Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Maine

Last updated: August 2025

— This guide focuses on Maine-specific programs, offices, and steps for senior veterans and their families. Links go directly to official sources when possible.

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Quick Help Box (Emergency and Fast Support)

• For life-threatening emergencies: Call 911.
• Mental health support: Dial 988, then press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line, or visit the Veterans Crisis Line website: Get help now from the Veterans Crisis Line.
• Find help near you, 24/7: Call 211 or visit 211 Maine.
• VA Maine (Togus) healthcare system: VA Maine Healthcare System (Togus).
• One-on-one benefit help in Maine: Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services (MBVS).
• Maine’s Area Agencies on Aging and Maine SHIP (Medicare counseling): Find your Area Agency on Aging.

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Table: Fast-Action Contacts

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Emergency Help for Maine Senior Veterans

When time matters, start with these:

• 988 Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 and press 1, chat online, or text 838255. It’s confidential and free. See: Veterans Crisis Line.
• VA Maine same-day mental health: VA facilities provide same-day mental health support for enrolled veterans during business hours. Find a location: VA Maine locations.
• Shelter and urgent housing: For statewide help, call 211 Maine. For VA homeless programs (including HUD-VASH and SSVF referrals), see: VA Homeless Veterans Programs and VA Maine’s page: Homeless Veteran Care at VA Maine.
• Adult Protective Services (abuse, neglect, exploitation): If you suspect abuse of an older Mainer, visit Maine DHHS APS: Report or learn about Adult Protective Services.
• Food today: Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for Meals on Wheels and congregate meals: Find your AAA. You can also call 211 Maine.

Reality check: It’s common to feel overwhelmed in a crisis. If you can make only one call, dial 211 first—they’ll connect you to local services, or call MBVS for veteran-specific guidance.

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Who This Guide Is For

• Older veterans living in Maine (many programs start at age 60 or 65).
• Spouses, surviving spouses, and family caregivers.
• Veterans with disabilities, including service-connected conditions.
• Rural, tribal, LGBTQ+, and women veterans.

Tip: Even if you think you “don’t qualify,” talk to MBVS. Some benefits are based on income, service-connected disability, or wartime service, and rules can be complex. MBVS helps you sort it out: MBVS – Get help with claims and benefits.

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Start Here: Free One-on-One Help in Maine

Maine has dedicated teams to walk you through applications, appeals, and local services.

Table: Where to Go First

Note: Many veterans use both VA care and Medicare/Medicaid (MaineCare). That’s allowed. See: VA health care and other insurance.

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Health Care and Long‑Term Care Options

VA Maine (Togus) Health Care

• What it is: Comprehensive VA care in Maine—primary care, specialty clinics, mental health, pharmacy, rehab, telehealth, and more. Start here: VA Maine Healthcare System.
• Eligibility: You generally need to have served active duty and not received a dishonorable discharge. Priorities depend on service-connected conditions, income, and other factors. Details: VA Health Care eligibility.
• How to enroll: Apply online, by mail, or in person. See: Apply for VA health care.

Reality check: Enrollment can feel confusing, especially if you have Medicare too. VA care does not replace Medicare. Many Mainers keep Medicare for local providers and use VA for prescriptions or specialty care.

Medicare and MaineCare (Medicaid)

• Medicare: Most people qualify at 65 or with certain disabilities. For free, unbiased help picking plans, contact Maine SHIP through your AAA: Maine SHIP (Medicare help).
• MaineCare (Medicaid): Helps with medical costs, in‑home services, and nursing home care if you meet financial and clinical criteria. Learn more: MaineCare overview (DHHS).
• Medicare Savings Programs (MSP): If your income is modest, MSP can pay your Medicare Part B premium and sometimes other costs. See: Medicare Savings Program in Maine.

Tip: Bring your VA card and Medicare card to appointments. Tell each provider about your other coverage so bills go to the right place.

Long‑Term Services and Supports

• Maine Veterans’ Homes (MVH): State-chartered nonprofit nursing and residential care homes for veterans and eligible family members. Services include long-term care, memory care, and rehab. Check locations and admissions: Maine Veterans’ Homes.
• VA Geriatrics & Extended Care: Home-based primary care, community living centers, adult day health, and caregiver supports. Start here: VA Geriatrics and Extended Care.
• VA Maine programs: For Maine-specific geriatric and extended care offerings, visit: VA Maine – Geriatrics and Extended Care.
• Maine DHHS – In-Home and Community Supports: Personal care, homemaker, and related help through OADS and AAAs (Older Americans Act). See: OADS – Aging Services.
• Aid and Attendance (A&A) and Housebound benefits: VA pension add‑ons for veterans and survivors who need help with daily activities or are substantially confined to home. Details and how to apply: VA Aid and Attendance and Housebound.

