Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Alaska
Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Alaska (Authority Hub)
Last updated: August 2025
Quick Help Box (keep this handy)
- Call 911 for any life-threatening emergency.
- Speak to someone now: Veterans Crisis Line — dial 988, then press 1, or visit the Veterans Crisis Line website: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
- One-stop Alaska help: Dial 2-1-1 or visit Alaska 2-1-1: https://alaska211.org/
- Enroll in VA health care: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
- File a VA disability claim: https://www.va.gov/disability/how-to-file-claim/
- Find Alaska VA health care and clinics: https://www.va.gov/alaska-health-care/
- Find a VA facility near you: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
- Find a VA-accredited service officer in Alaska (state Office of Veterans Affairs): https://dmva.alaska.gov/Veterans
- Alaska Pioneer Homes (including the Alaska Veterans & Pioneers Home in Palmer): https://health.alaska.gov/daph
- Alaska Housing (home repair, weatherization, mortgages): https://www.ahfc.us/
- Alaska SNAP (food assistance): https://health.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/snap/
- Senior Medicare counseling (SHIP): https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/medicare/default.aspx
Emergency help first
If you’re in crisis or need immediate assistance:
- Crisis support: Veterans Crisis Line — dial 988, then press 1, text 838255, or use chat at the Veterans Crisis Line website: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
- Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (anyone): dial 988 — https://988lifeline.org/
- Domestic violence/sexual assault: Alaska Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault resources — https://dps.alaska.gov/CDVSA/Services/Victim-Services
- Medical emergency: Call 911. If enrolled, tell responders you receive VA care so they can notify VA for coordination. VA emergency care information: https://www.va.gov/COMMUNITYCARE/programs/veterans/Emergency_Care.asp
- Need immediate shelter, food, or a ride to care: Dial 2-1-1 to reach Alaska 2-1-1 or visit https://alaska211.org/ for statewide referrals.
Reality check: Alaska’s distances, weather, and limited road access can delay help. If you live off the road system, plan ahead:
- Ask your clinic about telehealth options and backup communication.
- Keep medications and oxygen refills on a schedule; ask about mail-order from VA Pharmacy: https://www.va.gov/health-care/refill-track-prescriptions/
- Eligible veterans can request VA travel reimbursement after medical appointments: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
What this guide covers
This is a practical, Alaska-specific benefits guide for veterans age 60+ (and especially age 65+) and their families. It focuses on health care, income and food, housing and home repairs, taxes and fees, transportation, legal help, caregiver support, and burial/memorial benefits. You’ll find official links and realistic tips throughout.
Tip: Many benefits require proof of service (DD-214) and Alaska residency. If you need help getting your DD-214, start here: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
Key programs at a glance (table 1)
| Program | What it does | Who it helps | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| VA Health Care (Alaska VA Healthcare System) | Primary/specialty care, telehealth, pharmacy, mental health; care at VA and community partners | Eligible veterans, priority groups vary by service and income | Alaska VA Health Care: https://www.va.gov/alaska-health-care/ and enrollment: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ |
| Alaska Property Tax Exemption | Exempts up to $150,000 of assessed value for qualifying disabled veterans or their surviving spouse | Alaska residents with a VA-rated disability of 50% or more (see statute) | Alaska Statute AS 29.45.030(e): https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#29.45.030 (apply with your local assessor) |
| Alaska Veterans & Pioneers Home (Palmer) | State Veterans Home-level assisted living within Alaska Pioneer Homes; VA per diem may offset costs for eligible vets | Alaska resident seniors needing assisted living; veterans may receive VA per diem | Alaska Pioneer Homes: https://health.alaska.gov/daph and VA State Veterans Home info: https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/State_Veterans_Home_Program.asp |
| AHFC Senior Access & Weatherization | Funds home modifications (ramps, baths), plus energy/weatherization improvements through partners | Low/moderate-income seniors and people with disabilities | Senior Access: https://www.ahfc.us/pros/grant-programs/senior-access and Weatherization: https://www.ahfc.us/efficiency/energy-programs/weatherization |
| Food assistance (SNAP, CSFP Senior Boxes, SFMNP) | Monthly food benefits, commodity food boxes, and seasonal farmers’ market coupons | Low-income seniors and households | SNAP: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/snap/; CSFP (Food Bank of Alaska): https://www.foodbankofalaska.org/programs/csfp; SFMNP contacts: https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp/contacts |
| Free hunting/fishing for seniors & disabled vets | Permanent senior card (60+) and free disabled veteran license | Alaska resident seniors and 50%+ disabled veterans | Alaska Dept. of Fish & Game — Senior PIC: https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=license.senior and Disabled Veteran License: https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=license.disabledveteran |
| DMV veteran/disabled vet plates & ID | One disabled veteran plate at no fee; veteran designation on license/ID | Alaska resident veterans, 50%+ for DV plate | Alaska DMV Military Plates: https://doa.alaska.gov/dmv/plates/military.htm and Veteran ID: https://doa.alaska.gov/dmv/akol/veteran.htm |
| Caregiver Support (VA) | Training, stipends (if eligible), respite, and support lines for family caregivers | Caregivers of eligible veterans | VA Caregiver Support: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/ |
| Medicare counseling (SHIP) | Free, unbiased help with Medicare, TRICARE For Life coordination | Seniors and caregivers | Alaska Medicare Information Office (SHIP): https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/medicare/default.aspx |
Note: Program names, eligibility, and funding can change. Always check the official links before you apply.
