Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Iowa

Last updated: August 2025

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Quick Help Box (Emergency First)

If you’re in crisis or need urgent help, start here:

• Call 911 for any life-threatening emergency.
• Mental health crisis: Call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat at the Veterans Crisis Line. See: Veterans Crisis Line (988, Press 1)
• At risk of homelessness (or currently homeless): Call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838) or visit your nearest VA facility. See: VA Homeless Veterans Program
• Need fast local help (shelter, food, utility shutoff): Dial 2‑1‑1 or visit Iowa 211
• VA benefits questions: Call VA at 800-827-1000 or visit VA benefits and health care
• Iowa state veteran help and county offices: Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA)

Table: Fast Contacts and Hotlines

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How to Use This Guide

• Start with the Emergency section above if you need urgent help.
• If you want one-on-one help, contact your County Veterans Service Office through IDVA and ask for a benefits review and help applying.
• Skim the tables to see what applies to you, then jump to the sections for details and links.
• Programs change. Always confirm at the official link before you apply.

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What This Guide Covers (At a Glance)

Table: Key Iowa + Federal Programs for Senior Veterans

Note: All programs have eligibility rules. When in doubt, ask your County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) to review your options with you. Find the CVSO via Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs.

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1) Emergency Help, Step by Step

1. Safety and health first

• Call 911 for immediate danger or medical emergencies.
• For thoughts of self-harm or a mental health crisis, call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or visit the Veterans Crisis Line. This is free and confidential, 24/7.

2. If you have no place to stay tonight

• Call 877-424-3838 (National Call Center for Homeless Veterans) or go to VA Homeless Veterans Programs. They can connect you to emergency shelter, HUD-VASH vouchers (if eligible), and local help.
• Also dial 211 or visit 211 Iowa for shelter and rapid assistance in your county.

3. If your utilities are about to be shut off or you need food right now

• Call 211 to find your nearest Community Action Agency for emergency energy assistance (LIHEAP, crisis funds) and local food pantries.
• Ask your County Veterans Service Office about the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund for last-resort emergency help (see more below).

4. If you need urgent VA care but can’t travel

• Call your VA medical center’s main line (see “Resources by Region” below) and ask for triage nurse advice or same-day mental health.
• You may qualify for travel pay reimbursement: VA Travel Pay.

Reality check: In true emergencies, paperwork comes later. Get safe first, keep receipts if you can, and contact your CVSO to help sort benefits once the crisis is past.

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2) Get Free, Local Help Filing for Benefits (CVSO + IDVA)

• Every Iowa county has a County Veterans Service Office (CVSO) that helps you apply for federal VA benefits and Iowa programs at no cost.
• Start here: Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (look up your county office), or call your county courthouse to ask for the County Veterans Service Office.
• Why it matters: A CVSO can speed up claims, spot benefits you might have missed, and help with appeals. They also coordinate Iowa-specific help like the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund.

Tip: Bring your DD214 (or know where to get it). If you need a copy, ask the CVSO for help or request it from the National Archives: Request Military Records.

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3) Money and Bills

VA Pension and Aid & Attendance (A&A)

• What it is: VA Pension is a needs-based monthly benefit for qualifying wartime veterans (and survivors) with limited income and assets. Aid & Attendance is an added amount for those who need help with daily activities (bathing, dressing, eating) or are housebound.
• Why seniors use it: A&A can help pay for in-home care, assisted living, or nursing care—especially helpful if you aren’t 100% service-connected.
• Where to learn/apply:
  • VA Pension overview and eligibility: VA Pension
  • Aid & Attendance and Housebound details: A&A / Housebound
• Tip: Pension/A&A rates change yearly. Check the latest rates on VA’s site.
• Reality check: Pension and A&A have strict income/asset tests and medical need rules. Documentation (doctor’s statement, care invoices, net worth) is key. Ask your CVSO to help calculate eligibility before applying.

Iowa Veterans Trust Fund (IVTF)

• What it is: A state fund that offers last-resort help to eligible Iowa veterans for needs like housing costs, utilities, vehicle repair, dental/vision care, and sometimes education or job training.
• How to apply: Through your County Veterans Service Office, which forwards applications to IDVA. Start at Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs.
• Reality check: The fund is limited and not guaranteed. It’s meant for emergencies after other options (VA, Medicaid, local aid) are tried. Decisions take time—do not wait until the shutoff day if you can avoid it. Bring bills, estimates, and proof of hardship.

