Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Arkansas
Written & Reviewed by
Last updated: August 2025
Quick help box (keep this handy)
Use these contacts when time matters. If you’re not sure where to start, call MyVA411 first.
| Need | Who to contact | What you’ll get |
|---|---|---|
| Life‑threatening emergency | 911 | Police, fire, ambulance |
| Mental health or suicidal thoughts | VA Crisis Line: call 988 then press 1 • Chat online • Text 838255 | 24/7 confidential support for veterans and their families |
| Urgent housing help or homelessness | VA Homeless Veterans Hotline: 877‑424‑3838 | Same‑day help connecting to shelter, HUD‑VASH, and SSVF |
| Benefits questions or help applying | MyVA411: 800‑698‑2411 | One number for VA health care, benefits, and more |
| Find your local Arkansas Veteran Service Officer | Search Arkansas County Veteran Service Offices | Free, in‑person claims help near you |
| Elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation | Arkansas Adult Protective Services | Report abuse and request investigation |
| General local help (food, housing, bills) | Call 2‑1‑1 or visit Arkansas 211 | Local referrals to programs in your county |
Reality check: Benefits often require paperwork and proof (DD214, VA rating letter, income info). If you feel stuck, call your County Veteran Service Officer or MyVA411 and ask for step‑by‑step help.
What’s inside this Arkansas‑focused guide
- How to get one‑on‑one help right now (free)
- VA benefits that matter most if you’re 60+ (pension, Aid & Attendance, health care, long‑term care, caregiver support)
- Arkansas‑specific money and tax breaks (property taxes, income tax, plates/parking, parks, hunting/fishing)
- Health care and long‑term care in Arkansas (VA facilities, State Veterans Homes, Medicaid/ARChoices)
- Housing support, utility help, food programs, transportation
- Inclusive resources for LGBTQ+ veterans, women, disabled seniors, tribal citizens, and rural communities
- Resources by Arkansas region
- FAQs you can act on today
- Sources and where to get the official rules
You’ll see direct links to official government or established program sites throughout.
How to get one‑on‑one help now (free, trusted)
- County Veteran Service Officers (CVSOs) in Arkansas provide free help filing claims, pension/Aid & Attendance applications, discharge upgrades, and more. Find yours here: Find your Arkansas County Veteran Service Office (Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs).
- MyVA411 is the VA’s “front door” when you don’t know which office handles what: Call 800‑698‑2411 or visit the MyVA411 page.
- Certified Veteran Service Organizations with Arkansas offices include the American Legion, DAV, VFW, and others. VA keeps a list here: Find accredited VSOs and representatives.
Tip: Bring your DD214, any VA decision letters, Social Security letters, income/bank statements, and a list of your doctors. It speeds things up.
VA benefits that matter most to Arkansas seniors
Pension with Aid & Attendance or Housebound
- What it is: A monthly, needs‑based VA benefit for wartime veterans with limited income and assets. Aid & Attendance (A&A) or Housebound are add‑ons if you need help with daily activities or are largely confined at home.
- What it helps with: Paying for in‑home care, assisted living, or nursing care. It’s often the benefit that makes care possible.
- Who may qualify: Veterans with wartime service, age 65+ (or disabled), with countable income/net worth under VA limits and a medical need for help (for A&A/Housebound).
Learn more and apply:
- Overview and current rules: VA Pension, Aid & Attendance, and Housebound benefits
- Apply online or with a VSO: Apply for VA pension
- Medical evidence forms: VA Form 21‑2680 (Exam for Housebound Status or A&A), VA Form 21‑0779 (Care Facility Information)
Reality check: VA counts many types of income, but also allows medical expense deductions. A CVSO can help you present your case correctly.
VA disability compensation (even if you’ve never filed)
- What it is: Tax‑free payments for disabilities caused or worsened by service. There’s no “too late” to file.
- Why now: New toxic exposure presumptions under the PACT Act mean more conditions may qualify.
- Start here: File for VA disability compensation and learn about the PACT Act.
Warning: Don’t pay “claim sharks.” Only use accredited representatives: Verify VA accreditation.
