; waiver screening KY Medicaid: https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dms/Pages/default.aspx

Table 2 — Money & Taxes

Program/Benefit Who it’s for What it does Where to start Source
VA Pension Wartime Veterans with limited income/assets Monthly cash benefit; can include Aid & Attendance Online or paper application; KDVA can help VA Pension: https://www.va.gov/pension/
Survivors Pension Surviving spouses/dependent children Monthly cash to eligible survivors Apply online or by mail Survivors Pension: https://www.va.gov/pension/survivors-pension/
Aid & Attendance Veterans/survivors needing help with daily tasks Adds to Pension for higher care needs Medical forms + Pension claim A&A info: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-and-attendance-housebound/
Homestead Exemption KY homeowners 65+ or permanently disabled Reduces taxable home value File with county PVA KY Dept. of Revenue: https://revenue.ky.gov/
Military retirement pay tax Military retirees Excluded from KY state income tax File taxes with KY DOR rules KY Dept. of Revenue: https://revenue.ky.gov/
LIHEAP (energy) Low-income households Help with heating/cooling bills Apply via local community action agency HHS LIHEAP Kentucky: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap/kentucky

Table 3 — Housing & Homelessness

Program What it offers How to connect Source
SSVF Rent/utility help, rapid rehousing, case management Call 877-424-3838 or ask local SSVF provider VA SSVF: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/
HUD-VASH Housing voucher + VA case management Ask your VA social worker or Homeless Program HUD-VASH: https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash/
USDA Section 504 Home repair grants/loans for rural seniors Apply via local USDA RD office USDA RD KY: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants/ky
Kentucky Housing Corporation Links to rental help and local providers See “Find Help” at KHC KHC: https://www.kyhousing.org/

Table 4 — Kentucky Education & State Services

Program Who it serves What it provides Where to learn more Source
Kentucky Tuition Waiver (dependents) Children, spouses, and surviving spouses of certain KY Veterans Tuition waiver at Kentucky public colleges (eligibility rules apply) See KDVA Tuition Waiver info and application KDVA main site: https://veterans.ky.gov/
Veterans Cemeteries (state) Eligible Veterans and dependents Burial in a Kentucky state Veterans cemetery Learn eligibility and locations KDVA: https://veterans.ky.gov/
Driver’s License Veteran Indicator Kentucky Veterans “Veteran” notation on license/ID (with proof of service) Apply at Driver Licensing Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: https://drive.ky.gov/

Table 5 — Transportation & Access

Option What it covers How to use it Source
VA travel reimbursement Mileage or special mode for eligible VA appointments File claims via VA travel pay portal VA Travel Pay: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
Volunteer/DAV rides Rides to VA medical visits in many counties Ask your VA facility or KDVA office VA Voluntary Services & local facility pages: https://www.va.gov/find-locations
Public/AAAIL transit Reduced-fare or senior transit in many regions Contact your Area Agency on Aging KY DAIL: https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dail/Pages/default.aspx

Tip: Book rides as early as possible. Volunteer networks fill fast, especially for morning appointments.

How to Get Health Care Set Up (Step by Step)

  1. Confirm eligibility and apply for VA health care
  1. Enroll in Medicare at 65 (even if you use VA)
  • VA doesn’t pay community providers unless authorized. Medicare helps if you see non‑VA doctors.
    Medicare enrollment info: https://www.medicare.gov/
  1. If you are a military retiree, check TRICARE For Life
  1. Choose your main VA facility
  1. Ask about local services that come to you

Reality check: Authorizations and eligibility reviews can take time. Keep copies of everything and ask for written decisions.

Kentucky Veterans Centers (State Nursing Homes)

Kentucky operates state Veterans nursing facilities that provide skilled nursing, rehab, and memory care. Admission requires proof of Veteran status and clinical eligibility. Contact the center nearest you to ask about beds, waiting lists, and admissions.

Tip: If you’re applying for both a state Veterans center and Medicaid, work with the hospital discharge planner, your AAAIL, and KDVA to keep paperwork moving.

VA Pension, Aid & Attendance, and Survivors Benefits

How to apply in Kentucky (simple approach):

  1. Gather documents
  • DD214 (proof of service), marriage certificate, income/asset details, medical evidence (doctor notes describing care needs).
  1. Get free help preparing the claim
  1. Submit your claim and keep copies
  • Upload via VA.gov or mail as directed on the VA pages.
  1. Track your case and respond to VA letters quickly
  • Use your VA.gov account to monitor status.

