Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Kansas

Last updated: August 2025

Quick help box

• If you are in danger: Call 911.
• Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1; text 838255; or use the Veterans Crisis Line website: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
• Homeless or at risk of homelessness: Call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838 or visit VA Homeless Programs: https://www.va.gov/homeless/
• Find a Kansas veterans service office (free claims help): Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs Office (KCVAO): https://veterans.ks.gov
• Find VA care near you in Kansas:
  • Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center (Wichita): https://www.va.gov/wichita-health-care/
  • Colmery-O’Neil VA Medical Center (Topeka): https://www.va.gov/topeka-health-care/
  • Dwight D. Eisenhower VA Medical Center (Leavenworth): https://www.va.gov/leavenworth-health-care/
• Aging and disability help in Kansas (info and referrals): Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS): https://www.kdads.ks.gov
• General community services (food, housing, utility help): Kansas 211: https://www.211kansas.org/

---

What this guide covers (read this first)

This is a practical, step-by-step Kansas guide for military veterans age 60+ and their families. It explains urgent help first, then health care, long-term care, money and tax relief, housing, food and utilities, transportation, legal help, and burial benefits. You’ll see real links to official sources so you can apply or call the right office.

We include realities and warnings where benefits are tricky or slow.

---

Emergency and urgent help (start here)

• 911 for immediate danger or medical emergency.
• Mental health crisis
  • Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1; text 838255; chat at https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
  • This is free, confidential, and available 24/7. You do not need to be enrolled in VA health care.
• Homelessness or eviction risk
  • National Call Center for Homeless Veterans: 877-424-3838 and https://www.va.gov/homeless/
  • HUD-VASH (housing vouchers with VA case management): https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash/
  • Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) – rent/deposit/utility help and case management: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/
• Urgent care (minor illness/injury)
  • If enrolled in VA health care, you may use in-network urgent care under VA Community Care. Learn how it works and check eligibility: https://www.va.gov/COMMUNITYCARE/programs/veterans/Urgent_Care.asp
• Elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation
  • Report concerns to Adult Protective Services via Kansas DCF: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/PPS/Pages/APS/APSHome.aspx
• Poisoning
  • Poison Help: 800-222-1222 (nationwide). Info: https://poisonhelp.hrsa.gov/

Reality check: In crises, programs often ask for a DD214, ID, and proof of income. If you don’t have your DD214, request it from the National Archives: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records

---

How to prove service and veteran status in Kansas

• DD214 (or other separation papers): Request or replace your records through the National Archives: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
• Veteran indicator on Kansas driver’s license/ID: Apply through the Kansas Department of Revenue (bring DD214). Info: https://www.ksrevenue.gov/
• VA patient ID (after enrolling in VA care): Apply for VA health care: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/

Tip: Keep digital and paper copies of DD214, picture ID, Social Security card, and any VA rating letters. Many programs will ask for these.

---

Snapshot: where to go for each benefit

---

VA health care in Kansas

Kansas has three VA medical centers plus community clinics. You can enroll even if you’re older or retired.

• Eligibility overview: https://www.va.gov/health-care/eligibility/
• Apply online (VA Form 10-10EZ): https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
• Manage your care online with My HealtheVet: https://www.myhealth.va.gov/mhv-portal-web/home
• If VA refers you to a local non-VA doctor, that’s through the VA Community Care program: https://www.va.gov/communitycare/

VA medical centers serving Kansas

Key services seniors ask about:

• Hearing aids and eyeglasses: Often covered if you’re service-connected or meet certain clinical criteria. Details: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/vision-care/ and https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/hearing-aids/
• Dental care: Strict eligibility rules; some veterans qualify based on disability rating, service events, or homelessness. Check eligibility: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/dental-care/
• Geriatric and extended care: Home-based primary care, homemaker/home health aide, respite, adult day health, and more: https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/
• Caregiver support: Education, coaching, and possible stipend for eligible caregivers: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/

Reality check: VA enrollment and appointments can take time. If you have urgent needs, ask about interim community urgent care options and talk to the facility’s Patient Advocate. Patient Advocate contact is listed on each facility website above.

---

Long-term care, home supports, and state veterans homes

You can combine VA programs, Kansas state veterans homes, and Medicaid (KanCare) to build the right care plan.