VA health care in Arkansas
- Enroll in care: Apply for VA health care. If you’re already service‑connected or have limited income, you likely qualify.
- Find care near you: Arkansas is served by the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System (Little Rock/North Little Rock) and the Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks (Fayetteville), plus many clinics. Use the VA Facility Locator.
Helpful links:
- Primary and specialty care: VA Health care services
- Telehealth (good for rural areas): VA Telehealth Services
- Pharmacy refills: My HealtheVet
Long‑term care and caregiver support
- VA long‑term care options include in‑home care, adult day health, respite care, hospice, and nursing home care at VA Community Living Centers or in community facilities. Details: VA Long‑Term Care.
- Caregivers: The VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers supports eligible post‑9/11 and expanded era veterans; others may qualify for the Program of General Caregiver Support Services. Start here: VA Caregiver Support.
Arkansas State Veterans Homes (operated by the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs) can be an option if nursing care is needed:
Admissions, eligibility, and costs are set by the state and VA; see the ADVA page above for current rules.
Arkansas‑specific financial and tax benefits for veterans 60+
Below is a quick snapshot. Always verify with your county assessor and the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA).
| Benefit | Who it helps | What it does | How to claim |
|---|---|---|---|
| Homestead property tax exemption for disabled veterans | Veterans rated 100% permanent and total service‑connected (or with certain special monthly compensation); some surviving spouses/children | Exempts homestead and some personal property from local property taxes | Bring your current VA disability letter to your county assessor. See Arkansas Code § 26‑3‑306: Read the statute |
| Assessment freeze at age 65 (Amendment 79) | Homeowners age 65+ or permanently disabled | Freezes assessed value on your homestead to limit tax increases (local millage can still change tax due) | Apply with your county assessor. Learn more via DFA: Property Tax Relief (Amendment 79) |
| State income tax on military retirement | Military retirement pay | Arkansas excludes military retirement pay from state income tax | See DFA: Military retirement tax information |
| Disabled veteran license plates and parking | Veterans with qualifying disabilities | Accessible parking privileges and special plates/fees | DFA Office of Motor Vehicle: Veteran and DV plates |
| State parks and camping discounts | Seniors and veterans with disabilities | Discounts on Arkansas State Parks stays/fees | Check current rules: Arkansas State Parks discounts (search “discounts”) |
| Hunting & fishing licenses | Veterans with qualifying VA disability | Reduced‑cost or lifetime licenses | Arkansas Game & Fish Commission: Licenses for disabled veterans (search “disabled veteran license”) |
Reality check: Property tax rules are local. Even with exemptions, you usually must re‑certify or show an updated VA letter periodically. Call your assessor before you go, and bring your ID, DD214, and VA rating letter.
Health care and long‑term care in Arkansas (state and federal)
| Option | What it covers | Where to learn/apply |
|---|---|---|
| VA medical care | Primary care, specialists, mental health, medications, devices; eligibility based on service, income, or disability | Apply for VA health care • Find Arkansas VA facilities |
| Arkansas State Veterans Homes | Skilled nursing and memory care for eligible veterans and spouses | ADVA — State Veterans Homes |
| Medicaid (ARChoices in Homecare) | In‑home supports (help with bathing, meals, housekeeping), respite; eligibility based on income/assets and care needs | ARChoices in Homecare — Arkansas DHS |
| Nursing home Medicaid | Helps pay nursing facility costs for eligible seniors; estate recovery rules apply | Arkansas Medicaid long‑term care information (search “long term care Medicaid”) |
| Medicare counseling (free) | Help choosing Medicare, Medigap, and Part D plans; identify savings programs | Arkansas SHIIP — Insurance Department |
| Long‑Term Care Ombudsman | Resolves problems and complaints in nursing homes and assisted living | Arkansas Ombudsman program |
Tips:
- You can use VA care and Medicare at the same time. Many veterans keep Medicare and use VA for prescriptions.
- If you use Aid & Attendance to help with assisted living, keep receipts and care plans. VA may ask for proof of care expenses each year.