Social Security and Medicare

• Many senior veterans draw both VA and Social Security. These are separate programs.
• Social Security retirement and survivor benefits: SSA Retirement Benefits
• Medicare enrollment and help with costs: Medicare
• Tip: If you get VA care, you can still keep Medicare. Many veterans keep both to expand provider choices. Consider Part D or VA pharmacy—ask your doctors how to coordinate.

Property Tax Relief in Iowa (State)

• Disabled Veteran Homestead Credit: Reduces or eliminates property tax on your homestead for eligible disabled veterans (criteria apply).
• Military Service Tax Exemption: Reduces property tax for qualifying veterans with wartime service.
• Where to verify and apply: Your County Assessor’s Office; for official information see the Iowa Department of Revenue: Property Tax Credits & Exemptions.
• Tip: Deadlines matter. Apply early in the year and keep proof of VA disability status as required.

Other Everyday Bills

• SNAP Food Assistance (Iowa): Iowa HHS – Food Assistance
• Energy and heating (LIHEAP): Apply through your local Community Action Agency. Find your agency via Iowa Community Action Association.
• Phone/Internet discounts: The federal Lifeline program can reduce monthly bills. Check eligibility at Lifeline Support (USAC).
• Tip: If you’re behind on utilities, call the utility company’s hardship team. Many have payment plans for seniors; pair that with LIHEAP.

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4) Health Care and Long-Term Care

VA Health Care in Iowa

• Iowa has two main VA health care systems:
  • Iowa City VA Health Care System
  • VA Central Iowa Health Care System (Des Moines)
• Veterans in western Iowa may also use:
  • VA Nebraska–Western Iowa (Omaha)
  • VA Sioux Falls Health Care
• Find clinics and CBOCs near you: VA Facility Locator

What VA covers

• Primary care, specialty clinics, mental health, prescriptions, and telehealth.
• Many seniors use VA plus Medicare. Ask your VA team how to coordinate appointments and medications.

Travel and access

• Travel pay may reimburse mileage and tolls for eligible veterans and caregivers: VA Travel Pay
• If transportation is a barrier, ask about DAV vans or volunteer rides: DAV Transportation Network

Telehealth

• VA offers secure video visits and remote monitoring. Good for rural areas and winter months: VA Telehealth

Long-Term Care Options

• Aid & Attendance: Can help pay for in-home aides or assisted living (see Pension section): A&A / Housebound
• VA Home and Community Based Services (HCBS): Ask your VA primary care team about in-home skilled care, adult day health care, and respite.
• Iowa Medicaid Long-Term Services and Supports: If you meet medical and financial rules, Medicaid may help with nursing home costs or home-based care (HCBS Elderly Waiver). Start at Iowa HHS or call your local AAA (Area Agency on Aging) via Iowa Department on Aging – Locations.
• Caregiver help: The VA Caregiver Support Program offers coaching, support, and may offer a stipend for eligible caregivers of veterans with serious service-connected disabilities: VA Caregiver Support

Iowa Veterans Home (Marshalltown)

• Iowa’s state veterans home provides skilled nursing, memory care, and rehab services for eligible veterans and spouses.
• Learn more and check admissions: Iowa Veterans Home
• Reality check: Admission can take time; medical assessments and financial reviews are part of the process. Ask about waitlists and priority status.

Table: Health & Long-Term Care — Where to Start

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5) Housing: Buy, Keep, Fix, or Downsize

• Buy a home: VA-backed home loans can reduce out-of-pocket costs and avoid PMI. Start at VA Home Loan Program.
• State down-payment help: The Iowa Finance Authority’s Military Homeownership Assistance offers help with down payment/closing costs for eligible service members and veterans: IFA – Military Homeownership Assistance
• Keep your home: If you’re behind on mortgage or property taxes, contact your lender and county treasurer early. Ask your CVSO about the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund for emergency situations (limited funds).
• Home accessibility: VA grants may help modify your home for a disability (ramps, bathroom changes): VA Specially Adapted Housing Grants
• Utility costs and weatherization: Apply for LIHEAP through Community Action; ask about weatherization and furnace repair programs. See Iowa Community Action Association and Iowa HHS.

Reality check: Don’t wait. Early contact with lenders, utilities, and your CVSO gives you more options. Keep copies of all letters and bills.

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6) Taxes, IDs, and Legal

• Military retirement pay in Iowa: Military retirement pay has been exempt from Iowa income tax. Beginning tax year 2023, Iowa expanded retirement income exclusions more broadly. For current rules, see the Iowa Department of Revenue: Iowa Department of Revenue.
• Property tax relief: See “Property Tax Relief” above; verify details with your County Assessor and IDR: Property Tax Credits & Exemptions.
• Iowa driver’s license veteran designation: Many veterans place a “Veteran” indicator on their Iowa driver’s license or ID. Start with Iowa DOT: Iowa DOT – Driver’s License.
• Free legal help (civil, not criminal): Check Iowa Legal Aid for elder and veteran-related civil legal issues (benefits denials, housing, consumer, etc.).

