Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Missouri

Last updated: August 2025

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Quick Help (Fast Contacts and Links)

If you’re in crisis or need help now, start here.

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How to Use This Guide

• All links go to official government sites or well-established nonprofits.
• We cover federal VA benefits and Missouri-specific programs.
• We include step-by-step tips, reality checks, and who to call.
• Keep your key documents handy; many programs ask for the same paperwork.

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What to Gather Before You Apply

Most programs will ask for:

• DD214 or other proof of service (request copies at Request Military Service Records)
• Photo ID and Social Security number
• Proof of Missouri residency (mail, lease, utility bill)
• Income and asset information (award letters, bank statements)
• Medical records (for disability, Aid & Attendance, long-term care)
• For spouses/survivors: marriage certificate, death certificate if applicable

Tip: Scan or photocopy everything. Keep a folder just for benefits paperwork.

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Emergency Help in Missouri (Start Here)

• Mental health crisis: Call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or use Veterans Crisis Line chat.
• Homeless or at risk: Call 877-424-3838 or visit VA Homeless Programs. Ask about HUD-VASH housing vouchers and SSVF rapid rehousing (Learn about HUD-VASH; Find SSVF providers).
• Abuse/neglect/exploitation in Missouri: Call 800-392-0210 or visit MO Adult Abuse & Neglect.
• Food right now: Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for home-delivered meals or congregate meals (Find your AAA). Apply for SNAP at Missouri Food Assistance.
• Utility shutoff risk: Apply for LIHEAP energy help at Missouri Energy Assistance.

Reality check: If you’re dealing with several problems at once (housing, food, medical), call the VA homeless line first (877-424-3838). They can assign a case manager and help coordinate fast.

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Missouri Veterans Commission (Your In-State Partner)

The Missouri Veterans Commission (MVC) runs:

• Free Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) to help file VA claims and appeals (Find an MVC Service Office).
• Seven Missouri Veterans Homes providing skilled nursing care (Learn about MVC Homes).
• Five state Veterans Cemeteries with dignified burial options for eligible Veterans and spouses (Missouri Veterans Cemeteries).

Tip: Book an appointment with an MVC VSO before filing complex claims (like Aid & Attendance or higher-level VA disability). They know what evidence the VA expects and can save you time.

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Health Care and Long-Term Care for Senior Veterans in Missouri

Overview Table: Health, Home Care, and Long-Term Care

VA care in Missouri

Missouri has major VA medical centers in St. Louis, Kansas City, Columbia, and Poplar Bluff, plus many community clinics. Use the VA facility locator to find the nearest clinic or hospital and see services offered.

• Travel pay: If you meet VA criteria, you may get mileage or other travel reimbursement using the Beneficiary Travel Self-Service System.
• Rural visits: VA offers video visits and remote monitoring; see VA Telehealth.

Reality check: Getting a first VA appointment can take time. Call the facility after you enroll to schedule. For urgent mental health needs, use the Crisis Line or go to the nearest ER.

MO HealthNet (Medicaid) for seniors

If your income and assets are limited, MO HealthNet can help cover Medicare premiums, co-pays, and long-term care. Apply at MyDSS: Healthcare. If you need help at home (bathing, meals, chores), ask about a needs assessment for in-home services through the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) at Missouri HCBS.

Tip: You can have both VA health care and MO HealthNet. Tell each provider about your other coverage to avoid billing mix-ups.

Aid & Attendance (A&A)

Aid & Attendance can help pay for a helper at home, assisted living, or nursing care if you’re a wartime Veteran or surviving spouse with care needs and limited income. Learn requirements and how to apply at VA Aid & Attendance. An MVC VSO can help gather the right medical evidence.

Missouri Veterans Homes (state nursing homes)

MVC operates seven homes. Admission rules and priorities are on the official page: Missouri Veterans Homes. These homes serve Veterans who need skilled nursing and meet service, residency, and clinical requirements.

Reality check: Demand can be high. Apply early, keep medical records updated, and ask about waitlists and priorities (such as service-connected disabilities).

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Money, Taxes, and Everyday Bills

Table: Money-Savers and Tax Help for Missouri Senior Veterans

Reality check: Some benefits count as income for other programs. For example, VA pensions can affect SNAP or Medicaid income tests. Before you apply, ask a caseworker or an MVC VSO how one benefit might affect another.

