Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in California

Last updated: August 2025

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Quick Help Box (fastest ways to get help right now)

Reality check:

• Benefits can be slow. Use your CVSO for free help and to avoid errors.
• Never pay anyone to file a VA claim. Use accredited help only. Find VA-accredited representatives

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What this guide covers (and how to use it)

• State-specific help in California for senior veterans and their families.
• Emergency options first, then health care, income, housing, taxes, transportation, and local contacts.
• We link directly to official sources (federal, state, county). Program rules can change. Always verify with the agency.

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Who is a “senior veteran” for this guide?

• Generally age 60+ (many programs use 60 or 62 or 65). If you’re near these ages, still check.
• Bring proof of service (DD214 or other discharge papers). If you lost yours, request it at the National Archives (military records).

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Emergency and urgent help in California

Mental health and suicide prevention

• Call 988 then press 1, text 838255, or chat with the Veterans Crisis Line.
• VA mental health services include same-day care for urgent needs at many sites. VA Mental Health Care
• Military Sexual Trauma (MST) care is free and does not require VA disability status. MST Support at VA

Homelessness, eviction, or unsafe housing

• Call 877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838). VA Homeless Programs
• HUD-VASH pairs a housing voucher with VA case management for eligible veterans. HUD-VASH
• Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) helps with deposits, rent, and case management. SSVF

Tip: If you get a 3-day notice or court papers (UD), contact your CVSO and a local legal aid the same day. Start with LawHelpCA legal aid finder.

Food now

• Dial 211 or use California Association of Food Banks’ Find Food.
• CalFresh (SNAP) can process “Expedited Service” within 3 calendar days if you meet urgent need rules. Apply at BenefitsCal (many counties) or see CalFresh (CDSS).

Medical care today

• Call 911 for emergencies.
• VA urgent care benefit allows eligible veterans to use in-network urgent care clinics. Check eligibility before you go. VA Urgent Care (Community Care)
• If you use non-VA emergency care, notify VA quickly to review coverage. VA Emergency Care

Abuse, neglect, or exploitation

• Adult Protective Services (APS) connects to your county 24/7: 1-833-401-0832. APS (CDSS)
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman for nursing homes/assisted living: 800-231-4024. CA Long-Term Care Ombudsman

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Health care and long-term care

VA health care in California

• California has multiple VA medical centers and clinics (San Diego, Long Beach, Greater Los Angeles, Loma Linda, San Francisco, Palo Alto, Sacramento/Mather, Fresno, and more). Find the nearest facility: VA Facility Locator.
• Apply online, by phone (877-222-8387), by mail, or in person. How to apply for VA health care
• Priority groups and copays vary. Always check the latest: VA Health Care Eligibility and Costs

Community Care and travel:

• If VA can’t provide certain care timely or close to you, you may qualify for VA Community Care. VA Community Care
• Eligible veterans can get travel reimbursement for VA and authorized community care. VA Travel Pay

Women’s and LGBTQ+ health at VA:

• Women veterans: primary care, mammograms, maternity coordination, and more. VA Women’s Health
• LGBTQ+ veterans: respectful, affirming care, including transgender health services where available. LGBTQ+ Health at VA

Medicare + Medi-Cal (dual coverage) and how it fits with VA

• Many senior veterans use VA care and Medicare. Some also qualify for Medi-Cal (California’s Medicaid) for lower costs or long-term services. What is Medi-Cal? (DHCS)
• Apply for Medi-Cal online or through your county. Apply for Medi-Cal | DHCS: Apply for Medi-Cal

Reality check:

• VA, Medicare, and Medi-Cal all have different rules. Keep your VA primary care if you like your VA doctor, but consider Medicare for broader hospital/doctor access, and Medi-Cal for long-term care help.

In-home and long-term services in California (Medi-Cal and more)

Tip: If you receive VA Aid & Attendance, tell your Medi-Cal caseworker. Some programs consider that income differently; your CVSO or a benefits counselor can help you coordinate benefits.

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Income, pensions, and food

VA Disability Compensation

• Tax-free payments for disabilities linked to service. VA Disability Compensation
• Get free help filing with your County Veterans Service Office. Use accredited reps only. Find VA-accredited reps

VA Pension (with Aid & Attendance or Housebound)

• Needs-based pension for wartime veterans with limited income/net worth. Extra amounts for Aid & Attendance (A&A) or Housebound if you need help with daily activities or are substantially confined at home. VA Pension | Aid & Attendance and Housebound
• Pension and A&A rates change yearly; check current rates on VA’s site.
• Apply online or by mail; your CVSO can file for you at no cost.