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7) Transportation to VA and Appointments

• Travel pay: If eligible, you can be reimbursed for driving to VA appointments: Get reimbursed for travel pay
• Rides: Ask your VA facility about DAV vans or volunteer trips; start with your facility page or DAV “I need a ride”.
• Telehealth option: For routine follow-ups, ask your VA team about video visits to save a drive: VA Telehealth

Tip: Keep mileage logs and appointment letters. File travel pay claims as soon as possible.

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8) Burial and Memorial Benefits

• VA provides burial benefits for eligible veterans, including headstones/markers, burial flags, and allowances in some cases. See: VA Burials and Memorials
• Iowa Veterans Cemetery (Van Meter) is a state veterans cemetery. For contact and details, see VA’s list of State and Tribal Veterans Cemeteries: NCA State Veterans Cemeteries (find “Iowa Veterans Cemetery”).
• Tip: Pre-need eligibility determination can ease stress on families. See: Pre-Need Determination of Eligibility

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9) Inclusive Supports: Specific Groups

LGBTQ+ Senior Veterans

• VA provides affirming care and has LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinators in each health care system. Learn about services and how to connect locally: LGBTQ+ Veterans Health Care at VA
• Tip: Ask your VA team to note your preferred name and pronouns in your record. You can request a coordinator through your VA facility’s main line.

Disabled Senior Veterans

• Check for additional benefits linked to your VA disability rating:
  • Adaptive housing: Specially Adapted Housing Grants
  • Auto grant and adaptive equipment: Automobile Allowance
  • Caregiver support if you have serious service-connected disabilities: VA Caregiver Support
• Property tax relief may apply if you have a qualifying disability (see County Assessor and IDR property tax page).

Tribal Members (Meskwaki Nation and other Tribal Veterans in Iowa)

• VA works with Tribal partners to coordinate care. Learn about VA’s Office of Tribal Government Relations and VA-IHS coordination: VA Tribal Government Relations and Indian Health Service
• Tip: If you receive care at IHS or Tribal health clinics, ask about billing arrangements with VA so you aren’t charged when care is eligible for VA reimbursement.

Rural Senior Veterans

• Use telehealth (video visits) to avoid long drives: VA Telehealth
• Ask your facility about mobile clinics, community care referrals when appropriate, and rides via DAV vans.
• For non-VA needs, dial 211 to find local senior services. Area Agencies on Aging offer meals, transportation, and respite: Find your AAA

Female Senior Veterans

• Each VA medical center has a Women Veterans Program Manager who can help you access primary care, mammograms, gynecology, and mental health services: VA Center for Women Veterans
• If your spouse depends on your VA status for care, see CHAMPVA (for eligible dependents of certain disabled/deceased veterans).

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10) Resources by Region (Iowa)

Table: Main VA Health Systems Serving Iowa

• County Veterans Service Offices: Look up your county’s office via Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs and ask for your County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO).
• Area Agencies on Aging: Find your AAA.
• Community Action (LIHEAP, weatherization, local help): Iowa Community Action Association.

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11) What to Expect: Realities, Warnings, and Tips

• Paperwork is real. Bring your DD214, VA decision letters, medical records, and bills to your CVSO.
• Decision times vary. Emergency funds like the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund are not guaranteed and can take time. Apply early and consider backup plans with 211 and local aid.
• Keep copies of everything (applications, receipts, letters). It helps if you need an appeal or reimbursement.
• Scams exist. Be wary of anyone who demands fees to “guarantee” benefits or asks for your bank info up front. Use official links and your CVSO.

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12) Benefits & Resources for Senior Veterans in Iowa — FAQ

What benefits do senior veterans in Iowa typically qualify for?

Common programs include VA health care, VA disability or pension with possible Aid & Attendance/Housebound add-ons, state assistance from the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA), property tax relief for disabled veterans, the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund for emergency needs, and long-term care options like the Iowa Veterans Home.

Start with your county Veterans Service Office for one-on-one help: Find your county VSO (official). Learn about programs for older veterans at VA Elderly Veterans (official). For a broad Iowa overview, see our guide: Grants & Assistance for Seniors in Iowa.

How do I apply for VA Aid & Attendance or Housebound benefits in Iowa?

Aid & Attendance (A&A) and Housebound are add-ons to a VA pension for veterans or surviving spouses who need help with daily activities or are largely confined to home.

