Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Hawaii (Authority Hub Guide)

Last updated: August 2025

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Quick Help Box (always near the top)

If you’re in crisis, need urgent housing help, or want to start a benefits claim fast, use these official contacts.

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Why this guide and how to use it

This guide brings together Hawaii-specific benefits and services for senior veterans (age 60+). It links directly to official sources, explains what programs do, who they help, and how to apply. Start with the Quick Help Box for urgent needs, then go to the sections that match your situation (health care, money help, housing, long-term care, etc.).

Reality check: Hawaii’s benefits system is spread across federal (VA), state (OVS, Med‑QUEST), and county offices. Wait times, paperwork, and eligibility rules can be confusing. Use accredited help whenever possible: the Hawaii Office of Veterans’ Services and VA-accredited representatives don’t charge for claims assistance.

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Emergency help in Hawaii

• Mental health crisis: Call 988 and press 1, or visit the Veterans Crisis Line at veteranscrisisline.net. This is free, confidential, and available 24/7.
• Homelessness or eviction risk: Call 1-877-424-3838 (1-877-4AID-VET). The VA can connect you to HUD‑VASH housing vouchers and Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF). Learn more: HUD‑VASH and SSVF overview and grantees.
• Domestic or elder abuse: Contact Hawaii Adult Protective Services at humanservices.hawaii.gov/ssd/home/aps.
• Food now:
  • Hawaii Foodbank (Oahu and Kauai): hawaiifoodbank.org
  • The Food Basket (Hawaiʻi Island): hawaiifoodbasket.org
  • Maui Food Bank: mauifoodbank.org
  • Kauai Independent Food Bank: kifb.org
• Disaster and alerts: Hawaii Emergency Management Agency: dod.hawaii.gov/hiema. Sign up for county alerts through your county website.
• VA emergency care rules: Emergency care at non‑VA hospitals can be covered in specific situations. Know the rules and notify VA as soon as possible: VA Emergency Care (Community Care).

Tip: Keep your VA ID or a photo of it on your phone, and save MyVA411 (800‑698‑2411).

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What benefits can senior veterans get?

Here’s the short version. Details and links follow.

• VA health care: Primary and specialty care through the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (VAPIHCS), with clinics on each major island and the Spark M. Matsunaga VA Medical Center on Oʻahu. Eligibility depends on service history, disability, income, and other factors. See: VA health care eligibility.
• Money help:
  • VA disability compensation for service‑connected conditions: va.gov/disability.
  • VA pension (needs‑based) with Aid & Attendance/Housebound add‑ons to help pay for care: va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound.
  • SNAP food benefits: humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/snap.
  • Utility and energy bill help (Hawaiian Electric): Payment assistance options.
  • Hawaii property tax exemptions for disabled veterans (county‑managed). Links by county below.
• Long‑term care and home support:
  • VA in‑home and community programs (homemaker/home health aide, adult day health care, respite, hospice): VA Geriatrics & Extended Care.
  • Hawaii Kupuna Care and Kupuna Caregivers (state‑funded home supports): Executive Office on Aging (EOA) programs.
  • Medicaid (Med‑QUEST) long‑term services and supports: medquest.hawaii.gov.
• Housing:
  • HUD‑VASH vouchers and case management: va.gov/homeless/hud-vash.
  • SSVF for rapid re‑housing and prevention: va.gov/homeless/ssvf.
  • State veterans cemeteries and burial benefits (federal and state): Hawaii OVS cemeteries and VA National Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl).

Reality check: Benefits often require documents (DD214, medical evidence, financial info). Keep digital copies. For complex claims, use OVS or a VA‑accredited representative: Find accredited reps.

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VA health care in Hawaii: where to go and how to use it

VAPIHCS serves veterans across Hawaii (and the Pacific territories). Care is centered at the Spark M. Matsunaga VA Medical Center on Oʻahu, with Community‑Based Outpatient Clinics on each major island.