Reality check: A&A claims involve medical forms and can take months. Respond to VA requests by the deadline, or your claim may be delayed or denied.

Property Tax: Kentucky Homestead Exemption

  • If you’re 65+ or permanently disabled, Kentucky’s Homestead Exemption reduces the taxable value of your primary residence. The exemption amount is adjusted every two years.
  • Apply through your county PVA (Property Valuation Administrator). Bring proof of age or disability.
    Learn more from the Kentucky Department of Revenue (and follow links to Homestead Exemption):
    https://revenue.ky.gov/

Warning: The Homestead Exemption is not automatic. You must apply with your county PVA. Some counties accept applications year‑round; others have deadlines.

Driver’s License: Veteran Indicator and Plates

  • Veteran Indicator on a Kentucky driver’s license/ID requires proof of honorable service (e.g., DD214).
    Start at the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (Driver Licensing):
    https://drive.ky.gov/
  • Specialty license plates (including Disabled Veteran) are handled by County Clerk offices and the Transportation Cabinet.
    Overview of plates: https://drive.ky.gov/

Bring original documents. Photocopies or unclear scans can slow you down.

Education: Kentucky Tuition Waiver (Dependents)

Kentucky’s Tuition Waiver program helps children, stepchildren, adopted children, spouses, and surviving spouses of certain Kentucky Veterans (for example, those who are service‑connected disabled or deceased). It applies to Kentucky public colleges and universities and has specific eligibility rules.

  • Read eligibility and get the application from KDVA:
    Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs (look for “Tuition Waiver”): https://veterans.ky.gov/

Tip: Ask the college financial aid office how they process the waiver and what deadlines apply.

Burial Benefits and Kentucky Veterans Cemeteries

You may choose burial in a VA national cemetery or a Kentucky state Veterans cemetery. Veterans generally receive a gravesite, headstone/marker, and perpetual care at no cost in national or state Veterans cemeteries (spouse/dependent fees may apply at the state level—confirm with the cemetery).

Always call ahead. Bring DD214 and any pre‑need eligibility decisions from VA.

Housing Stability: SSVF, HUD‑VASH, Repairs

Reality check: Housing help is in high demand. Ask your VA social worker or SSVF provider to put urgent needs in writing (e.g., eviction date), which can prioritize your case.

Transportation to Care

Book early. Some programs require 48–72 hours’ notice.

Legal Help and Benefits Appeals

Keep deadlines. If you disagree with a VA decision, see your options (Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, Board Appeal).

Inclusive Support: Serving All Kentucky Senior Veterans

LGBTQ+ Senior Veterans

Disabled Senior Veterans

Tip: For mobility or home safety needs, ask your VA primary care team for a Home Safety Evaluation and durable medical equipment review.

Tribal and Native Veterans Living in Kentucky

  • Kentucky currently has no federally recognized tribes headquartered in the state; however, Native Veterans living in Kentucky who are members of federally recognized tribes can use VA services and may also have access to IHS or tribal health benefits.
    • VA Office of Tribal Government Relations: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/
    • Indian Health Service (IHS): https://www.ihs.gov/
  • If you receive care through IHS/tribal programs outside Kentucky or when visiting family, coordinate benefits with VA and Medicare as needed.

Source for federal recognition lists: U.S. Department of the Interior/Bureau of Indian Affairs publishes the list of federally recognized tribes in the Federal Register (see current list on doi.gov or via the Federal Register).

Rural Senior Veterans with Limited Access

Women Senior Veterans

Resources by Region (Kentucky)

Use the VA Facility Locator for updated clinic and Vet Center listings: https://www.va.gov/find-locations

Tip: For state cemetery locations (West, Central, North, Northeast, Southeast) and Veterans Centers (Thomson-Hood, Eastern, Western, Radcliff), use KDVA’s site map or directory: https://veterans.ky.gov/

How to Avoid Delays and Denials (Reality Checks)

  • Keep originals safe. Give agencies copies.
  • Respond fast to letters asking for “more information.” Missing deadlines is the top reason for delays.
  • Use accredited help. VSOs at KDVA know the forms and evidence VA expects.
    Find an accredited rep: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp
  • Watch for scams. If someone guarantees approval for a fee, walk away. Report pension‑poaching scams to the VA and your AAAIL.
    VA Pension Poaching Info: https://www.va.gov/pension/

Step‑by‑Step Mini‑Guides

A) Apply for VA Aid & Attendance in Kentucky

  1. Confirm you (or your spouse) are eligible for VA Pension.
    https://www.va.gov/pension/
  2. Get a doctor’s statement describing help needed with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, etc.).
  3. Complete the A&A forms (see the VA A&A page for current forms).
    https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-and-attendance-housebound/
  4. File the claim online or by mail; keep copies.
  5. Track status on VA.gov and respond to any VA evidence requests.
  6. If denied, talk to KDVA about appeal options.