Table: Health and Long‑Term Care at a Glance

Reality check: Long-term care funding is complicated. Eligibility can depend on income, assets, medical need, and your service history. Before you spend down savings or sign any contracts, talk with MBVS and your AAA.

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Money, Taxes, and Household Bills

VA Pension and Survivors Pension

• Veterans Pension: For wartime veterans age 65+ or those with certain disabilities and limited income. Rates and rules change yearly. See eligibility and current rates: VA Veterans Pension.
• Survivors Pension: For eligible surviving spouses/dependents. Details and rates: VA Survivors Pension.
• Aid and Attendance / Housebound: Add‑on amounts for veterans/survivors needing help with daily activities or who are substantially confined. Learn more: A&A and Housebound.

Tip: Pension is income-based. Reported income and allowable medical expenses can change what you receive. Work with MBVS to avoid mistakes: Talk to a Maine VSO.

Social Security and SSI

• Retirement, disability, and survivors benefits: Social Security (SSA).
• SSI for older adults with limited income and resources: SSI for aged (SSA).
• You can receive Social Security and VA benefits at the same time. Each program has its own rules.

Property Tax Relief for Maine Veterans and Seniors

• Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption: Maine offers property tax exemptions for eligible veterans and in some cases their survivors. Rules vary by service dates, disability status, and age. Check official guidance: Maine Revenue Services – Property Tax Exemptions and MBVS overview: MBVS – Property Tax Exemptions.
• Senior Property Tax Deferral Program: Some seniors can defer property taxes until the home is sold or transferred (you still owe the taxes later). Details and eligibility: State Property Tax Deferral Program.
• Property Tax Fairness Credit: An income tax credit for eligible homeowners and renters. Learn more: Property Tax Fairness Credit.

Reality check: Municipal rules and deadlines matter. Contact your town assessor early, bring DD214 and VA disability letters if applicable, and keep copies.

Utilities, Heating, and Food

• Heating (LIHEAP): Helps pay home heating costs. Apply through MaineHousing or local agencies. Info and how to apply: MaineHousing – HEAP.
• Weatherization and Energy Repair: Energy efficiency improvements for eligible households. See programs: MaineHousing Energy Programs.
• SNAP (Food Supplement): Monthly benefit for groceries. Apply via DHHS OFI: Maine Food Supplement (SNAP).
• Senior Nutrition (Meals on Wheels): Hot or frozen meals delivered; also community dining. Start with your AAA: Older Americans Act Nutrition in Maine.
• Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) for Seniors: Monthly healthy food package for eligible older adults. Learn about CSFP and state contacts: USDA CSFP State Contacts. Ask your AAA for local enrollment.

Table: Money, Taxes, and Household Bills

Tip: Many households layer programs—e.g., LIHEAP for heat, SNAP for groceries, and property tax relief. Use your AAA or 211 to map out a plan.

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Housing and Home Modifications

• VA Homeless Programs: Outreach, case management, and housing supports including HUD-VASH and SSVF. Start here: VA Homeless Veterans. For Maine-specific care: VA Maine – Homeless Veteran Care.
• MaineHousing: Affordable housing, vouchers, and homelessness programs. See: MaineHousing.
• Home Accessibility for Disabled Veterans:
  • Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) and Special Housing Adaptation (SHA): Grants for major modifications to improve independence at home. Details: VA Disability Housing Grants.
  • HISA (Home Improvements and Structural Alterations): Helps with medically necessary home changes like ramps or bathrooms. Info: VA HISA Program.
• Maine Veterans’ Homes: Long-term and respite care options for veterans and eligible family members. Admissions info: Maine Veterans’ Homes.

Reality check: Housing programs often have waitlists. Apply early, keep paperwork handy (ID, DD214, income proof), and stay in touch with your caseworker.

