Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Vermont

Last updated: August 2025

— Practical, step‑by‑step help for Vermonters age 60+ who served in the U.S. Armed Forces (and their families). This guide links directly to official state and federal sources so you can confirm details, apply, and get help fast.

Quick Help Box (Emergency and Urgent Contacts)

If you’re in crisis, need urgent housing help, or must speak to someone today, start here.

Note: If you use a screen reader, each link above goes to an official state or federal page.

How to Use This Guide

• Start with what’s most urgent (safety, health, housing).
• Then check which benefits you already have and which you could add (pension, Aid & Attendance, SNAP, fuel help, property tax exemption).
• Use our “Resources by Region” to find the closest clinic, veterans’ office, and aging services.
• When in doubt, contact the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs (an accredited team that files VA claims at no cost) and your local Area Agency on Aging. They coordinate many programs together.

Tip: Keep a folder with your DD214, VA rating letter (if you have one), Social Security card, Medicare card, proof of Vermont residency, and recent bank statements. These are commonly needed.

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What Counts as a “Senior Veteran” in This Guide

This guide focuses on Vermont veterans age 60 and older, surviving spouses/partners, and caregivers. Some programs use 60+, some 62+, and others 65+. We point out the cutoffs and link to the rules for each program.

Reality check: It’s normal to mix state and federal programs. For example, a veteran might use VA Health Care plus Medicare, receive a VA pension with Aid & Attendance, and also get 3SquaresVT and Fuel Assistance. The key is knowing which office handles each piece.

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Vermont Health Care and Long-Term Care Options

VA Health Care in Vermont

• Main hub: White River Junction VA Medical Center (serves all of Vermont and parts of NH). See locations, clinics, and services at the White River Junction VA Health Care page.
• Services commonly used by seniors: primary care, cardiology, audiology/hearing aids, vision, mental health, home-based primary care, physical therapy, telehealth, Geriatrics and Extended Care, short-term rehab.

How to enroll:

• Apply online (VA Health Care Enrollment) or call 877-222-8387. You can also ask the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs to help you apply.
• If you’re low-income, a former POW, have a service-connected disability, or qualify under the PACT Act toxic exposure rules, you may be placed in a higher priority group. See details at VA Health Care eligibility and the PACT Act and your VA benefits.

Travel help:

• If medical travel costs are a burden, you may qualify for travel reimbursement. See VA Beneficiary Travel reimbursement.
• Many Vermont veterans use volunteer rides to and from the VA. Contact WRJ VA Volunteer Services for transportation options at the WRJ “Volunteer or Donate” page.

Find counseling outside the hospital (good for PTSD, grief, MST, family support):

• Vet Centers offer confidential counseling. Use the Vet Center locator to find the South Burlington Vet Center and mobile/outstation visits.

Medicare, TRICARE, and VA — How They Work Together

• VA care covers care at VA facilities or with approved community providers. Medicare covers non-VA providers. Many veterans use both to widen choices and reduce wait times. See Medicare basics at Medicare.gov.
• If you have TRICARE For Life (for eligible military retirees), it works with Medicare. Learn more at TRICARE For Life.

Tip: Take your Medicare card to non-VA appointments. For VA-authorized community care, follow VA referral rules so bills go to the right place.

Long-Term Care and Help at Home (Vermont “Choices for Care”)

Choices for Care (CFC) is Vermont’s Medicaid long-term care program. It can fund in-home help (like personal care, homemaker services, adult day), residential care, or nursing home care if you meet both financial and medical need rules.

• What it does: supports aging at home when possible and pays for nursing home care when needed.
• Who it serves: older adults and people with disabilities who meet “nursing home level of care” and financial limits.
• Where to start: Contact your Area Agency on Aging for a clinical assessment or visit Choices for Care (DAIL).

Official info: Vermont Choices for Care (DAIL).

Tip: If you’re already enrolled in VA health care, ask for a Geriatrics and Extended Care consult and also pursue Choices for Care. It’s common to coordinate both.

Prescription Cost Help (VPharm)

VPharm helps Vermont residents with Medicare Part D pay for prescription co-pays and premiums based on income. It can be a big help if you’re on a fixed income.

• Program info and how to apply: VPharm (Green Mountain Care/DVHA).

Hearing Aids, Dental, and Vision

• VA often covers hearing aids if you’re enrolled and meet clinical criteria. Ask your VA primary care provider. Details: VA hearing aid eligibility (through VA Health Care).
• Dental: VA dental coverage is limited, but veterans with certain service-connected ratings or specific conditions may qualify. Others can buy discounted VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP). See VA Dental benefits.
• Vision: Eye exams and glasses coverage depend on your eligibility and clinical need. Ask at WRJ VA Optometry. General info: VA Vision care.