Health care and mental health
Enroll in VA health care in Alaska
- What you get: Primary and specialty care, mental health, prescriptions (mail delivery available), community care referrals when VA cannot provide timely or nearby service.
- Where to enroll: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
- Alaska VA Healthcare System home: https://www.va.gov/alaska-health-care/
Find clinics and Vet Centers:
- VA facilities: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/ (filter by Alaska)
- Vet Centers (readjustment counseling, including for MST and combat): https://www.vetcenter.va.gov/
Reality check: Appointments and travel can be tough in rural Alaska. Ask about:
- VA telehealth options and community care if the VA cannot see you timely: https://www.va.gov/communitycare/
- VA pharmacy by mail: https://www.va.gov/health-care/refill-track-prescriptions/
- Travel pay (BTSSS): https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
PACT Act (toxic exposures): If you served in areas covered by the PACT Act, you may qualify for more care and benefits. Details: https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/
Dental care: VA dental eligibility is limited. Check your status: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care/
Medicare and TRICARE For Life: Many retired senior veterans use both VA and Medicare/TRICARE. Get free, unbiased help: Alaska SHIP — https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/medicare/default.aspx
Mental health and substance use:
- VA Mental Health: https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/
- Vet Centers (individual, group, family): https://www.vetcenter.va.gov/
- 988 Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/
- Alaska behavioral health providers can be found via 2-1-1: https://alaska211.org/
Income, cash, and food help
VA compensation and pensions
- Disability compensation: Tax-free payments for service-connected disabilities. How to file: https://www.va.gov/disability/how-to-file-claim/
- Veterans Pension (low income, wartime service, age 65+ or disabled) and Survivors Pension: https://www.va.gov/pension/
Tip: Filing through a VA-accredited service officer avoids mistakes and costs nothing. State OVA: https://dmva.alaska.gov/Veterans
Alaska income supports
- Adult Public Assistance (APA): Cash assistance for aged, blind, or disabled Alaskans; often tied to SSI. Program info: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/apa/default.aspx
- Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD): For eligible residents meeting residency requirements: https://pfd.alaska.gov/
Taxes: Alaska has no state personal income tax; some municipalities have sales taxes. See Alaska Dept. of Revenue: https://tax.alaska.gov/programs/programs/index.aspx?60000
Food programs (table 2)
| Program | What it does | Who qualifies | How to get it |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP (Food Stamps) | Monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy groceries | Income-based; seniors may have higher medical deductions | Alaska SNAP: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/snap/ |
| Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) | Monthly shelf-stable “Senior Boxes” | Low-income seniors, usually age 60+ | Food Bank of Alaska CSFP: https://www.foodbankofalaska.org/programs/csfp |
| Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) | Coupons for fresh local produce at participating markets | Low-income seniors | State contacts (find Alaska): https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp/contacts |
| VA nutrition & home-delivered meals (OAA) | Meals on Wheels and senior center meals through local networks | Seniors; eligibility varies by area | Find via Alaska 2-1-1: https://alaska211.org/ and Alaska ADRC: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/adrc/ |
Reality check: In many rural communities, food access depends on barges, air cargo, and seasons. Ask SNAP about “excess shelter and utility” and medical deductions which can increase your benefit. SNAP info: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/snap/
Housing, home repairs, and long-term care
Stay in your home longer
- AHFC Senior Access Program: Funds small home modifications to improve accessibility (ramps, grab bars, shower conversions) through local partners. Program overview and contacts: https://www.ahfc.us/pros/grant-programs/senior-access
- AHFC Weatherization: Improves insulation, heating systems, and energy efficiency to cut fuel costs; delivered by regional agencies: https://www.ahfc.us/efficiency/energy-programs/weatherization
- VA Specially Adapted Housing (SAH/SHA) grants: For certain severe service-connected disabilities, grants help adapt a home for accessibility: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/
Tip: Combine AHFC Senior Access with VA SAH/SHA if eligible. Ask both programs before starting any work to avoid losing eligibility.
