Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Georgia (2025 Authority Guide)

Last updated: August 2025

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Quick Help Box (keep this handy)

Use these contacts first if you’re in crisis or facing an urgent need.

Tip: If you can’t get through, call after 6 p.m. or early morning. If you’re in danger, call 911.

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How to use this guide

• Start with the emergency section (above) if you need urgent help.
• Then go to “Georgia benefits at a glance” to see your main options.
• Each section shows who it helps, what it covers, and where to apply, with direct links to official sources.
• Not everything is simple. Look for “Reality check” and “Tips” boxes for common snags and workarounds.

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Georgia benefits at a glance (fast overview)

The programs below are the ones most senior veterans in Georgia ask about. Follow the “Where to apply” links to start.

Reality check: Benefits often require paperwork (DD214, income statements, medical evidence). If it feels overwhelming, ask a GDVS officer to help you organize and file at no cost.

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Health care and long‑term care in Georgia

VA health care (Atlanta, Augusta, Dublin)

• Atlanta VA Health Care System (Decatur + clinics): primary/specialty care, mental health, telehealth, women’s health.
  • Learn more: Atlanta VA Health Care System
• Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta (two divisions): comprehensive medical/surgical care, strong specialty services.
  • Learn more: Augusta VA Health Care
• Carl Vinson VA Medical Center, Dublin: inpatient/outpatient services, Community Based Outpatient Clinics across rural Georgia.
  • Learn more: Dublin VA Health Care

Apply or check status:

• Online: Apply for VA health care
• Phone: 877-222-8387 (VA Health Eligibility Center)
• In person: at any VA medical center or GDVS field office

Community Care and telehealth:

• If VA can’t provide a service timely or nearby, VA may refer you to a local community provider under the VA Community Care program.
• You can use VA Video Connect for many appointments from home.

Tips:

• Bring Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance cards. VA bills other coverage first, which helps keep your VA costs low.
• Ask about VA travel pay if you travel for care: Get reimbursed for travel pay.

Geriatrics and Extended Care

VA can support you at home or in residential settings:

• Home Based Primary Care (HBPC): in‑home visits for veterans with complex needs. Ask your VA primary care team.
• Adult Day Health Care: daytime support and socialization. Often combined with respite for caregivers.
• Medical Foster Homes: vetted caregiver homes for veterans who need nursing home‑level care but prefer a home setting.
• Community Nursing Homes: VA contracts with local nursing homes when needed.

Learn more: VA Geriatrics & Extended Care

Georgia War Veterans Homes (state nursing homes)

Georgia operates two state veterans nursing homes:

• Augusta: Georgia War Veterans Nursing Home (operated in partnership with Augusta University)
• Milledgeville: Georgia War Veterans Home

What they do:

• Skilled nursing, rehab, memory care units (availability varies), activities, and on‑site medical oversight for eligible veterans.

Who qualifies:

• Honorable service, Georgia residency (with exceptions), need for skilled nursing level of care. Admissions and costs vary by home.

Start here:

• Program overview and contacts: Georgia War Veterans Homes (GDVS)

Reality check:

• Waitlists can happen. Apply early and ask about alternative VA or community options while you wait.

Medicaid waivers for in‑home care (Georgia)

Many seniors want to avoid or delay nursing home placement. Georgia’s Elderly and Disabled Waiver Program (EDWP) includes:

• Community Care Services Program (CCSP): case management, personal support, adult day health, respite.
• SOURCE: care management and in‑home services for seniors and adults with disabilities on SSI‑linked Medicaid.

Who qualifies:

• 60+ or disabled, functionally eligible for nursing home level of care, and financially eligible for Medicaid.

Where to start:

• Georgia Division of Aging Services: EDWP programs
• ADRC helpline: 866-552-4464 (Option 2) to locate your Area Agency on Aging

Medicare counseling:

• Free, unbiased help choosing Medicare plans and savings programs: Georgia SHIP

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Money benefits: compensation, pensions, survivors

VA disability compensation

What it is:

• Tax‑free monthly benefit if you have a service‑connected disability. Amount depends on your rating.

How to get help in Georgia:

• Free claims help: GDVS claims assistance
• Apply online: VA disability compensation

Reality check:

• Strong medical evidence is key. Keep copies of all VA and private medical records. GDVS can help gather what you need.

VA pension with Aid & Attendance or Housebound

What it is:

• A needs‑based monthly payment for wartime veterans and/or surviving spouses with limited income. Add‑ons (Aid & Attendance or Housebound) help if you need daily assistance or are substantially confined to home.