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Money, Taxes, and Everyday Bills

VA Disability Compensation vs. VA Pension (with Aid & Attendance)

• VA Disability Compensation is for disabilities caused or worsened by service. It’s tax-free and not income-based. Learn how to apply at VA Disability Compensation.
• VA Pension is income-based for wartime veterans who are 65+ or have a permanent disability and have limited income/assets. Aid & Attendance (A&A) and Housebound are add-ons for those who need help with daily activities or are largely confined at home. Official details: VA Pension and Aid & Attendance and Housebound.

Reality check: A&A is valuable but paperwork-heavy. Use an accredited VSO from the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs (free) to avoid delays or denials.

Vermont Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans

Vermont offers a property tax exemption for veterans with qualifying disability or pensions. Towns set the exact amount within a range.

• Amount: At least $10,000ofassessedvalue;townsmayvotetoincreaseupto$40,000.
• Who may qualify: Veterans with a VA service-connected disability of at least 50%, veterans receiving VA non-service-connected pension, or certain survivors.
• How to apply: File with your town clerk; proof of eligibility from the VA is needed. See full rules at the Vermont Department of Taxes page for the Veterans Property Tax Exemption.

Source: Vermont Department of Taxes — Veterans Exemption.

Tip: Apply early with your town clerk; there are annual deadlines. If your VA rating changes, update your paperwork.

Retirement Income and Vermont Taxes

Vermont provides specific tax rules for military income. These rules can change, so check the latest guidance before filing.

• See the Vermont Department of Taxes “Military” page for current exemptions and filing guidance.

Help With Home Heating and Utilities

• Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP): Helps pay part of your winter heating bills. Apply through the Department for Children and Families. Learn more at Vermont Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP).
• Crisis Fuel: For emergencies when you’re out of fuel or at risk of disconnection. Contact your local Community Action Agency via Vermont 2-1-1 or see DCF Fuel Assistance.
• Weatherization Assistance: Free energy upgrades (air sealing, insulation, heating system repairs) to cut bills. Details and application at Vermont Weatherization Assistance (OEO).

Phone/Internet:

• Lifeline provides a monthly discount on phone or broadband for low-income households. Check eligibility and apply at Lifeline Support (USAC).
• The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) stopped accepting new enrollments and ended benefits in 2024 due to lack of funding. See status at the FCC ACP page.

Food and Nutrition

• 3SquaresVT (SNAP): Monthly benefits on a card to buy groceries. Seniors with low or fixed incomes often qualify, even if they own a home. Learn more and apply at 3SquaresVT (DCF).
• Meals on Wheels: Delivered meals for homebound seniors. Contact your Area Agency on Aging (see AAAs below) or visit DAIL’s Area Agencies on Aging page.

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Housing, Home Modifications, and Long-Term Living

If You’re Homeless or About to Be

• Call 877-424-3838 (VA Homeless Programs). They can connect you to emergency shelter, outreach teams, HUD-VASH, and SSVF.
• HUD-VASH: Combines a Housing Choice Voucher with VA case management for homeless veterans. Learn more at HUD-VASH (VA).
• Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): Community agencies help with rapid re-housing, rent/security deposits, and case management. Program overview: SSVF (VA). Use the SSVF provider search there or call the VA Homeless line to be routed.

Also contact:

• Vermont 2-1-1 to find local shelters and rental help.
• Vermont State Housing Authority for voucher programs and waitlists (VSHA).

Vermont Veterans’ Home (Skilled Nursing and Memory Care)

Vermont Veterans’ Home (Bennington) offers skilled nursing, rehab, and memory care for eligible veterans, spouses, and Gold Star parents. They accept Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay (subject to current rules).

• Learn more, admissions, and tours: Vermont Veterans’ Home.

Source: Vermont Veterans’ Home (VVH) official site: vvh.vermont.gov.

Make Your Home Safer and Easier to Live In

• VA Home Improvement and Structural Alterations (HISA): Grants to modify your home for medical needs (e.g., ramps, accessible showers). Info: VA HISA grants.
• Specially Adapted Housing (SAH/SHA): Larger grants for certain service-connected disabilities. Details and eligibility: VA Housing Adaptation grants.
• Vermont Weatherization Assistance (see above) can fix health-and-safety issues while improving efficiency.