Mortgages and property taxes
- AHFC Veterans Mortgage Program (VMP): Special financing and potential rate advantages for eligible veterans. Details: https://www.ahfc.us/buy/resources/veterans-mortgage-program
- Property Tax Exemption: Alaska law requires municipalities to exempt up to $150,000 of assessed value for resident veterans with a 50%+ service-connected disability (and for certain surviving spouses). Statute: https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#29.45.030. Apply through your local assessor’s office each year (deadlines vary by borough or city).
Reality check: Even with exemptions, some communities have high property and utility costs. Weatherization and fuel assistance (LIHEAP/Heating Assistance Program) can help: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/hap/
Assisted living and nursing options
- Alaska Pioneer Homes (including the Alaska Veterans & Pioneers Home in Palmer): State-operated assisted living with multiple levels of care for Alaskans 65+. Veterans may be eligible for a VA State Veterans Home per diem to reduce out-of-pocket costs when residing in the veterans-designated home. Learn about homes, fees, and applications: https://health.alaska.gov/daph. VA overview of State Veterans Homes: https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/State_Veterans_Home_Program.asp
- Medicaid Waiver Services (Home and Community-Based Services): Personal care, respite, and supports to help eligible seniors remain at home. Alaska Senior and Disabilities Services: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/default.aspx
- VA Community Nursing Home and State Home programs: If higher-level care is needed, talk to your VA social worker about options and eligibility: https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/Long_Term_Services_and_Supports.asp
Transportation and travel
- VA Beneficiary Travel Self-Service (BTSSS): Reimbursement for eligible veterans traveling to VA or VA-authorized care. Details and portal: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
- Highly Rural Transportation Grants (HRTG): In some Alaska areas, community organizations provide free rides to VA care using VA grants. Ask your local VA clinic or Alaska 2-1-1: https://alaska211.org/
- Local transit:
- Anchorage People Mover reduced fares for seniors and veterans: https://www.muni.org/departments/transit/peoplemover/Pages/default.aspx
- Fairbanks North Star Borough MACS Transit: https://www.fnsb.gov/378/MACS-Transit
- Medicaid transportation: If you have Alaska Medicaid, ask your provider or caseworker about non-emergency medical transportation options.
Reality check: Weather can ground planes and ferries. Try to schedule critical specialty appointments during more reliable seasons if possible. Keep receipts for all travel; BTSSS requires timely claims.
Taxes, fees, and outdoor benefits (table 3)
| Benefit | What it does | Where to learn/apply |
|---|---|---|
| No state income tax | Alaska has no state-level personal income tax; some local sales taxes exist | Alaska Dept. of Revenue overview: https://tax.alaska.gov |
| Property tax exemption for disabled veterans | Mandatory exemption up to $150,000 of assessed value (local process) | AS 29.45.030(e): https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#29.45.030 |
| Disabled Veteran license plate | One plate at no fee for 50%+ VA-rated disabled veteran | Alaska DMV Military Plates: https://doa.alaska.gov/dmv/plates/military.htm |
| Veteran designation on license/ID | Adds “Veteran” to your license/ID | DMV Veteran ID info: https://doa.alaska.gov/dmv/akol/veteran.htm |
| Free hunting/fishing/trapping | Senior PIC (60+) and free disabled veteran license | ADF&G Senior PIC: https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=license.senior and Disabled Veteran: https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=license.disabledveteran |
| Alaska State Parks Disabled Veteran Camping Pass | Free camping/parking at many state park facilities for eligible disabled veterans | Alaska State Parks passes: https://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/ |
Tip: Bring your VA award letter when applying for DMV plates or the Disabled Veteran Camping Pass.
