Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Connecticut

Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Connecticut (2025)

Last updated: August 2025

This is a practical, state-specific guide for veterans in Connecticut age 60+, their families, and caregivers. It focuses on real programs you can use now, with direct links to official sources and on-the-ground help.

Quick Help Box (Emergency-first)

If you or a loved one needs urgent help, start here.

  • Mental health crisis or thoughts of suicide
    • Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then Press 1; text 838255; or use secure chat
  • Immediate housing help and shelter access in CT
  • Homeless or at risk of homelessness (veterans)
  • VA Connecticut Health Care (24/7 operator)
  • CT Department of Veterans Affairs (state benefits, advocates)
  • Apply for CT benefits (Medicaid, SNAP, Medicare Savings Program)

Table: Fast Contacts You Can Use Today

Need Official contact
Mental health crisis Veterans Crisis Line (988, Press 1)
Immediate housing/shelter in CT 211 Connecticut (call 2-1-1)
Homeless Veteran help VA National Call Center for Homeless Veterans (877-424-3838)
VA Connecticut medical system VA Connecticut Health Care
VA claims help in CT CT DVA — Office of Advocacy & Assistance
Medicaid, SNAP, Medicare Savings Program CT DSS Benefits Center
Medicare counseling (SHIP) CHOICES (CT SHIP) via ADS
Legal help (veterans) Connecticut Veterans Legal Center
Find a Vet Center in CT (readjustment counseling) VA Vet Center locator

Sources: linked official agency websites.

What You’ll Find in This Guide

  • Emergency help first
  • Health coverage and long-term care options
  • Cash, food, energy, and tax relief
  • Housing and homelessness programs for veterans
  • State-only benefits you may not know about (SSMF, tuition waiver, DMV veteran designation, and more)
  • How to apply step by step
  • Inclusive resources for women, LGBTQ+, disabled, rural/homebound, and tribal veterans
  • Local contacts by region
  • FAQs, resources, and a clear disclaimer

We include direct links to official sources so you can verify details yourself.

Reality Check

  • Benefits can be confusing. Some programs take time and paperwork.
  • Getting decisions from the VA or DSS may take weeks. Don’t wait; apply as soon as you can.
  • If a form feels overwhelming, call a Connecticut Veterans Service Officer (no-cost help) through the CT DVA Office of Advocacy & Assistance.

How Connecticut Is Different (State-Specific Highlights)

Sources: CT DVA, CT OPM, VA Connecticut.

Health Care and Long-Term Care

VA Connecticut Health Care System

  • What it is: Your federal VA medical system in CT, with hospitals in West Haven and Newington and clinics across the state. Services include primary care, specialty care, mental health, pharmacy, and geriatrics.
  • Who it serves: Veterans enrolled in VA health care. Seniors may qualify based on service, disability rating, income, or special eligibility rules.
  • How to get in: Enroll online, by phone, by mail, or in person. See How to apply for VA health care and the local system at VA Connecticut Health Care.

Tip: If you’re already on Medicare, you can still enroll in VA health care. Many seniors use both, depending on the service or location.

Official sources: VA Health Care — Eligibility, VA Connecticut Health Care

Medicare, Medicaid (HUSKY), and the Medicare Savings Program

  • Medicare: Federal health coverage at 65+. Get free counseling on choosing Parts A/B, Medigap, Part D, or Medicare Advantage through CT’s SHIP, called CHOICES (no-cost).
  • Medicaid (HUSKY Health): For low-income seniors, HUSKY C can help with long-term services and supports. See HUSKY Health and CT Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE).
  • Medicare Savings Program (MSP): Can pay your Part B premium and may lower drug costs. Apply via DSS. Details at Medicare Savings Program — CT DSS.

Official sources: linked above.

VA Long-Term Services and Supports

  • Services for older veterans include Homemaker/Home Health Aide, Respite Care, Adult Day Health Care, Home-Based Primary Care, and more. Learn more at VA Geriatrics and Extended Care.
  • Veterans Directed Care (self-directed home care) may be available through VA; ask your VA social worker. Info at Veterans Directed Care.

Official sources: VA Geriatrics, VA Connecticut.

State and Community Long-Term Care Help

  • CT Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE) helps seniors at home or in community settings. See CHCPE.
  • MyPlaceCT is CT’s “no wrong door” resource for long-term care options: MyPlaceCT.

Official sources: CT DSS, MyPlaceCT.

