Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Indiana

Last updated: August 2025

This is a practical, plain‑English guide to benefits and services for Indiana veterans age 60 and older. It focuses on what’s available in Indiana, where to apply, and how to get help when you need it.


Quick Help (Emergency and Fast-Track Support)

Use these when time matters. If you or someone you know is in danger, call 911.

Need What to do now Official link / number
Mental health crisis (24/7) Dial 988, then Press 1; or text 838255; or chat online Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
Any VA question, after-hours help Call MyVA411 (24/7) Call 800-698-2411; info: https://www.va.gov/contact-us/
Homelessness or at immediate risk Ask for VA homeless services, HUD-VASH or SSVF VA Homeless Programs: https://www.va.gov/homeless/
Urgent money for rent, utilities, food (Indiana) Ask about the Military Family Relief Fund (MFRF) and local aid Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA): https://www.in.gov/dva/
Local benefits help in your county Call your County Veteran Service Officer (CVSO) Find your CVSO: https://www.in.gov/dva/contact/county-veteran-service-officer-directory/
Food help Apply for SNAP; ask about Senior Commodity boxes (CSFP) Indiana SNAP: https://www.in.gov/fssa/dfr/snap-food-assistance/about-snap/; CSFP (seniors): https://www.in.gov/health/wic/commodity-supplemental-food-program-csfp/
Health or long-term care questions Indiana Medicaid, PathWays for Aging (60+) PathWays for Aging: https://www.in.gov/fssa/long-term-services-and-supports/pathways-for-aging/
Find VA care in Indiana Locate VA hospitals/clinics near you VA facility locator: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
One-stop aging and caregiving help (Indiana AAAs) Call your Area Agency on Aging via INconnect Alliance INconnect Alliance: https://www.inconnectalliance.org/
General community resources Call 2‑1‑1 (24/7) Indiana 211: https://www.in211.org/

Reality check:

  • If you have an emergency mental health need, go to the nearest ER. VA will pay for emergency mental health care in many situations; ask the hospital to notify VA promptly. See VA emergency care policy: https://www.va.gov/COMMUNITYCARE/programs/veterans/Emergency_Care.asp
  • Don’t wait on paperwork when safety is at risk—use the crisis resources above, then work with a CVSO to handle forms.

What this guide covers and how to use it

  • Start with emergency help (above).
  • Then connect with your local County Veteran Service Officer (CVSO). They file claims and applications at no cost: https://www.in.gov/dva/contact/county-veteran-service-officer-directory/
  • Use the tables to spot which office handles your need.
  • This guide focuses on Indiana-specific benefits, plus federal VA benefits that matter to seniors.

Get set up: Your core Indiana benefits team


Who to call for common needs (Indiana)

Your goal Best first call or click Notes
File for VA disability, pension, Aid & Attendance Your CVSO: https://www.in.gov/dva/contact/county-veteran-service-officer-directory/ Free claims help; you can also use VA-accredited reps: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp
Enroll in VA health care Apply online: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ Or call MyVA411 at 800‑698‑2411 for help
Find a VA doctor near you Indiana VA Health Care (Indy): https://www.va.gov/indiana-health-care/; Northern Indiana: https://www.va.gov/northern-indiana-health-care/ Use facility locator for clinics: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
Long-term care, home care, assisted living PathWays for Aging (Medicaid, 60+): https://www.in.gov/fssa/long-term-services-and-supports/pathways-for-aging/ Also ask your AAA: https://www.inconnectalliance.org/
Emergency rent/utility help IDVA programs and MFRF: https://www.in.gov/dva/ Also call 211: https://www.in211.org/
Property tax deductions for veterans Indiana DLGF Veterans Deductions info See Indiana Department of Local Government Finance: https://www.in.gov/dlgf/
Food benefits Indiana SNAP: https://www.in.gov/fssa/dfr/snap-food-assistance/about-snap/ CSFP for seniors: https://www.in.gov/health/wic/commodity-supplemental-food-program-csfp/
Transportation to VA appointments VA travel reimbursement: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/ DAV vans: https://www.dav.org/veterans/ride-resource/
Women veterans care VA Women’s Health services: https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/ Local coordinators at each VA medical center
LGBTQ+ veteran care VA LGBTQ+ health: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/lgbtq-veterans-health-care/ Each VAMC has an LGBTQ+ care coordinator
Legal help (civil issues) Indiana Legal Services: https://www.indianalegalservices.org/ Ask about veteran-specific assistance
Burial and cemetery info Indiana Veterans Memorial Cemetery (Madison): https://www.in.gov/ivmc/ National cemeteries: https://www.cem.va.gov/