Warning: Avoid paid “consultants.” VA does not charge to apply, and accredited reps offer free help.

Social Security SSI/SSP (California cash aid for very low income)

• SSI is federal cash aid for low-income seniors/people with disabilities. California adds a State Supplement (SSP). SSI (SSA) | California SSP (CDSS)
• Apply online or at your local Social Security office. Ask about SNAP and Medi-Cal at the same time.

CalFresh (SNAP) for older adults

• Helps pay for groceries on an EBT card. Seniors can often apply with less paperwork and may get “Expedited Service” if funds are very low. CalFresh (CDSS)
• Apply online: BenefitsCal (most counties) or GetCalFresh (community portal used by many counties).

Restaurant Meals Program (RMP):

• California allows eligible elderly, disabled, and homeless people to use CalFresh benefits at certain restaurants in participating counties. Check your county for current RMP locations. RMP info (CDSS)

Employment and training for older veterans

• Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) provides part-time, paid training for people 55+. SCSEP (California Department of Aging)
• Job help for veterans is available through America’s Job Center of California. Veterans services at EDD

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Housing and property benefits

CalVet Veterans Homes (long-term care)

California operates eight state veterans homes. Levels of care vary by site and may include independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. Contact the home directly for current availability and admission criteria.

Apply and learn more: CalVet Veterans Homes

Reality check:

• Waitlists can be long. Apply early and keep copies of everything. Ask about interim supports like IHSS, ALW, or PACE while you wait.

Property tax relief for veterans

Tip: File property tax forms by the county deadlines. Bring your VA disability letter to claim the Disabled Veterans’ Exemption.

Home modification and accessibility

• VA Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) and Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) grants help certain veterans with service-connected disabilities modify or buy an accessible home. SAH/SHA
• Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) is a VA medical benefit that can fund certain home changes. HISA

Homelessness prevention and rehousing

• HUD-VASH vouchers (with VA case management) help with rent if you meet eligibility. HUD-VASH
• SSVF can help with rent, deposits, and case management to prevent or end homelessness. SSVF
• Find local Continuum of Care (CoC) for emergency shelter and housing navigation. HUD CoC Program

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Transportation and DMV

If you live rural, ask your county about ADA paratransit and dial-a-ride options.

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Utilities, phone, and internet savings

• CARE/FERA energy discounts help lower gas/electric bills for eligible households. Apply through your utility or see state info: Low-Income Energy Programs (CPUC)
• LIHEAP can help with energy bills or weatherization. LIHEAP in California (CSD)
• California LifeLine offers discounted home or mobile phone service for eligible households. California LifeLine

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Taxes and financial protections

• VA disability compensation is not taxable under federal law and California generally follows federal rules. For details, see the Franchise Tax Board’s veterans page and talk to a tax professional. FTB – Military and Veterans
• Beware of scams: the VA will not charge you to file a claim. Check accreditation here: VA Accreditation Search
• If you suspect financial abuse, report it to APS and consider contacting the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation. DFPI Consumer Services

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Education and family supports

• CalVet College Tuition Fee Waiver for Veteran Dependents (Plans A–D): Waives mandatory systemwide tuition at UC, CSU, and California Community Colleges for eligible dependents. CalVet College Fee Waiver
• Surviving spouses and dependents may qualify for federal VA Survivors Pension, DIC (Dependency and Indemnity Compensation), and education benefits. Survivors benefits

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Inclusive supports for diverse senior veterans

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

• VA provides inclusive care and has LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinators at many sites. LGBTQ+ Health at VA
• If you believe your discharge was affected by sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, review upgrade options. How to apply for a discharge upgrade
• CalVet can connect you with supportive services. CalVet

Disabled senior veterans

• Use your CVSO to confirm if you qualify for the California Disabled Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption. BOE – Disabled Veterans’ Exemption
• Ask VA about Special Monthly Compensation and home adaptation grants. SMC overview (VA disability) | SAH/SHA

Tribal/Native veterans in California

• VA’s Office of Tribal Government Relations helps connect American Indian and Alaska Native veterans with benefits. VA Tribal Government Relations
• Indian Health Service – California Area provides clinic information and referrals. IHS California Area
• Many tribes partner with county VSOs and VA outreach; ask your tribal health clinic about veteran-specific days.