Kansas State Veterans Homes

Kansas operates two state veterans homes that provide skilled nursing, memory care, and in some cases assisted living levels. Admissions are based on veteran status, care needs, and bed availability. Costs may be offset by VA per diem and benefits.

• General info on Kansas veterans homes: https://veterans.ks.gov/veterans-homes
• Reality check: There may be waitlists for certain units (like memory care). Apply early and ask about financial counseling for coordinating VA, Medicare, and Medicaid.

Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) via KanCare (Medicaid)

If you meet income/asset rules and need help to stay at home, HCBS can fund in-home care, personal attendants, adult day programs, home modifications, and more.

• KanCare (Medicaid) consumer info: https://www.kancare.ks.gov/
• HCBS overview for consumers: https://www.kancare.ks.gov/consumers/programs/home-and-community-based-services

Common options for seniors:

• Frail Elderly (FE) Waiver: Personal care, homemaker, respite, adult day, and some home modifications to delay nursing home placement. See HCBS programs under KanCare: https://www.kancare.ks.gov/consumers/programs/home-and-community-based-services
• Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE): Combines Medicare and Medicaid services to keep you at home. PACE covers medical, therapies, medications, and transportation to PACE centers. Learn about PACE and find providers: https://www.npaonline.org/what-is-pace/find-a-pace-program

VA options that help you stay at home:

• Homemaker/Home Health Aide: In-home help with daily activities ordered by your VA provider: https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/Homemaker_and_Home_Health_Aide_Care.asp
• Veteran-Directed Care: A budget you manage to hire caregivers you choose (available in select areas): https://www.va.gov/COMMUNITYCARE/programs/veterans/VDC/index.asp
• Respite Care and Adult Day Health Care: To give family caregivers a break: https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/Respite_Care.asp

Tip: An Area Agency on Aging can help you screen for HCBS and PACE. You can also call the national Eldercare Locator to find your local AAA: https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspx

---

Money help: pensions, Aid & Attendance, taxes, and bills

VA Pension and Aid & Attendance (A&A)

• VA Pension is a needs-based monthly payment for wartime veterans with limited income and assets. Survivors Pension is for certain low-income surviving spouses. Details and eligibility: https://www.va.gov/pension/
• Aid & Attendance and Housebound are add-ons to VA Pension that increase the monthly amount if you need help with daily activities, are housebound, or need nursing-home-level care. Details: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-and-attendance-housebound/

Reality check:

• Pension is not automatic. You must apply and verify income/assets and medical need (for A&A).
• Beware of “pension poaching” scams. Only work with VA-accredited representatives. Check accreditation: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp

How to get free help to apply:

• Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs Office (KCVAO) – claims help: https://veterans.ks.gov

Kansas property tax relief

Kansas offers property tax relief programs for eligible homeowners, including seniors and some disabled veterans. Programs and income limits can change each year.

• Kansas Department of Revenue (Property Tax Relief and Homestead Programs): https://www.ksrevenue.gov/
• Safe Senior Property Tax Relief (often called SAFESR) is a refund program for qualifying low-income seniors. Check current rules, forms, and income thresholds on KDOR’s site above.

Tip: If you are a disabled veteran or the surviving spouse of a disabled veteran, ask KDOR or your county appraiser about any veteran-related property tax relief that may apply in your situation, as local rules and statewide provisions can vary over time.

Food help

• SNAP (Food Assistance) in Kansas: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/pages/food/foodassistance.aspx
• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) for seniors 60+: Check your region’s distribution through partners like the Kansas Food Bank: https://kansasfoodbank.org/programs/csfp/ and Harvesters (Northeast Kansas): https://www.harvesters.org/get-help/

Utilities and energy

• Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP): Helps with winter heating bills. Seasonal application window; check dates and eligibility: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/pages/energy/energyassistance.aspx
• Weatherization Assistance Program (insulation, air sealing, efficiency improvements): Kansas Housing Resources Corporation: https://kshousingcorp.org/weatherization-assistance/

Utility company hardship programs:

• Evergy (Kansas) payment assistance and energy saving programs: https://www.evergy.com/
• Kansas Gas Service assistance, including “Share the Warmth”: https://www.kansasgasservice.com/

Note: Company programs vary by location and funding. Call your utility’s customer service and ask about senior or veteran programs and medical necessity protections.