Housing, home repairs, utilities, and transportation
If you’re homeless or at risk
- VA hotline: 877‑424‑3838 (VA Homeless Veterans). They can connect you to:
- HUD‑VASH (Housing vouchers plus VA case management)
- SSVF (temporary financial help and case management through nonprofits)
- Emergency shelter and transitional housing
- Learn about programs: VA Homeless Programs.
Fixing and keeping your home
- USDA Rural Development Section 504 (Repair Loans & Grants): Seniors 62+ with very low income may qualify for grants to remove health/safety hazards; loans also available. Arkansas page: USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants and Find your Arkansas RD office.
- Weatherization (lower energy bills by improving your home’s efficiency): Arkansas Weatherization Assistance Program (see state contacts) or call Arkansas 211 to find your local provider.
- Utility help (LIHEAP): Apply through your local Community Action Agency. Start here: Arkansas LIHEAP — DHS (search “LIHEAP”) or dial 2‑1‑1.
Food and income supports
- SNAP (food benefits): Apply for SNAP in Arkansas (search “SNAP apply”).
- Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) for adults 60+: USDA CSFP — Arkansas contacts (connects to local food banks that run CSFP).
- Meals at home or senior centers: Contact your Area Agency on Aging via Eldercare Locator or the Arkansas DHS Aging & Adult Services.
Transportation
- VA travel pay (mileage, common carrier): VA Beneficiary Travel.
- DAV/VA vans: Contact your Arkansas VA facility’s Voluntary Service for DAV van schedules: Find your VA facility.
- Rural rides: Call your Area Agency on Aging or Arkansas 211 for local transit options.
Reality check: Funds for LIHEAP and weatherization can run out mid‑year. Apply early and call ahead to see what’s available in your county.
Arkansas education and employment options (for seniors and caregivers)
- If you still want to work or need training, ask for a Disabled Veterans’ Outreach Program (DVOP) specialist at your nearest Arkansas Workforce Center: Arkansas Division of Workforce Services.
- For grandchildren and dependents: Arkansas’s Military Dependents Scholarship (MDS) supports dependents of certain disabled or deceased veterans (eligibility is specific; see official rules through the Arkansas Division of Higher Education).
Burial and memorial benefits in Arkansas
- Arkansas State Veterans Cemeteries:
- North Little Rock
- Birdeye (near Cherry Valley)
Eligibility, scheduling, and fees for spouses are listed on the ADVA page.
- Federal burial benefits (headstones, markers, Presidential Memorial Certificates): VA Burial Benefits.
Tip: Keep DD214 and any VA rating letters where your family can find them. Pre‑need eligibility can ease a difficult day: Apply for pre‑need burial eligibility.
Inclusive support: specific groups of Arkansas senior veterans
Disabled senior veterans
- Property tax relief: See the Arkansas disabled veterans tax exemption statute.
- Mobility, vehicle, and housing adaptations: VA grants can help with home modifications and vehicles:
- Health care and equipment: Work with your VA clinician; ask about prosthetics, home safety evaluations, and Home‑Based Primary Care where available: VA Home‑Based Primary Care.
Women veterans
- Arkansas VA systems have Women Veterans Program Managers who can coordinate primary and specialty care, including mammography and gynecology. Start here:
- Arkansas also maintains outreach for women veterans through ADVA: Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs — Women Veterans.
LGBTQ+ senior veterans
- Every VA has an LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator to help with respectful, affirming care. Learn how to connect at: VA LGBTQ+ Veteran Health Program.
- Privacy and documentation: You can update your identity information in VA records. Guidance here: VA health record gender identity information.
Tribal citizens and Native veterans living in Arkansas
- Arkansas doesn’t have tribes headquartered in‑state today, but many citizens of neighboring nations live here. You may have extra options:
- Indian Health Service (Oklahoma City Area covers nearby tribal health): IHS Oklahoma City Area.
- Tribal Veteran Service programs (examples): Cherokee Nation Office of Veterans Affairs, Choctaw Nation Veterans Services.
- VA and IHS can coordinate care. Ask your providers about the VA–IHS Reimbursement Agreement.
Rural senior veterans with limited access
- Use VA Telehealth, VA video visits, and medication delivery by mail.
- Ask about mobile clinics and Community Care (when VA can’t provide the care you need timely or locally): VA Community Care.