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Transportation (Rural and Urban Maine)

• VA Maine Transportation: VA shuttles, DAV Transportation Network vans, and help with travel pay for eligible veterans. Learn how to book: VA Maine – Transportation options.
• MaineCare Non-Emergency Transportation (NET): Rides to covered appointments for eligible MaineCare members. How it works: MaineCare Transportation.
• Regional Transit Providers: Buses and ride services across Maine, including rural areas. Find your provider: MaineDOT – Transit Providers.
• Area Agencies on Aging: Some regions offer volunteer driver programs or coordination for medical rides. Contact your AAA: Find your AAA.

Table: Transportation Options in Maine

Tip: Book as early as you can, especially in winter and in the far north and Downeast regions. Ask about escort policies if a caregiver needs to ride with you.

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Mental Health, Social Connection, and Caregiver Support

• Vet Centers: Counseling for combat veterans and those who experienced military sexual trauma (MST); also family counseling. Find Maine locations and eligibility: Vet Centers.
• VA Maine Mental Health Care: Outpatient mental health, medication management, specialty services, and tele-mental health. See: VA Maine – Mental Health Services.
• VA Caregiver Support: Coaching, education, respite, and—in some cases—stipends for caregivers of eligible veterans. Start at the main hub: VA Caregiver Support Program.
• Maine Aging & Disability Services: Respite care, caregiver education, and support groups via AAAs. Learn more: OADS – Caregiver Resources.

Reality check: It can be hard to ask for help. Calling a Vet Center or your AAA is a good first step. Both are used to working with older Mainers.

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Maine‑Specific Benefits and Everyday Perks

• Maine State Parks: Maine residents age 65+ may qualify for a lifetime day-use park pass; disabled veterans may have additional benefits. Check current rules: Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands – Fees and Passes.
• Hunting & Fishing: Reduced or free licenses for eligible disabled veterans; senior licenses available. See: Maine IF&W – Licenses for Disabled Veterans and Seniors and Maine IF&W – Lifetime Licenses.
• License Plates and Registration: Veteran and disabled veteran plates; parking privileges for eligible disabilities. Details: Maine BMV – Veteran Plates.
• Burial and Memorials: State veterans’ cemeteries and memorial services coordination. Learn more: MBVS – Memorials & Burials. About VA national cemeteries and eligibility: VA Burial Benefits.

Tip: Bring your VA award letter or proof of disability when applying for veteran or disabled discounts and plates.

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Documents You’ll Likely Need

• DD214 (or other separation papers). If you need a copy: Request your military records (National Archives).
• VA award letters (disability ratings), pension or A&A letters if applicable.
• Photo ID, Social Security card, proof of Maine residence.
• Proof of income and assets (for income-based programs).
• Medicare, MaineCare, and insurance cards.
• Medical records relating to your condition or care needs.

Tip: Keep a folder at home with copies. Bring it to MBVS or AAA appointments.

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Inclusive Support: Tailored Help for Different Groups

LGBTQ+ Senior Veterans

• VA Maine has LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinators to help with respectful, affirming care and benefits navigation. Learn more: VA Maine – LGBTQ+ Veteran Care.
• VA policy prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity in VA care. See: VA LGBTQ+ Health Program.

Tip: If you’ve had past negative experiences in care settings, ask for the LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator when you contact VA Maine.

Disabled Senior Veterans

• Use VA disability housing grants (SAH/SHA/HISA) for home modifications: Disability Housing Grants and HISA.
• If your disability has worsened, you can seek an increased VA rating or secondary service connection. Get free help from MBVS: MBVS – Claims Assistance.
• For wheelchairs, prosthetics, and hearing aids, ask your VA primary care provider for a referral. VA covers these for many eligible veterans.

Tribal Veterans (Wabanaki Nations)

• Veterans served by Indian Health Service or Tribal Health Clinics can coordinate care with VA under reimbursement agreements. Overview: VA Tribal Government Relations.
• Ask your Tribal government or health clinic about a Tribal Veterans Service Officer (TVSO) or liaison who works with MBVS and the VA.
• For Maine tribal health departments, contact your Tribal office or visit IHS Portland Area pages: Indian Health Service – Portland Area.

Rural Senior Veterans

• VA telehealth and VA Video Connect reduce travel for appointments. Learn more: VA Telehealth and VA Video Connect.
• Ask VA about ATLAS sites or community telehealth options if you have limited internet.
• For rides to VA or doctor visits, check: VA Maine Transportation, MaineCare Transportation, and MaineDOT Transit Providers.

