Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in New Hampshire

Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in New Hampshire (Authority Hub)

Last updated: August 2025

— This is a state‑specific, plain‑English guide to help New Hampshire veterans age 60+ (and their families) find and use benefits. It includes official links, clear steps, and what to expect.

Quick Help (keep this handy)

What’s in this guide

  • First steps in a crisis
  • Health care and long-term care (VA and State of NH)
  • Money, taxes, heating/utility help
  • Housing and homelessness solutions
  • Transportation, legal help, records
  • Special sections: women, LGBTQ+, disabled, rural, and Native American veterans
  • How to get help filing claims (free)
  • Regional resources across New Hampshire
  • FAQs, source links, and disclaimers

Emergency help first

If you or a loved one is in danger, call 911 now.

  • Mental health crisis: Call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line, or call NH Rapid Response at 833-710-6477. Both are free and 24/7. The VA line can coordinate care with VA providers; NH Rapid Response can send mobile crisis teams in-state. Official info: Veterans Crisis Line, NH Rapid Response.
  • No place to sleep tonight: Call 211. Ask for veteran housing help. Also see the VA’s homeless veteran help page at Get help for homeless veterans.
  • Need urgent VA health advice: Call the Manchester VA Medical Center at 603-624-4366 or use nurse advice from VA by calling 877-222-8387. Facility info: Manchester VA Health Care.
  • Abuse, neglect, or exploitation: Call NH Adult Protective Services at 603-271-7014 (Mon–Fri business hours) or 800-949-0470 after hours. See Adult Protective Services – NH DHHS.

Reality check: In a crisis, it may take time for teams to arrive or to secure a shelter bed. Call early, and if you can, stay where responders can find you. If phones are busy, keep trying and document who you spoke with and when.

Who this guide is for

  • New Hampshire veterans age 60+, their spouses/survivors, and caregivers.
  • Families helping an older veteran apply for benefits or plan care.
  • You do not need to have wartime service for many state benefits. Some VA benefits still require wartime service or disability ratings. Check each link for the exact rules.

For help confirming eligibility and filing paperwork, you can get free help from the State Office of Veterans Services and accredited Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs). Links are in “How to get help filing claims.”

Table 1. One‑page directory for senior veterans in New Hampshire

Need Who to contact first What they do Official link
Mental health crisis Veterans Crisis Line (988, press 1) or NH Rapid Response (833-710-6477) 24/7 support; mobile crisis teams (NH) Veterans Crisis Line • NH Rapid Response
VA health care Manchester VA Medical Center Primary/specialty care; referrals; community care Manchester VA Health Care
Long-term care planning ServiceLink (statewide) Unbiased help with Medicare/Medicaid, CFI Waiver, caregivers ServiceLink NH
State veterans help NH Office of Veterans Services (DMAVS) Free help with VA claims, state benefits NH Office of Veterans Services
Property tax credits City/Town Assessor; NH DRA guidance Veterans’ tax credits and disabled credits NH DRA – Property Tax Credits & Exemptions
Housing crisis NH 2-1-1 and VA Homeless Programs Shelter, SSVF, HUD-VASH 211 NH • VA Homeless Veterans
Heating/utility help NH Fuel Assistance; Electric Assistance LIHEAP and electric bill discounts NH DHHS – Fuel Assistance • NH Dept. of Energy – EAP
Records/DD214 National Archives eVetRecs Get your discharge papers Request DD214 – National Archives

Health care and long‑term care

VA health care in New Hampshire

  • Main facility: Manchester VA Medical Center (VISN 1: VA New England). Start here for enrollment, primary care, specialty referrals, and help with community care if you qualify. Official page: Manchester VA Health Care.
  • Community‑Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs): The VA operates clinics across New Hampshire and nearby states to reduce travel. Use the VA locator to find the nearest clinic: Find VA locations near you.

How to enroll:

  • Apply online at Apply for VA health care, by phone at 877-222-8387, by mail (Form 10‑10EZ), or in person at Manchester VAMC. Bring your DD214 and health insurance card (Medicare, Medigap, or other, if any).

Community Care (when VA can’t provide timely care):

  • If VA can’t meet access standards (for distance, time, or service), you may qualify to see a community provider through the VA Community Care Program. Eligibility is case‑by‑case. Start with your VA primary care team. Official rules: VA Community Care Eligibility.

Medicare and VA together:

Pharmacy:

  • VA covers VA‑prescribed medications with copays based on priority group. Low‑income veterans may qualify for reduced copays. See: VA prescription copays.

Caregiver support:

  • The VA Caregiver Support Program offers coaching, groups, and (for eligible service‑connected conditions) a stipend under the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. Start here: VA Caregiver Support.

Dental, hearing, and vision:

  • VA dental care has strict eligibility rules, but some seniors qualify via service‑connected conditions, former POW status, or recent homelessness programs. Check eligibility: VA dental benefits.
  • Hearing aids and eyeglasses may be covered when clinically needed for eligible enrollees. See: VA hearing and vision care.
  • If you do not qualify for VA dental: New Hampshire participates in the Donated Dental Services program for low‑income seniors and people with disabilities: Dental Lifeline Network – New Hampshire.