Review eligibility and apply at the official VA page: VA Aid & Attendance/Housebound. For local filing support, contact your county Veterans Service Office. Tip: gather medical evidence (e.g., VA Form 21-2680) and care expense receipts.

What is the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund and who qualifies?

The Iowa Veterans Trust Fund provides emergency assistance (e.g., dental/vision/hearing, durable medical equipment, vehicle/home repairs, transitional housing) to eligible veterans and families.

See program details at IDVA: Iowa Veterans Trust Fund. Income is generally limited to at or below 300% of Federal Poverty Guidelines; see an application example noting this threshold: Assistance Request (PDF). Apply through your county VSO.

Do disabled Iowa veterans get property tax relief?

Yes. Iowa’s Disabled Veteran Homestead Property Tax Credit offers significant relief for qualifying veterans and certain survivors. Key points: filing deadline is typically July 1; annual re-application isn’t required (notify assessor if eligibility changes).

See official guidance and the application via the Iowa Department of Revenue: Disabled Veteran Homestead Property Tax Credit.

Where can senior veterans in Iowa access long-term care?

The Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown provides skilled nursing and residential care for veterans and eligible spouses.

Veterans may also qualify for VA-covered home and community-based services, nursing home or assisted living supports; see the official VA long-term care page: VA Long-Term Care. For housing help beyond care facilities, see our guide: Housing Assistance for Seniors in Iowa.

How do I enroll in VA health care as an older veteran?

Check eligibility and apply online at VA Health Care Eligibility (official). Many seniors qualify based on income, service-connected conditions, or special statuses.

If you prefer in-person assistance, contact your local County Veterans Service Office. For Medicare counseling and local aging resources, see Area Agencies on Aging in Iowa.

What if I’m a veteran in Iowa who is homeless or at risk of homelessness?

Call the VA’s 24/7 National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838 (official info).

Ask about Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): SSVF program. You can also dial 211 Iowa for same-day local referrals. Our Iowa housing guide lists veteran-specific options: Housing Assistance for Seniors in Iowa.

How can I find local benefits help in my Iowa county?

Use the IDVA resource map to locate your County Veterans Service Office for free help with claims and applications: Find your county VSO (official).

Are there special license plates or IDs for Iowa veterans?

Yes. Iowa offers veteran designation on driver’s licenses/IDs and several veterans’ license plates.

See fees and how to order at the Iowa DOT: Veteran plates (official). For broader state benefits and credentials, see IDVA Benefits & Assistance.

What burial benefits are available and is there an Iowa state veterans cemetery?

Veterans and many spouses/dependents may qualify for burial benefits. Iowa operates the Iowa Veterans Cemetery near Van Meter; eligibility follows VA standards (Iowa eligibility).

See national eligibility rules at VA Burial Eligibility and find cemeteries in Iowa at VA National Cemetery Administration.

How can senior veterans in Iowa afford dental care if they don’t qualify for full VA dental?

Only certain groups get comprehensive VA dental coverage; others can use discounted options or VA’s dental insurance program (VADIP).

Start with our explainer: VA Dental Benefits for Senior Veterans and Iowa-specific options: Dental Grants in Iowa. If you are VA-enrolled, ask about prosthetics/dental equipment through VA. See VA’s general dental guidance at VA Dental Care (official).

Can veterans get help with medical equipment and assistive devices?

VA provides prosthetic appliances and durable medical equipment to eligible veterans receiving VA care. Learn more via VA and ask your provider.

For broader options, see our guide: Free Medical Equipment for Seniors. The Iowa Veterans Trust Fund may also assist with durable medical equipment—check IDVA’s page: Benefits & Assistance.

What local resources help Iowa veterans navigate benefits beyond VA?

Along with your county VSO (find yours), Iowa’s Area Agencies on Aging provide Medicare counseling, legal help, transportation, meals and caregiver support—many are free or low-cost: Area Agencies on Aging in Iowa.

For general senior aid (utilities, food, housing) read: Grants & Assistance for Seniors in Iowa.

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13) Step-by-Step: If You’re New to This and Unsure Where to Start

1. Call your County Veterans Service Office to request a benefits review. Use Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs to find your county office.
2. Enroll in VA health care if you’re not enrolled: VA Health Care Enrollment.
3. Ask your CVSO to check eligibility for VA Pension/A&A, property tax relief, and Iowa Veterans Trust Fund.
4. If you need long-term care, talk to your VA primary care team, the Iowa Veterans Home, and your Area Agency on Aging to compare VA, state, and Medicaid options.
5. If bills are urgent (utilities, rent), call 211 and your CVSO the same day.

