Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Maryland

Written & Reviewed by

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor

Senior Healthcare Editor

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help Box (fast support for urgent needs)

Tip: Keep your DD214, VA decision letters, and photo ID in one folder. Most programs will ask for these.

How to use this guide

This guide covers the most-used benefits for older veterans and their families in Maryland. It puts emergency steps first, then walks through health care, money and taxes, housing, food, transportation, legal help, and more. It links directly to official sources so you can apply or get help without guesswork.

  • If you’re in crisis, start with the Quick Help Box.
  • If you’re not sure where to begin, call 2-1-1 or contact an MDVA Service Officer for free claims help: https://veterans.maryland.gov
  • If you’re a caregiver, see Caregiver Support under Health Care below.

Reality check: Some benefits take time. You may face waitlists, paperwork, and follow-ups. If something is denied, you can appeal or ask a Service Officer to review it with you.

Table: Fast-track contacts and links

Need What to do Official source
Suicidal thoughts, mental health crisis Call 988 (press 1), text 838255, or use online chat Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net
Homelessness, couch-surfing, sleeping in car Call 877-424-3838 (24/7) VA Homeless Programs: https://www.va.gov/homeless
VA health care in Maryland Find locations, enroll, message your care team VA Maryland Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/maryland-health-care
Claims, appeals, discharge upgrades Get free help filing and tracking MDVA Service & Benefits Program: https://veterans.maryland.gov
Food, bills, local rides, home care, more Call 2-1-1 or search online 211 Maryland: https://211md.org
Aging and long-term services Find local aging office (MAP) Maryland Department of Aging/MAP: https://aging.maryland.gov

Eligibility basics (quick overview)

  • “Veteran” usually means you served on active duty and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. Many benefits also cover National Guard and Reserve members (rules vary).
  • Maryland programs may ask for proof of residency.
  • Senior-focused programs often start at age 60 or 62 (varies by program).
  • Surviving spouses and some dependents can be eligible for several benefits.
  • If you have a service-connected disability, you may get extra benefits like property tax relief or priority access for some services.

For personal guidance, contact an MDVA Service Officer: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Emergency help and immediate steps

  1. Safety and mental health
  1. Homelessness or eviction risk
  • Call the VA National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838. They can connect you to HUD-VASH vouchers, outreach teams, and local shelters: https://www.va.gov/homeless
  • Also reach out to your local Continuum of Care via 211 Maryland: https://211md.org
  1. Food today
  1. Health and meds
  1. Talk to a Service Officer

Reality check: If you can’t gather every document right now, start with what you have. Most programs will help you figure out the rest.

Get one-on-one benefits help in Maryland

  • Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) – Service & Benefits Program
    What they do: File VA disability/pension claims, request records, submit evidence, track appeals, and connect you to state benefits (tax, burial, nursing home, trust fund).
    Where to start: https://veterans.maryland.gov
  • VA Maryland Health Care System (VAMHCS) Patient Advocates and Social Work
    What they do: Help with care coordination, social support, housing resources, caregiver services, and community referrals.
    Info and contacts: https://www.va.gov/maryland-health-care
  • Maryland Access Point (MAP)
    What they do: Local “no wrong door” for seniors and caregivers—helps with home care, transportation, meals, benefits screening, and more.
    Find your local MAP office: https://aging.maryland.gov

Tip: Bring your DD214, VA rating letters, proof of income, IDs, and a list of medications to your first appointment.

Health care and mental health care

VA Maryland Health Care System (VAMHCS)

  • What it is: VA’s health network for Maryland, including major facilities in Baltimore, Perry Point, and Loch Raven (Community Living Center), plus outpatient clinics across the state.
  • Services: Primary care, specialty care, mental health, telehealth, home-based primary care (HBPC), rehab, and more.
  • Where to learn more and enroll: https://www.va.gov/maryland-health-care

Reality check: New patient appointments can take time. Ask about telehealth, Community Care referrals when appropriate, and medication refills by mail. Use My HealtheVet for secure messages: https://www.myhealth.va.gov

Mental health and substance use care

If you’re not enrolled in VA, call 2-1-1 for local clinics or counseling: https://211md.org

Caregiver support

  • VA Program of General Caregiver Support Services and Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers: training, support lines, possible stipends for eligible veterans who need in-home care.
    Start here: https://www.caregiver.va.gov

Home-based care and telehealth

Long-term care: Charlotte Hall Veterans Home (State Veterans Home)

  • What it is: Maryland’s state veterans home providing skilled nursing and assisted living for eligible veterans and qualified spouses.
  • Services: Nursing care, rehab, memory care support, activities, and on-site medical services coordinated with VA.
  • Admissions and eligibility: Contact MDVA or the Home directly.
    Learn more: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Tip: If you need nursing home level care, ask VA about Community Living Center beds, community nursing home placements, or the State Veterans Home option.