Travel reimbursement for VA appointments

If you qualify based on service-connection or income, VA may reimburse mileage and tolls (and in some cases specialized transport).

• Beneficiary Travel pay: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/

---

Housing assistance and homelessness services

• VA Homeless Programs (all options in one place): https://www.va.gov/homeless/
• SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families): https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/ — Helps eligible veterans and families avoid eviction or get rehoused quickly (rent, deposits, utilities, case management).
• HUD-VASH (voucher + VA case management): https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash/
• National Call Center for Homeless Veterans: 877-424-3838

Reality check: For rental help, documentation and landlord cooperation are often required. Keep a folder with your lease, notices, and ID. If denied, ask for other options like shelter diversion or rapid rehousing.

---

Transportation in Kansas for medical and daily needs

Tip: When you schedule VA appointments, ask for same-day “bundling” so you only make one trip. For rural areas, book rides 48–72 hours ahead when possible.

---

Legal and records help

• Free claims help and appeals: Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs Office (KCVAO): https://veterans.ks.gov
• Discharge upgrades and corrections (if your discharge blocks benefits): Use VA’s step-by-step tool to see which board to apply to: https://www.va.gov/discharge-upgrade-instructions/
• Replace military records (DD214, medals): National Archives: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
• Civil legal issues (benefits, housing, consumer, family): Kansas Legal Services (Veterans and Military): https://www.kansaslegalservices.org/issues/veterans-and-military

Reality check: Discharge upgrades can take months. If you need health care now, ask VA to review for eligibility based on “character of discharge” for health services while your upgrade is pending.

---

Taxes, IDs, plates, and licenses

• Kansas driver’s license veteran indicator and ID cards: Kansas Department of Revenue: https://www.ksrevenue.gov/
• Kansas veteran license plates: Check KDOR vehicle services for plate types and eligibility: https://www.ksrevenue.gov/
• Federal tax info for veterans (benefits usually non-taxable): IRS Veterans resources: https://www.irs.gov/individuals/military

---

Burial and memorial benefits in Kansas

VA national cemeteries in Kansas:

• Leavenworth National Cemetery: https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/leavenworth.asp
• Fort Leavenworth National Cemetery: https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/ftleavenworth.asp
• Fort Scott National Cemetery: https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/ftscott.asp

Kansas State Veterans Cemeteries:

• Learn about eligibility and locations through KCVAO: https://veterans.ks.gov/cemeteries

Plan ahead:

• Apply for VA “Pre-Need” burial eligibility (speeds up decisions when needed): https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/pre-need-eligibility/
• Headstones/markers, burial flags, and Presidential Memorial Certificates: https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/

Tip: Keep your DD214 and VA rating letters where your family can find them, along with your pre-need decision letter if approved.

---

Health coverage beyond VA

• Medicare: Most seniors use Parts A and B; consider a Part D plan for prescriptions. Compare plans: https://www.medicare.gov/
• Free counseling on Medicare options (SHIP program): Use the national SHIP Help line to find Kansas counselors (SHICK): https://www.shiphelp.org/
• Social Security retirement, survivors, and SSI: https://www.ssa.gov/

Reality check: VA and Medicare work together but don’t replace each other. Many veterans keep Medicare to have more provider choices.

---

Inclusive support

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

• VA has LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinators at every VA medical center to help with respectful care, hormone therapy coordination, mental health, and more. Learn more and find contacts: https://www.va.gov/LGBT
• If you’ve delayed care due to past discrimination, talk to the facility’s Patient Advocate and the LGBTQ+ coordinator. Facility pages: Wichita, Topeka, Leavenworth (links at top).

Disabled senior veterans

• Priority access to certain VA services may apply if you have a service-connected disability. Start at: https://www.va.gov/disability/
• Home modifications and caregiving: VA Homemaker/Home Health Aide and Veteran-Directed Care (links above) can help keep you at home.
• Mobility and adaptive equipment: Discuss prosthetics and adaptive devices with your VA care team: https://www.prosthetics.va.gov/

Tribal and Native veterans

• VA Office of Tribal Government Relations helps Native veterans connect with VA benefits: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/
• Indian Health Service nearby option: Haskell Indian Health Center (Lawrence): https://www.ihs.gov/oklahomacity/healthcarefacilities/haskell/
• You may use IHS and VA together. Ask your VA about care coordination and billing between systems.