- Claim travel pay if eligible: VA travel reimbursement.
Food, money, and utility help at a glance (Arkansas)
| Program | Who it helps | What it provides | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP | Low‑income seniors and families | Monthly food benefits on an EBT card | Arkansas DHS — SNAP (search “SNAP apply”) |
| CSFP | Adults 60+ with limited income | Monthly box of staple foods | USDA CSFP — Arkansas contacts |
| LIHEAP | Low‑income households | Help with heating/cooling bills | Arkansas LIHEAP — via DHS / Community Action Agencies |
| Weatherization | Homeowners/renters with high utility use | Free home energy upgrades | Arkansas Weatherization Assistance |
| 2‑1‑1 | Anyone | Referrals to local food pantries, rent help, transport | Arkansas 211 |
Protect yourself: common pitfalls and how to avoid them
- Claims “helpers” who charge you for filing VA benefits are often not accredited. Verify here: Check VA accreditation.
- Property tax relief isn’t automatic. You must file with your county assessor and keep your VA disability letter updated. See Arkansas Code § 26‑3‑306.
- Aid & Attendance needs medical proof. Ask your doctor to complete VA Form 21‑2680, and keep receipts for care expenses.
Resources by Arkansas region
Use this to find your closest “hub” resources. For a complete list of VA clinics and services, use the VA Facility Locator. To find senior services like meals and rides, see the Arkansas DHS Aging & Adult Services page.
| Region | VA hubs and clinics | Senior services hub |
|---|---|---|
| Central Arkansas (Little Rock/North Little Rock) | Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System (John L. McClellan Memorial Veterans Hospital, Eugene J. Towbin Healthcare Center) | Contact your Area Agency on Aging via DHS Aging & Adult Services |
| Northwest (Fayetteville, Springdale, Bentonville) | Veterans Health Care System of the Ozarks (Fayetteville VA Medical Center) | Area Agency on Aging serves the region; find via DHS |
| River Valley (Fort Smith) | Community‑based VA clinics tied to Fayetteville system; check the Locator | Contact your local AAA via DHS Aging Services |
| Northeast (Jonesboro) | VA outpatient clinic(s); check the Locator | Local AAA via DHS Aging Services |
| Southwest (Texarkana, Hot Springs) | VA clinics tied to CAVHS; check the Locator | Local AAA via DHS Aging Services |
| Delta/Southeast (Pine Bluff, Helena‑West Helena) | VA clinics tied to CAVHS; check the Locator | Local AAA via DHS Aging Services |
Note: For county‑by‑county, free VA claims help, use the ADVA County Office locator.
Step‑by‑step: getting Aid & Attendance in Arkansas
- Confirm service and financial basics
- Check VA pension rules here: Who qualifies for VA pension.
- Get medical documentation
- Ask your doctor to complete VA Form 21‑2680. If you’re in assisted living, have the facility fill out VA Form 21‑0779.
- Gather financial records
- Social Security award letter, any pension statements, bank statements, and a list of out‑of‑pocket medical/care costs.
- Apply
- File online: Apply for VA pension or work with a local CVSO.
- Track and respond
- VA may ask for more info. Respond by the deadline. If denied, talk to your CVSO about an appeal or supplemental claim: Decision reviews and appeals.
Reality check: Processing can take months. If you have very limited income and urgent needs, ask your CVSO about “priority processing” flags and whether any local charity programs can bridge the gap.
Arkansas tax and fee benefits (details and links)
| Topic | Details | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Disabled veterans property tax exemption | Requires a VA letter showing 100% permanent and total disability (or qualifying SMC). Surviving spouses/children may qualify. File with county assessor; keep documentation current. | Arkansas Code § 26‑3‑306 |
| Assessment freeze at 65 (Amendment 79) | Freezes assessed value on the homestead when you turn 65 or are disabled. You must apply with your assessor. | DFA — Property Tax Relief FAQ |
| Military retirement pay | Excluded from Arkansas income tax. | DFA — Individual Income Tax |
| Veteran/DV plates and parking | Eligibility, documents, and fees vary by plate type. | DFA OMV — Specialty License Plates |
| Parks, hunting, and fishing discounts | Arkansas State Parks and AGFC offer senior and disabled veteran discounts. Verify current requirements and fees. | Arkansas State Parks • Arkansas Game & Fish Commission |
Frequently Asked Questions (Arkansas‑specific)
Q: How do I claim the Arkansas property tax exemption as a 100% disabled veteran?