Rural senior veterans

• Check Community Care and ask about VA telehealth if the nearest VA site is far. VA Telehealth
• VA can sometimes help with devices or internet for telehealth if you have access barriers. Ask your VA team about the Digital Divide Consult. VA Connected Care – Digital Divide
• Use 211 to find rides, meal deliveries, and mobile clinics. 211 California

Female senior veterans

• CalVet has a Women Veterans Division with outreach and resources. CalVet Women Veterans
• Women’s health services are available at VA medical centers and many outpatient clinics. VA Women’s Health
• If you experienced MST, you can get free VA care related to MST without needing a disability rating. MST Support

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Working with your County Veterans Service Office (CVSO)

• What they do: Free help to file VA disability, pension/Aid & Attendance, health care enrollment, burial benefits, and more.
• Bring: DD214/discharge papers, ID, medical records, income info (for pension/SSI/SSP/CalFresh), and bank info for direct deposit.
• Make an appointment and ask for a benefits review. They can also help coordinate state programs like the property tax exemption.

Find yours: County Veterans Service Offices directory (CalVet)

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How to apply: step-by-step checklists

1) VA Health Care (California)

1. Gather DD214 and any private insurance cards.
2. Apply online, by phone (877-222-8387), or at a VA medical center. Apply for VA health care
3. After enrollment, choose a VA primary care location; ask about Community Care eligibility if you live far or wait times are long.
4. Ask for travel pay if eligible. VA Travel Pay

2) VA Pension with Aid & Attendance

1. Check wartime service dates and financial eligibility. VA Pension
2. Document your care needs (doctor letter, notes on help needed with bathing, dressing, medication, etc.).
3. File with your CVSO or online. A&A eligibility
4. Keep copies; follow up monthly if you don’t hear back.

Reality check: Pension can take months. Report any changes in income, assets, or marital status to VA promptly.

3) Medi-Cal and IHSS

1. Apply for Medi-Cal. Apply for Medi-Cal
2. If you need in-home help, ask your county for an IHSS assessment. IHSS
3. If you might qualify for Assisted Living Waiver or PACE, ask your caseworker to screen you. ALW | PACE

4) CalFresh (SNAP) for seniors

1. Apply online (BenefitsCal or GetCalFresh) or by phone with your county. CalFresh (CDSS)
2. Ask if you qualify for “Expedited Service” (benefits within 3 days).
3. If you can’t cook at home, ask about the Restaurant Meals Program in your county. RMP info

5) Disabled Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption

1. Contact your County Assessor for the application and deadlines.
2. Bring your VA disability rating letter and proof the home is your primary residence.
3. Check the current year’s exemption amounts (indexed annually). BOE – Disabled Veterans’ Exemption

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Who to contact for common needs (quick reference)

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Resources by region (selected local offices and nonprofits)

Note: Every county has a CVSO; if you don’t see yours here, use the state directory: Find your CVSO.

Los Angeles County

• LA County Department of Military & Veterans Affairs (CVSO): mva.lacounty.gov
• Swords to Plowshares (legal/housing; SF-based but statewide resources): swords-to-plowshares.org
• Public Counsel – Veterans Justice (legal, LA): publiccounsel.org/services/veterans-justice/

San Diego County

• County of San Diego Veterans Services: sandiegocounty.gov/hhsa/programs/ais/veterans_services
• Veterans Village of San Diego (housing/services): vvsd.net (nonprofit)

Orange County

• OC Veterans Service Office: veterans.ocgov.com

Riverside County / Inland Empire

• Riverside County Veterans’ Services: veterans.rivco.org
• San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs: hss.sbcounty.gov/va

San Francisco Bay Area

• San Francisco Veterans Service Office: sfhsa.org/services/veterans-services
• Alameda County Veterans Service Office: acgov.org/veterans
• Santa Clara County Veterans Services: sccgov.org/sites/va

Sacramento and Central Valley

• Sacramento County Veterans Services: dss.saccounty.gov/sites/csa/Pages/Veterans-Services.aspx
• Fresno County Veterans Service Office: co.fresno.ca.us – Veterans Services

Northern and Rural

• Shasta County Veterans Services: shastacounty.gov/veterans
• Humboldt County Veterans Service Office: humboldtgov.org/620/Veterans-Service-Office

Imperial and Border

• Imperial County Veterans Service Office: veterans.imperialcounty.org

Statewide finders

• County Veterans Service Office directory: CalVet CVSO directory
• 211: 211 California
• Legal aid: LawHelpCA

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Frequently Asked Questions (California-specific)

Q1) Can I use Medi-Cal and VA health care at the same time?

