Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Mississippi
Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Mississippi
Last updated: August 2025
—
Quick Help Box (always at the top)
- If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
- Veterans Crisis Line (24/7): Dial 988, then Press 1; or text 838255; or use secure chat via the official Veterans Crisis Line site: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net
- Homeless Veterans (housing help now): Call 877-424-3838 (877-4AID-VET) or visit VA Homeless Veterans services: https://www.va.gov/homeless
- Mississippi Veterans Affairs (MSVA) – claims help, state benefits, State Veterans Homes, cemeteries: https://msva.ms.gov
- Find a VA facility in Mississippi (clinics, medical centers): Use the VA facility locator: https://www.va.gov/find-locations
- Mississippi Area Agencies on Aging (local senior help): Start at MDHS Aging and Adult Services: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/aging/
- Report elder abuse or neglect in Mississippi: Adult Protective Services at MDHS: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/adult-protective-services/
- Food, housing, utility help statewide: Call 211 or visit Mississippi 211: https://www.myunitedway.com/211
Note on sources: This guide links to official federal, state, or well-established organizations. Programs and contact details can change. Always confirm on the official site.
—
How to Use This Guide
- Start with Emergency and Urgent Help.
- Then go to Healthcare, Money and Taxes, Housing and Long-Term Care, Food and Utilities, Transportation, Legal/Employment, and Caregiver supports.
- Use the tables for quick scanning. Click the descriptive links to go straight to applications or offices.
—
Emergency and Urgent Help in Mississippi
- Mental health crisis: Dial 988, press 1 for Veterans, or text 838255. Source: Veterans Crisis Line (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs) — https://www.veteranscrisisline.net
- Homeless or at risk of homelessness: Call 877-424-3838 or visit VA Homeless Programs (includes HUD-VASH, temporary shelter, case management) — https://www.va.gov/homeless
- Immediate medical emergencies: Call 911. For non-emergency care advice, contact your nearest VA facility using the VA locator — https://www.va.gov/find-locations
- Elder abuse or neglect: Mississippi Adult Protective Services — https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/adult-protective-services/
- Disaster recovery and emergency shelter updates in Mississippi: Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) — https://www.msema.org
—
Key Contacts at a Glance
| Program/Office | What it does | How to access |
|---|---|---|
| Mississippi Veterans Affairs (MSVA) | State veterans benefits, County Veterans Service Officers (VSO), State Veterans Homes and Cemeteries | MSVA homepage: https://msva.ms.gov — Find a County VSO: https://msva.ms.gov/benefits-claims |
| G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center – Jackson | VA hospital care, specialty clinics, women’s health, mental health | Facility page and contact: https://www.va.gov/jackson-health-care/ |
| VA Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System – Biloxi | VA hospital/clinics for Gulf Coast, mental health, specialty care | Facility page and contact: https://www.va.gov/gulf-coast-health-care/ |
| Veterans Crisis Line | 24/7 confidential support | Dial 988, then Press 1; text 838255; chat: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net |
| MDHS Aging & Adult Services | Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), meals, caregiver support, transportation | https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/aging/ |
| SNAP (food help) – Mississippi Department of Human Services | Food assistance for low-income households (elderly/disabled rules apply) | SNAP info and application: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/economic-assistance/snap/ |
| LIHEAP (energy bills) – MDHS | Help with heating/cooling bills, crisis assistance | LIHEAP info and application: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/lihwap-liheap/ |
| Mississippi Department of Revenue | Homestead and property tax info, special plates | Homestead exemption: https://www.dor.ms.gov/property/homestead — Special plates: https://www.dor.ms.gov/motor-vehicle/special-plates |
| Mississippi Department of Employment Security (MDES) | Veteran job services, priority of service, workshops | MDES Veteran Services: https://mdes.ms.gov/job-seekers/veterans/ |
| VA Caregiver Support Program | Help for family caregivers (coaching, stipends for eligible cases) | https://www.caregiver.va.gov/ |
—
Healthcare for Senior Veterans in Mississippi
Enrolling in VA Health Care
- Basic path: Check eligibility (service-connected disabilities, income, and other factors), then apply online, by mail, or in person. Details and application: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
- You can get free help with enrollment and service-connected claims from a County Veterans Service Officer via Mississippi Veterans Affairs (MSVA): https://msva.ms.gov/benefits-claims