Legal help, employment, and education
- Free civil legal help (priority for seniors/veterans): Alaska Legal Services Corporation Veterans services: https://www.alsc-law.org/ (nonprofit, statewide)
- Job services with veteran priority: Alaska Dept. of Labor & Workforce Development — veterans services and job centers: https://labor.alaska.gov/veterans/
- VA education benefits (for you and eligible family): https://www.va.gov/education/
- University of Alaska veteran services: Check campus veteran resource centers (Anchorage, Fairbanks, Southeast) via the UA system: https://www.alaska.edu/
Beware of scams: For consumer issues or suspected fraud, contact the Alaska Attorney General Consumer Protection Unit: https://law.alaska.gov/department/civil/consumer/
Caregivers and family
- VA Caregiver Support Program: Coaching, support line (1-855-260-3274), peer support, and for eligible cases, a monthly stipend and health coverage. Start here: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/
- Alaska ADRC (Aging & Disability Resource Center): Local options counseling, respite resources, and referral to services: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/adrc/
- Survivor and burial benefits: VA burial in national cemeteries, headstones, and possible burial allowances. Learn more: https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/
- Fort Richardson National Cemetery (JBER): https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/ft_richardson.asp
- Sitka National Cemetery: https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/sitka.asp
Tip: Keep a “go file” with DD-214, VA ratings, Medicare/insurance cards, POLST/advance directives, and contact information for your VA team and family.
Special focus: Inclusive support
LGBTQ+ senior veterans
- VA policy: VA provides care with dignity, privacy, and respect regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. VA LGBTQ+ health resources: https://www.va.gov/LGBT/
- Ask for your local LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator (VCC) through the Alaska VA Healthcare System: https://www.va.gov/alaska-health-care/
- If you experienced Military Sexual Trauma (MST), counseling and care are available regardless of service-connection status: https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.asp
Disabled senior veterans
- Review your VA disability rating; if your health has worsened, consider a claim for increase: https://www.va.gov/disability/how-to-file-claim/
- Housing adaptations: SAH/SHA grants: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/
- Transportation and mobility: Ask VA prosthetics about devices, home safety, and vehicle adaptations: work through your VA primary care team.
Alaska Native and tribal veterans
- You may receive care at Indian Health Service (IHS) and tribal health facilities with VA reimbursement under federal agreements, reducing out-of-pocket costs: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/tribal-veterans-health-care/
- Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC) coordinates statewide tribal health services: https://www.anthc.org/
- VA’s Office of Tribal Government Relations can connect you with Tribal Veteran Representatives: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/
Tip: Tell both VA and your tribal clinic you are a veteran so they can bill correctly under the reimbursement agreement.
Rural and off-road system veterans
- Use telehealth where possible (ask about loaner devices and connectivity options). VA telehealth info is available through the Alaska VA Healthcare System: https://www.va.gov/alaska-health-care/
- Travel reimbursement: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
- Mail-order pharmacy (plan ahead for weather delays): https://www.va.gov/health-care/refill-track-prescriptions/
Women senior veterans
- Women Veterans Health Program provides gender-specific primary care, preventive care, and coordination for maternity and specialty services. Start here: https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/
- If you experienced MST, counseling is available at VA and Vet Centers regardless of service connection: https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.asp
How to apply: step-by-step checklist (table 4)
| Goal | Steps | Help |
|---|---|---|
| Enroll in VA health care | 1) Gather DD-214 and insurance info. 2) Apply online, by mail, or in person. | Enroll: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ |
| Start a disability claim | 1) Get a VA-accredited representative. 2) File Fully Developed Claim if possible. 3) Attend C&P exams. | File: https://www.va.gov/disability/how-to-file-claim/; Find representation (Alaska OVA): https://dmva.alaska.gov/Veterans |
| Reduce housing costs | 1) Ask AHFC about Senior Access and Weatherization. 2) Check Heating Assistance (LIHEAP). 3) Apply for property tax exemption if eligible. | AHFC Senior Access: https://www.ahfc.us/pros/grant-programs/senior-access; Weatherization: https://www.ahfc.us/efficiency/energy-programs/weatherization; LIHEAP: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/hap/; Statute: https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#29.45.030 |