- A: Bring a current VA disability letter showing 100% permanent and total (or qualifying special monthly compensation) to your county assessor and apply. The rule is in Arkansas Code § 26‑3‑306. Ask how often you need to re‑certify.
Q: I’m 65+. Can my Arkansas property tax be frozen even if I’m not a disabled vet?
- A: Yes. Under Amendment 79, homeowners age 65+ (or disabled) can freeze the assessed value of their homestead. Apply with your county assessor. See DFA’s Property Tax Relief FAQ.
Q: Where can I get in‑person help to apply for VA pension or Aid & Attendance?
- A: Start with your county service office: Find your Arkansas CVSO. You can also call MyVA411 at 800‑698‑2411.
Q: Are Arkansas State Veterans Homes only for veterans with service‑connected disabilities?
- A: No. Admission is based on veteran status, medical need, and other criteria set by ADVA and VA. Check current rules here: ADVA — State Veterans Homes.
Q: Can VA help pay for assisted living in Arkansas?
- A: VA doesn’t directly pay room and board for assisted living, but the VA pension with Aid & Attendance can help cover those costs if you qualify. See VA Pension and A&A.
Q: I live in rural Arkansas. How can I see a VA doctor without driving far?
- A: Ask about VA telehealth, VA Video Connect, and Community Care if VA can’t provide timely local care: VA Community Care. You may qualify for travel pay.
Q: What licenses or discounts do disabled veterans get for hunting/fishing?
- A: Arkansas Game & Fish offers reduced‑cost or lifetime licenses for qualifying disabled veterans. Requirements are on the AGFC licensing page (search “disabled veteran license”).
Q: Is military retirement pay taxed in Arkansas?
- A: Arkansas excludes military retirement pay from state income tax. See DFA — Individual Income Tax.
Q: How do I get VA mental health help fast?
- A: Call the VA Crisis Line: 988 then press 1. For ongoing care, contact your VA facility’s mental health clinic: Find locations.
Q: Who handles complaints about nursing homes or assisted living?
- A: The Arkansas Long‑Term Care Ombudsman investigates and helps resolve issues: Ombudsman program.
Q: Can I use VA care and Medicare at the same time?
- A: Yes. Many veterans use VA for some care and prescriptions, and Medicare for others. For help picking Medicare plans, contact Arkansas SHIIP.
Q: I’m a surviving spouse. Can I get help?
- A: You may be eligible for VA Survivors Pension or Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC). Start here: VA survivor benefits. For burial at a state veterans cemetery, see ADVA cemeteries.
Key Arkansas and Federal Links (bookmark these)
- VA
- Arkansas state
- Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs (ADVA)
- Find your County Veteran Service Office
- State Veterans Homes
- State Veterans Cemeteries
- Arkansas DHS — Aging & Adult Services
- Adult Protective Services
- Arkansas SHIIP (Medicare counseling)
- DFA — Individual Income Tax (military retirement info)
- DFA — Property Tax Relief FAQ
- Arkansas Code § 26‑3‑306 (disabled veteran property tax exemption)
- Arkansas 211 (United Way)
- Outdoors and recreation
- Home and utilities
- Legal and advocacy
Reality checks and pro tips
- Keep your paperwork handy: DD214, VA award letters, Social Security letters, and a current ID. Scan copies if possible.
- Big changes? Report them quickly. VA pension is needs‑based; if income or care costs change, tell VA to avoid overpayments.
- Use official forms and sites. If a website asks for a fee to “expedite” VA benefits, close it and use the links above.
- Not sure what you qualify for? Start with a CVSO: Find your CVSO or call MyVA411.
Disclaimer
We do our best to share accurate, current information. Programs can change, and local offices may have their own procedures. Always confirm details with the official agency or program website linked in this guide.
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.
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