Tip: Keep your DD214 and any VA rating letters handy. If you lost them, request records here: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records


Emergency money, housing, and urgent care

Reality check:

  • Funds like MFRF are not guaranteed and may close or pause if funds run low. Always confirm current status with IDVA and your CVSO.
  • Housing programs have waitlists in some areas. If you are at risk of eviction, contact SSVF and 211 immediately to start options early.

Health care and long-term care for Indiana senior veterans

Your VA care in Indiana

What to know:

Indiana Medicaid and PathWays for Aging (60+)

Indiana’s PathWays for Aging is the managed care program for Medicaid members age 60 and older. It coordinates medical, behavioral, pharmacy, and long-term services and supports (LTSS), including home- and community-based services when eligible. Learn more and how to enroll: https://www.in.gov/fssa/long-term-services-and-supports/pathways-for-aging/

Other Medicaid LTSS information is at FSSA: https://www.in.gov/fssa/

Tip:

  • If you think you may need nursing home or significant in-home help, talk to your AAA and your CVSO early. Medicaid financial rules are detailed, and planning ahead helps. AAAs via INconnect: https://www.inconnectalliance.org/

Indiana Veterans’ Home (state long-term care)

The Indiana Veterans’ Home in West Lafayette offers skilled nursing, memory care, and short-stay rehab for eligible veterans and spouses. Admission rules, services, and costs are posted by the facility: https://www.in.gov/ivh/

Long-term care and home support options

Table: Health and long-term care programs (overview)

Program What it does Where to learn more
VA Health Care (Indy & Northern Indiana) Primary care, specialists, pharmacy, mental health, telehealth Indianapolis: https://www.va.gov/indiana-health-care/; Northern Indiana: https://www.va.gov/northern-indiana-health-care/
VA Geriatrics & Extended Care Home care, adult day, respite, hospice, nursing home care https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/Services.asp
VA Caregiver Support Coaching, resources, and for eligible cases, a stipend https://www.caregiver.va.gov/
PathWays for Aging (Medicaid, 60+) Coordinates medical and LTSS for eligible Hoosiers age 60+ https://www.in.gov/fssa/long-term-services-and-supports/pathways-for-aging/
Indiana Veterans’ Home State long-term care facility for veterans/spouses https://www.in.gov/ivh/
SHIP (Medicare help) Free, unbiased Medicare counseling in Indiana https://www.in.gov/ship/

Reality check:

  • VA and Medicaid benefits can work together, but they do not automatically “stack.” Keep every Explanation of Benefits and ask SHIP (Indiana’s Medicare counselors) to help compare your options: https://www.in.gov/ship/

Disability compensation, pensions, and special benefits

Tip:

Reality check:

  • Pension and Aid & Attendance decisions look at income and assets. Transfers of assets can affect eligibility. Get guidance from a CVSO; avoid high‑fee “pension planners.”

Money, taxes, utilities, and legal help

  • Indiana state taxes: Indiana excludes military retirement pay and Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) payments from state income tax. See the Indiana Department of Revenue’s military tax page for current rules: https://www.in.gov/dor/individual-income-taxes/military/
  • Property tax deductions: Indiana offers property tax deductions for certain disabled veterans and some surviving spouses. Rules depend on service, disability rating, assessed value, and other factors. Start with the Department of Local Government Finance and ask your county assessor: https://www.in.gov/dlgf/
  • Energy and weatherization help: Indiana’s Energy Assistance Program (EAP, LIHEAP) and Weatherization Assistance are administered by IHCDA with local providers. Start here: https://www.in.gov/ihcda/
  • Consumer protection and scams: Report fraud, identity theft, and scams to the Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division: https://www.in.gov/attorneygeneral/consumer-protection/

Table: Money, taxes, and legal help (quick reference)

