Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Texas

Last updated: August 2025

This guide is written in plain language and links directly to official sources. Program rules change. Always verify details with the agency.

Quick Help Box (keep this handy)

Tip: Keep your DD214 discharge papers within reach. Most veteran benefits require it. If you don’t have it, request records via VA: https://www.va.gov/records/get-military-service-records/


How to use this guide

  • Start with the Emergency and “Start Here” steps.
  • Focus on benefits that fit your age (60–65+), service history, health status, and income.
  • Every section includes official links to apply or get help in Texas.
  • We include reality checks and tips so you know what to expect.

Start Here: A simple plan to unlock your benefits

  1. Gather key documents
  • DD214 (or other separation papers)
  • ID, Social Security card, Medicare card (if enrolled)
  • Proof of Texas residency (for certain state benefits)
  • Medical records and VA rating letter (if any)
  • Income/resources paperwork (for pension, Medicaid, SNAP)
  1. Sit down with a County Veterans Service Officer (no-cost)
  1. Enroll or update VA Health Care
  1. Coordinate your health coverage
  • If you’re 65+, learn how VA, Medicare, and (if you’re a military retiree) TRICARE For Life can work together. See Medicare basics: https://www.medicare.gov/ and TRICARE For Life: https://tricare.mil/tfl
  • Ask your VA eligibility clerk or a benefits counselor to check your specific situation.
  1. Apply for money-saving programs
  1. Consider long-term care and caregiver support
  1. For housing and community options

Reality check: Some benefits take weeks to months. File complete applications, respond to mail quickly, keep copies, and use certified mail if sending paperwork. When possible, apply online.


At a glance: Key benefits for senior veterans in Texas

The programs below are among the most useful and commonly used by Texans who are veterans age 60+ or 65+.

Benefit What it does Who it’s for Where to apply or get help
VA Disability Compensation Monthly tax-free benefit for service-connected conditions Any veteran with qualifying service-connected disability File online: https://www.va.gov/disability/ or get free help: TVC Claims: https://www.tvc.texas.gov/claims/
VA Pension + Aid & Attendance/Housebound Needs-based monthly pension; A&A/Housebound increases amount if you need daily help or are largely homebound Wartime veterans with limited income/assets; disability or age 65+ Pension info & apply: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
VA Health Care Medical, mental health, prescriptions, some home care support Eligible veterans based on service and priority groups Enroll: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
Medicare (65+) Federal health insurance (Part A/B). Can use with VA 65+ or certain disabilities Learn and enroll timelines: https://www.medicare.gov/
TRICARE For Life (if retired from uniformed service) Wraparound coverage with Medicare Military retirees and eligible dependents with Medicare Part A & B https://tricare.mil/tfl
Texas Disabled Veterans Property Tax Relief Exemptions for disabled veterans; full homestead exemption for qualifying 100% disabled veterans Texas homeowners who are disabled veterans or surviving spouses Texas Comptroller details & forms: https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/exemptions/disabled-veterans.php
Texas STAR+PLUS (Medicaid) Managed long-term services: in-home help, assisted living, nursing facilities 65+ or disability with Medicaid eligibility https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip/programs/starplus
SNAP (Food Stamps) and TSAP Monthly food help; simplified process for seniors/disabled (TSAP) Low-income seniors and persons with disabilities Apply: https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/
Utility Bill Help (CEAP) Help with electric bills, especially during extreme temperatures Low-income households (priority seniors and medically vulnerable) https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/ceap/
Weatherization (WAP) Lowers energy costs by improving home efficiency Low-income homeowners/renters https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/wap/
VLB State Veterans Homes & Cemeteries Skilled nursing homes and state veterans cemeteries across Texas Eligible veterans, spouses, Gold Star parents Homes & admissions: https://vlb.texas.gov/benefits/state-veterans-homes/index.html; Cemeteries: https://vlb.texas.gov/benefits/state-veterans-cemeteries/index.html
Hazlewood Act (tuition exemption) Up to 150 credit hours tuition exemption at Texas public colleges Eligible Texas veterans and certain dependents Overview: https://www.tvc.texas.gov/education/

Note: For most VA benefits, a County Veterans Service Officer can file and track your claim for free: https://www.tvc.texas.gov/locations/