Tip: If you pay a lot for medical or in-home care, keep receipts. Some programs let you deduct these costs when they check your income.

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Housing and Homelessness Assistance

Table: Housing Help for Missouri Senior Veterans

Reality check: Documentation matters. Homeless programs may ask for ID, proof of Veteran status, and basic income info. If you’re missing records, ask the provider for help retrieving your DD214 or other documents.

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Transportation and Mobility

Table: Getting to Appointments and Around Town

Tip: Book rides early. For Medicaid transportation, call a few days ahead. Keep your appointment letter or My HealtheVet message handy when you ride.

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Work, Education, and Legal Help

• Employment support for Veterans: Missouri Job Centers have Veterans specialists (DVOP/LVER). See Jobs.mo.gov Veterans Services.
• Education benefits: Federal programs like GI Bill are at VA Education and Training. Missouri law also supports combat Veterans with tuition relief at public institutions; see the statute for the Missouri Returning Heroes Education Act at RSMo 173.234 and check with your college’s Veterans office for how it applies today.
• Legal help with VA claims/appeals: The University of Missouri School of Law operates a well-regarded clinic focused on VA disability appeals. See the MU Veterans Clinic. For other legal issues, contact your local Area Agency on Aging for referrals or use the Missouri Bar’s services.

Reality check: VA appeals can take time. Make sure you meet deadlines and keep copies of every form you submit. An accredited VSO (MVC) or clinic can help you choose the right appeal lane.

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Taxes and ID Perks for Missouri Veterans

• Property Tax Credit (Circuit Breaker): Seniors and some disabled Missourians may qualify for a state income tax credit based on property taxes or rent. Details, eligibility, and forms are at the Missouri Department of Revenue’s Property Tax Credit page.
• Missouri income tax and military retirement pay: Missouri provides tax relief for military retired pay. Rules can change, so review the Department of Revenue’s guidance and current-year instructions for details affecting your situation. Start with Missouri Individual Income Tax and consult a tax professional if needed.
• Specialty license plates: The state offers many military and Veteran plate options; see Missouri military license plates.
• Hunting and fishing: The Missouri Department of Conservation outlines benefits for military and Veterans at MDC Military & Veteran benefits.

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Food, Utilities, and Daily Living

• SNAP (Food Stamps): Apply at Missouri Food Assistance (SNAP). You can also call 855-373-4636.
• Senior meals/home-delivered meals: Contact your Area Agency on Aging (Find your AAA).
• Senior Farmers’ Market: Seasonal produce coupons are available in many counties; see MO Senior Farmers’ Market Program.
• Energy help: Apply for LIHEAP at Missouri Energy Assistance. Ask about crisis help if you have a shutoff notice.
• Phone/Internet discount: The FCC’s Lifeline program offers monthly discounts on phone or broadband; see Lifeline for Consumers.

Tip: If you’re unsure which program to try first, call your AAA. They know local programs and can help with forms.

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Inclusiveness and Targeted Support

LGBTQ+ senior Veterans

• VA provides inclusive health care and has LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinators at facilities; see VA LGBTQ+ Health.
• If you’ve avoided care due to past experiences, call your local VA and ask for the LGBTQ+ coordinator to discuss affirming services and privacy protections.

Senior Veterans with disabilities

• Apply for or review your VA disability compensation if your conditions have worsened.
• For in-home care, look at Missouri HCBS and VA Aid & Attendance.
• Mobility devices and home modifications may be covered through VA prosthetics or Medicaid waivers; talk with your VA provider and MO HealthNet worker.

Tribal/Native American Veterans in Missouri

Missouri does not have federally recognized tribes headquartered in-state, but American Indian and Alaska Native Veterans living in Missouri can access VA services and may also receive coordinated care through agreements between VA and Indian Health Service/Tribal Health Programs. Learn more at the VA Office of Tribal Government Relations. If you receive care through IHS or a Tribal program, ask your provider about VA-IHS reimbursement agreements so benefits work together.