• Eligibility: Check your status and apply online: Apply for VA health care.
• Travel reimbursement: If eligible, VA may reimburse travel to appointments (including inter‑island travel when medically necessary). Rules and claims here: VA travel pay reimbursement.
• Emergency and urgent care: Learn when non‑VA emergency care is covered and how to notify VA: VA Emergency Care.
• Women’s health: Dedicated services and coordinators. VAPIHCS women’s health information is listed under its services: Women Veterans Health Care (VA). Also see the VAPIHCS site: VA Pacific Islands Health Care – Services.
• LGBTQ+ health: VA offers inclusive care and local coordinators. Learn more: VA LGBTQ+ Veteran care.

Tip: If the specialty you need is only on Oʻahu, ask your VA provider about telehealth, community care referrals, and travel pay options before scheduling.

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VA disability compensation, pension, and Aid & Attendance

• Disability compensation (service‑connected): Monthly, tax‑free payments for disabilities linked to military service. You can file a new claim, request an increase, or file for secondary conditions. Start here: va.gov/disability.
• VA pension (for wartime veterans with limited income): Needs‑based benefit that can include Aid & Attendance (A&A) or Housebound supplements to help pay for care at home, adult day health, assisted living, or nursing care. Details and forms: Aid & Attendance and Housebound.What A&A does: It adds to your monthly VA pension if you need help with daily activities (like bathing, dressing) or are largely housebound. The VA decides by reviewing a doctor’s exam form and your care needs.

  How to apply:

  • Gather: DD214, income/asset info, medical evidence, and the doctor’s examination form.
  • Apply online or by mail using the guidance on the A&A page above.
  • Consider free help from OVS or a VA‑accredited representative: Accredited reps search.

Reality check: A&A decisions take time. Missing medical evidence is a common delay. Ask your doctor to complete the VA forms clearly and list your daily care needs.

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Long‑term care, caregiving, and home support in Hawaii

• VA Geriatrics and Extended Care: The VA can provide or coordinate services like Homemaker/Home Health Aide, Home‑Based Primary Care, Respite Care for family caregivers, Adult Day Health Care, Medical Foster Home, and Hospice/Palliative Care. Program overviews: VA Geriatrics & Extended Care.
• Hawaii Kupuna Care: State‑funded services (like personal care, homemaker, transportation, and meals) for adults 60+ who don’t qualify for other programs. Details and how to connect through your county Area Agency on Aging: EOA Kupuna Care.
• Kupuna Caregivers Program: Helps eligible working family caregivers of care recipients age 60+ offset the cost of respite services (like adult day care or personal care). Learn more and check current rules: EOA Kupuna Caregivers Program.
• Medicaid (Med‑QUEST) long‑term services: If you meet financial and functional criteria, Medicaid may cover nursing home care or home/community services through the QUEST Integration plans. Start here: Med‑QUEST (Hawaii Medicaid).
• State Veterans Homes and VA‑contracted care:
  • Hawaii’s state veterans home in Hilo serves eligible veterans who need nursing home level care. For current admissions information and eligibility, contact OVS: Hawaii OVS.
  • The VA also contracts with community nursing homes and adult day programs. Ask your VA provider or social worker.
• Hawaii care home options: Hawaii has licensed Adult Residential Care Homes (ARCHs) and Community Care Foster Family Homes (CCFFHs). These are common stepping‑stones between home and nursing facilities. Licensing and consumer info:
  • ARCHs and related programs: Hawaii DOH – State Licensed Care Homes
  • CCFFHs: Hawaii DOH – CCFFH

Tip: Aid & Attendance can help pay for ARCH/CCFFH or assisted living if you qualify for VA pension. Medicaid and VA rules differ, so plan with a social worker or benefits counselor before moving.

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State of Hawaii veterans benefits

Hawaii benefits are coordinated by the Office of Veterans’ Services (OVS). Start here: Hawaii OVS.