Health coverage: Using VA, Medicare, and TRICARE together

You can have more than one type of coverage. Here’s a quick guide:

Coverage Can I have it with VA? Typical use Key links
VA Health Care Yes VA clinics/hospitals; prescriptions; some home care Enroll: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
Medicare Part A (hospital) & Part B (outpatient) Yes Use non-VA doctors/hospitals. Medicare doesn’t pay for VA care Medicare basics: https://www.medicare.gov/
Medicare Part D (drug plan) Yes Covers non-VA pharmacy fills; many veterans use VA pharmacy instead; compare costs Part D info: https://www.medicare.gov/drug-coverage-part-d
TRICARE For Life (military retirees) Yes Wraps around Medicare when seeing non-VA providers https://tricare.mil/tfl
VA Community Care (when eligible) Yes VA-authorized care with local non-VA providers if eligibility criteria are met https://www.va.gov/COMMUNITYCARE/

Reality check:

  • Medicare does not pay for services you get inside VA facilities.
  • If you only have VA and skip Medicare when first eligible, you could face lifetime late-enrollment penalties and coverage gaps. Talk to a benefits counselor before you decline Medicare.
  • TRICARE rules differ for retirees and dependents; confirm your status with TRICARE.

Helpful:

Oral health is often overlooked—see our free and low-cost dental resources for eligible seniors.


VA care and supports that help seniors stay independent


Money benefits: Disability, Pension, and Texas tax relief

For additional income support, explore financial assistance programs for seniors that complement your VA pension or disability payments.

To see how stacking veteran benefits with other programs can boost monthly support, check our full Senior benefits in 2025 guide.

Reality check:

  • Pension and Aid & Attendance decisions can take time. Provide complete medical evidence and care needs documentation.
  • Property tax exemptions don’t apply automatically—you must apply. Check deadlines with your county appraisal district.

Housing and long-term care in Texas

Veterans who own their homes may also qualify for home repair grants for seniors to make accessibility modifications or improve safety.

  • Homelessness prevention and rehousing

Reality check:


Food, utilities and internet discounts

To lower household costs, look into utility assistance programs for seniors that can help with electricity and weatherization.

Tip: Keep medical necessity documentation for cooling during extreme heat. CEAP and some utilities prioritize medically vulnerable seniors.


Transportation and specialty plates

In addition to veteran-specific options, check out free transportation programs for seniors available through state and local agencies.

Reality check:

  • Book DAV rides several days ahead. For rural trips, ask your VA clinic about travel assistance or community ride partners.
  • Parking privileges vary by city. Always confirm local rules.

Education, work, and money management

Tip: Be cautious of unsolicited “benefits offers.” Use official sites and accredited representatives. Find accredited reps here: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/


Legal help and paperwork

Reality check:

  • Legal aid capacity varies. Call early and be persistent if lines are busy. Keep all court notices and deadlines.

Inclusive resources (Women, LGBTQ+, Rural, Tribal)

These groups face unique challenges. Texas and VA have targeted supports.

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

Disabled seniors

Tribal-specific resources in Texas

Federally recognized tribes in Texas include the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas, Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas, and Ysleta del Sur Pueblo.

  • VA Office of Tribal Government Relations (OTGR) can connect you with benefits and outreach events: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/
  • Veterans who receive care from Indian Health Service (IHS) or tribal clinics can coordinate with VA for purchased/referred care. Ask your clinic and VA facility for details.
  • Use VA’s facility locator for the closest VA clinic to your community: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/

Rural senior veterans with limited access

Female senior veterans

  • Texas VA systems have Women Veterans Program Managers to coordinate primary care, specialty care, and screenings: https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/
  • Texas Veterans Commission Women Veterans Program offers outreach and referrals: https://www.tvc.texas.gov/women-veterans/
  • If you experienced military sexual trauma (MST), VA offers free MST-related care—no disability rating required. Ask your VA provider or Women Veterans Program Manager.

Documents to have ready (and why)

Document Why it matters Where to get it
DD214 or separation papers Proves service for VA and state benefits Request: https://www.va.gov/records/get-military-service-records/
Photo ID and proof of Texas address Required for state programs and some local services Texas DPS: https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license
VA rating letter (if any) Needed for disability-linked benefits and tax exemptions Download from VA.gov account or call MyVA411: 800-698-2411
Medicare card (if enrolled) Needed to coordinate care with non-VA providers Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov/
Income and resource records For needs-based programs (pension, Medicaid, SNAP) Keep recent bank statements, benefit letters
Medical records Helps support claims and care plans Ask providers; use My HealtheVet for VA records

Tip: Keep digital scans. When you mail, use tracking.