Major VA facilities serving Mississippi:
- G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center (Jackson): https://www.va.gov/jackson-health-care/
- VA Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System (Biloxi): https://www.va.gov/gulf-coast-health-care/
- Community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs) are listed on each facility’s site and via the VA locator: https://www.va.gov/find-locations
Reality check:
- Appointment wait times and specialty referrals can vary. Use the VA facility pages for current clinic availability and contact options. VA’s online tools also show estimated wait times. Facility finder: https://www.va.gov/find-locations
Medicare and TRICARE For Life (for retirees 65+)
- TRICARE For Life acts as wraparound coverage with Medicare Part A and B. Info: https://tricare.mil/tfl
- Mississippi Medicare counseling is available free through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Start at MDHS Aging: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/aging/ship/
Tip: If you use both VA and Medicare/TRICARE, coordinate your providers. VA care is separate from Medicare; not all VA services bill Medicare. Learn more at VA’s “VA and Other Health Insurance” page: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/va-health-care-and-other-insurance/
Telehealth and Rural Access
- VA Telehealth: video visits, remote monitoring, and mental health appointments to reduce travel. Overview: https://telehealth.va.gov/
- Veterans Transportation Service (VTS) and DAV vans may be available to get you to appointments from many Mississippi counties. Start with your VA facility’s “Transportation” information or the national VA VTS page: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-transportation-to-va-appointments/
Women Veterans Health
- Each VA medical center has a Women Veterans Program Manager to help coordinate primary care, gynecology, mammography referrals, and MST-related care. Find “Women’s Health” at Jackson: https://www.va.gov/jackson-health-care/ and at Biloxi: https://www.va.gov/gulf-coast-health-care/
- National Women Veterans Health: https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/
LGBTQ+ Veteran Health
- VA’s LGBTQ+ Health Program provides affirming care and help navigating benefits. Info and facility contacts: https://www.patientcare.va.gov/LGBT/
Long-Term Care Through VA
- VA offers home-based primary care, skilled nursing, adult day health, respite, and community nursing home contracts, depending on eligibility and priority. Learn more: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/long-term-care/
—
Money: Disability, Pensions, Aid & Attendance, and Taxes
VA Disability Compensation
- Monthly tax-free payment for disabilities linked to service. Start at VA Disability Compensation: https://www.va.gov/disability/
- Get free claim help from an MSVA County Veterans Service Officer: https://msva.ms.gov/benefits-claims
Reality check:
- Evidence and medical exams (C&P) can take time. You can track your claim on VA.gov with an account: https://www.va.gov/track-claims/
VA Pension and Aid & Attendance (A&A) or Housebound
- For wartime veterans with limited income and assets, age 65+ or permanently disabled. A&A/Housebound increase the monthly pension for those needing help with daily activities or who are mostly housebound. Details and current rates: https://www.va.gov/pension/
- Application and medical forms are on VA’s pension page. Consider working with a County VSO (free): https://msva.ms.gov/benefits-claims
Tip:
- A&A can help pay for in-home care or assisted living. Keep receipts and care agreements. VA will review medical need and financial eligibility. Avoid “pension poachers.” See VA’s warning: https://www.va.gov/pension/pension-poaching/
Social Security for Older Veterans
- Retirement, SSI (for very low income), and disability (SSDI) are federal programs separate from VA. Many veterans receive both VA and Social Security benefits. Social Security Mississippi field offices: https://www.ssa.gov/locator/
- SSI and Medicaid links can affect long-term care planning. Learn about SSI: https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/
Mississippi Taxes and Exemptions
- Military retirement pay: Mississippi does not tax Social Security benefits and certain retirement income. See Mississippi Department of Revenue Retirement Income guidance: https://www.dor.ms.gov/individual/retirement-income
- Property tax relief: Mississippi has homestead exemptions, including special provisions for seniors and for certain disabled veterans. Rules and forms are administered by county tax assessors. Start with the Mississippi Department of Revenue Homestead page: https://www.dor.ms.gov/property/homestead
- Vehicle and tag benefits: Special military and disabled veteran plates through the Department of Revenue Special Plates unit: https://www.dor.ms.gov/motor-vehicle/special-plates
Important:
- Property and tag benefits often require a VA disability rating letter or other proof. Check your county’s tax assessor site for local forms and deadlines.