Table: Health Coverage Options at a Glance

Option What it covers Who it’s for Where to apply
VA Health Care Primary, specialty, mental health, pharmacy, some long-term services Eligible veterans Apply for VA health care
Medicare (A/B, Advantage, Part D) Hospital, outpatient, drug coverage Age 65+ or eligible by disability Medicare.gov and CHOICES (CT SHIP)
HUSKY C (Medicaid) Full benefits for low-income seniors, LTSS 65+ with limited income/resources HUSKY Health
Medicare Savings Program Helps pay Medicare costs Seniors with limited income MSP — CT DSS
VA Long-Term Care services Home care, respite, adult day, HBPC Veterans enrolled in VA VA Geriatrics

Money, Food, and Everyday Bills

Income supports for senior veterans

  • VA Disability Compensation: Tax-free monthly payments if you have a service-connected disability. See VA Disability Compensation.
  • VA Pension with Aid and Attendance/Housebound: For wartime veterans with limited income/resources, with extra help if you need daily assistance or are housebound. Learn more at VA Pension and Aid and Attendance or Housebound.
  • Social Security retirement/disability: Apply or manage benefits at SSA.gov. Veterans may qualify for expedited processing in some cases; see SSA — Veterans.

Official sources: VA, SSA.

Nutrition and food

  • SNAP (food benefits) — CT DSS: Apply online or by phone. See SNAP — CT DSS.
  • Senior nutrition and local food pantries: Call 2‑1‑1 or search 211 Connecticut for “food pantry” or “meals on wheels” near you.

Official sources: CT DSS, 211 CT.

Utility and energy help

  • CT Energy Assistance Program (CEAP): Help with heating bills. Apply through your local Community Action Agency. See CEAP — CT DSS.
  • Electric, gas hardship programs: Call your utility and ask about payment plans or arrearage forgiveness. 211 CT lists programs at Energy Assistance resources.

Official sources: CT DSS, 211 CT.

Short-term emergency aid for wartime veterans

  • Soldiers’, Sailors’ and Marines’ Fund (SSMF): Temporary financial help (e.g., food, clothing, shelter, medical) for eligible Connecticut wartime veterans and their dependents. See eligibility and how to apply at the official website: SSMF — CT.

Official source: CT SSMF.

Housing and Homelessness Resources

  • HUD-VASH (housing vouchers with VA case management): Ask your VA social worker or visit HUD-VASH — VA Connecticut.
  • Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): Rapid re-housing and homelessness prevention. Find local providers via VA SSVF.
  • CT DVA Residential Programs: State-run residential services for eligible veterans. See CT DVA — Residential Programs.
  • Eviction or foreclosure risk: Call 2‑1‑1 to connect to local housing mediation and legal aid; see 211 Connecticut.

Official sources: VA Connecticut, CT DVA, 211 CT.

Table: Housing Programs for Veterans in CT

Program What it does How to access
HUD-VASH Housing voucher + VA case management HUD-VASH at VA Connecticut
SSVF Prevents homelessness; rapid re-housing Find SSVF providers
CT DVA Residential Programs State residential supports for veterans CT DVA Residential Programs
211 CT Coordinated Access Entry point for shelter/housing help 211 Connecticut

Taxes, DMV, Education, and Other CT-Only Benefits

Property tax exemptions

Connecticut offers property tax exemptions for veterans, with additional exemptions for income-eligible and disabled veterans. Rules and amounts vary by town. Start with the official overview and call your local assessor. See CT OPM — Veterans’ Property Tax Exemptions.

Official source: CT OPM.

State income tax and military retirement pay

Connecticut provides income tax relief for military retirees. Check current rules and how to claim any exemption on the Department of Revenue Services site: CT DRS — Military and Veterans.

Reality check: Tax laws change. Confirm before you file.

Official source: CT DRS.

CT driver’s license “Veteran Flag” and plates

You can add a Veteran designation to your CT driver’s license/ID and apply for veteran plates. See step-by-step instructions at CT DVA — Veteran Flag.

Official source: CT DVA.

Tuition waiver at CT public colleges and universities

Eligible veterans may get a tuition waiver at Connecticut State Colleges & Universities and UConn. Check eligibility, documentation, and where to submit at CT DVA — Connecticut Tuition Waivers.

Official source: CT DVA.

State parks and recreation

CT residents with certain service-connected disabilities may qualify for a free Disabled Veteran Pass for state parks. Details and application at CT DEEP — Disabled Veteran Pass.

Official source: CT DEEP.