Reality check: Appointment wait times vary by clinic and specialty. If you’re facing a long wait or a long drive, ask your VA team to evaluate you for Community Care under the MISSION Act. Keep notes of call dates, staff names, and messages.

Long‑term services and supports (LTSS)

New Hampshire options:

  • NH Veterans Home (Tilton): State long‑term care for eligible veterans. It provides nursing and memory care with VA per diem support. Admissions, eligibility, and application: New Hampshire Veterans Home.
  • Choices for Independence (CFI) Medicaid Waiver: Home and community‑based long‑term care that can help you stay at home or in assisted living if you meet medical and financial criteria. Info and how to apply: CFI Waiver – NH DHHS.
  • Bureau of Elderly and Adult Services (BEAS): Adult protective services, home care coordination, and support for caregivers. Start at: BEAS – NH DHHS.

Meals and nutrition:

Care planning tip: Call ServiceLink at 1‑866‑634‑9412 and ask for an options counseling appointment. Bring your VA info, Medicare cards, and a list of medications. They can help you compare VA health, Medicare plans, and CFI long‑term care supports.

Table 2. Long‑term care and in‑home help at a glance

Program What it covers Who it serves Where to apply
NH Veterans Home (Tilton) Skilled nursing, memory care, activities Eligible NH resident veterans NH Veterans Home – Admissions
VA Homemaker/Home Health Aide In‑home personal care and help with daily tasks VA‑enrolled vets based on clinical need Ask VA primary care; overview: VA Homemaker/Home Health Aide
VA Aid & Attendance Extra money added to VA pension for those needing regular help Low‑income wartime veterans and survivors who qualify for pension Aid & Attendance and Housebound
CFI Medicaid Waiver (NH) In‑home care, adult day, assisted living supports NH Medicaid‑eligible with nursing‑home level need CFI Waiver – NH DHHS
State caregiver help Training, respite, local supports Family/friend caregivers NHCarePath – Caregivers

Money, taxes, utilities, and daily costs

VA pension, Aid & Attendance, and survivors

  • VA Pension is a needs‑based benefit for wartime veterans with limited income and assets. Aid & Attendance (A&A) or Housebound can increase the monthly pension if you need help with daily living or are largely confined to home. Official rules and how to apply: VA Pension and Aid & Attendance.
  • Survivors Pension is similar for low‑income surviving spouses/dependents of wartime veterans: VA Survivors Pension.

Reality check: Pension and A&A decisions can take months. Get free help from the NH Office of Veterans Services or an accredited VSO (DAV, VFW, American Legion). Beware of companies charging high “consulting” fees or pushing expensive annuities. The VA warns about pension poaching here: Avoid pension poaching scams.

Property tax relief for veterans (New Hampshire)

New Hampshire cities and towns can adopt several veteran tax credits. The amounts are set locally within ranges set by state law. Official guidance and forms: NH Department of Revenue Administration – Property Tax Credits and Exemptions.

  • Standard Veterans’ Tax Credit (RSA 72:28): At least 50,andmunicipalitiesmayraiseitupto50, and municipalities may raise it up to 750 by local vote. Applies to eligible veterans; details and service criteria on the DRA page.
  • All Veterans’ Tax Credit (RSA 72:28‑b): Same amount as the standard credit in towns that adopt it; extends eligibility to more veterans (including peacetime) per local adoption.
  • Surviving Spouse Credit (RSA 72:29‑a): Same amount as the standard credit for qualifying surviving spouses.
  • Disabled Veterans’ Tax Credit (RSA 72:35): Municipalities may offer from 700upto700 up to 4,000 to veterans with certain service‑connected disabilities (and some surviving spouses). Local adoption required.

How to apply:

  • Contact your Town/City Assessor for local forms, deadlines, and documentation required (usually DD214 and proof of residency). Start with the DRA page above and your city/town website’s assessing office.

State property tax relief for low‑moderate income homeowners

New Hampshire offers a Low and Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief program (income‑based). Eligibility, income limits, and application are posted each year by the DRA. Check current details here: NH DRA – Low and Moderate Income Homeowners Property Tax Relief.

Utilities and heating help

  • Fuel Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Helps pay winter heating bills. Apply through your local Community Action Program (CAP). Official info: NH DHHS – Fuel Assistance.
  • Electric Assistance Program (EAP): Monthly discount on your electric bill based on income. Info and how to apply: NH Department of Energy – EAP.
  • Lifeline (phone/internet): Federal program for a discount on phone or internet. Apply through USAC: Lifeline Support. Note: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended new funding in 2024; see updates at FCC – ACP.

New Hampshire state taxes and income

  • New Hampshire does not tax wages and does not tax Social Security benefits or military retirement pay. See the state’s tax overview at the Department of Revenue Administration: NH DRA – Taxes Administered.
  • Historically, NH taxed interest and dividends, but that tax has been phasing out by law. For current status, see: NH DRA – Interest & Dividends Tax.