Hunting and Fishing
- Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks offers licenses for veterans, including special options for certain disabled veterans. Check current rules and fees here: https://www.mdwfp.com/licenses/
- Mississippi State Parks (managed by MDWFP) policies and discounts may change. Verify current veteran/disabled veteran park benefits: https://www.mdwfp.com/parks-destinations/
—
Summary Table: Money and Tax Benefits
| Benefit | Who it helps | What it provides | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| VA Disability Compensation | Veterans with service-connected disabilities | Monthly tax-free payments | https://www.va.gov/disability/ |
| VA Pension + Aid & Attendance/Housebound | Low-income wartime vets 65+ or disabled | Monthly income support; increased amounts for those needing daily care | https://www.va.gov/pension/ |
| Mississippi Homestead and Property Tax | Homeowners; special rules for seniors and certain disabled veterans | Reduced property tax based on eligibility | https://www.dor.ms.gov/property/homestead (then contact your county) |
| Military/retirement income tax rules | Retirees | State tax treatment of pensions/retirement income | https://www.dor.ms.gov/individual/retirement-income |
| Veteran license plates | Veterans/Disabled Veterans | Special tags; some fees reduced for qualifying disabilities | https://www.dor.ms.gov/motor-vehicle/special-plates |
—
Housing, Long-Term Care, and Assisted Living
Mississippi State Veterans Homes
Mississippi operates State Veterans Homes that provide skilled nursing care for eligible veterans (and in some cases eligible spouses). Find locations, admissions criteria, and contact info at Mississippi Veterans Affairs (MSVA): https://msva.ms.gov/state-veterans-homes
- Expect a medical evaluation and financial review. Availability changes; waitlists can occur.
- VA may help cover a daily per diem. Private pay, Medicare, Medicaid, and other coverage may also apply depending on the situation. Confirm details with the home and MSVA.
State Veterans Memorial Cemeteries
- Mississippi’s State Veterans Memorial Cemeteries are managed by MSVA. Eligibility follows federal burial criteria for veterans and certain family members. Info and pre-need forms: https://msva.ms.gov/state-veterans-cemeteries
- Federal VA burial benefits overview: https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/
Preventing or Ending Homelessness
- HUD-VASH (housing vouchers with VA case management), Grant and Per Diem (GPD) transitional housing, and other supports are coordinated through VA. Start here: https://www.va.gov/homeless
- National Call Center for Homeless Veterans: 877-424-3838.