Tip: Ask a VA occupational therapist (through WRJ VA) for a home safety evaluation. Pair recommendations with HISA/SAH funds.

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Transportation

Getting to appointments can be hard in rural Vermont. These options help:

Sources: VA Beneficiary Travel; WRJ VA Volunteer Services; VTrans Elders & Persons with Disabilities Program; VTrans transit provider directory.

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Vermont Recreation and Everyday Discounts

• Green Mountain Passport: Vermont residents age 62+ OR veterans (of any age) can buy a lifetime pass for a one‑time $2 fee at your town clerk’s office. It gives free day-use entry to Vermont State Parks and historic sites. Details: Green Mountain Passport (Vermont State Parks).
• Hunting & Fishing: Disabled veterans may qualify for free or discounted licenses. See Veterans and Military Licenses (Vermont Fish & Wildlife).

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Legal Help and Advocacy

• Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs: Accredited claims assistance, records requests (DD214), state benefits. Visit the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs.
• South Royalton Legal Clinic (Vermont Law & Graduate School): Veterans Legal Assistance Project helps with VA benefits and related civil legal issues for eligible clients. See South Royalton Legal Clinic.
• Vermont Legal Aid and VTLawHelp: Housing, benefits, health coverage, and elder law resources; intake for civil legal issues. Visit VTLawHelp.org.

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Burial and Memorial Benefits

• Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery (Randolph Center): State cemetery for veterans, spouses, and eligible dependents. Pre-application encouraged. Learn more at Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery (Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs).
• Federal burial and memorial benefits (headstones, markers, burial in a national cemetery, burial flags): See VA Burials and Memorials.

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Summary Tables: What to Apply For

Health and Long‑Term Care

Income, Taxes, and Bills

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Inclusivity and Special Populations

LGBTQ+ Senior Veterans

• VA provides inclusive care and has policies against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Learn more at VA LGBTQ+ Veteran Care.
• For confidential counseling, contact the Vet Center or your VA primary care team for referral.

Disabled Senior Veterans

• Combine supports: VA Disability Compensation, Aid & Attendance, HISA/SAH grants, VA Caregiver Support Program, and Choices for Care.
• Start with a functional assessment (VA or AAA) to document daily living needs. See VA Caregiver Support.

Tribal/Indigenous Veterans in Vermont

• Vermont recognizes Abenaki tribes at the state level. For cultural resources and contacts, see the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs.
• Native veterans who are members of federally recognized tribes may also access Indian Health Service benefits; check with IHS for eligibility. VA benefits apply regardless of tribal status. Coordinate care between VA, IHS (if eligible), and local providers.

Rural Senior Veterans with Limited Access

• Ask WRJ VA about telehealth, Home-Based Primary Care, and community care referrals when travel is difficult. See WRJ VA Health Care and VA Community Care.
• Use E&D transportation and volunteer ride networks for longer trips. See VTrans E&D Program.

Female Senior Veterans

• Women’s health services are available through VA with dedicated Women Veterans Program staff. Learn about services and contacts at Women’s Health at VA.
• For military sexual trauma (MST) care, VA provides free, confidential treatment regardless of service connection. Ask your VA provider or Vet Center.

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Resources by Region (Find Your Local Help)

Vermont services are organized regionally. Use the links to confirm addresses, hours, and ride options.

Sources: WRJ VA Health Care; DAIL Area Agencies on Aging; VTrans transit providers.

Tip: If you’re unsure which AAA serves your town, use the county map at DAIL’s Area Agencies on Aging page.

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Step‑by‑Step: Getting the Most Help With the Least Hassle

1. Confirm your veteran records

• Find your DD214. If lost, request it via the National Archives or ask the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs for help.

2. Enroll or update your VA Health Care

• Apply online or by phone. If you already use Medicare, that’s fine—keep both.

3. Check cash benefits

• If your condition is linked to service, consider VA Disability Compensation. If you’re wartime‑era, 65+, and income is limited, look at VA Pension with Aid & Attendance. Use the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs (free accredited help).

4. Cut household costs

• Apply for 3SquaresVT and Fuel Assistance. Ask your AAA about Meals on Wheels.
• If you pay high prescription costs, apply for VPharm.

5. Protect your home

• If eligible, file for the Vermont property tax exemption through your town clerk.
• Ask VA about HISA or SAH grants for ramps, bath safety, and accessibility.

6. Plan for the long haul

• Request a Choices for Care assessment if you’re starting to struggle with daily tasks.
• Tour the Vermont Veterans’ Home if long-term nursing care may be needed in the future.

