Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Nebraska

Last updated: August 2025

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Quick Help Box (print-friendly)

If you need urgent help, start here.

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What this guide covers (and what to expect)

• Nebraska-specific programs and steps for senior veterans (age 60+), spouses, and survivors.
• Health care, long-term care, income, housing, utilities, taxes, transportation, legal help, and burial benefits.
• Realistic “how to apply,” common roadblocks, and tips to avoid delays.
• Inclusive resources for women veterans, LGBTQ+ seniors, disabled seniors, tribal members, and rural veterans.
• Verified links to official government and established non-profit sources.

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Start Here: Nebraska Emergency Help for Senior Veterans

In a crisis, use the Quick Help Box. For non-emergency help:

1. Call your County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO). This is often the fastest path to benefits, appeals, and state programs in Nebraska. Source: Find a Nebraska Service Officer (NDVA)
2. If you’re unsure which benefit fits (VA health care vs. Medicaid vs. Medicare vs. state aid), ask two places:

• VA Nebraska–Western Iowa Enrollment & Eligibility for VA health care.
• ACCESSNebraska for state programs like SNAP, LIHEAP, and Medicaid.

3. If you can’t travel, ask for phone or video appointments. VA offers telehealth. Source: VA Telehealth

Reality check: Forms, proofs, and wait times can be frustrating. Nebraska’s CVSOs and the VA’s accredited representatives can reduce errors and speed up claims. Source: Find VA-Accredited Representatives

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Key Contacts (keep this handy)

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Health Care and Long-Term Care

VA Health Care in Nebraska

What it is: Comprehensive care through VA facilities and community partners when eligible. Seniors often qualify due to service connection, income, Purple Heart, former POW, or other priority factors.

• Eligibility and enrollment: Check priority groups, co-pays, and the application process. Source: VA Health Care Eligibility and Apply Online (VA Form 10-10EZ)
• Local system: VA Nebraska–Western Iowa Health Care System. Clinics in Omaha and across Nebraska/Western Iowa. Use the facility locator for the nearest clinic. Source: VA Facility Locator

Common hurdles and tips:

• Bring your DD214 (discharge), list of meds, and private insurance info. Missing proof delays enrollment.
• If travel is hard, ask about telehealth or “Home Based Primary Care” where available. Source: VA Home Based Primary Care
• If the VA can’t provide needed care timely or nearby, ask about the Community Care requirements. Source: VA Community Care

In-Home and Caregiver Support

• Homemaker/Home Health Aide: Personal care at home to help with bathing, dressing, and light tasks. Source: VA Homemaker and Home Health Aide Care
• Respite Care: Temporary relief for caregivers at home or in a facility. Source: VA Respite Care
• Veteran-Directed Care: Budget for hiring in-home help; available in some areas. Ask the VA NWI system if available near you. Source: Veteran-Directed Care
• Caregiver Support Programs: Stipends and coaching if supporting a veteran with serious injuries/illness. Source: VA Caregiver Support Program

Pension with Aid and Attendance or Housebound

What it is: A needs-based VA pension for wartime veterans and survivors with limited income, with extra monthly amounts if you need daily help (Aid and Attendance) or are largely housebound. Good fit for many seniors who need in-home help or assisted living.

• Learn who qualifies and how to apply: VA Pension and VA Aid and Attendance/Housebound
• Tip: Many denials happen because medical need isn’t clearly documented. Ask your doctor to complete the VA medical forms with details on how much help you need and how often.

Long-Term Care and Nebraska Veterans’ Homes

• VA long-term care services include nursing home care, community living centers, and community nursing homes depending on eligibility. Source: VA Long Term Care
• Nebraska runs state veterans’ homes offering nursing and memory care. Admissions consider service, Nebraska residency, and care needs. Apply through NDVA.

Table: Nebraska Veterans’ Homes (State-Run)

Admissions and application: Contact NDVA for eligibility, waitlists, and tours. Source: NDVA Veterans’ Homes

Medicare, TRICARE, and Medicaid in Nebraska

• Medicare: Many VA-enrolled seniors also keep Medicare. Medicare helps if you use non-VA doctors or hospitals. Free counseling is available from Nebraska’s SHIP. Source: Nebraska SHIP (Dept. of Insurance)
• TRICARE: If you’re a military retiree or spouse, TRICARE works alongside VA and Medicare. Source: TRICARE for Life
• Medicaid (Heritage Health): For low-income seniors and for nursing home or home- and community-based services. Apply through ACCESSNebraska. Sources: Nebraska Medicaid Long-Term Care and ACCESSNebraska

Reality check: For long-term care, financial reviews (income/assets) and medical assessments are required. Start early. Ask a CVSO and Nebraska SHIP to coordinate VA, Medicare, and Medicaid to avoid gaps.