In-person help in Texas (TVC, AAAs, ADRCs, VLB)


How to apply for VA Aid & Attendance in Texas

Estimated time: 1–2 hours to prepare, 2–4 months for decision
Who qualifies: Veterans or surviving spouses needing daily-living help, with limited income/assets.

Steps

  1. Confirm eligibility – You need wartime service, honorable discharge, and a doctor’s note proving daily-living assistance needs.

  2. Gather documents – DD-214, VA award letters, bank statements, and medical expense records.

  3. Complete VA Form 21-2680 (Examination for Housebound/A&A).

  4. File the claim – Submit online at VA.gov, by mail, or through a County VSO (recommended).

  5. Respond promptly – Check mail for VA evidence requests; submit additional medical forms quickly.

  6. Track status – Call 800-827-1000 or use VA.gov “Check Your Claim” tool.

Tips

  • Always use direct deposit for faster payments.

  • Keep copies of every document.

  • If denied, file a Supplemental Claim within 1 year.

Disclaimer: Informational only; confirm requirements with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or a VA-accredited representative.


How to Claim the Texas Disabled-Veteran Property-Tax Exemption

Estimated time: 30–45 minutes
Who qualifies: Veterans with a service-connected disability rating (10%+) or their surviving spouses.

Steps

  1. Download Form 50-114 – Get it from the Texas Comptroller.

  2. Collect documents – DD-214, VA disability award letter, and proof of residence (driver’s license or utility bill).

  3. Complete the form – Enter your rating percentage and property details.

  4. Submit to your County Appraisal District – by April 30 each year.

  5. Track confirmation – The district mails approval or requests more info.

  6. Keep a copy for annual renewal or verification.

Tips

  • If you’re 100% disabled or unemployable, you qualify for a full homestead exemption.

  • You may also qualify for partial exemptions on multiple properties if disabled under 100%.

  • Call your County Appraisal District if you move or your rating changes.

Disclaimer: This guide summarizes Comptroller rules as of 2025. Verify deadlines with your county appraisal district.


VA in Texas: networks and major medical centers

Region VA network/system Start page
North Texas (Dallas–Fort Worth) VA North Texas Health Care System (VISN 17) https://www.va.gov/north-texas-health-care/
Gulf Coast (Houston) Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center (VISN 16) https://www.va.gov/houston-health-care/
Central Texas (Temple/Waco/Austin) Central Texas Veterans Health Care System (VISN 17) https://www.va.gov/central-texas-health-care/
South Texas (San Antonio/Kerrville) South Texas Veterans Health Care System (VISN 17) https://www.va.gov/south-texas-health-care/
Rio Grande Valley (Harlingen/McAllen/Corpus area clinics) Texas Valley Coastal Bend HCS (VISN 17) https://www.va.gov/texas-valley-health-care/
West Texas (El Paso) El Paso VA Health Care System (VISN 17) https://www.va.gov/el-paso-health-care/
West Texas (Big Spring/Permian Basin) West Texas VA Health Care System (VISN 17) https://www.va.gov/west-texas-health-care/
Panhandle/High Plains (Amarillo) Amarillo VA Health Care System (VISN 17) https://www.va.gov/amarillo-health-care/

Networks: VISN 16 (South Central) and VISN 17 (Heart of Texas):

Use the VA facility locator for clinics and CBOCs closest to you: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/


Texas driver and plate benefits for veterans

Note: Toll road exemptions and parking rules vary by county and agency. Check your local toll authority.


How to get faster results and avoid common pitfalls

  • Use accredited help. County Veterans Service Officers and TVC are free and trained: https://www.tvc.texas.gov/locations/
  • Respond fast to letters. Missed deadlines can deny claims.
  • Keep a simple benefits binder or folder with copies of everything.
  • If your health worsens, tell your clinician and consider filing for an increase in your VA disability rating: https://www.va.gov/disability/file-an-appeal/ (see “request an increase”).
  • Don’t skip Medicare without advice. Late penalties can be lifelong.
  • Ask about “back pay” windows for certain claims—accredited reps can explain.