Learn more and apply:

• Aid & Attendance and Housebound benefits

Tip:

• Never pay anyone to file a VA pension claim. You can work with accredited representatives for free: Find VA‑accredited reps.

Survivor benefits (DIC and pension)

• Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): tax‑free monthly benefit for eligible surviving spouses/dependents of service members or certain veterans.
• Survivors Pension: needs‑based payment for low‑income surviving spouses or children of wartime veterans.

Learn more:

• DIC for survivors
• Survivors Pension

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Georgia state benefits that save money

Reality check:

• Property tax rules vary by county and change over time. Always confirm with your county tax assessor using your most recent VA disability letter.

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Housing and utilities

Tips:

• If you’re facing eviction, call SSVF providers quickly. They can often pay arrears faster than general programs.
• If a housing waitlist is closed, ask to be added to the “openings alert” list and keep your contact info updated.

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Food, cash, and day‑to‑day support

• SNAP (Food Stamps) in Georgia: Apply online through Georgia Gateway or call your local DFCS office. Program details: SNAP in Georgia.
• Home‑delivered or congregate meals: Contact your Area Agency on Aging through the ADRC line 866-552-4464 (Option 2). Program hub: Georgia Division of Aging Services.
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program: Seasonal produce coupons for low‑income seniors through local AAAs; ask your AAA via ADRC. Overview: Georgia Division of Aging Services.
• SSI/SSA retirement: Apply/manage benefits at the Social Security Administration. SSI overview: SSI program.

Reality check:

• Food and nutrition programs can have waitlists. Ask about temporary pantry deliveries from your AAA or United Way 211.

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Transportation

• VA Beneficiary Travel: Mileage or common carrier reimbursement for eligible veterans traveling to VA care. How to claim: VA travel pay.
• DAV Transportation Network: Free volunteer rides to VA appointments in many areas. Learn more: DAV Transportation.
• Local transit discounts: Most systems offer senior fares (e.g., MARTA Reduced Fare). Check your local transit authority website for reduced fare and paratransit.

Tip:

• Ask your VA social worker about community ride programs if you live far from a VA clinic.

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Work, education, and training

Reality check:

• Some scholarships are “last dollar,” meaning they kick in after Pell Grants and GI Bill funds. Read the fine print and ask the financial aid office to run the numbers with you.

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Legal help and consumer protections

• Free legal help (civil):
  • Statewide (outside metro Atlanta): Georgia Legal Services Program
  • Metro Atlanta: Atlanta Legal Aid Society
  • Veterans-specific clinics:
    • Georgia Veterans Legal Clinic (UGA School of Law)
    • Emory Law Volunteer Clinic for Veterans
• Avoid unaccredited claims “consultants”: Check accreditation here: VA accredited representatives.
• Consumer issues and scams: File complaints with the Georgia Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.

Tip:

• Never pay upfront for VA claims help. It’s free through GDVS and accredited VSOs.

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Inclusive support: meeting different needs

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

• Care coordinators: Each VA health system has an LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator to help with respectful, affirming care. Learn more: VA LGBTQ+ Veteran Health.
• Name and gender identity in VA records: VA name/gender marker info.
• Georgia local help: Ask your VA facility’s Patient Advocate for the LGBTQ+ coordinator and supportive providers.

Reality check:

• If you have a past negative experience, you can switch providers. Speak with the Patient Advocate at your VA medical center.

Disabled senior veterans

• Mobility devices, home modifications, caregiver support, and home health are available through VA and Medicaid waivers.
• Caregiver support: VA Caregiver Support Program and helpline 855-260-3274.
• Vehicle and parking benefits: Disabled veteran license plates/placards via GA DOR – Motor Vehicles.

Tip:

• Ask about a home safety evaluation from VA (or through EDWP) to reduce fall risks.

Rural senior veterans with limited access

• Telehealth: Use VA Video Connect from home where possible. Ask about loaner devices or data options.
• Community Care: If the nearest VA clinic is too far or appointments are delayed, ask about VA Community Care.
• Transportation: DAV vans and county transit may fill gaps; ask your VA social worker.

Female senior veterans

• Women Veterans Program Managers at each VA medical center can coordinate women’s health, mammography, and specialty care. Learn more: VA Women’s Health.
• Safety and privacy: You can request a chaperone and ask for women-specific clinics where available.

Native American veterans living in Georgia

Georgia does not have federally recognized tribes headquartered in the state, but Native veterans living in Georgia can access:

• VA Office of Tribal Government Relations: OTGR
• Indian Health Service (Nashville Area serves much of the Southeast): IHS Nashville Area
• Ask your VA social worker about VA–IHS care coordination if you receive IHS services.