Note: Exact tax exemption amounts and rules differ by county and can change. Use the latest county guidance.

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County property tax exemptions for veterans

Tip: File early. Counties often set annual deadlines and require proof of disability (for disabled exemptions).

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Housing stability and homelessness programs

• HUD‑VASH: Combines HUD housing vouchers with VA case management. Apply through VA social workers or homeless program staff: HUD‑VASH.
• SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families): Helps with rent, deposits, utilities, and case management to prevent homelessness or quickly re‑house. Find current Hawaii grantees on VA’s page: SSVF program and grantees.
• VA Homeless call center (24/7): 1‑877‑424‑3838.
• Legal help for housing issues: Legal Aid Society of Hawaii: legalaidhawaii.org.

Reality check: In high‑cost markets like Honolulu or Maui, even with help, finding a unit can take time. Ask your case manager about landlord outreach programs, security deposit support, and temporary options while searching.

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Food, utilities, and day‑to‑day money help

• SNAP (food stamps): Apply through Hawaii DHS. Seniors and disabled veterans may qualify even with small incomes. Details and application: humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/snap.
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Provides coupons for local produce to eligible seniors. Check Hawaii’s current program details here: Hawaii DOH – SFMNP.
• Utility bill help: Hawaiian Electric’s assistance options and partner programs: Payment assistance.
• LIHEAP (energy assistance): Apply through Hawaii DHS: humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/liheap.
• VA fiduciary services: If you need help managing VA funds, the VA can appoint and oversee a fiduciary: VA Fiduciary Program.

Tip: If your budget is tight, ask your VA social worker about Aid & Attendance, SNAP, and Medicaid screening at the same time. Combining programs is common and allowed.

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Transportation to care

• VA travel pay reimbursement: If eligible, submit claims for mileage, ferry, or inter‑island flights when medically necessary. Rules and online portal: Get reimbursed for travel pay.
• County paratransit services:
  • Oʻahu (TheHandi‑Van): honolulu.gov/dts/handi-van
  • Maui County ADA Paratransit: mauicounty.gov/609/ADA-Paratransit-Service
  • Hawaiʻi Island (Hele‑On Kākoʻo): heleonbus.org/paratransit
  • Kauaʻi Bus Paratransit: kauai.gov/Transportation
• VA telehealth: Reduce travel using VA Video Connect: telehealth.va.gov.

Reality check: Inter‑island specialty care can be tiring and costly. Always ask your VA clinic about telehealth or community care options closer to home, and whether your travel is reimbursable before you book.

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Burial benefits (state and federal)

• Federal: Burial in national cemeteries (like the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Punchbowl) includes gravesite, opening/closing, headstone/marker, and perpetual care. Eligibility and scheduling: VA National Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl).
• State: Hawaii maintains veterans cemeteries on each major island. Eligibility generally mirrors federal rules, and most allow spouses. Check locations, eligibility, and any fees through OVS: Hawaii OVS – State Veterans Cemeteries.

Tip: Pre‑planning eases stress later. Keep DD214 copies and talk with OVS about pre‑eligibility checks.

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Inclusive supports: by community

Hawaii’s senior veteran community is diverse. Here are focused resources.

• LGBTQ+ senior veterans
  • VA care is inclusive. Each VA system has LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinators who can help with navigation and records. Learn your rights and services: VA LGBTQ+ Veteran care.
  • Update your record for correct name/pronouns with VA Patient Registration.
• Disabled seniors
  • Benefits: VA disability compensation and Special Monthly Compensation may apply: va.gov/disability.
  • Home and mobility: VA may help with home and vehicle adaptations through grants and benefits in some cases. See: VA housing grants for disabled Veterans and Automobile allowance and adaptive equipment.
  • Dental: Eligibility is limited; check here: VA Dental eligibility.
• Native Hawaiian and other Indigenous veterans
  • While Hawaii does not have federally recognized tribes, Native Hawaiian organizations support kūpuna health and wellness:
    • Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) programs and grants: oha.org
    • Papa Ola Lōkahi and Native Hawaiian Health Care Systems (by island): papaolalokahi.org/nhhcs
  • These services can be used alongside VA benefits.
• Rural and neighbor island veterans
  • Use telehealth and local CBOCs where possible: VA Facility Locator.
  • Ask about Beneficiary Travel for medically necessary inter‑island trips: Travel pay.
• Women veterans
  • Dedicated women’s health services and coordinators are available through VAPIHCS and VA. Learn more: Women Veterans Health Care.
  • Maternity and breast health care are coordinated by VA, often through community partners.