Rural senior Veterans

• Use VA Telehealth for video visits if travel is hard. If internet is limited, ask about telephone visits or community care referrals.
• Check MO Rides for rides and VA Travel Pay if eligible.
• Ask your local clinic about mobile VA services or periodic outreach events in your county.

Women Veterans

• Call the Women Veterans Call Center at 855-829-6636 to get connected to women’s health at your nearest VA.
• MVC offers state-level services and outreach; see Missouri Veterans Commission and ask about women Veterans contacts.
• For screenings, Medicare/Medicaid or VA may cover mammograms and other preventive care. Ask your provider about what’s covered for you.

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Region-by-Region: Key Hubs and Contacts

Use the links below to confirm clinics, hours, and services near you.

• St. Louis region
  • VA St. Louis Health Care System (John Cochran & Jefferson Barracks)
  • St. Patrick Center (Veterans Services)
  • Find local AAA
• Kansas City metro
  • Kansas City VA Medical Center
  • Veterans Community Project – Kansas City
  • Find local AAA
• Central Missouri (Columbia/Jefferson City/Rolla)
  • Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital (Columbia)
  • Find local AAA
• Southeast Missouri (Cape Girardeau/Poplar Bluff)
  • John J. Pershing VA Medical Center (Poplar Bluff)
  • Find local AAA
• Southwest Missouri (Springfield/Joplin/Branson)
  • Use the VA facility locator for clinics in Springfield and surrounding areas
  • Find local AAA
• North & Northeast Missouri (St. Joseph/Kirksville/Hannibal)
  • Use the VA facility locator for CBOCs and outreach clinics
  • Find local AAA

Tip: If a VA clinic doesn’t offer a specialty you need, ask about community care referrals when appropriate.

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Step-by-Step: Common Applications

1. Apply for VA Health Care

• Go to How to apply for VA health care.
• Apply online, by phone (877-222-8387), by mail, or in person at a VA medical center.
• Have your DD214, insurance cards (Medicare/Medicaid/other), and income info ready.

2. Apply for Aid & Attendance (A&A)

• Read eligibility at Aid & Attendance.
• Ask an MVC VSO to help you file and organize medical evidence: Find MVC VSO.
• Keep records of caregiver hours, facility invoices, and out-of-pocket costs.

3. Apply for MO HealthNet (Medicaid)

• Start at MyDSS Healthcare or call 855-373-4636.
• Ask about a needs assessment for in-home services (HCBS) at Missouri HCBS.

4. Apply for the Missouri Property Tax Credit

• Review current rules and download forms at MO Property Tax Credit.
• Keep rent receipts or property tax statements.

5. Apply for SNAP (Food Stamps)

• Apply at Missouri SNAP.
• Tell your caseworker about medical expenses; some can increase your benefit.

6. Seek housing help if homeless or nearly homeless

• Call 877-424-3838 and ask for HUD-VASH or SSVF.
• Also contact local nonprofits like St. Patrick Center (St. Louis) and VCP Kansas City.

Reality check: Processing times vary. Keep copies of everything you submit and note the date. If you don’t hear back, call to follow up and ask for a supervisor if needed.

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Avoid Scams and Bad Advice

• Never pay anyone to “guarantee” VA benefits. Use accredited help from the Missouri Veterans Commission (VSO offices).
• If someone pressures you to sign over benefits or pay big “consulting” fees, report it to the Missouri Attorney General – Consumer Protection.

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Frequently Asked Questions (Missouri-Specific)

Q: How do I get into a Missouri Veterans Home?

• A: Review eligibility and contact admissions at Missouri Veterans Homes. You’ll need proof of service, Missouri residency, and a clinical assessment. Ask about waitlists and priorities, and consider applying early.

Q: Can I have VA health care and MO HealthNet at the same time?

• A: Yes. Many Veterans use both. Tell each provider about your other coverage. Start at VA Health Care and MO HealthNet.

Q: What if I live far from a VA hospital?

• A: Use the VA facility locator to find community clinics. Ask about telehealth, travel pay, and, if medically appropriate, community care referrals.

Q: Where can I get free help filing a VA claim in Missouri?

• A: Contact the Missouri Veterans Commission VSO network. You can also find other accredited reps through VA, but MVC is a statewide, no-cost option.

Q: I’m a surviving spouse. What should I check first?