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14) Program Details (3–5 Sentences Each)

Table: Common VA Benefits for Senior Veterans

Table: Iowa-State Programs and Where They Fit

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15) Reality Checks That Save Time

• Don’t self-deny. Many seniors think they “won’t qualify.” A CVSO can quickly check.
• For Pension/A&A, the details matter: medical need, net worth, and how you count income minus out-of-pocket care costs. Get help before filing.
• Property tax relief must be filed with the county and often has yearly deadlines.
• Keep a folder for each program. If you call an agency, write down the date, name, and what was said.

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16) Useful Links (Official and Well-Established)

• VA general: VA.gov
• VA facility finder: Find VA locations
• VA health care: VA Health Care
• VA pension/A&A: VA Pension • Aid & Attendance
• Travel pay: Get reimbursed for travel pay
• Burials: VA Burials and Memorials • State Veterans Cemeteries list
• Women veterans: VA Center for Women Veterans
• LGBTQ+ veterans: LGBTQ+ Veterans Health Care
• Caregiver support: VA Caregiver Support Program
• Tribal government relations: VA Tribal Government Relations
• Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA): IDVA homepage
• Iowa Veterans Home: Iowa Veterans Home
• Iowa Department of Revenue: Iowa Department of Revenue
• Iowa Finance Authority (military homeownership): IFA – Military Homeownership Assistance
• Iowa HHS (Medicaid, SNAP): Iowa HHS • Food Assistance (SNAP)
• Area Agencies on Aging: Find your AAA
• 211 Iowa (local referrals): 211 Iowa
• Iowa DOT driver’s licenses: Iowa DOT – Driver’s License
• Iowa Legal Aid: Iowa Legal Aid
• Benefits screener: BenefitsCheckUp (NCOA)

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17) Example Scenarios (How Programs Work Together)

• Example 1: A widowed Vietnam-era veteran in rural Iowa needs help bathing and light housework. The CVSO helps apply for VA Pension with Aid & Attendance. The veteran also arranges VA telehealth for routine visits and uses travel pay for quarterly in-person exams.
• Example 2: A couple in Des Moines faces a winter utility shutoff. They call 211 for emergency assistance, apply for LIHEAP through Community Action, and the veteran applies to the Iowa Veterans Trust Fund through the CVSO with copies of bills.
• Example 3: A Korean War veteran with mobility limits wants to stay in his home. He reviews VA Specially Adapted Housing options for a ramp and bathroom modifications and talks to the local Area Agency on Aging for home-delivered meals while his VA caregiver receives support and training.

Tip: Your exact path depends on eligibility and documentation. Always confirm with the official program.

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18) Simple Application Checklist

• DD214 or service records
• Photo ID
• Proof of Iowa residency (mail, lease, utility bill)
• Medical records or doctor’s notes (if applying for A&A or disability-related programs)
• Income and asset info (bank statements, Social Security award letters)
• Bills/estimates (utilities, repair quotes)
• VA claim/decision letters (if any)

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19) Quick Comparison Tables

Table: Property Tax & Housing Help in Iowa

Table: Food, Energy, and Basic Needs

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20) A Note on Stats and Accuracy

• Program details (eligibility, rates, and forms) change. This guide links directly to official pages so you can confirm the latest information before applying.
• For current veteran population and state-level data, see VA’s National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics: NCVAS. Use their State Summaries for the most recent Iowa figures.

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Resources (One-Stop List)

• VA
  • VA.gov (benefits and health care)
  • Find VA locations
  • Pension • Aid & Attendance
  • Travel Pay
  • Burials & Memorials
  • Caregiver Support
  • Center for Women Veterans
  • LGBTQ+ Veterans Health Care
  • VA Tribal Government Relations
• Iowa
  • Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA)
  • Iowa Veterans Home (Marshalltown)
  • Iowa Department of Revenue
  • Iowa Finance Authority – Military Homeownership Assistance
  • Iowa HHS – Programs and Benefits
  • Iowa Department on Aging – Find your AAA
  • 211 Iowa
  • Iowa DOT – Driver’s License
  • Iowa Legal Aid
• National/Other
  • BenefitsCheckUp (NCOA)
  • Lifeline Phone/Internet Discount
  • DAV Transportation Network
  • NCA State Veterans Cemeteries list

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only. Program details (eligibility, benefit amounts, deadlines, forms, and office locations) change over time. Always verify information with the official agency or program website before you apply or make decisions. If you need help, contact your County Veterans Service Officer or the program directly at the links provided.

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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.