Table: CT-Only Benefits Snapshot

Benefit Who it helps Where to learn/apply
Property tax exemptions Veterans; added relief for income-eligible/disabled CT OPM guide
Income tax relief (military retirement) Military retirees CT DRS — Military & Veterans
Veteran Flag on license/ID Veterans CT DVA — Veteran Flag
Tuition waiver Eligible veterans at CT public colleges CT DVA — Tuition Waivers
CT State Parks Disabled Veteran Pass CT residents with qualifying SC disability CT DEEP — Disabled Veteran Pass

Legal Help, Records, and Benefits Navigation

Official sources: CVLC, CT DVA, National Archives, VA.

How To Apply: Step-by-Step

  1. Gather documents
    • DD214/discharge papers, VA award letters (if any), Social Security card, CT ID, proof of income/resources, medical evidence, and recent bills (rent, utilities).
  2. Connect with a Connecticut Veterans Service Officer
  3. Apply for VA health care and benefits (if not already enrolled)
  4. Secure health coverage and long-term care support
  5. Stabilize housing and essentials
  6. Use CT-only benefits
  7. Keep copies and follow up
    • Mark deadlines, keep receipts, and ask your VSO or social worker to track your case.

Transportation and Getting to Care

  • CTtransit: Reduced fares for riders age 65+ or with a Medicare card. See how to ride and show ID at CTtransit — Reduced Fares.
  • VA travel reimbursement: Some veterans and caregivers can get mileage or special transport pay. Learn more at VA Travel Pay Reimbursement.
  • Rural or homebound? Ask VA about telehealth and in-home services through VA Connected Care and your VA clinic.

Official sources: CTtransit, VA.

Employment, Volunteering, and Purpose

  • CT Department of Labor — Veterans employment services: Priority of service, job centers, and staff who understand veterans’ resumes. See CTDOL Veterans Services.
  • Senior employment (part-time, training): SCSEP placements are available through CT’s Aging and Disability Services. Learn more at ADS — Employment/SCSEP.
  • Volunteering, peer support, and community: Ask your local Vet Center and 211 CT for opportunities. Vet Center locator, 211 Connecticut.

Official sources: CTDOL, ADS, VA.

Burial and Memorial Benefits

  • State Veterans Cemetery (Middletown): Eligibility, pre-need forms, and arrangements via CT DVA — Cemetery & Burials.
  • Federal burial benefits: Headstones/markers, burial allowance (if eligible), and national cemeteries. See VA Burial Benefits.

Official sources: CT DVA, US Department of Veterans Affairs.

Inclusive Resources

These programs welcome all veterans. The options below may be especially useful if you face specific barriers.

Women veterans

Official source: VA Connecticut, CT DVA.

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

Official sources: VA Connecticut, VA, CVLC.

Disabled senior veterans

  • VA disability compensation and special monthly compensation: VA Disability.
  • Home care, respite, equipment: Ask VA about Homemaker/Home Health Aide and Home-Based Primary Care (VA Geriatrics).
  • State services and accessibility supports through MyPlaceCT and HUSKY/CHCPE.

Official sources: VA, CT DSS, MyPlaceCT.

Rural, small-town, or homebound veterans

  • Telehealth: Ask about VA Video Connect and local telehealth sites through VA Connected Care.
  • Rides and mobile services: Check 211 CT for town dial-a-ride, volunteer drivers, or paratransit; ask your VA clinic about beneficiary travel (VA Travel Pay).

Official sources: VA, 211 CT.

Tribal-affiliated veterans in Connecticut

Connecticut’s recognized tribes include the Mohegan Tribe and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, among others. Tribal members who are veterans can use all VA and CT state benefits, and may have tribal health or veterans services as well.

  • Mohegan Human Services: See the tribe’s official site for health and social services. Mohegan Tribe
  • Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation: Health and human services information is available on the Nation’s site. Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation
  • Indian Health Service overview for veterans (where applicable): IHS — Veterans

Note: Programs vary by tribe. Contact your tribal government office for current details.

Transportation, Access, and Tech Tips

  • Reduced-fare local transit (65+ or Medicare): CTtransit — Reduced Fares
  • Build a simple care plan: Put your VA primary care, Medicare card, medication list, and emergency contacts in one folder; tell family where it is.
  • Set calendar reminders: For benefit renewals (DSS), VA appointments, and property tax exemption deadlines (ask your assessor).