- Mississippi Home Corporation coordinates homelessness programs with local partners. See programs and contacts: https://www.mshomecorp.com/
Home Repairs and Weatherization
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) helps reduce energy costs for low-income households, including seniors. In Mississippi, start at MDHS Division of Community Services: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/community-services/
- USDA Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (“Section 504”) can help very low-income rural homeowners with repairs and accessibility modifications. Mississippi page: https://www.rd.usda.gov/ms
Assisted Living, In-Home Care, and Caregiver Support
- VA long-term services and supports (home health aides, respite, adult day health) depend on eligibility. Overview: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/long-term-care/
- Mississippi Medicaid Elderly & Disabled (E&D) Waiver provides in-home and community-based services for eligible seniors. Learn more at Mississippi Division of Medicaid: https://medicaid.ms.gov/ (search for “Elderly and Disabled Waiver” on the site)
- Mississippi Area Agencies on Aging provide Meals on Wheels, caregiver support, transportation, and more. Start at MDHS Aging: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/aging/
—
Summary Table: Housing and Long-Term Care
| Program | What it does | Who it’s for | Where to learn more |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS State Veterans Homes | Skilled nursing care for eligible veterans | Veterans who need nursing facility level care | https://msva.ms.gov/state-veterans-homes |
| State Veterans Memorial Cemeteries | Burial for eligible veterans and family | Veterans, spouses, dependents per eligibility | https://msva.ms.gov/state-veterans-cemeteries |
| HUD-VASH & VA Homeless Programs | Vouchers, transitional housing, case management | Homeless or at-risk veterans | https://www.va.gov/homeless |
| MS Weatherization (WAP) | Energy-saving home upgrades | Low-income households including seniors | https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/community-services/ |
| Medicaid E&D Waiver | In-home care, adult day, respite | Medicaid-eligible seniors/disabled | https://medicaid.ms.gov/ |
—
Food and Utility Help
- SNAP (Food Stamps): Elderly/disabled households have special deductions and may qualify even with higher gross income if medical expenses are high. Mississippi SNAP info and application: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/economic-assistance/snap/
- Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP): Provides monthly food boxes to low-income seniors. National overview (USDA): https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp/commodity-supplemental-food-program. For local distribution in much of Mississippi, see Mississippi Food Network (partner network information): https://www.msfoodnet.org/our-programs
- LIHEAP (energy bills) and water assistance: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/lihwap-liheap/
- Weatherization Assistance: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/community-services/
Reality check:
- SNAP and LIHEAP funds can run out seasonally. Apply early in the season, submit complete documentation, and ask your local office about priority rules for seniors.
—
Transportation
- VA and DAV transportation: Many Mississippi counties have volunteer DAV vans or VA-sponsored rides. Check your facility’s transportation page or call the facility via the locator: https://www.va.gov/find-locations. National VA transportation overview: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-transportation-to-va-appointments/
- Medicaid Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) is available for eligible Medicaid beneficiaries. Mississippi Division of Medicaid: https://medicaid.ms.gov/
- Area Agencies on Aging often provide senior rides for medical visits and groceries. Start at MDHS Aging: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/aging/
—
Summary Table: Transportation to Care
| Option | Where it operates | How it helps | How to check availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| VA Veterans Transportation Service (VTS) | Through VA facilities (Jackson, Biloxi, CBOCs) | Rides to VA medical appointments | https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-transportation-to-va-appointments/ |
| DAV Transportation Network | County-based volunteer drivers | No-cost rides to VA appointments (when available) | Ask your VA facility’s Voluntary Services office via https://www.va.gov/find-locations |
| Medicaid NEMT | Statewide (for Medicaid members) | Non-emergency rides to covered care | https://medicaid.ms.gov/ |
| AAA Senior Transport | By region through Area Agencies on Aging | Local non-emergency rides | https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/aging/ |
—
Legal, Consumer Protection, and Employment
- Free or low-cost civil legal help:
- Mississippi Center for Legal Services (Central and South MS): https://mscenterforlegalservices.org/
- North Mississippi Rural Legal Services (Northern MS): https://nmrls.com/
- VA’s list of free legal clinics (by facility): https://www.va.gov/ogc/legalservices.asp
- Consumer protection and scams: Mississippi Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division — https://www.ago.state.ms.us/divisions/consumer-protection/
- Identity theft recovery: Federal Trade Commission — https://www.identitytheft.gov/
- Employment help:
- Mississippi Department of Employment Security (MDES) Veteran Services: priority of service, job matching — https://mdes.ms.gov/job-seekers/veterans/
- VA Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E): https://www.va.gov/careers-employment/vocational-rehabilitation/
Tip:
- If you have a VA service-connected disability, ask MDES about accommodations and available training programs that fit your abilities.