Women Senior Veterans

• VA Maine Women Veterans Program can arrange gender-specific care, mammograms, pelvic care, and MST-informed services. See: VA Maine – Women Veteran Care.
• For benefits (A&A, DIC for survivors, etc.), MBVS can help: MBVS – Benefits.

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Resources by Region in Maine

Note: Use the official pages below to find addresses, phone numbers, and hours. Call ahead to confirm.

• Southern Maine (Cumberland & York):
  • Area Agency on Aging: Southern Maine Agency on Aging (programs and SHIP counseling)
  • VA and Vet Centers: VA Maine locations, Find a Vet Center
• Midcoast (Sagadahoc, Lincoln, Knox, Waldo):
  • Area Agency on Aging: Spectrum Generations
  • VA care and clinics: VA Maine locations
• Central Maine (Kennebec & Somerset):
  • Area Agency on Aging: Spectrum Generations
  • VA Maine (Togus): VA Maine (Togus)
• Western Maine (Androscoggin, Franklin, Oxford):
  • Area Agency on Aging: SeniorsPlus
  • Vet Center and VA clinics: Find a Vet Center, VA Maine locations
• Downeast (Hancock & Washington):
  • Area Agency on Aging: Eastern Area Agency on Aging
  • VA clinics and telehealth: VA Maine locations
• Aroostook County (Northern Maine):
  • Area Agency on Aging: Aroostook Agency on Aging
  • Vet Center/VA options: Find a Vet Center, VA Maine locations

If you are not sure which region you’re in, use DHHS’s statewide directory: Maine Agencies on Aging – find services by county.

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Everyday Benefits: Recreation, Records, Legal Help, and More

• Get or replace your DD214: National Archives – Request Military Records.
• Legal help for civil issues (housing, benefits, consumer): Pine Tree Legal Assistance – Veterans.
• Consumer protection and scams: Maine Attorney General – Consumer.
• VA life insurance options (for those eligible): VA Life Insurance.
• Toxic exposure claims (PACT Act): PACT Act and your benefits.

Reality check: If someone promises you “guaranteed” VA benefits for a fee, be careful. Accredited help from MBVS is free.

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Example Scenarios (How To Put This Together)

• Example: “I’m 74, live in Washington County, and need help with bathing and meals.”
  • Call your AAA: Eastern Area Agency on Aging for home-delivered meals and in‑home supports.
  • Ask MBVS to screen you for VA Aid and Attendance: MBVS.
  • If you have MaineCare or might qualify, ask about in‑home services through DHHS OADS: Aging & Disability Services.
  • For doctor visits, ask about rides via MaineCare Transportation (if eligible) or check MaineDOT Transit Providers.
• Example: “I’m a Vietnam veteran in Aroostook County with hearing loss.”
  • Enroll in VA care (if not enrolled): VA Maine (Togus).
  • Ask your VA primary care provider for a referral to audiology. Hearing aids are provided when medically appropriate.
  • For local services, check Aroostook Agency on Aging for transportation or home supports.

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Table: Common Maine Veteran Tasks and Where to Go

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Where should I start if I’m overwhelmed by options?
A: Call MBVS for one-on-one benefit help: Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services. For general aging services and Medicare counseling, contact your local AAA: Find your AAA.

Q: Can I use VA health care and Medicare at the same time?
A: Yes. Many veterans in Maine use both. VA care does not replace Medicare. Keep both cards, and make sure each provider knows about the other coverage. Learn more: VA health care and other insurance.

Q: What if I live far from Togus?
A: Ask about telehealth, local clinics, and transportation. Start here: VA Maine locations and VA Maine Transportation. If you have MaineCare, check MaineCare Transportation.

Q: How do I get help paying my Medicare Part B premium?
A: Ask about the Medicare Savings Program (MSP). If you qualify, it can pay your Part B premium and sometimes other costs. See: Maine MSP. Your AAA can help you apply.

Q: What documents do I need for VA Aid and Attendance?
A: You’ll typically need your DD214, medical evidence of care needs, and income/asset information. MBVS can help you apply: MBVS – Contact. Program rules: VA A&A.