7. Keep a simple benefits notebook

• Record contacts, case numbers, and renewal dates. Bring it to appointments.

Reality check: Expect forms, verification steps, and wait times. Submitting complete paperwork and using accredited help avoids repeat requests and denials.

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Vermont‑Specific FAQs

Q1: Where can I get in-person help filing a VA claim in Vermont?

• The Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs provides free, VA-accredited benefits counselors who can help with claims, evidence, appeals, and paperwork. See Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs (Benefits & Claims) to get started.

Q2: How much is the Vermont veterans’ property tax exemption?

• Vermont law sets a minimum exemption of $10,000 of assessed value, and towns may increase it up to $40,000. Check with your town clerk for the local amount and application steps, and see the Vermont Department of Taxes page for veterans’ exemptions.

Q3: I’m a veteran on Medicare. Should I still use VA health care?

• Many Vermonters keep both. VA can cover services Medicare may not (e.g., hearing aids, some in-home supports), while Medicare expands access to non-VA doctors. Review options at Medicare.gov and White River Junction VA Health Care.

Q4: Does Vermont help pay for my prescriptions?

• Yes. If you have Medicare Part D and meet income limits, VPharm can lower copays and premiums. Learn more at VPharm (DVHA/Green Mountain Care).

Q5: I can’t drive to White River Junction. What are my options?

• Ask about VA Beneficiary Travel reimbursement and volunteer ride programs through WRJ VA Volunteer Services. Also check local rides via the VTrans Elders & Persons with Disabilities Program.

Q6: How do I get Meals on Wheels?

• Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for an assessment and referral. Find your AAA at the Department of Aging and Independent Living (DAIL) Area Agencies on Aging directory.

Q7: What help is there for homeless veterans in Vermont?

• Call 877-424-3838 to reach VA Homeless Programs. Ask about HUD-VASH vouchers and Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF). You can also call Vermont 2-1-1 for shelter and rental assistance information.

Q8: Can my spouse use the Vermont Veterans’ Home?

• Yes. The Vermont Veterans’ Home serves eligible veterans, spouses, and Gold Star parents. See admissions criteria and how to apply on the Vermont Veterans’ Home site.

Q9: I need a ramp and shower grab bars. Can VA help?

• Ask your VA provider about a HISA grant for medically necessary home modifications. For larger adaptations related to service-connected disability, review SAH/SHA grants. See VA HISA and SAH/SHA program pages for eligibility and application steps.

Q10: Are there Vermont parks discounts for veterans or seniors?

• Yes. The Green Mountain Passport is a lifetime pass for Vermont residents who are veterans or age 62+, available at town clerks’ offices for a one-time $2 fee. See Vermont State Parks – Green Mountain Passport.

Q11: Where can I get mental health counseling privately?

• Vet Centers provide confidential counseling outside hospital settings—find locations via the Vet Center locator. You can also ask White River Junction VA about Community Care referrals when clinically appropriate.

Q12: I served in Vietnam/Gulf War/post‑9/11 and worry about toxic exposures. What should I do?

• The PACT Act expanded eligibility for many conditions and benefits. Start at The PACT Act and Your VA Benefits to see presumptives and next steps, and contact the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs for accredited help filing.

Q13: I’m a surviving spouse. Do I qualify for benefits?

• You may qualify for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), Survivors Pension, burial benefits, and—if your town offers it—Vermont’s veterans’ property tax exemption for survivors. See VA Survivors and Burial Benefits and the Vermont Department of Taxes guidance.

Q14: Is there legal help for Vermont veterans with benefits or housing issues?

• Yes. Contact the South Royalton Legal Clinic (Veterans Legal Assistance Project) or Vermont Legal Aid/VTLawHelp for free or low-cost legal assistance.

Q15: Does Vermont DMV offer veteran indicators or plates?

• Yes. The Vermont DMV offers a veteran indicator on licenses/IDs and a range of military/veteran plates. See Vermont DMV information on veteran and military plates and IDs for requirements and application details.