Regional resources (by area of Texas)

This is a quick map to “who to call first” in your area. Use 2-1-1 for local nonprofits and emergency help.

For statewide coordination: 2-1-1 Texas: https://www.211texas.org/ and ADRC: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/aging/long-term-care/aging-disability-resource-center-adrc


Frequently asked questions for senior veterans in Texas

Q1. I’m 67 and a Vietnam-era veteran. Should I enroll in Medicare if I already use the VA?
A: Yes. Most veterans benefit from having both VA Health Care and Medicare. VA care covers services at VA facilities, while Medicare covers community and emergency care outside the VA network. Skipping Medicare when first eligible can lead to lifetime penalties and coverage gaps. Learn more at Medicare.gov and contact your Area Agency on Aging for local guidance.

Q2. How do I get help filing for VA benefits in Texas?
A: Reach out to your County Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) for free, accredited assistance with VA claims, pensions, and appeals. See also: VA Benefits Guide for Seniors in Texas.

Q3. What is the Hazlewood Act, and can seniors still use it?
A: The Hazlewood Act offers up to 150 credit hours of tuition exemption at Texas public colleges for eligible veterans and dependents—no upper age limit applies. Eligibility and applications: TVC Education Benefits.

Q4. I have a 100% VA disability rating. Do I owe property taxes on my home?
A: Texas provides a full residence homestead exemption for qualifying 100% disabled veterans and certain surviving spouses. Details and forms are on the Texas Comptroller’s site. Apply through your county appraisal district before April 30 each year.

Q5. Can I receive both VA Aid & Attendance and Texas Medicaid long-term care?
A: Possibly, but benefits interact. Medicaid may count part of your VA pension as income.
Learn more: VA Aid & Attendance Pension and STAR+PLUS Medicaid in Texas Consult a VSO or elder-law attorney for coordination help.

Q6. How do I get into a Texas State Veterans Home?
A: Contact the Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB) for admission criteria, costs, and wait-list details. These homes provide long-term care with skilled nursing and rehabilitation services for eligible veterans and spouses.

Q7. I live far from a VA hospital. Can I see a local doctor?
A: Yes—if you meet eligibility for VA Community Care (based on drive time, wait time, or medical need). Ask your VA provider or eligibility office. Program overview: VA Community Care.

Q8. Are there plates or parking benefits for disabled veterans in Texas?
A: The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) offers Disabled Veteran and military license plates that can include parking privileges in designated spaces. Always confirm local rules.

Q9. Where can I get low-cost legal help as a veteran?
A: Try one of these trusted providers:

Q10. I’m a woman veteran. Who at the VA can I talk to?
A: Every VA medical center has a Women Veterans Program Manager (WVPM) to coordinate care, maternity services, and MST-related support.
Find your WVPM: VA Women’s Health Services.

Q11. What if I’m LGBTQ+ and worried about bias in care?
A: The VA provides inclusive, confidential care through its LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinators. Learn more: VA LGBTQ+ Health Program.

Q12. How do I get mileage reimbursement for VA appointments?
A: Eligible veterans can apply for Beneficiary Travel reimbursement through the VA Travel Pay portal or at your VA medical center’s travel office.

Q13. I can’t find my DD-214. How do I request it?
A: Request official military service records online: VA Military Records Portal.
For safekeeping, ask your county clerk about recording your DD-214 locally.

Q14. Where can I find comprehensive guidance for senior veterans’ programs?
A: Visit our Texas Veterans Benefits Hub for updated 2025 resources on healthcare, tax relief, home repair, and financial aid. For a broader look beyond veterans, review our statewide Texas senior benefit programs page.