—
Working With Mississippi Veterans Affairs (MSVA) and County VSOs
- County Veterans Service Officers help you prepare and file VA claims, pension/A&A, and state benefits—free of charge. Find your county office through MSVA: https://msva.ms.gov/benefits-claims
- MSVA also administers State Veterans Homes and State Veterans Memorial Cemeteries. Main site: https://msva.ms.gov
Tip:
- Bring your DD-214 and any VA decision letters to your VSO meeting. If you can’t locate your discharge papers, request them through the National Archives: https://www.archives.gov/veterans
—
Health and Benefits for Specific Groups
LGBTQ+ Senior Veterans
- VA LGBTQ+ Health Program: support with primary care, hormone therapy coordination, mental health, and navigating records with correct names/pronouns — https://www.patientcare.va.gov/LGBT/
- For Mississippi facility support, ask the Patient Advocate or LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator listed on your VA medical center’s site (Jackson or Biloxi).
Disabled Senior Veterans
- Consider VA Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) and Aid & Attendance for higher levels of care needs. Learn more: https://www.va.gov/disability/special-monthly-compensation/
- Home modifications: Check USDA Section 504 grants (very low-income homeowners) — https://www.rd.usda.gov/ms — and ask your Area Agency on Aging about home-delivered meals and respite: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/aging/
- Mississippi tag/plate and property tax relief often require specific VA disability ratings. See the MS DOR pages and ask your county tax assessor: https://www.dor.ms.gov/
Tribal-Specific Resources (Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians)
- Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians (MBCI) Veterans resources and Tribal government services: https://www.choctaw.org/ (search “Veterans” or contact Tribal government for current programs)
- Choctaw Health Center (IHS) serves eligible tribal members; ask about coordination with VA: https://www.ihs.gov/oklahomacity/healthcarefacilities/choctaw/
- Native veterans may access both IHS and VA; see VA-IHS care coordination info: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/
Note: Program details vary by tribe. Contact MBCI directly for the most accurate local information.
Rural Senior Veterans With Limited Access
- Use VA telehealth and prescription mail delivery: https://telehealth.va.gov/
- Ask your VA clinic about community care referrals if VA cannot provide the needed care in a reasonable time or distance under the VA MISSION Act. Overview: https://www.va.gov/communitycare/
- Transportation: Check DAV/VA rides and AAA regional programs; some counties have demand-response transit through planning and development districts—your AAA can direct you.
Female Senior Veterans
- Women Veterans Program Managers at Jackson and Biloxi can fast-track referrals for mammography, osteoporosis screening, pelvic care, and MST-related services. Jackson: https://www.va.gov/jackson-health-care/ — Biloxi: https://www.va.gov/gulf-coast-health-care/
- National women’s health information and contacts: https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/
—
MSVA State Benefits Overview (Highlights)
| State benefit | What it is | Where to learn more |
|---|---|---|
| State Veterans Homes | Skilled nursing for eligible veterans | https://msva.ms.gov/state-veterans-homes |
| State Veterans Memorial Cemeteries | Burial/markers for eligible veterans and family | https://msva.ms.gov/state-veterans-cemeteries |
| County VSO Claims Help | Free help filing VA/state claims | https://msva.ms.gov/benefits-claims |
| MS Identification/Plates | Veteran and disabled veteran designations/plates | https://www.dor.ms.gov/motor-vehicle/special-plates |
| Hunting/Fishing | Licenses with veteran/disabled options | https://www.mdwfp.com/licenses/ |
Note: Mississippi also recognizes military service for hiring preference in state employment. See the Mississippi State Personnel Board and MDES for current rules: https://www.mspb.ms.gov/ and https://mdes.ms.gov/job-seekers/veterans/
—
Step-by-Step: Applying for Common Benefits
- Get your records together
- DD-214 (discharge), any VA rating letters, medical evidence, bank info.
- If you need records: National Archives — https://www.archives.gov/veterans
- Contact your County Veterans Service Officer (VSO)
- Find via MSVA: https://msva.ms.gov/benefits-claims
- VSOs will help you pick the right forms (e.g., VA Form 21-526EZ for disability, 21P-527EZ for pension) and submit online.