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Disability Compensation, Income, and Survivor Benefits

• VA Disability Compensation: Tax-free monthly payment for service-connected disabilities. Older claims may increase if conditions worsen. Source: VA Disability Compensation
• Dependents and Survivors (DIC): Tax-free benefit for eligible survivors when a veteran dies from service-connected causes, or in some other qualifying cases. Source: VA DIC
• Social Security Retirement and SSI: Many low-income seniors qualify for Supplemental Security Income in addition to Social Security. Source: SSA Retirement and SSI
• Unpaid caregiver time? Nebraska’s Lifespan Respite offers help finding short-term breaks and sometimes vouchers (availability varies). Source: Nebraska Lifespan Respite

Tip: For pension versus disability questions, speak with a CVSO. Some benefits can’t be drawn together the way you might expect, and there can be offsets. Source: Find a Nebraska Service Officer (NDVA)

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Housing, Utilities, and Home Safety

Nebraska Veterans’ Emergency Aid

Nebraska Veterans’ Aid (NVA) is a state fund that can assist eligible veterans and dependents in temporary emergencies with needs like food, fuel, shelter, and medical care. You must apply through a service officer. Source: Nebraska Veterans’ Aid Program (NDVA)

Reality check: NVA is for short-term emergencies. Provide receipts/estimates and proof of need. Funding limits apply.

Preventing Homelessness and Finding Housing

• VA Homeless Programs: Outreach, emergency housing, and case management. Source: VA Homeless Programs
• HUD-VASH: Housing Choice Vouchers with VA case management. Ask through the VA Nebraska–Western Iowa system. Source: HUD-VASH (VA)
• SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families): Helps prevent eviction, covers deposits/utility arrears in some cases, and supports rapid re-housing. Source: Find SSVF Providers (VA)
• Public Housing and Section 8 in Nebraska: Contact your local housing authority. Source: HUD Nebraska Public Housing Agencies

Utilities and Weatherization

• LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program): Helps with heating/cooling bills and crisis situations. Apply via ACCESSNebraska. Source: Nebraska LIHEAP (DHHS)
• Weatherization Assistance: Free energy-efficiency upgrades to lower bills. Source: DOE Weatherization in Nebraska

Property Tax and Homeownership Relief

Nebraska has two main homestead paths that help older homeowners and disabled/disabled veterans with property taxes.

Table: Nebraska Property Tax Relief at a Glance

Tip: Apply early in the year with your county assessor. Bring VA disability rating letters if applying under the disabled veteran category.

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Transportation

• VA Beneficiary Travel: Mileage and lodging in approved cases for VA medical appointments. Source: VA Beneficiary Travel
• DAV Transportation Network: Volunteer rides to VA medical appointments in many areas; coordinate through the VA medical center. Source: DAV Transportation
• Nebraska Public Transit: Many counties and towns have demand-response rides. Seniors often qualify for reduced fares. Source: Nebraska DOT Public Transit

Reality check: Rural rides may require 24–48 hours’ notice and don’t run evenings/weekends. Ask about standing reservations for recurring appointments.

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Money and Taxes

Table: Nebraska Tax Benefits for Veterans and Seniors

Tip: For individualized tax advice, consult a qualified tax professional. For free help, check if you qualify for IRS VITA/TCE sites. Source: IRS VITA/TCE Locator

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Documents You’ll Likely Need

• DD214 or separation papers.
• VA decision letters (disability ratings), if applicable.
• Photo ID, Social Security number.
• Proof of Nebraska residency (for state programs).
• Income and asset information (bank statements, pension/SSA letters).
• Medical records or doctor’s letters for Aid and Attendance/Housebound and long-term care.

Tip: If you’ve lost your DD214, request records here: Request Military Records (NPRC)

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Burial and Memorial Benefits (Nebraska)

• National Cemeteries serving Nebraska:
  • Omaha National Cemetery (VA)
  • Fort McPherson National Cemetery (VA)
• Nebraska State Veterans Cemetery:
  • Nebraska Veterans Cemetery at Alliance (NDVA)

Pre-need eligibility is available for national cemeteries to reduce stress later. Source: VA Pre-Need Eligibility

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Women, LGBTQ+, Disabled, Tribal, and Rural Senior Veterans

Women Veterans

• Women Veterans Program Managers (WVPMs) can coordinate care like mammography, osteoporosis screening, and MST-related care. Source: VA Women Veterans Health Care
• Vet Centers offer counseling for MST and family support. Source: Find a Vet Center

Tip: Ask to speak with the WVPM at your VA facility for gender-specific care and preventive screening schedules.