• A: Review VA Survivors Pension and DIC. If you need help with daily care, look at Aid & Attendance for survivors. MVC VSOs can help file.

Q: Does Missouri help with property taxes for seniors?

• A: Many seniors may qualify for the state Property Tax Credit (“circuit breaker”). See current rules and forms at the Missouri DOR Property Tax Credit page.

Q: Where do I get my DD214?

• A: Request records at the National Archives: Request Military Service Records.

Q: I’m facing a utility shutoff. What can I do?

• A: Apply for LIHEAP at Missouri Energy Assistance. Ask about crisis help (shutoff notices). If you’re also at risk of homelessness, call 877-424-3838.

Q: Is there legal help for VA appeals in Missouri?

• A: Yes. The MU Veterans Clinic focuses on VA disability appeals. MVC VSOs can also help with decision reviews.

Q: Are there supports for women Veterans in Missouri?

• A: Yes. Call the Women Veterans Call Center at 855-829-6636 and contact MVC about women Veterans services at the state level.

Q: I don’t use the internet. How can I apply?

• A: You can call program phone lines listed in the Quick Help box, visit your local VA or AAA, and ask for paper applications. Libraries and senior centers can also help with online forms.

Q: Can I still get help if I served in the Guard or Reserves?

• A: Many benefits require federal active-duty service under certain conditions. But some programs still apply. Talk with an MVC VSO to review your specific service history: Find MVC Service Offices.

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More Practical Tables

Documents Checklist by Program

Who to Call First (By Situation)

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State Burial and Memorial Benefits

• Missouri State Veterans Cemeteries provide burial for eligible Veterans and eligible family members. Learn about locations and eligibility at Missouri Veterans Cemeteries.
• Federal burial benefits (headstones, markers, burial in a national cemetery if eligible) are at VA Burials and Memorials.

Tip: Pre-need eligibility can ease stress later. Ask MVC or VA about pre-need determinations.

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Protecting Yourself and Your Benefits

• Consumer protection: Report scams or predatory contracts to the Missouri Attorney General’s Consumer Protection.
• Identity protection: If you suspect ID theft, contact your bank and report at IdentityTheft.gov.

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Resources (Official Links)

Federal VA

• VA Health Care and Enrollment: Apply for VA Health Care
• VA Disability: VA Disability Compensation
• VA Pensions: VA Pension and A&A
• Women Veterans: Women Veterans Health Services
• LGBTQ+ Veterans: VA LGBTQ+ Health
• Caregiver Support: VA Caregiver Programs
• Homelessness: VA Homeless Programs
• Travel Reimbursement: VA Travel Pay
• Facility Finder: Find VA Locations
• Military Records: Request Service Records

Missouri State

• MVC (Claims, Homes, Cemeteries): Missouri Veterans Commission
• MO HealthNet (ABD): MyDSS Healthcare
• In-Home & Community-Based Services: Missouri HCBS
• Area Agencies on Aging: Find your AAA
• SNAP: Missouri Food Assistance
• LIHEAP: Missouri Energy Assistance
• Transportation (Medicaid): MyDSS Transportation
• Property Tax Credit: MO DOR Property Tax Credit
• Military Plates: MO Military License Plates
• Conservation (Permits): MDC Military & Veteran Benefits
• Weatherization: MO Weatherization Assistance
• Adult Abuse & Neglect Hotline: Report or learn more

Other Established Resources

• Veterans Community Project (KC): VCP Kansas City
• St. Patrick Center (STL): Veterans Services
• MU School of Law: Veterans Clinic
• DAV Transportation: Find a ride
• MO Rides: Trip Finder
• FCC Lifeline: Lifeline Consumer Site

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Reality Checks and Tips

• Processing takes time: VA claims, pensions, and Medicaid applications often take weeks to months. Use certified mail or keep submission receipts.
• Be consistent: Use the same name, dates, and addresses on all forms to avoid delays.
• Keep notes: Write down the date, the person you spoke with, and what they said. It helps if you need to follow up.
• Use accredited help: MVC VSOs file thousands of claims and know current rules—use them.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only. Program rules, amounts, and eligibility change over time. Always verify details with the official agency or program website linked here. We are not a government agency and cannot guarantee outcomes.

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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.