- Apply online or by mail
- VA Disability: https://www.va.gov/disability/
- VA Pension/Aid & Attendance: https://www.va.gov/pension/
- Track status at VA.gov: https://www.va.gov/track-claims/
- Pair benefits with state/local help
- SNAP/LIHEAP: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/
- Weatherization: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/community-services/
- Long-term care/Medicaid Waivers: https://medicaid.ms.gov/
- Keep copies and notes
- Save all filings and letters. Write down who you spoke with and when.
Reality check:
- Processing can take weeks to months. If denied, talk to your VSO about a Supplemental Claim or Higher-Level Review: https://www.va.gov/decision-reviews/
—
Resources by Region (Mississippi)
- Central Mississippi (Jackson and surrounding counties)
- G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center: https://www.va.gov/jackson-health-care/
- County VSOs: Use MSVA locator: https://msva.ms.gov/benefits-claims
- AAA services via MDHS Aging: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/aging/
- Gulf Coast / South Mississippi
- VA Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System (Biloxi): https://www.va.gov/gulf-coast-health-care/
- Homeless veteran outreach and HUD-VASH often coordinated through Biloxi VAMC—ask Homeless Program Office on the facility page.
- MDHS Aging for local AAAs: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/aging/
- North Mississippi
- VA Community Clinics in the region are listed via the facility locator: https://www.va.gov/find-locations
- County VSOs: https://msva.ms.gov/benefits-claims
- North MS Rural Legal Services (civil legal aid): https://nmrls.com/
- Tribal Lands (Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians)
- Tribal Government: https://www.choctaw.org/
- Choctaw Health Center (IHS): https://www.ihs.gov/oklahomacity/healthcarefacilities/choctaw/
- VA–Tribal coordination overview: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/
—
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: I’m 70 and a Vietnam veteran living on Social Security. Can I get VA Pension or Aid & Attendance?
A: Possibly. VA Pension is for wartime veterans with limited income/assets who are 65+ or permanently disabled. Aid & Attendance increases the pension if you need help with daily activities or are mostly housebound. Start here: https://www.va.gov/pension/ and ask an MSVA County VSO for free help: https://msva.ms.gov/benefits-claims
Q: Is my military retirement taxed by Mississippi?
A: Mississippi has favorable tax treatment for retirement income. Review current rules at the Mississippi Department of Revenue: https://www.dor.ms.gov/individual/retirement-income and consult a tax professional or DOR if you have questions.
Q: How do I apply to a Mississippi State Veterans Home?
A: Contact MSVA’s State Veterans Homes for admissions criteria and availability: https://msva.ms.gov/state-veterans-homes. They will explain medical eligibility, coverage sources, and waitlists.
Q: I live in a rural county and can’t drive. How do I get to VA appointments?
A: Ask your VA clinic about Veterans Transportation Service and DAV vans: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-transportation-to-va-appointments/ and call your Area Agency on Aging for local senior rides: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/aging/
Q: Can I get both VA disability compensation and Social Security?
A: Yes. These are separate programs with different rules. Many veterans receive both. Social Security office locator: https://www.ssa.gov/locator/
Q: Where can I get help filing my VA claim in Mississippi?
A: Your County Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can help at no cost. Find yours via MSVA: https://msva.ms.gov/benefits-claims
Q: I’m a woman veteran and feel more comfortable with a women’s health provider. What are my options?
A: Each Mississippi VA medical center has a Women Veterans Program Manager who can coordinate your care. Jackson: https://www.va.gov/jackson-health-care/ and Biloxi: https://www.va.gov/gulf-coast-health-care/
Q: I’m a Choctaw veteran. Can I use both IHS and VA?
A: Yes, many Native veterans use both systems. Ask about coordination and referrals. VA Tribal Health overview: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/ and Choctaw Health Center (IHS): https://www.ihs.gov/oklahomacity/healthcarefacilities/choctaw/
Q: Are there scam risks with “Aid & Attendance planners”?
A: Yes. Some charge high fees or push unsuitable financial products. Learn how to avoid pension poaching here: https://www.va.gov/pension/pension-poaching/ and use a free County VSO: https://msva.ms.gov/benefits-claims
Q: Does Mississippi give property tax relief to disabled veterans?