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Resources by region

Use these regional links to find local offices, clinics, and services.

• Oʻahu
  • VA medical center and clinics: VA Pacific Islands Health Care
  • Honolulu Elderly Affairs Division (Area Agency on Aging): honolulu.gov/dfsb/elderly-affairs-division
  • City & County of Honolulu property tax exemptions: honolulu.gov/budget/property-tax/exemptions.html
  • State Veterans Cemetery (Kāneʻohe): listed here: OVS cemeteries
  • HUD‑VASH and SSVF: coordinate via VA homeless programs: HUD‑VASH, SSVF
• Hawaiʻi Island
  • VA CBOCs (Hilo and Kona): search via VA Facility Locator
  • Hawaiʻi County Office of Aging: hawaiicounty.gov/departments/office-of-aging
  • County property tax exemptions: hawaiipropertytax.com/exemptions
  • Yukio Okutsu State Veterans Home (Hilo): learn via OVS and local health system; start at OVS
• Maui County (Maui, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi)
  • VA CBOC (Kahului): search via VA Facility Locator
  • Maui County Office on Aging: mauicounty.gov/Departments/Office-on-Aging
  • County property tax: mauicounty.gov/1957/Real-Property-Tax
• Kauaʻi County
  • VA CBOC (Līhuʻe): search via VA Facility Locator
  • Kauaʻi Agency on Elderly Affairs: kauai.gov/elderly
  • County property tax: kauai.gov/realproperty

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How to apply: step‑by‑step checklists

Tip: Keep a benefits folder (paper or digital). Save everything: applications, receipts, letters, and names of people you spoke with.

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VA facilities and services finder

Use these official tools to find services near you:

• VA location finder (clinics, urgent care in network, pharmacies): va.gov/find-locations
• VAPIHCS homepage (news, contacts, clinic info): va.gov/pacific-islands-health-care
• VA urgent care in network search: va.gov/find-locations/?facilityType=urgent_care

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Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