LGBTQ+ Senior Veterans

• VA provides inclusive health services, including hormone therapy where clinically appropriate, mental health care, and respectful primary care. Source: VA LGBTQ+ Health Program
• If your discharge was affected by past policies, ask about Character of Discharge reviews and DoD discharge upgrades. Sources: VA Character of Discharge and DoD Discharge Upgrade Guidance

Disabled Senior Veterans

• Home modifications: HISA grants for medical home changes (ramps, showers). Source: VA HISA
• Housing grants for certain serious service-connected disabilities: SAH/SHA. Source: VA Housing Grants for Disabled Veterans
• Auto grant and adaptive equipment for qualifying service-connected disabilities. Source: VA Auto Allowance

Tip: For Aid and Attendance, detailed documentation of daily care needs (bathing, dressing, feeding, meds) is key to approval. Source: VA Aid and Attendance

Tribal Veterans in Nebraska

Nebraska’s tribal nations include the Omaha, Santee Sioux, Ponca Tribe of Nebraska, and Winnebago. Veterans can access care through IHS and VA, sometimes in coordination agreements.

• VA Office of Tribal Government Relations: Helps connect tribal veterans with VA care and benefits. Source: VA Tribal Government Relations
• Indian Health Service – Great Plains Area: Regional services and eligibility. Source: IHS Great Plains Area
• Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs: State-level resources and contacts. Source: Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs

Tip: Ask your CVSO and tribal health clinic about VA–IHS reimbursement agreements and how referrals work in your area.

Rural Senior Veterans (limited access)

• Telehealth: VA Video Connect can reduce travel time. Source: VA Telehealth
• Travel pay and lodging: Ask about Beneficiary Travel for long drives to VA appointments. Source: VA Travel Pay
• Local transit: Use NDOT’s transit directory for county rides. Source: Nebraska DOT Public Transit

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Recreation, ID, and Other Nebraska Benefits

• Nebraska Veterans’ Homes: See section above. Source: NDVA Veterans’ Homes
• Veteran designation on driver’s license/ID: Source: Nebraska DMV – Veteran Designation
• Military and veteran license plates: Source: Nebraska DMV – Military/Veteran Plates
• Nebraska State Parks permits for veterans/disabled veterans: See current rules and discounts. Source: Nebraska Game and Parks – Permits

Tip: Bring your DD214 to DMV or parks offices when applying for veteran-related designations or permits.

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Health and Long-Term Care Options: What They Are and How to Apply

Table: Care Options Snapshot

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Employment, Education, and Legal Help

• Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E) for eligible disabled veterans (even in later career). Source: VA VR&E
• State hiring preference and credentialing: Check for veteran hiring preferences in Nebraska public jobs and recognition of military training. Source: State of Nebraska Jobs
• Tuition waivers for dependents of certain disabled or deceased veterans at Nebraska public institutions (helpful for families). Source: NDVA Education Benefits
• Free or low-cost legal help for civil issues (benefits denials, housing, consumer): Legal Aid of Nebraska

Reality check: Appeals and discharge upgrades take time. Use accredited representation. Source: VA-Accredited Reps

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Resources by Region (selected starting points)

Omaha Metro

• VA Omaha Medical Center and clinics: VA NWI Health Care
• Vet Center counseling: Find a Vet Center
• Housing authorities for Section 8/HUD-VASH coordination: HUD Nebraska PHAs
• CVSO: Use the Service Officer Locator (NDVA)

Lincoln and Southeast

• Lincoln-area clinics and services: VA Facility Locator
• Vet Center: Find a Vet Center
• Public transit and Handi-Van: NDOT Public Transit
• CVSO: Find a Service Officer

Central Nebraska (Kearney/Grand Island/Hastings)

• Central Nebraska Veterans’ Home (Kearney): NDVA Veterans’ Homes
• VA clinics: VA Facility Locator
• SSVF and homeless services: VA SSVF
• CVSO: Service Officer Locator

Northeast (Norfolk and surroundings)

• Norfolk Veterans’ Home: NDVA Veterans’ Homes
• VA clinics: VA Facility Locator
• CVSO: Find a Service Officer

Panhandle and West (Scottsbluff, Alliance, North Platte)

• Western Nebraska Veterans’ Home (Scottsbluff) and State Veterans Cemetery (Alliance): NDVA Homes and Alliance Cemetery
• VA clinics and travel pay: VA Facility Locator and VA Travel Pay
• Rural transit: NDOT Public Transit
• CVSO: Service Officer Locator

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Step-by-Step: Apply for Common Benefits

1. VA Health Care

• Gather DD214, ID, insurance, income info (if applying based on income).
• Apply online or at a VA facility. Source: Apply for VA Health Care
• Ask about eligibility for Community Care if travel/wait is an issue. Source: VA Community Care

2. Aid & Attendance (A&A)

• Confirm wartime service and income/asset limits. Source: A&A Rules
• Get a doctor’s statement describing daily care needs.
• Apply with help from a CVSO to avoid common mistakes. Source: NDVA Service Officers

3. Nebraska Homestead Exemption

• If 65+ or disabled, or a 100% service-connected disabled veteran/survivor, check which category fits. Source: Homestead Exemption
• Apply with your county assessor during the filing window; bring required proof (VA rating letter if applicable).