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Applications and step‑by‑step help

One‑stop help with GDVS

• Book a free appointment: Find a GDVS office
• Bring: Photo ID, DD214, VA decision letters, medical records, marriage/birth/death certificates (for survivors), and proof of income if applying for needs‑based programs.
• Common forms GDVS can help file:
  • VA disability claim or increase
  • Pension with Aid & Attendance
  • Survivors Pension/DIC
  • Property tax exemption certifications
  • Education benefits verification

Tip:

• Keep a simple file folder with your DD214, award letters, and key medical notes. It speeds up everything.

Georgia Gateway benefits (SNAP/Medicaid)

• Apply online: Georgia Gateway
• Help by phone: Call your county DFCS or 877-423-4746 (Gateway help).
• If you struggle with the portal, ask your Area Agency on Aging to help submit an application.

Medicaid waivers (EDWP)

• Call the ADRC: 866-552-4464 (Option 2) to get screened and referred to your Area Agency on Aging.
• Ask about both CCSP and SOURCE and which fits you best.
• Keep notes on every call; waitlists are common. Ask for expected timelines and priority criteria.

Housing help

• Homeless or at immediate risk: Call 877-424-3838 (VA Homeless) and your local SSVF provider: SSVF info.
• HUD‑VASH: If you’re already engaged with VA health care, ask for a HUD‑VASH referral. Some areas run coordinated entry lists through local Continuums of Care: GA CoC.

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Key health and care programs (side‑by‑side)

Reality check:

• Benefits can overlap. For example, you can have Medicare and VA. Coordinate to reduce your out‑of‑pocket costs.

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Regional pointers (find help near you)

Use these as starting points and confirm services near your home.

Metro Atlanta

• VA: Atlanta VA Health Care System
• GDVS: Use the office locator at GDVS
• Aging: Atlanta Regional Commission/AAA via ADRC 866-552-4464
• Transit: MARTA Reduced Fare

Augusta and CSRA

• VA: Augusta VA Health Care (Charlie Norwood)
• GDVS: See GDVS offices
• Aging: Central Savannah River Area AAA via ADRC

Middle Georgia (Macon/Warner Robins/Dublin)

• VA: Dublin VA Health Care
• GDVS: GDVS offices
• Aging: Middle Georgia Regional AAA via ADRC

Coastal Georgia (Savannah/Brunswick)

• VA clinics under Savannah/Beaufort CBOCs (coordinated with Charleston/Atlanta as applicable)
• GDVS: GDVS offices
• Aging: Coastal Regional Commission AAA via ADRC

North Georgia (Gainesville/Dalton/Rome)

• VA: Community clinics linked to Atlanta/Dublin systems
• GDVS: GDVS offices
• Aging: Georgia Mountains AAA via ADRC

South and Southwest Georgia (Valdosta/Albany/Thomasville)

• VA: CBOCs under Dublin/other systems
• GDVS: GDVS offices
• Aging: Southern Georgia and Southwest Georgia AAAs via ADRC

Tip:

• For all regions, call ADRC 866-552-4464 (Option 2) to be routed to your local Area Agency on Aging.

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Common roadblocks and how to handle them

• Missing DD214: Request a copy here: Get your military service records.
• Denied VA claim: Appeal deadlines are strict. Talk to GDVS or a VA‑accredited rep quickly: VA Decision Reviews and Appeals.
• Long waitlists for home care: Ask to be screened for both CCSP and SOURCE; request temporary services (respite, adult day) while you wait.
• Transportation: Ask VA social work about travel pay, DAV rides, and local volunteer driver programs.

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Frequently Asked Questions (Georgia‑specific)

Q1: Where do I get free help filing a VA claim in Georgia?
A: The Georgia Department of Veterans Service provides free claims help at field offices statewide. Start here: GDVS benefits assistance.

Q2: How do I enroll in VA health care and choose a Georgia facility?
A: Apply online at VA Health Care – How to apply or call 877-222-8387. You’ll be assigned to the nearest system (Atlanta, Augusta, or Dublin) and can use their clinics.

Q3: I need help at home with bathing and meals. What should I ask for?
A: Ask your VA provider about Home Based Primary Care or homemaker/home health aide services. Also call the ADRC (866-552-4464) to request screening for Georgia’s EDWP (CCSP/SOURCE): Georgia Aging Services.

Q4: Can I get a property tax break as a disabled veteran in Georgia?
A: Georgia offers significant homestead exemptions for qualified disabled veterans and certain surviving spouses. Requirements and amounts change. Check the GDVS tax exemptions page and call your county tax assessor.