B) Claim the Kentucky Homestead Exemption

  1. Call your County PVA to ask how they take applications.
  2. Bring proof of age (65+) or disability and proof you live at the property.
  3. File the form and ask when it will appear on your tax bill.
  4. Keep a copy. Ask if re‑filing is ever required after you move or if ownership changes.
    Info: Kentucky Department of Revenue: https://revenue.ky.gov/

C) Tuition Waiver (Dependents of Kentucky Veterans)

  1. Read eligibility rules on KDVA.
  2. Gather proof: Veteran’s service/VA rating or other qualifying status, relationship documents.
  3. Submit KDVA’s waiver application and any school forms before the school’s deadline.
  4. Confirm with the college financial aid office that the waiver has posted.
    KDVA: https://veterans.ky.gov/

Frequently Asked Questions (Kentucky‑Specific)

Q: Where do I find my nearest VA clinic or Vet Center in Kentucky?
A: Use the VA Facility Locator and enter your ZIP code. It lists hospitals, outpatient clinics, and Vet Centers.
VA Locator: https://www.va.gov/find-locations

Q: Does Kentucky have state Veterans nursing homes? How do I apply?
A: Yes. Kentucky Veterans Centers are state‑run nursing facilities for eligible Veterans. Contact the facility admissions office listed on KDVA’s site to ask about beds and application steps.
KDVA (Veterans Centers): https://veterans.ky.gov/

Q: Does Kentucky give extra property tax relief to 100% disabled Veterans?
A: Kentucky’s primary statewide relief for homeowners is the Homestead Exemption (for age 65+ or permanent disability). Some localities may offer additional relief, but there is no separate statewide Veterans‑only property tax exemption beyond Homestead. Ask your County PVA for local options.
Kentucky Department of Revenue: https://revenue.ky.gov/

Q: How do I get the Veteran indicator on my Kentucky driver’s license?
A: Bring proof of honorable service (such as a DD214) to your Driver Licensing Regional Office. Confirm acceptable documents and fees with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: https://drive.ky.gov/

Q: I’m a surviving spouse in Kentucky. Where do I start?
A: Ask KDVA for help with Survivors Pension or DIC (if the Veteran died from a service‑connected condition), and check Social Security survivor benefits.
• VA survivors hub: https://www.va.gov/family-member-benefits/
• KDVA: https://veterans.ky.gov/
• Social Security survivors: https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/survivors/

Q: Who can help me appeal a VA decision?
A: Use an accredited VSO, attorney, or claims agent. They can explain Higher-Level Review, Supplemental Claims, or Board Appeals.
Find accredited help: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp
Board of Veterans’ Appeals: https://www.bva.va.gov/

Q: I live in rural eastern Kentucky and can’t drive long distances. What are my options?
A: Ask your VA team about telehealth, in‑home services, community care authorizations when needed, and volunteer transportation. Your AAAIL may have senior transit for medical visits.
• VA Telehealth: https://telehealth.va.gov/
• Kentucky DAIL: https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dail/Pages/default.aspx

Q: Are there discounts at Kentucky State Parks for Veterans or seniors?
A: Kentucky State Parks sometimes offer seasonal discounts. Offers change. Check the official Kentucky State Parks site or call the park directly.
Kentucky State Parks: https://parks.ky.gov/

Q: How many VA medical centers are in Kentucky?
A: Two main VA health care systems serve Kentucky—Lexington and Louisville—plus multiple outpatient clinics and Vet Centers.
Lexington VA: https://www.va.gov/lexington-health-care/
Louisville VA: https://www.va.gov/louisville-health-care/
Facility Locator: https://www.va.gov/find-locations

Q: Where can I report a scam targeting Veterans in Kentucky?
A: Report to the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office and the VA.
• KY Attorney General (Consumer Protection): https://ag.ky.gov/
• VA pension poaching awareness: https://www.va.gov/pension/

Sources and Official Links (Quick List)

Disclaimer

Programs, eligibility rules, dollar amounts, and contact details change. Always verify information with the official agency or program website before you apply or make decisions. Nothing here is legal or financial 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: Based on the most recent official publications available through October 2024; please verify any 2025 updates on the linked agency sites.
  • Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.

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About the Authors

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

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

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

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor, BA Psychology

Senior Healthcare Editor

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

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