Rural senior veterans with limited access

• VA Telehealth can reduce long drives; ask about home telehealth equipment and local sites: https://telehealth.va.gov/
• Community Care may allow you to see a local doctor if drive times exceed standards or services are unavailable at VA: https://www.va.gov/communitycare/
• For rides, combine rural transit (KDOT), DAV vans, and VA travel pay (links above).

Female senior veterans

• Women Veterans Program Managers at each VA facility help with gender-specific care, screenings, pelvic health, menopause care, incontinence supplies, and maternity coordination if needed. Start here: https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/
• Many services can be arranged in the community if VA does not provide them onsite.

---

Reality checks, warnings, and tips

• Avoid “pension poaching” and fees for help with VA applications. Use VA-accredited help through KCVAO: https://veterans.ks.gov or verify accreditation: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp
• Keep documents organized: DD214, VA decision letters, Medicare card, Social Security award letter, and a list of medications.
• If denied, appeal deadlines are strict. Learn about modern VA appeals (Higher-Level Review, Supplemental Claim, Board Appeal): https://www.va.gov/decision-reviews/
• Benefits change. Always check the official page for current income limits, forms, and deadlines.

---

Resources by region in Kansas

Eastern Kansas (Kansas City/Leavenworth/Lawrence)

• Dwight D. Eisenhower VA (Leavenworth): https://www.va.gov/leavenworth-health-care/
• Fort Leavenworth and Leavenworth National Cemeteries: links above
• Public transit and senior services: Start with KDOT: https://www.ksdot.gov/ and Eldercare Locator: https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspx

Northeast/Central (Topeka, Manhattan, Junction City)

• Colmery-O’Neil VA (Topeka): https://www.va.gov/topeka-health-care/
• State veterans cemetery information via KCVAO: https://veterans.ks.gov/cemeteries
• Check PACE availability in your county: https://www.npaonline.org/what-is-pace/find-a-pace-program

South Central (Wichita and surrounding counties)

• Robert J. Dole VA (Wichita): https://www.va.gov/wichita-health-care/
• Kansas Food Bank (CSFP/Senior Boxes): https://kansasfoodbank.org/programs/csfp/
• Public transit and paratransit: KDOT: https://www.ksdot.gov/

Western Kansas (rural and frontier counties)

• Nearest VA may be a community clinic or outreach event; start with the three medical center links at top.
• Use VA Telehealth and Community Care (links above). For transport, call KDOT providers early: https://www.ksdot.gov/

Statewide

• KCVAO benefits and service offices: https://veterans.ks.gov
• KanCare/Medicaid and HCBS: https://www.kancare.ks.gov/
• KDADS aging services: https://www.kdads.ks.gov

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. I’m a Kansas veteran over 65. Should I keep Medicare if I use the VA?

Most veterans keep Medicare to access non-VA doctors and hospitals, and it complements VA Community Care. Compare options at Medicare.gov and ask your VA care team for coordination. See also our section on VA Community Care.

2. How do I get in-home help like bathing or meal prep?

Ask your VA primary care team about Homemaker/Home Health Aide services (program info). If you may qualify for Medicaid, ask about the Frail Elderly HCBS waiver via KanCare: HCBS services.

3. What is Aid & Attendance, and who gets it?

Aid & Attendance increases a VA pension payment if you need help with daily activities, are housebound, or need nursing-home-level care. Learn more at VA Aid & Attendance and get application help from KCVAO.

4. Are there Kansas property tax breaks for seniors or disabled veterans?

Yes, Kansas offers property tax relief programs (including for qualifying low-income seniors). Rules and income limits can change—check the Kansas Department of Revenue for current information.

5. I live far from a VA hospital. Can VA pay for me to see a local doctor?

Possibly, through the VA Community Care program if travel times exceed standards or the service isn’t available at VA. See eligibility and referrals at VA Community Care.