Practical tables you can use

Table: Who to call for common needs

Need First call Backup
Mental health crisis 988, press 1 (Veterans Crisis Line) MyVA411: 800-698-2411
Homeless or at risk VA Homeless Hotline: 877-424-3838 2-1-1 Texas: https://www.211texas.org/
Filing a VA claim County VSO/TVC: https://www.tvc.texas.gov/locations/ VA: https://www.va.gov/
Medicaid/SNAP YourTexasBenefits: https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/ ADRC: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/aging/long-term-care/aging-disability-resource-center-adrc
Property tax exemption Your county appraisal district Texas Comptroller guide: https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/exemptions/disabled-veterans.php
VA appointment rides DAV rides: https://www.dav.org/veterans/ride-assistance/ VA Beneficiary Travel: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/

Table: Long-term care pathways

Goal Program Notes Link
Stay at home with help VA GEC and/or STAR+PLUS HCBS Mix VA services with Medicaid if eligible VA Geriatrics: https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/; STAR+PLUS: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip/programs/starplus
Assisted living STAR+PLUS (limited spots) Availability varies by county https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip/programs/starplus
Nursing home VLB State Veterans Homes or VA/Medicaid-certified facilities Ask about waiting lists and eligibility https://vlb.texas.gov/benefits/state-veterans-homes/index.html

Table: Education and employment options for older veterans

Goal Program What to know Link
Take college classes Hazlewood Act Up to 150 hours tuition exemption at public schools https://www.tvc.texas.gov/education/
Use military training for credits College Credit for Heroes Speeds up certificates/degrees https://www.twc.texas.gov/partners/college-credit-heroes
Find a job or volunteer role TVC Employment Services Resume help, job fairs, veteran-friendly employers https://www.tvc.texas.gov/ves/

Table: Home and utility savings

Need Program Key point Link
Lower electric bill CEAP Priority for seniors/health risks https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/ceap/
Cut energy waste Weatherization Insulation, sealing, safety checks https://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/community-affairs/wap/
Phone/internet discount Lifeline Monthly discount on service https://www.lifelinesupport.org/

Table: VA, Medicare, TRICARE quick compatibility

Scenario What usually works best
I’m 65+ and use VA clinics Keep VA. Enroll in Medicare Part A and B for non-VA care. Consider Part D only if you need non-VA pharmacies.
I’m a military retiree now on Medicare TRICARE For Life wraps around Medicare for non-VA care. You can still use VA care.
I live far from VA Ask about VA Community Care for local providers. Keep Medicare active.

These are general pointers—always confirm with your benefits counselor.


Realistic timelines and expectations


Resources directory (official and trusted)


Reality checks, warnings, and tips

  • Avoid scammers who charge for VA claim help. Accredited representatives are free. Verify accreditation: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/.  To stay safe when applying online, read our quick guide on how to avoid senior benefit scams to recognize fake offers or phishing attempts.
  • Keep your mailing address and direct deposit updated with VA and Social Security.
  • If a benefit is denied, appeal deadlines are strict. Talk to your VSO right away.
  • Extreme heat: CEAP and local programs may have emergency assistance or cooling centers. Call 2-1-1 for locations near you.

Cheat Sheet: Fast Facts & Key Links

Free, accredited help: Texas Veterans Commission (locations)TVC Claims

Jump to the printable checklist ↓


Application Checklist (Print & Use)

Use this when applying for Aid & Attendance, Disability or Pension, and the Texas disabled-veteran property-tax exemption.

Identity & Service

Medical Evidence (A&A / Disability)

Financial Documents

Texas Property-Tax Exemption

Where to File / Get Help

Download this as a PDF


7-Day Quick Action Plan

Day 1 – Get Free Help

  • Book a County VSO appointment via the TVC locator.
  • Create or confirm your VA.gov account.

Day 2 – Documents Round-Up

  • Find DD-214, rating letters, IDs, bank statements.
  • Download VA Form 21-2680 and Texas Form 50-114.

Day 3 – Medical Evidence

  • Have your doctor complete VA Form 21-2680 (A&A).
  • Collect recent notes and medication list.

Day 4 – File the Claim

  • Submit A&A/Pension or Disability claim (FDC if ready).
  • Enable direct deposit and save confirmations.

Day 5 – Property-Tax Exemption

  • Complete Form 50-114; prepare county submission.
  • Add the April 30 deadline to your calendar.

Day 6 – Health Coverage Coordination

  • Confirm Medicare A/B status (to avoid penalties).
  • Ask VA about Community Care if travel/wait times are issues.

Day 7 – Follow-Ups & Tracking

  • Set reminders to respond to VA letters within 2 weeks.
  • Create a folder (paper or digital) for all receipts and letters.

Download the complete Quick Guide (PDF)


Disclaimer

We work to keep this guide accurate, but programs change. Always verify the latest details, eligibility, and forms 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.

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.