Table: Health and long-term care options at a glance

Program What it provides Who it’s for How to apply Official source
VA Maryland Health Care System Primary/specialty care, mental health, pharmacy, labs, telehealth Eligible veterans and certain family/caregivers Apply online or in person https://www.va.gov/maryland-health-care
VA Mental Health Services Counseling, medication, PTSD care, substance use treatment Veterans enrolled or eligible for VA care Ask your VA provider or call VCL for crisis https://www.va.gov/mental-health
VA Caregiver Support Training, support line, possible stipend (eligibility rules apply) Family caregivers of eligible veterans Start with Caregiver Support Line/resources https://www.caregiver.va.gov
Home Based Primary Care (VA) In-home medical care for complex needs Veterans with significant functional limits Referral through VA primary care https://www.va.gov/maryland-health-care
Charlotte Hall Veterans Home Skilled nursing and assisted living Eligible MD veterans/spouses Contact MDVA/Home for admissions https://veterans.maryland.gov

Money and income support

VA disability compensation and Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)

  • Monthly tax-free payments for service-connected disabilities.
  • Some seniors qualify for extra SMC if they need help with daily tasks or have severe disabilities.
  • Learn, file, or check status: https://www.va.gov/disability
  • Free claims help: MDVA Service & Benefits Program: https://veterans.maryland.gov

VA pension, Aid and Attendance (A&A), Housebound

Reality check: Pension and A&A have income and asset rules. You’ll need medical proof if you claim A&A or Housebound.

Social Security Retirement, SSDI, and SSI

  • Social Security benefits can be combined with VA benefits.
  • Apply, verify, or manage benefits: https://www.ssa.gov
  • SSI (for very low income/limited resources) and SSDI (disability) have different rules. If unsure, ask Social Security.

Maryland Veterans Trust Fund (emergency financial help)

  • What it is: A Maryland fund that may provide short-term help for eligible veterans facing hardship (for example, utilities or rent due to temporary crisis).
  • Where to learn more and how to apply: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Maryland tax relief for veterans and retirees

  • Maryland offers several tax provisions that may help older veterans, including a property tax exemption for certain 100% service-connected disabled veterans and qualifying surviving spouses, and an income tax subtraction for some retired military pay (eligibility and amounts can change).
  • Get the official details and verify current rules:

Reality check: Property tax exemptions and credits require applications and documentation. Processing can take time—apply early.

Table: Money and tax benefits overview

Benefit What it does Key notes Where to verify/apply
VA Disability Compensation Monthly tax-free payment for service-connected conditions Rating-based; can be increased with new evidence https://www.va.gov/disability
VA Pension with A&A/Housebound Income-based support; add-ons for care needs Requires medical evidence and financial review https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound
Maryland Veterans Trust Fund Short-term help for eligible veterans in hardship Limited funds; apply through MDVA https://veterans.maryland.gov
Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption (MD) May exempt primary residence from property tax for certain 100% SC disabled veterans and qualifying survivors Apply via SDAT; documentation required https://dat.maryland.gov
Military Retirement Income Subtraction (MD) Reduces MD taxable income for eligible retired military pay Rules change—check current year https://www.marylandtaxes.gov

Housing and homelessness support

If you’re homeless or about to be

Rent, mortgage, and utility help

Homeownership for veterans

Property tax relief

Reality check: Local rental aid programs can open and close depending on funding. If one office says funds are out, ask when to check back or try neighboring jurisdictions.

Food and nutrition

Tip: If SNAP feels confusing, ask your local Maryland Access Point (MAP) office to help you apply: https://aging.maryland.gov

Transportation and access

Reality check: Paratransit and volunteer rides usually require advance scheduling and eligibility screening. Book early.