Q5: How do I get a Georgia veteran driver’s license or disabled veteran tag?
A: See Georgia DDS – Military & Veterans for licenses and GA DOR – Motor Vehicles for plates. You may need certification from GDVS and proof of service.

Q6: I’m a surviving spouse. What support is available?
A: You may qualify for VA DIC or Survivors Pension. Learn more at VA Survivors Benefits. GDVS can help you apply.

Q7: I’m homeless in Georgia. Where do I call tonight?
A: Call 877-424-3838 (VA Homeless). Also contact local SSVF providers via VA SSVF and your regional Continuum of Care: GA CoC.

Q8: Does Georgia help pay my energy bill?
A: You can apply for LIHEAP (heating/cooling assistance) when open. Details and locations: LIHEAP (DFCS).

Q9: Can I use Medicare and the VA at the same time?
A: Yes. Many veterans have both. Medicare helps with non‑VA providers; VA covers services within VA. Bring all insurance cards to VA so they can coordinate care. For Medicare plan questions, contact Georgia SHIP.

Q10: How do I apply for Aid & Attendance for help paying caregivers?
A: See eligibility and application steps here: VA Aid & Attendance. GDVS can help you complete the forms and gather medical evidence.

Q11: Are there special resources for women veterans in Georgia?
A: Yes. Each VA medical center has a Women Veterans Program Manager. Learn about services here: VA Women’s Health, and ask your local VA for the program manager’s contact.

Q12: What if I’m stuck on an online application?
A: Ask a GDVS officer to submit with you, or call the ADRC (866-552-4464) to get connected to local help completing forms.

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Resource directory (official links)

• Georgia Department of Veterans Service: veterans.georgia.gov
• VA Atlanta Health Care System: va.gov/atlanta-health-care
• VA Augusta Health Care (Charlie Norwood): va.gov/augusta-health-care
• VA Dublin Health Care: va.gov/dublin-health-care
• VA benefits (all): va.gov
• VA accredited reps: va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation
• VA decision reviews/appeals: va.gov/decision-reviews
• VA homeless programs: va.gov/homeless
• Georgia Aging & ADRC: aging.georgia.gov and ADRC 866-552-4464 (Option 2)
• Georgia SHIP (Medicare help): aging.georgia.gov/georgia-ship
• Georgia Gateway (SNAP/Medicaid): gateway.ga.gov/access
• DFCS SNAP: dfcs.georgia.gov/services/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap
• LIHEAP: dfcs.georgia.gov/services/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap
• DCA Housing Choice Voucher: dca.ga.gov – HCV
• Georgia CoC (homeless): dca.ga.gov – CoC
• GA DDS (military/veterans): dds.georgia.gov/military
• GA DOR (motor vehicles): dor.georgia.gov/motor-vehicles
• GA DOR (property tax): dor.georgia.gov/property-tax
• Georgia Veterans Homes: veterans.georgia.gov
• Veterans Lifetime Sportsman’s License: georgiawildlife.com/veterans-lifetime-sportsmans-license
• GA Dept. of Labor (veterans): dol.georgia.gov/veterans
• GA HERO Scholarship (GSFC/GAFutures): gafutures.org – Georgia HERO
• Georgia Crisis & Access Line (DBHDD): dbhdd.georgia.gov/access-services
• Report elder abuse (Georgia): aging.georgia.gov/report-elder-abuse
• Veterans Crisis Line: veteranscrisisline.net
• DAV Transportation: dav.org – I need a ride
• MARTA Reduced Fare: itsmarta.com/reduced-fare-program
• Legal help: Georgia Legal Services Program, Atlanta Legal Aid
• VA Women’s Health: womenshealth.va.gov
• VA LGBTQ+ Health: patientcare.va.gov/LGBT
• VA Caregiver Support: caregiver.va.gov
• OTGR (Tribal): va.gov/tribalgovernment
• Indian Health Service (Nashville Area): ihs.gov/nashville

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Reality checks, warnings, and smart tips

• Expect paperwork. Keep copies of everything you submit. Use a simple checklist and a folder.
• Watch for deadlines. VA appeals and certain applications have strict timelines.
• Don’t pay for what’s free. Claims help from GDVS or accredited VSOs is free.
• Keep your contact info updated. Many programs text/call when your spot opens.
• If you move counties, tell the tax assessor and GDVS. Some benefits need re‑certification.

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Disclaimer

Program rules, eligibility, and funding can change. Always verify details with the official agency or program website linked in this guide. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, medical, or financial 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.