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Key Links (Official Sources)

Health and mental health

• White River Junction VA Health Care: https://www.va.gov/white-river-junction-health-care/
• VA Health Care enrollment: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
• Vet Center locator: https://www.vetcenter.va.gov/
• VA Beneficiary Travel: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
• Women’s Health at VA: https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/
• VA LGBTQ+ Veteran Care: https://www.patientcare.va.gov/LGBT/index.asp
• Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

Income and benefits

• VA Disability Compensation: https://www.va.gov/disability/
• VA Pension and A&A: https://www.va.gov/pension/ and https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• The PACT Act: https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/
• Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs: https://veterans.vermont.gov/

State programs

• Vermont Veterans’ Home: https://vvh.vermont.gov/
• Vermont Property Tax Exemption (Dept. of Taxes): https://tax.vermont.gov/property-owners/exemptions/veterans
• Choices for Care (DAIL): https://dail.vermont.gov/services/long-term-care/choices-for-care
• Area Agencies on Aging (DAIL): https://dail.vermont.gov/aging/area-agencies-aging
• 3SquaresVT (DCF): https://dcf.vermont.gov/benefits/3SquaresVT
• Fuel Assistance/LIHEAP (DCF): https://dcf.vermont.gov/benefits/fuel-assistance
• Weatherization Assistance (OEO): https://dcf.vermont.gov/oeo/weatherization
• VT State Parks – Green Mountain Passport: https://vtstateparks.com/fees/passes/#green-mountain-passport
• VT Fish & Wildlife – Veterans/Military Licenses: https://vtfishandwildlife.com/licenses-and-permits/veterans-and-military

Housing and homeless services

• VA Homeless Programs: https://www.va.gov/homeless/
• HUD-VASH: https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash.asp
• SSVF: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/index.asp
• Vermont State Housing Authority: https://www.vsha.org/
• Vermont 2-1-1: https://vermont211.org/

Legal and identification

• South Royalton Legal Clinic: https://www.vermontlaw.edu/academics/clinics-and-externships/south-royalton-legal-clinic
• Vermont Legal Aid/VTLawHelp: https://vtlawhelp.org/
• Vermont DMV – Veteran plates/IDs: https://dmv.vermont.gov/tags-plates/plate-personalized/veteran-and-military-plates

Other

• Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov/
• TRICARE For Life: https://tricare.mil/tfl
• Lifeline (phone/internet): https://www.lifelinesupport.org/
• FCC ACP status: https://www.fcc.gov/acp
• Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs: https://vcnaa.vermont.gov/
• VA Burials and Memorials: https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/
• Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery: https://veterans.vermont.gov/benefits-and-services/cemetery

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Practical Tips and Reality Checks

• Use accredited help. The Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs files claims and appeals at no cost. This often avoids months of delays.
• Keep copies. Scan or photocopy every form you submit. Write the date submitted on top.
• Coordinate programs. If you’re applying for VA Aid & Attendance and Choices for Care, tell both case managers so care plans and budgets align.
• Watch deadlines. Town property tax exemptions have local deadlines. VA appeals have strict timelines.
• Expect reviews. Benefits like SNAP, Fuel Assistance, and Medicaid have yearly or periodic renewals. Put reminders on your calendar.

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About Vermont’s Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs)

Your AAA is often your best first call for in-home help, meals, caregiver support, and Choices for Care assessments. Vermont’s AAAs:

• Age Well (Chittenden, Franklin, Grand Isle, Addison): https://www.agewellvt.org/
• Central Vermont Council on Aging (Washington, Lamoille, Orange): https://www.cvcoa.org/
• Northeast Kingdom Council on Aging (Caledonia, Essex, Orleans): https://nekcouncil.org/
• Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging (Rutland, Bennington): https://www.svcoa.org/

Statewide directory (to confirm counties): DAIL AAAs page.

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More Tables You Can Use at a Glance

Transportation Contacts at a Glance

Apply for These If You’re Eligible

Note: Always verify income/asset rules and deadlines at the official links.

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Resources by Topic (One‑Click Access)

• File a VA claim in Vermont: Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs
• Enroll in VA health care: Apply for VA Health Care
• Find a VA doctor or clinic: WRJ VA Health Care Locations
• Get counseling off‑site: Vet Center locator
• Heat help: DCF Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP)
• Food benefits: 3SquaresVT
• In‑home supports: Choices for Care (DAIL) and your local AAA
• Housing vouchers (general): VSHA
• Homeless veteran help: VA Homeless Programs (877‑424‑3838)
• Property tax relief: VT Dept. of Taxes – Veterans Exemption
• Vermont Veterans’ Home (nursing/memory care): VVH
• Parks pass: Green Mountain Passport
• Legal help: South Royalton Legal Clinic and VTLawHelp

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Disclaimer

Programs change. Income limits, forms, deadlines, and covered services can shift during the year. Always confirm details at the official links in this guide or by calling the relevant agency. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, or medical advice.

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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.