Table: Getting to care and services

Service What it offers Who it helps Where to apply/info
MTA Reduced Fare Lower-cost transit for seniors/people with disabilities Riders 65+ or with qualifying disability https://www.mta.maryland.gov
MTA MobilityLink Curb-to-curb paratransit in service areas Riders unable to use fixed routes https://www.mta.maryland.gov/mobility
County Senior Rides Local trips to medical/shopping County residents (age/disability rules vary) https://aging.maryland.gov
DAV Rides to VA Volunteer rides to VA medical visits Veterans in areas with DAV vans https://www.dav.org/veterans/i-need-a-ride
VA Travel Reimbursement Mileage or common carrier fare if eligible Veterans with qualifying medical/financial criteria https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay

Legal help and consumer protection

Tip: Bring letters, bills, contracts, and notes from calls when you meet with a lawyer or counselor.

Education, jobs, and small business

Reality check: Tuition and training funds can run on deadlines. Apply early and keep copies of everything you submit.

State parks, hunting, and recreation

  • Maryland State Parks – passes and discounts:
    • Golden Age Pass (for Maryland residents age 62+): reduced or free entry/benefits at many state parks.
    • Benefits for certain disabled veterans (check eligibility).
      Learn about passes: https://dnr.maryland.gov
  • Hunting and fishing licenses – discounts for certain veterans and people with disabilities: https://dnr.maryland.gov

Note: Rules and fees can change. Always confirm on the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website: https://dnr.maryland.gov

Burial and memorial benefits

  • Five Maryland State Veterans Cemeteries (Crownsville, Cheltenham, Garrison Forest, Hurlock/Eastern Shore, Rocky Gap). Eligibility rules apply for veterans and qualified family members.
    Info: https://veterans.maryland.gov
  • VA National Cemetery and Burial Benefits (headstones/markers, burial allowance, flags, Presidential Memorial Certificates): https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials

Tip: Pre-need eligibility determination can save time for families later. See VA pre-need burial eligibility: https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/pre-need-eligibility

Table: Key Maryland veteran services (state-level)

Program What it does How it helps seniors Official info
MDVA Service & Benefits Claims help, appeals, state benefits, referrals Free, in-person guidance; helps avoid errors https://veterans.maryland.gov
Charlotte Hall Veterans Home Skilled nursing/assisted living Long-term care in a veteran-focused setting https://veterans.maryland.gov
MDVA Cemeteries & Memorials Burial and memorial services State-level options closer to home https://veterans.maryland.gov
Maryland Veterans Trust Fund Short-term emergency help Can bridge a short-term crisis https://veterans.maryland.gov
Maryland Access Point (MAP) Aging and caregiver support Connects to meals, home care, rides, benefits https://aging.maryland.gov

Inclusive resources and guidance

Older veterans are not all the same. Below are options meant to reduce gaps and improve access.

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

Tip: If your legal documents don’t reflect your current name or gender marker, ask the VA and SSA about update steps (VA: https://www.va.gov and SSA: https://www.ssa.gov).

Disabled senior veterans

Women senior veterans

Rural senior veterans (limited access or broadband)

Tribal-specific note for Maryland

  • Maryland does not have federally recognized reservations, but Native veterans in Maryland can work with VA’s Office of Tribal Government Relations for outreach and benefits navigation: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment
  • Use 211 Maryland to find culturally competent clinics or services: https://211md.org

Resources by region (Maryland)

Use these as starting points. For exact addresses and schedules, visit the linked official directories.

Baltimore Metro and Central Maryland (Baltimore City/County, Anne Arundel, Carroll, Harford, Howard)

Suburban Washington (Montgomery, Prince George’s)

Western Maryland (Allegany, Garrett, Washington)

Southern Maryland (Calvert, Charles, St. Mary’s)

Eastern Shore (Caroline, Cecil, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s, Somerset, Talbot, Wicomico, Worcester)

Tip: When in doubt, start with an MDVA Service Officer and your local MAP office. They’ll guide you to the right local door.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How do I get free help to file a VA disability or pension claim in Maryland?
A: Contact the MDVA Service & Benefits Program. They’ll help gather evidence, file forms, and follow up with VA. Start here: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Q2: I’m 100% service-connected disabled. Can I get a Maryland property tax exemption?
A: Maryland law provides a property tax exemption on the primary residence for certain 100% service-connected disabled veterans and eligible surviving spouses. Apply through the State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). Check current rules and forms here: https://dat.maryland.gov and see MDVA’s benefits overview: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Q3: What is Charlotte Hall Veterans Home and who can apply?
A: It is Maryland’s state veterans home offering skilled nursing and assisted living. Eligible veterans (and certain spouses) can apply. Get admissions info through MDVA: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Q4: I need help with rent and utilities this month. What should I try first?
A: Call 2-1-1 to find local emergency funds, and apply for energy help through OHEP: https://dhs.maryland.gov/office-of-home-energy-programs. If you’re a veteran facing a temporary hardship, ask MDVA about the Maryland Veterans Trust Fund: https://veterans.maryland.gov

Q5: How do I get VA health care if I’ve never used it before?
A: Apply online or by mail/phone through VA: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply. After you’re enrolled, pick a VA primary care site in the VA Maryland Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/maryland-health-care. If you need help, call 2-1-1 or ask an MDVA Service Officer.