Topic Action Official source
Indiana income tax on military retirement/SBP Review exemptions and filing steps IN Dept. of Revenue: https://www.in.gov/dor/individual-income-taxes/military/
Property tax deductions for veterans Confirm eligibility and apply with county Indiana DLGF: https://www.in.gov/dlgf/
Energy bills (EAP/LIHEAP) Apply through local provider IHCDA programs: https://www.in.gov/ihcda/
Food benefits (SNAP) Apply online or via DFR https://www.in.gov/fssa/dfr/snap-food-assistance/about-snap/
Free legal help Check eligibility for civil legal aid Indiana Legal Services: https://www.indianalegalservices.org/
Financial coaching and credit Free help for all Hoosiers Indiana 211 connects to local agencies: https://www.in211.org/

Reality check:

  • Property tax deductions and state tax rules change. Confirm specifics with your county and the Indiana Department of Revenue each year. Keep your VA rating letter.

Housing, home repairs, and assisted living

Table: Housing and home modifications programs

Program Who it serves What it covers Where to apply
HUD-VASH Homeless veterans Voucher + VA case management https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash/
SSVF Very low-income veterans at risk or homeless Prevention, rehousing, case management https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/
VA SAH/related grants Veterans with qualifying severe service-connected disabilities Major home adaptations https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/
VA HISA Veterans needing medically necessary home changes Ramps, bathroom safety, etc. https://www.prosthetics.va.gov/psas/HISA.asp
Indiana EAP/Weatherization Income-eligible households Utility help, energy-saving repairs https://www.in.gov/ihcda/

Tip:

  • If you rent, ask your landlord before modifications. VA grants typically require owner permission.

Transportation, access, and technology

Reality check:

  • DAV rides and transit discounts vary by county/city and may have waitlists. Book early, especially for morning VA appointments.

Work, volunteering, and education

Tip:

  • Even if you’re retired, VR&E and local workforce programs can help with part-time work, certifications, or volunteer placements to stay active.

IDs, plates, and outdoor recreation


Records, discharge upgrades, and survivors

Tip:


Inclusive support: groups who may face extra barriers

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

Reality check: Benefits are based on your service and eligibility, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

Disabled senior veterans

Tribal members living in Indiana

  • If you are a citizen of a federally recognized tribe who lives in Indiana, the VA Office of Tribal Government Relations can help you connect with benefits: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/
  • The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi is a federally recognized tribe with a service area that includes parts of northern Indiana. Tribal members should check with the tribe about veteran services and referrals: https://www.pokagonband-nsn.gov/ (confirm veteran programs with the tribe).

Tip: Tribal enrollment and residence do not reduce your VA benefits. Coordinate care and support from both systems where applicable.

Rural senior veterans with limited access

Female senior veterans

  • VA Women’s Health provides primary and specialty care tailored to women, including menopause care, pelvic health, and breast health. Learn more: https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/
  • Women Veterans Program Managers are at each Indiana VA medical center (ask at the main number or Women’s Health clinic at your facility).

Reality check: If you ever experienced military sexual trauma (MST), you can get free, confidential care from VA regardless of disability claim status. Start here: https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.asp


Resources by region (Indiana)

North

Central

South

Tip: Within each region, transit, housing, and utility programs are delivered by local partners. When in doubt, call 2‑1‑1 to get a warm handoff: https://www.in211.org/