Table: Common Benefits and Where to Start

Goal First step Backup plan
See a doctor soon Enroll and call VA Connecticut Health Care If you have Medicare, book with your local doctor and call CHOICES for coverage questions
Lower Medicare costs Apply for CT Medicare Savings Program Call CHOICES for free help
Get help at home Ask VA about Geriatrics/LTSS and apply to CHCPE Call 2‑1‑1 to find home care providers
Avoid eviction Call 211 CT, contact SSVF providers Ask your VSO and town social services
Save on property taxes Read OPM guide and call your assessor Your VSO can help gather documents
Get tuition waiver info CT DVA — Tuition Waivers Call the school’s veterans office

Resources by Region (Connecticut)

Use these to find nearby clinics, Vet Centers, and local help. For exact addresses/hours, use the linked official pages.

Greater New Haven and Shoreline

Greater Hartford and Central CT

Eastern CT (New London, Norwich, Windham)

Fairfield County and Danbury

Northwest CT (Torrington, Litchfield, Waterbury)

Note: For precise addresses, hours, and appointments, use the VA location search pages above.

Frequently Asked Questions (CT-Specific)

Q1: How do I add the Veteran designation to my Connecticut driver’s license or ID?

  • Use the “Veteran Flag” process. You’ll submit proof of service and follow DMV steps. See the official instructions at CT DVA — Veteran Flag.

Q2: Where can I get no-cost help filing a VA claim in Connecticut?

Q3: I’m a wartime veteran facing a temporary crisis. Is there state help beyond federal VA benefits?

  • Yes. The Soldiers’, Sailors’ and Marines’ Fund (SSMF) may help with essentials if you’re eligible. Details: SSMF — CT.

Q4: I’m 65+, on Medicare, and want VA care too. Can I use both?

Q5: How do I get help at home (bathing, meals, rides)?

Q6: Does Connecticut tax military retirement pay?

  • Connecticut provides tax relief for military retirement income. Confirm current rules with the Department of Revenue Services: CT DRS — Military & Veterans.

Q7: How do I apply for a property tax exemption as a veteran?

Q8: I need housing right away. Where do I start tonight?

Q9: Can I get a tuition waiver as an older veteran?

  • If you meet eligibility rules, the CT tuition waiver applies regardless of age at state colleges/universities. See CT DVA — Tuition Waivers.

Q10: How do I get a headstone or burial benefit?

Q11: I have a bad paper discharge. Can I still get help?

Q12: Who can help me compare Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D?

Q13: I’m homebound and don’t drive. How do I reach the VA?

Q14: Is there a state park pass for disabled veterans?

Common Pitfalls (and How to Avoid Them)

  • Waiting to apply: Many benefits start the month after you apply. File early.
  • Missing paperwork: Keep a folder with your DD214, award letters, and financial documents.
  • Not asking for help: VSOs file claims every day and know what evidence moves cases. Contact CT DVA — Advocacy & Assistance.
  • Skipping state options: Don’t miss the SSMF, property tax exemptions, and the Medicare Savings Program; they can make a real difference. See SSMF, OPM exemptions, and MSP.

Documentation Checklist

  • DD214 or other separation papers
  • Photo ID (CT driver’s license/ID)
  • Medicare and/or VA ID cards
  • Proof of income (Social Security, pensions), bank statements
  • Proof of residency (lease, utility bill)
  • Medical records relevant to your claim
  • For property tax relief: last year’s income and any disability ratings

If you’re missing your DD214, request it at National Archives — Military Records or ask a VSO for help.

Table: Taxes, Fees, and Everyday Savings

Topic What to know Link
Property taxes Veterans exemptions; extra for income-eligible/disabled CT OPM overview
Income taxes CT provides relief for military retirement; verify current rules CT DRS
DMV veteran flag Add Veteran designation to CT license/ID CT DVA — Veteran Flag
Transit Reduced fares for 65+ or Medicare CTtransit — Reduced Fares
Parks Disabled Veteran Pass for CT residents CT DEEP — Disabled Veteran Pass

Where to Get In-Person Help (Start Here)

Resources (Official Links)

Health and Medical

Income, Food, Utilities

Housing and Homelessness

CT-Only Veteran Benefits

Mental Health and Legal

Memorial and Records

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.

Disclaimer

Programs, eligibility rules, application steps, dollar amounts, and contact details can change. Always verify information with the official agency links provided in this guide (CT DVA, CT DSS, VA, OPM, DRS, DEEP, and others) before you apply or make decisions. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, or medical advice.

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