Q: Does Maine have special property tax help for older veterans?
A: Yes. There are veterans’ exemptions and a state Deferral Program for some seniors. Rules vary, so check official guidance and your town assessor: Maine Revenue Services – Property Tax Relief.

Q: Where can I get legal help if I’m a veteran?
A: Pine Tree Legal Assistance has information and may help with certain civil issues: PTLA – Veterans. For scams or consumer issues, see: Maine AG – Consumer.

Q: Are spouses or survivors eligible for benefits?
A: Many are. For example, Survivors Pension and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) for eligible survivors. Learn more: VA Survivors Pension and VA DIC. MBVS can help with applications.

Q: Who can help me find my service records?
A: The National Archives handles most requests: Request Military Service Records. MBVS can guide you if you hit a snag.

Q: I’m a woman veteran. Can I see a woman provider?
A: Yes. Ask for the Women Veterans Program at VA Maine: Women Veteran Care – VA Maine.

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Resources Directory (Official Links)

• Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services (MBVS): https://www.maine.gov/veterans/
• VA Maine Healthcare System (Togus): https://www.va.gov/va-maine-health-care/
• VA Maine locations: https://www.va.gov/va-maine-health-care/locations/
• Vet Centers (Readjustment Counseling): https://www.vetcenter.va.gov/
• Aging & Disability Services (DHHS OADS): https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/aging-and-disability-services
• Area Agencies on Aging statewide list: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/aging-and-disability-services/aging-and-disability/agencies-on-aging
• Maine SHIP (Medicare counseling): https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/get-support/health-insurance/ship
• MaineCare (Medicaid): https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/programs-services/health-care-assistance/mainecare
• Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov/
• Social Security Administration: https://www.ssa.gov/
• VA Pension: https://www.va.gov/pension/
• A&A / Housebound: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• Maine Revenue Services – Property Tax Relief: https://www.maine.gov/revenue/taxes/property-tax/
• Senior Property Tax Deferral: https://www.maine.gov/revenue/taxes/property-tax/property-tax-relief-programs/deferral-program
• Property Tax Exemptions: https://www.maine.gov/revenue/taxes/property-tax/property-tax-exemptions
• Property Tax Fairness Credit: https://www.maine.gov/revenue/taxes/tax-relief-credits-programs/income-tax-credits/property-tax-fairness-credit
• MaineHousing (LIHEAP/Weatherization): https://www.mainehousing.org/programs-services/energy/HEAP
• SNAP (Food Supplement): https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/ofi/programs-services/food-supplement
• Older Americans Act Nutrition (Meals on Wheels): https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/oads/get-support/food-nutrition
• VA Homeless Programs: https://www.va.gov/homeless/
• VA Maine – Homeless Veteran Care: https://www.va.gov/va-maine-health-care/health-services/homeless-veteran-care/
• VA Disability Housing Grants (SAH/SHA): https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/
• VA HISA: https://www.prosthetics.va.gov/psas/HISA2.asp
• VA Caregiver Support Program: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/
• VA Telehealth: https://telehealth.va.gov/
• VA Video Connect: https://mobile.va.gov/app/va-video-connect
• VA Maine – Women Veteran Care: https://www.va.gov/va-maine-health-care/health-services/women-veteran-care/
• VA Maine – LGBTQ+ Veteran Care: https://www.va.gov/va-maine-health-care/health-services/lgbtq-veteran-care/
• Maine BMV – Veteran Plates: https://www.maine.gov/sos/bmv/registration/plates/veteran.html
• Maine IF&W – Disabled Veteran/Senior Licenses: https://www.maine.gov/ifw/licenses/disabled-veterans.html
• Maine State Parks – Passes & Fees: https://www.maine.gov/dacf/parks/park_passes_fees.shtml
• MBVS – Memorials & Burials: https://www.maine.gov/veterans/memorials-burials/index.html
• National Archives – Military Records: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance – Veterans: https://www.ptla.org/veterans
• Maine AG – Consumer: https://www.maine.gov/ag/consumer/
• 211 Maine: https://211maine.org/
• MaineDOT Transit Providers: https://www.maine.gov/mdot/transit/providers/
• Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
• PACT Act info: https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/

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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

Programs, amounts, eligibility rules, and contacts can change. This guide is for general information. Always confirm details with the official agency or your local office. For personalized benefit help in Maine, contact the Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services: https://www.maine.gov/veterans/.