Q6: What if I can’t travel for appointments?
A: Ask VA about telehealth (VA Video Connect), Home Based Primary Care, and Beneficiary Travel reimbursement if you qualify. For local rides, check MTA MobilityLink and county senior transport via MAP.
Links: https://telehealth.va.gov, https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay, https://www.mta.maryland.gov, https://aging.maryland.gov

Q7: Are there Maryland scholarships for veterans or their families?
A: Yes. The Maryland Higher Education Commission administers programs that include the Edward T. Conroy Memorial and Jean B. Cryor scholarships. Details and applications: https://mhec.maryland.gov

Q8: I was denied a benefit. Can I appeal?
A: Yes. VA decisions can be appealed through several lanes (Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, Board Appeal). Get free help from an MDVA Service Officer: https://veterans.maryland.gov and review VA’s appeal options: https://www.va.gov/decision-reviews

Q9: Where do I learn about senior discounts for Maryland parks and recreation?
A: See Maryland DNR for the Golden Age Pass (62+) and veteran benefits, plus hunting/fishing discounts. Check current rules: https://dnr.maryland.gov

Q10: I’m a surviving spouse. What benefits might apply to me?
A: Check VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), Survivor’s Pension (income-based), and burial/memorial benefits. State cemetery eligibility may also apply.
Links: https://www.va.gov/survivors, https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials, https://veterans.maryland.gov

Table: Common applications and where to file

Topic Application path Link
VA Disability/Pension File online, mail, or with a Service Officer https://www.va.gov/disability and https://www.va.gov/pension
VA Health Care Enrollment Online, mail, phone https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply
Maryland Property Tax Relief SDAT applications (statewide) https://dat.maryland.gov
SNAP (Food) Online application https://dhs.maryland.gov/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program
Energy Help (OHEP) Online and local offices https://dhs.maryland.gov/office-of-home-energy-programs
State Veterans Home (Charlotte Hall) Contact MDVA/Home for admissions https://veterans.maryland.gov

Reality checks, tips, and common roadblocks

  • Documents: Missing DD214s slow everything down. If you need records, request them early through the National Archives: https://www.archives.gov/veterans
  • Timelines: VA decisions can take months. Keep copies, use certified mail if you must mail, and set calendar reminders to follow up.
  • Denials: Many denials can be fixed with stronger medical evidence or service records. Ask an MDVA Service Officer to review your file.
  • Scams: Be careful with “fee” helpers who promise fast approvals. Most veterans’ service help is free through MDVA and recognized VSOs. Check VA’s list of accredited representatives: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation
  • Health care access: If you can’t get an appointment soon, ask about telehealth, Community Care (when eligible), and medication refills by mail.

Resources (official and well-established)

Disclaimer

Programs, eligibility rules, dollar amounts, and application links can change. Always confirm details with the official agency or program website linked in this guide. 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.

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About the Authors

Analic Mata-Murray

Analic Mata-Murray

Managing Editor

Analic Mata-Murray holds a Communications degree with a focus on Journalism and Advertising from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello. With over 11 years of experience as a volunteer translator for The Salvation Army, she has helped Spanish-speaking communities access critical resources and navigate poverty alleviation programs.

As Managing Editor at Grants for Seniors, Analic oversees all content to ensure accuracy and accessibility. Her bilingual expertise allows her to create and review content in both English and Spanish, specializing in community resources, housing assistance, and emergency aid programs.

Yolanda Taylor

Yolanda Taylor, BA Psychology

Senior Healthcare Editor

Yolanda Taylor is a Senior Healthcare Editor with over six years of clinical experience as a medical assistant in diverse healthcare settings, including OB/GYN, family medicine, and specialty clinics. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Sacramento.

At Grants for Seniors, Yolanda oversees healthcare-related content, ensuring medical accuracy and accessibility. Her clinical background allows her to translate complex medical terminology into clear guidance for seniors navigating Medicare, Medicaid, and dental care options. She is bilingual in Spanish and English and holds Lay Counselor certification and CPR/BLS certification.