| Improve food security | 1) Apply for SNAP. 2) Ask about CSFP Senior Boxes and SFMNP. 3) Call 2-1-1 for local senior meals. | SNAP: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/snap/; CSFP: https://www.foodbankofalaska.org/programs/csfp; SFMNP contacts: https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp/contacts; 2-1-1: https://alaska211.org/ |
| Caregiver support | 1) Call VA Caregiver Support Line. 2) Explore PCAFC if eligible. 3) Check ADRC for respite. | VA Caregivers: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/; ADRC: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/adrc/ |
Common Alaska-specific benefits (table 5)
| Topic | Alaska-specific detail | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Senior hunting/fishing | Alaska residents age 60+ can get a free Permanent Identification Card (PIC) for hunting/fishing; disabled veterans (50%+) can get a free license | ADF&G — Senior PIC: https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=license.senior; Disabled Veteran: https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=license.disabledveteran |
| Property tax exemption | State law requires local governments to exempt up to $150,000 of assessed value for qualifying disabled veterans and certain surviving spouses | Alaska Statute 29.45.030(e): https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#29.45.030 |
| No state income tax | Alaska does not levy a state personal income tax | Alaska Dept. of Revenue: https://tax.alaska.gov |
| Veterans & Pioneers Home | Palmer home is designated for veterans within Alaska Pioneer Homes; VA per diem may apply | Alaska Pioneer Homes: https://health.alaska.gov/daph; VA State Veterans Home overview: https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/State_Veterans_Home_Program.asp |
| DMV veteran plates and ID | One disabled veteran plate at no charge; veteran designation on license/ID available | Alaska DMV: https://doa.alaska.gov/dmv/plates/military.htm; Veteran ID: https://doa.alaska.gov/dmv/akol/veteran.htm |
Resources by region (selected)
Use these links to find local clinics, rides, senior centers, and housing help.
- Anchorage and Eagle River
- VA Alaska Health Care (Anchorage hub): https://www.va.gov/alaska-health-care/
- People Mover (reduced fares): https://www.muni.org/departments/transit/peoplemover/Pages/default.aspx
- ADRC Anchorage/Mat-Su access point: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/adrc/
- Mat-Su (Wasilla/Palmer)
- VA care and Vet Center access via locator: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
- Alaska Veterans & Pioneers Home (Palmer): https://health.alaska.gov/daph
- ADRC Mat-Su: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/adrc/
- Fairbanks and Interior
- VA clinics/Vet Center: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
- MACS Transit (Fairbanks North Star Borough): https://www.fnsb.gov/378/MACS-Transit
- ADRC Interior: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/adrc/
- Kenai Peninsula (Kenai/Soldotna/Homer/Seward)
- VA clinics/Vet Center: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
- Local senior centers and rides via Alaska 2-1-1: https://alaska211.org/
- Southeast (Juneau/Sitka/Ketchikan/Prince of Wales)
- VA clinics/Vet Center via locator: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
- Ferry schedules and travel: Alaska Marine Highway System: https://dot.alaska.gov/amhs/
- ADRC Southeast: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/adrc/
- Western/Northern (Bethel, Nome, Kotzebue, Utqiagvik)
- Tribal health (contact your regional tribal health organization): https://www.anthc.org/
- VA telehealth/travel pay options: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
- Statewide referrals: https://alaska211.org/
Tip: In small communities, the senior center and tribal health clinic often know about rides, food boxes, and visiting specialists. Call them first.
Reality checks, tips, and warnings
- Documents matter: Keep your DD-214, VA award letters, and medical records handy. If you lost your DD-214, request it here: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
- Don’t pay for help filing VA claims: Accredited help is free. Alaska Office of Veterans Affairs: https://dmva.alaska.gov/Veterans
- Beware of “pension poachers”: If someone promises to “qualify you for VA Aid & Attendance” for a fee, walk away. Learn VA pension rules: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
- Check application deadlines: Property tax exemptions and PFD have firm dates each year. Your local assessor and PFD: https://pfd.alaska.gov/
- Internet/phone access: Ask VA and ADRC about options if you have limited connectivity; libraries and tribal centers often provide internet for telehealth appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I find a VA-accredited service officer in Alaska?