6. Where can I get help filing a VA claim or appeal—without paying fees?

Contact the Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs Office (KCVAO). You can also verify any representative is VA-accredited via VA Accreditation Search.

7. I need help with heating bills this winter. Where do I apply?

Apply for LIEAP through Kansas DCF during the open season: DCF Energy Assistance. Also ask your utility about hardship programs.

8. My spouse is a veteran who passed away. What help is available?

Check VA Survivors Pension (income-based): Survivors Pension, Dependency & Indemnity Compensation (for service-connected deaths): DIC, and burial/memorial benefits: VA Burials & Memorials.

9. How do I get a “Veteran” mark on my Kansas driver’s license?

Bring proof of service (DD214) to a KDOR driver’s license office. Learn more about IDs and licensing at the Kansas Department of Revenue.

10. Can I get transportation to my VA appointments?

You may qualify for travel reimbursement: VA Travel Pay. Ask your VA facility about DAV vans or volunteer rides (availability varies).

11. Where can LGBTQ+ veterans get support inside VA?

Each VA medical center has an LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator. See information and contacts at VA LGBTQ+ Health.

12. Who can help me compare Medicare plans in Kansas?

Contact your local SHIP counselor (Kansas’s program is SHICK) via the national site: SHIP Help.

---

Tables you can use now

1) Kansas veterans medical care: where to start

2) Long-term care options for Kansas senior veterans

3) Money and basics

4) Housing support and homelessness

5) Burial and memorial planning

---

Step-by-step: filing a strong VA claim from Kansas

1. Get your records together

• DD214, service treatment records if you have them, private medical records, lay statements about your condition.

2. Connect with KCVAO for free help

• They’ll help choose the right application path and gather evidence: https://veterans.ks.gov

3. File online and track status

• Disability: https://www.va.gov/disability/
• Pension/A&A: https://www.va.gov/pension/

4. Go to exams and respond to VA letters

• If VA schedules a C&P exam, attend. If you can’t, reschedule quickly.

5. Read your decision letter and appeal if needed

• Decision reviews: https://www.va.gov/decision-reviews/

Tip: If your condition worsens later, you can file for an increase with new evidence.

---

Examples from real life situations

• Frail at home, spouse caregiving
  • Combine VA Homemaker/Home Health Aide with the KanCare Frail Elderly Waiver. Add VA respite care to give the spouse a break. See links in the Long-term care section.
• Rural veteran 90 minutes from a VA hospital
  • Ask for VA Telehealth and check Community Care eligibility for local specialists. Use VA travel pay or rural transit for trips you must make. See Telehealth and Travel Pay links above.
• Low income and property taxes too high
  • Apply for Kansas property tax relief (Homestead/SAFESR) with KDOR and check if you qualify for VA Pension. Links above.
• Widow of a veteran needing income
  • Apply for Survivors Pension with VA and check SNAP and LIEAP at Kansas DCF. Links above.

---

Sources

All links in this guide go to official government websites or well-established organizations:

• Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs Office (KCVAO): https://veterans.ks.gov
• Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS): https://www.kdads.ks.gov
• KanCare (Medicaid): https://www.kancare.ks.gov/
• Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR): https://www.ksrevenue.gov/
• Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF): https://www.dcf.ks.gov/
• Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (Weatherization): https://kshousingcorp.org/weatherization-assistance/
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): https://www.va.gov/
• VA facility pages: Wichita, Topeka, Leavenworth (linked above)
• VA Geriatrics: https://www.va.gov/GERIATRICS/
• VA Community Care: https://www.va.gov/communitycare/
• Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
• VA Homeless Programs (SSVF, HUD-VASH): https://www.va.gov/homeless/
• National PACE Association: https://www.npaonline.org/what-is-pace/find-a-pace-program
• Eldercare Locator (AAAs): https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspx
• SHIP (Medicare counseling): https://www.shiphelp.org/
• National Archives (DD214): https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
• National Cemetery Administration: https://www.cem.va.gov/
• Kansas 211: https://www.211kansas.org/
• Kansas Legal Services (Veterans): https://www.kansaslegalservices.org/issues/veterans-and-military

---

Disclaimer

Program rules, income limits, forms, and phone numbers change. Always verify details with the agency or program using the official links provided. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, or medical advice.

---

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.