• Incomplete applications: Most delays come from missing documents. Use the VA checklist and let an accredited rep review your packet.
• Assuming a benefit will pay a specific home or facility: VA, Medicaid, and state programs each have their own rules. Before moving, ask the payer (VA/Med‑QUEST) if the provider is covered.
• Inter‑island travel surprises: Don’t assume travel is reimbursed. Ask your clinic first and submit travel pay correctly and on time: VA travel pay.
• Property tax exemptions: Deadlines and proof standards vary by county. Read your county’s exemption page carefully and file early.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can Aid & Attendance help me pay for an assisted living or care home in Hawaii?
  • Yes, if you qualify for VA pension with Aid & Attendance, the extra monthly amount can help pay for care in settings like assisted living, Adult Residential Care Homes (ARCH), or Community Care Foster Family Homes (CCFFH). Start here: Aid & Attendance. For licensed care settings in Hawaii, see: DOH – Care Homes.
• I live on a neighbor island. Do I have to fly to Oʻahu for specialty care?
  • Sometimes. VAPIHCS uses telehealth and community care when possible. Ask your provider about telehealth, local referrals, and whether your travel can be reimbursed: Travel pay.
• Who can help me file a claim in Hawaii, for free?
  • The Hawaii Office of Veterans’ Services and VA‑accredited representatives. Find locations: OVS offices. Verify any representative here: VA accreditation search.
• Are spouses eligible for burial in Hawaii state veterans cemeteries?
  • In many cases, yes. Eligibility is similar to federal cemeteries. Check details for your island cemetery: OVS – State Veterans Cemeteries. Federal information: Punchbowl.
• How do I get the “Veteran” designation on my Hawaii driver license or ID?
  • Check your county DMV’s process (proof of service required). The OVS site can point you to the right office: Hawaii OVS. Honolulu DMV: honolulu.gov/csd/dl.
• Where do I get my DD214 if I lost it?
  • Request copies from the National Archives: archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records. OVS can help with the request.
• Does the VA offer in‑home caregiver support in Hawaii?
  • Yes. VA Homemaker/Home Health Aide and Respite Care are available based on eligibility and clinical need. Learn more: VA Geriatrics & Extended Care. Family caregivers can also get support through the VA Caregiver Support Program: caregiver.va.gov.
• Can I get dental care through the VA?
  • Dental eligibility is limited (for example, certain service‑connected ratings or specific circumstances). Check here: VA Dental Care.
• I’m a woman veteran. How do I find a women’s health provider at VAPIHCS?
  • Start with the VAPIHCS services page and the national women’s health site: VA Pacific Islands Health Care and Women Veterans Health Care.
• Are there special supports for LGBTQ+ veterans at the VA in Hawaii?
  • Yes. The VA has LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinators and inclusive services. Learn more and ask your VAPIHCS clinic to connect you: VA LGBTQ+ Veteran care.

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Tables you can use at a glance

1. VA medical access in Hawaii

2. Money and daily living

3. Long‑term care and supports

4. Hawaii property tax (by county)

5. Burial options

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Step‑by‑step example: using Aid & Attendance to help you stay at home

• Step 1: Ask your primary care provider (VA or non‑VA) to document your “activities of daily living” needs (bathing, dressing, moving around, eating, toileting).
• Step 2: Confirm your wartime service and current income/net worth against VA pension rules: VA pension basics.
• Step 3: Apply for VA pension with A&A using the guidance and forms linked here: Aid & Attendance.
• Step 4: If approved, use the added monthly amount to pay for in‑home help, adult day health, or licensed care homes (ARCH/CCFFH). Keep receipts.
• Step 5: If your needs grow, talk with VA and Med‑QUEST about Medicaid long‑term care and VA in‑home supports to avoid gaps.

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Key official contacts and portals (all in one place)

• VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (VAPIHCS): va.gov/pacific-islands-health-care
• VA locations finder: va.gov/find-locations
• Apply for VA health care: va.gov/health-care/apply/application
• VA disability claims: va.gov/disability
• VA pension and A&A: va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound
• VA travel pay: va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay
• VA women’s health: womenshealth.va.gov
• VA LGBTQ+ care: va.gov/LGBTQ
• VA caregiver support: caregiver.va.gov
• VA dental care eligibility: va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care
• VA emergency care rules: va.gov/communitycare/programs/veterans/Emergency_Care.asp
• Hawaii Office of Veterans’ Services: dod.hawaii.gov/ovs
• OVS state veterans cemeteries: dod.hawaii.gov/ovs/benefits-and-services/state-veterans-cemeteries
• Hawaii Med‑QUEST (Medicaid): medquest.hawaii.gov
• Hawaii EOA (Kupuna Care/Kupuna Caregivers): health.hawaii.gov/eoa/programs-services
• SNAP Hawaii: humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/snap
• LIHEAP Hawaii: humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/liheap
• Adult Protective Services: humanservices.hawaii.gov/ssd/home/aps
• National Archives (DD214): archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
• MyVA411 (24/7): 800‑698‑2411

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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.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only. Benefits change over time, and eligibility depends on your specific situation. Always confirm details with the VA, the Hawaii Office of Veterans’ Services, Med‑QUEST, your county offices, or other official agencies using the links provided above. We do not provide legal advice.