A: Start with the Alaska Office of Veterans Affairs (DMVA). They coordinate accredited service officers across the state and can help you file claims for free: https://dmva.alaska.gov/Veterans
Q: I’m 65+ and on Medicare. Can I still use the VA?
A: Yes. You can use both. Many veterans use VA for prescriptions and specialty care, and Medicare/TRICARE for community providers. For coordination questions, contact Alaska’s SHIP: https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/medicare/default.aspx
Q: What is the property tax exemption for disabled veterans in Alaska?
A: Alaska law requires local governments to exempt up to $150,000 of assessed value for resident veterans with a VA disability rating of 50% or more (and certain surviving spouses). See AS 29.45.030(e): https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#29.45.030. Apply with your city/borough assessor; deadlines vary.
Q: Does Alaska tax my military retirement pay?
A: Alaska has no state personal income tax. Check local sales tax rules where you live. Alaska Dept. of Revenue overview: https://tax.alaska.gov
Q: Is there a state veterans home in Alaska?
A: The Alaska Veterans & Pioneers Home in Palmer is part of the Alaska Pioneer Homes system and participates in the VA State Veterans Home per diem program for eligible veterans. Learn more: https://health.alaska.gov/daph and https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/State_Veterans_Home_Program.asp
Q: I live off the road system. How do I get to appointments?
A: Ask your VA clinic about telehealth and community care. For necessary travel, check VA Beneficiary Travel reimbursement (BTSSS): https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/. For local ride options, call 2-1-1: https://alaska211.org/
Q: Can I get help modifying my home (grab bars, ramp)?
A: Yes. AHFC Senior Access Program helps with accessibility modifications: https://www.ahfc.us/pros/grant-programs/senior-access. If you have a qualifying service-connected disability, VA SAH/SHA grants may also help: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/
Q: Where can I get free or low-cost legal help?
A: Alaska Legal Services Corporation offers civil legal help and has veterans-focused services: https://www.alsc-law.org/
Q: What hunting/fishing benefits do senior and disabled veterans get?
A: Alaska residents age 60+ can get a free Permanent ID Card (PIC). Disabled veterans with a 50%+ VA rating can receive a free license. Details and forms: https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=license.senior and https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=license.disabledveteran
Q: Can Alaska Native veterans use tribal clinics and have VA pay?
A: Yes. VA and IHS/Tribal Health Programs have reimbursement agreements so eligible Native veterans can receive care at tribal facilities with VA reimbursement. Details: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/tribal-veterans-health-care/
Q: What if I need caregiver support or respite?
A: Call the VA Caregiver Support Line (1-855-260-3274) and contact the ADRC to find local respite providers: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/ and https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/adrc/
Source links (quick list)
- Alaska Office of Veterans Affairs (DMVA): https://dmva.alaska.gov/Veterans
- VA Alaska Health Care: https://www.va.gov/alaska-health-care/
- VA facility locator: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/
- VA disability: https://www.va.gov/disability/how-to-file-claim/
- VA health care enrollment: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
- VA travel pay: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
- Alaska Pioneer Homes: https://health.alaska.gov/daph
- AHFC Senior Access: https://www.ahfc.us/pros/grant-programs/senior-access
- AHFC Weatherization: https://www.ahfc.us/efficiency/energy-programs/weatherization
- Alaska SNAP: https://health.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/snap/
- CSFP Senior Boxes: https://www.foodbankofalaska.org/programs/csfp
- Alaska SHIP (Medicare): https://health.alaska.gov/dsds/Pages/medicare/default.aspx
- Alaska Statute 29.45.030(e) (property tax): https://www.akleg.gov/basis/statutes.asp#29.45.030
- Alaska DMV military plates: https://doa.alaska.gov/dmv/plates/military.htm
- ADF&G Senior PIC: https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=license.senior
- ADF&G Disabled Veteran License: https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=license.disabledveteran
- Alaska 2-1-1: https://alaska211.org/
- Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
Disclaimer
We provide general information to help you find benefits. Program details, eligibility, funding, and application procedures can change. Always verify information with the official agency or program website linked in this guide. We do not provide 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.