A: Mississippi has homestead exemptions and special provisions for certain disabled veterans. Because rules are detailed and county-administered, review the Mississippi DOR Homestead page and call your county tax assessor: https://www.dor.ms.gov/property/homestead
—
Reality Checks, Tips, and Common Missteps
- Don’t delay claims: Effective dates matter. The sooner you apply, the sooner potential back pay can start. VA claims: https://www.va.gov/disability/
- Keep everything: Copies of forms, medical evidence, and receipts (especially for Aid & Attendance).
- Be patient but persistent: Follow up if you don’t hear back. Use VA’s claim status tool: https://www.va.gov/track-claims/
- Avoid paid “consultants”: Accredited VSOs offer free, legitimate help. Find MSVA county VSOs: https://msva.ms.gov/benefits-claims and check VA’s accreditation search: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/
- Coordinate benefits: If you’re on Medicare/TRICARE and VA, plan which services you receive where. TRICARE For Life info: https://tricare.mil/tfl
- Ask about appeals: If VA denies or underrates your claim, consider a Supplemental Claim or Higher-Level Review: https://www.va.gov/decision-reviews/
—
Sources and Direct Links (Selected)
Federal
- VA Health Care: https://www.va.gov/health-care/
- VA Disability: https://www.va.gov/disability/
- VA Pension (Aid & Attendance): https://www.va.gov/pension/
- VA Facility Locator: https://www.va.gov/find-locations
- VA Community Care (MISSION Act): https://www.va.gov/communitycare/
- VA Long-Term Care: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/long-term-care/
- Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net
- Homeless Veterans (HUD-VASH, GPD): https://www.va.gov/homeless
- VA Caregiver Support: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/
- Women Veterans Health: https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/
- LGBTQ+ Health Program: https://www.patientcare.va.gov/LGBT/
- National Archives (DD-214): https://www.archives.gov/veterans
- Social Security Administration: https://www.ssa.gov/
- TRICARE For Life: https://tricare.mil/tfl
Mississippi
- Mississippi Veterans Affairs (MSVA): https://msva.ms.gov
- County VSO finder (MSVA): https://msva.ms.gov/benefits-claims
- MSVA State Veterans Homes: https://msva.ms.gov/state-veterans-homes
- MSVA State Veterans Memorial Cemeteries: https://msva.ms.gov/state-veterans-cemeteries
- Mississippi Department of Human Services (Aging): https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/aging/
- SNAP Mississippi: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/economic-assistance/snap/
- LIHEAP Mississippi: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/lihwap-liheap/
- Community Services/Weatherization: https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/community-services/
- Mississippi Division of Medicaid: https://medicaid.ms.gov/
- Mississippi Department of Revenue (Homestead): https://www.dor.ms.gov/property/homestead
- Mississippi DOR (Special Plates): https://www.dor.ms.gov/motor-vehicle/special-plates
- MDES Veterans Services: https://mdes.ms.gov/job-seekers/veterans/
- MDWFP Licenses: https://www.mdwfp.com/licenses/
- Mississippi Attorney General – Consumer Protection: https://www.ago.state.ms.us/divisions/consumer-protection/
- Mississippi Home Corporation: https://www.mshomecorp.com/
Tribal and Legal Aid
- Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians: https://www.choctaw.org/
- IHS Choctaw Health Center: https://www.ihs.gov/oklahomacity/healthcarefacilities/choctaw/
- Mississippi Center for Legal Services: https://mscenterforlegalservices.org/
- North Mississippi Rural Legal Services: https://nmrls.com/
- VA Free Legal Clinics: https://www.va.gov/ogc/legalservices.asp
—
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.
—
Disclaimer
This guide is for general information only. It does not replace advice from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Mississippi Veterans Affairs, the Mississippi Department of Human Services, the Mississippi Division of Medicaid, or any other agency. Benefits change, and eligibility is specific to your situation. Always verify details with the official agency or a qualified professional before applying or making decisions.