4. LIHEAP (Utility Help)

• Apply online, by phone, or in person through ACCESSNebraska. Source: Nebraska LIHEAP
• Ask about crisis assistance if shutoff is imminent.

5. Nebraska Veterans’ Aid (Emergency)

• Contact your CVSO to apply and submit bills/estimates. Source: NDVA NVA Program

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Common Problems and How to Avoid Them

• Missing records: If you lack a DD214, request it early. Source: NPRC Records Request
• Confusing health coverage: Use Nebraska SHIP to map VA, Medicare, and any supplemental coverage so you don’t get surprise bills. Source: Nebraska SHIP
• Pension denials: Often due to incomplete medical need statements or misunderstanding of countable income. Work with a CVSO. Source: NDVA Service Officers
• Housing delays: Apply to multiple housing authorities and ask the VA homeless team about SSVF and HUD-VASH early. Source: VA Homeless Programs

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: I’m a 74-year-old Vietnam veteran in Nebraska. Should I keep Medicare if I enroll in VA health care?
A: Most seniors keep Medicare. VA care is for VA sites, while Medicare covers non-VA providers. Having both reduces gaps. For personalized advice, contact Nebraska SHIP and review VA Health Care Eligibility.

Q: Can the state help with a short-term emergency like a furnace failure or rent?
A: Possibly. Ask about the Nebraska Veterans’ Aid (NVA) program through your CVSO. Also check LIHEAP for utilities and call Nebraska 211 for local help.

Q: I live in the Panhandle. Getting to Omaha for specialty care is tough.
A: Ask the VA about telehealth and Community Care options if criteria are met. Also check VA Travel Pay and local transit through NDOT Public Transit.

Q: How do I apply for the Nebraska Homestead Exemption as a disabled veteran?
A: Apply with your county assessor during the filing period. Bring your VA disability rating letter and any other required forms. Details: Nebraska Homestead Exemption.

Q: My spouse is 100% service-connected and in a nursing home. Can I get help as a caregiver?
A: Check the VA Caregiver Support Program and ask about respite care. If finances are tight, explore Medicaid Long-Term Care and SHIP counseling.

Q: Where can I get counseling that includes my family?
A: Vet Centers offer counseling to veterans and their families for service-related issues. Find a location: Vet Center Directory.

Q: Does Nebraska tax military retirement?
A: Nebraska provides a military retirement income exclusion. Check current year rules: Nebraska Department of Revenue – Military Retirement.

Q: Is there a veteran mark I can add to my driver’s license?
A: Yes. See how to add it here: Nebraska DMV – Veteran Designation.

Q: Are there special benefits for LGBTQ+ veterans?
A: Care is inclusive across VA. For discharge issues related to past policies, see VA Discharge Upgrade Instructions and the VA LGBTQ+ Health Program.

Q: Can I be buried in a veterans cemetery in Nebraska?
A: Eligible veterans can choose national cemeteries (Omaha, Fort McPherson) or the state veterans cemetery in Alliance. Consider applying for VA Pre-Need Eligibility.

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Sources (selected official links)

• Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs: NDVA
• County Veterans Service Officers: Service Officer Locator
• VA Nebraska–Western Iowa Health Care System: VA NWI
• VA Health Care Eligibility and Enrollment: VA Health Care
• VA Community Care: Community Care
• VA Geriatrics and Extended Care: GEC Programs
• VA Pension and A&A: Pension and A&A
• Nebraska LIHEAP: LIHEAP (DHHS)
• Nebraska Medicaid Long-Term Care: Medicaid LTC
• Nebraska SHIP: Medicare Counseling
• Nebraska Homestead Exemption: Dept. of Revenue
• Military Retirement Income: Dept. of Revenue
• Social Security in Nebraska: Dept. of Revenue
• Weatherization: DOE WAP Nebraska
• Homeless Programs: VA Homeless
• Vet Centers: Vet Center
• Veterans Crisis Line: 988 press 1
• Nebraska 211: Find Local Help
• Legal Aid of Nebraska: Legal Aid
• Nebraska Game and Parks: Permits
• Nebraska DMV Veteran Services: DMV Veteran Designation

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About this guide

This section is provided as requested by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team.

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

This guide is for general information. Benefits, eligibility, amounts, and application steps can change at any time. Always verify details with the official agency or a qualified representative using the links provided. For personal legal, financial, or medical advice, consult a licensed professional.