• Yes. Many veterans use VA for primary care and Medi-Cal for long-term care (IHSS, ALW, nursing home). Each program has its own rules. Ask your CVSO and county Medi-Cal worker how to coordinate. Medi-Cal | VA Health Care

Q2) Are there income limits for VA pension and Aid & Attendance?

• Yes. VA pension is needs-based and looks at income and net worth, with medical expenses sometimes lowering “countable income.” VA updates rates yearly. VA Pension | A&A/Housebound

Q3) Where do I apply for the Disabled Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption in California?

• At your County Assessor’s Office. Exemption amounts change annually. BOE – Disabled Veterans’ Exemption

Q4) Do I have to pay someone to file a VA claim?

• No. VA does not charge to file claims, and accredited representatives offer free help. Find accredited reps

Q5) How long does Aid & Attendance take?

• It varies. It can take several months. Filing a complete claim and responding quickly to VA letters helps. Your CVSO can track your claim.

Q6) I live far from a VA facility. Can I see a local doctor?

• Possibly. If you meet criteria under the VA MISSION Act (drive times, wait times, or specific services), you may use Community Care. VA Community Care

Q7) Are there California veterans homes near me?

• California operates eight homes (e.g., Yountville, West LA, Chula Vista, Fresno). Waitlists exist. Check details here: CalVet Veterans Homes

Q8) Does California help with utility bills for seniors?

• Yes. CARE/FERA discounts and LIHEAP can help eligible households. CPUC Low-Income Programs | LIHEAP (CSD)

Q9) Can I get help buying or fixing a home if I’m disabled from service?

• VA offers housing adaptation grants (SAH/SHA) and HISA for home modifications when medically necessary. SAH/SHA | HISA

Q10) Is there help if I am a woman veteran or LGBTQ+ veteran?

• Yes. VA and CalVet have dedicated resources. Women Veterans | LGBTQ+ Health at VA | CalVet Women Veterans

Q11) I can’t cook at home; can I use CalFresh at restaurants?

• In participating counties, eligible elderly/disabled/homeless people can use CalFresh at approved restaurants through the Restaurant Meals Program. Check your county’s list. RMP (CDSS)

Q12) Who helps if my landlord is evicting me?

• Contact your CVSO and a local legal aid as soon as you receive a notice. For housing-focused veteran help, call 877-4AID-VET. LawHelpCA | VA Homeless Programs

Q13) I’m caring for my veteran spouse. Any support?

• Ask VA about caregiver support programs and respite. Your county may offer IHSS if your spouse is Medi-Cal eligible. VA Caregiver Support | IHSS

Q14) I’m a tribal veteran. How do I connect to services?

• Contact VA’s Office of Tribal Government Relations and your tribal health clinic. VA Tribal Government Relations | IHS California Area

Q15) What if I suspect a scam?

• Don’t share your SSN or bank info with unknown callers. Verify with your CVSO or VA directly. Report scams to DFPI if it’s financial. DFPI Consumers

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Tables you can scan quickly

Key health and long-term care programs (summary)

Top California tax and fee benefits for veterans

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Reality checks, warnings, and tips

• Processing times: VA and county programs can take months. Submit complete applications and keep copies of everything you send.
• Income proof: For needs-based programs (pension, Medi-Cal, CalFresh), keep bank statements, Social Security award letters, and receipts for medical costs.
• Use accredited help: Your CVSO or other accredited reps are free and trained. Avoid anyone promising “guaranteed approvals.”
• Renew on time: CalFresh, Medi-Cal, and IHSS require periodic renewals. Mark your calendar and respond to mail quickly.

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Official sources (linked throughout)

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: va.gov
• California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet): calvet.ca.gov
• California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS): dhcs.ca.gov
• California Department of Social Services (CDSS): cdss.ca.gov
• California State Board of Equalization (BOE): boe.ca.gov
• California State Controller: sco.ca.gov
• California DMV: dmv.ca.gov
• California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC): cpuc.ca.gov
• California Department of Aging: aging.ca.gov
• 211 California: 211ca.org

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Disclaimer

This guide links to official sources and summarizes programs for senior veterans in California. Program details (eligibility, amounts, and rules) change over time. Always confirm the latest information with the agency or your County Veterans Service Office. This content is for general information only 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.