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) — Indiana senior veterans

  1. How do I get fast help with rent or utilities in Indiana?
    Start with your CVSO and ask about the IDVA Military Family Relief Fund and any local veteran funds. Also call 2‑1‑1 for community aid. IDVA: https://www.in.gov/dva/; Indiana 211: https://www.in211.org/
  2. Can I use VA and Medicare at the same time?
    Yes. Many veterans use VA for service‑connected care and prescriptions, and Medicare for community providers. Coordination basics: https://www.va.gov/health-care/other-insurance/
  3. What is PathWays for Aging and does it affect me?
    PathWays for Aging is Indiana’s Medicaid managed care for people age 60+. If you qualify for Medicaid, PathWays coordinates your medical and long-term services. Info: https://www.in.gov/fssa/long-term-services-and-supports/pathways-for-aging/
  4. Does Indiana tax my military retirement pay?
    Indiana excludes military retirement pay and Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) from state income tax. Review current guidance here: https://www.in.gov/dor/individual-income-taxes/military/
  5. What property tax help do I get as a disabled veteran in Indiana?
    Indiana offers property tax deductions for qualifying veterans and some surviving spouses. Rules depend on disability rating, age, service, and the property. Confirm with the Indiana Department of Local Government Finance and your county assessor: https://www.in.gov/dlgf/
  6. How do I apply for Aid & Attendance to help pay for care?
    File a VA Pension claim with the Aid & Attendance add‑on if you need help with daily activities. Learn how and apply: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/. Get free help from a CVSO: https://www.in.gov/dva/contact/county-veteran-service-officer-directory/
  7. Can VA help with home modifications like ramps or bathrooms?
    Yes. Depending on your disability and medical need, see SAH grants: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/ and the HISA grant: https://www.prosthetics.va.gov/psas/HISA.asp
  8. How do I get a ride to the VA?
    Check VA travel pay eligibility: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/ and ask about DAV volunteer transportation: https://www.dav.org/veterans/ride-resource/
  9. I live in a rural county. Can I do VA appointments by phone or video?
    Yes. VA Video Connect is available; ask your clinic about the Digital Divide Consult if you lack a device or internet: https://connectedcare.va.gov/
  10. Where can I get free Medicare advice in Indiana?
    Contact Indiana SHIP for unbiased counseling: https://www.in.gov/ship/
  11. I think my discharge is blocking benefits. What can I do?
    Use VA’s discharge upgrade tool to see your options: https://www.va.gov/discharge-upgrade-instructions/ and get help from a CVSO.
  12. Where do I find women’s or LGBTQ+ specific VA care in Indiana?
    Women’s Health: https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/; LGBTQ+ Veteran care: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/lgbtq-veterans-health-care/. Each Indiana VA medical center has coordinators for these programs.
  13. What if I can’t find my DD214?
    Request it from the National Archives: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
  14. Are there jobs for older veterans who want part-time work?
    Yes. WorkOne veteran staff can help you find flexible roles: https://www.in.gov/dwd/veterans/. INvets also lists veteran‑friendly employers: https://invets.org/
  15. Who can help me pick the right benefits without charging fees?
    Your County Veteran Service Officer provides free help. Find yours here: https://www.in.gov/dva/contact/county-veteran-service-officer-directory/

Resource tables (print-friendly)

Table: Key Indiana and VA contacts

Topic Link
Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) https://www.in.gov/dva/
County Veteran Service Officers (lookup) https://www.in.gov/dva/contact/county-veteran-service-officer-directory/
VA contact and help (MyVA411) https://www.va.gov/contact-us/
VA Indiana Health Care (Indianapolis) https://www.va.gov/indiana-health-care/
VA Northern Indiana Health Care System https://www.va.gov/northern-indiana-health-care/
INconnect Alliance (AAAs) https://www.inconnectalliance.org/
Indiana Medicaid PathWays for Aging https://www.in.gov/fssa/long-term-services-and-supports/pathways-for-aging/
Indiana 211 https://www.in211.org/

Table: Benefits and applications

Benefit Where to learn/apply
VA Disability Compensation https://www.va.gov/disability/
VA Pension with Aid & Attendance https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/
HISA home modifications https://www.prosthetics.va.gov/psas/HISA.asp
VA Caregiver Support https://www.caregiver.va.gov/
SNAP (food) https://www.in.gov/fssa/dfr/snap-food-assistance/about-snap/
SHIP (Medicare counseling) https://www.in.gov/ship/

Practical tips, reality checks, and how to avoid delays

  • Keep everything: DD214, rating letters, decision letters, medical evidence, and a simple log of calls and visits.
  • Use accredited help: CVSO or VA-accredited reps are free and trained: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp
  • Watch out for high-fee “consultants” promising quick approvals. If someone asks for a percentage of your benefits, walk away and report it to the Indiana Attorney General: https://www.in.gov/attorneygeneral/consumer-protection/
  • Start early for long-term care. Medicaid and VA decisions can take time. Talk to your AAA and CVSO as soon as care needs increase.

Full Resources (Indiana)


Disclaimer

Program rules, amounts, and eligibility can change. Always verify details with the official agency or your County Veteran Service Officer. This guide provides general information and links to official sources but is not 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: 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.

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.