Table 3. Money and tax benefits summary

Benefit Key points Where to start
VA Pension + Aid & Attendance Needs‑based; A&A adds money if you need daily help VA Pension and A&A
Property tax credits (NH) Standard, All Veterans, Surviving Spouse, Disabled Veterans credits; local adoption and amounts NH DRA – Credits & Exemptions
Low/Moderate Income Property Tax Relief Income‑based relief for homeowners NH DRA – Low & Moderate Relief
Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) Helps with winter heating NH DHHS – Fuel Assistance
Electric Assistance Monthly electric bill discount NH DOE – EAP
Lifeline (phone/internet) Federal phone/internet discount Lifeline Support

Housing and homelessness solutions

  • SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families): Short‑term case management and financial help to prevent eviction or exit homelessness. Find grantees serving NH through VA: SSVF for Homeless Veterans.
  • HUD‑VASH (VA + HUD vouchers): Long‑term housing vouchers with VA case management for eligible homeless veterans. In NH, HUD‑VASH operates through the Manchester VA system in partnership with housing authorities. Overview: HUD‑VASH – VA.gov.
  • NH Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA): State housing programs, Section 8 vouchers (where available), and affordable rentals. Search and info: New Hampshire Housing.
  • NH 2‑1‑1: For emergency shelter, transitional housing, and landlord/tenant help. 211 NH.
  • VA Homeless Programs National Call Center: 877‑4AID‑VET (877‑424‑3838). Info: VA Homeless Veterans.

Reality check: Vouchers are limited and waitlists are common. Apply to more than one housing authority when possible, and keep your contact info updated. If you’re at risk of eviction, call SSVF or 2‑1‑1 immediately—earlier contact often means more options.

Transportation

  • VA Beneficiary Travel: Mileage reimbursement or special mode transport for eligible trips to VA or VA‑authorized care. Rules and online claims: VA Travel Pay Reimbursement.
  • DAV Transportation Network: Volunteer rides to VA medical appointments (availability varies). Ask Manchester VAMC or see: DAV Transportation Network.
  • Local transit and paratransit: Many CAP agencies and transit providers offer senior or ADA rides. Start with ServiceLink NH to find options in your county.

Legal help and records

How to get help filing VA claims (free and accredited)

Tip: Bring your DD214, medical evidence, and a list of conditions. If you get a denial, ask your representative to explain next steps (higher‑level review, supplemental claim, or Board appeal).

Table 4. Health, housing, and support – who does what

Topic Best first contact Why Official link
VA disability/pension NH Office of Veterans Services or an accredited VSO Free help; knows VA forms and evidence NH OVS
Primary/specialty care Manchester VA Medical Center Enrollment, appointments, referrals Manchester VA Health Care
Community Care Your VA primary care team Checks eligibility under access standards VA Community Care
Home care or assisted living ServiceLink (NH) CFI waiver, LTSS planning ServiceLink
Emergency shelter 2‑1‑1 or VA Homeless Programs Rapid connection to beds and SSVF 211 NH • VA Homeless

Mental health, social connection, and peer support

  • Vet Centers: Confidential counseling for combat veterans and their families, separate from the main VA medical system. Find locations near you: Vet Center locator.
  • VA mental health: Therapy, medication management, and specialty programs for PTSD, depression, and substance use. Start with your VA primary care or see: VA Mental Health Services.
  • NH community supports: Peer groups, senior centers, and recovery services differ by county. Ask ServiceLink for local options: ServiceLink NH.

If you’re isolated: Ask your VA team about telehealth options and check your internet/phone discount eligibility through Lifeline (above).

Inclusive resources and tailored advice

Disabled senior veterans

  • VA disability compensation: Tax‑free compensation for service‑connected conditions. How to apply: VA Disability Compensation.
  • Special Monthly Compensation (SMC): For severe disabilities, including aid for loss of use or need for higher levels of care: SMC – VA.gov.
  • Adaptive housing and vehicle benefits:
  • State property tax credit for disabled veterans (RSA 72:35): Locally set amounts within 700–700–4,000. See: NH DRA – Credits & Exemptions.

Tip: Document daily living needs (bathing, dressing, mobility). This helps with A&A, SMC, and care plans.

Women senior veterans

  • Women Veterans Program at VA: Gender‑specific primary care, preventive screenings, and support for military sexual trauma (MST). Contact Manchester VA for the Women Veterans Program Manager: Women Veterans Health Care.
  • Mammograms and other services may be provided in the community if not available on‑site. Ask your VA team about Community Care referrals.

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

Rural senior veterans and limited access

  • If driving times or wait times are too long, ask about eligibility for Community Care under VA access standards: VA Community Care Eligibility.
  • Telehealth options: VA Video Connect and remote monitoring can reduce trips: VA Telehealth Services.
  • Transportation: DAV rides and local senior transit via CAP agencies; see ServiceLink NH.

Native American/Tribal veterans in New Hampshire

  • New Hampshire does not have federally recognized tribes within the state. Indigenous veterans living in NH can still access VA services and may be served by regional tribal health resources in New England.
  • VA’s Office of Tribal Government Relations supports Native veterans and coordinates with IHS/tribal programs: VA – Tribal Government Relations.
  • For Indian Health Service info and eligibility: IHS – For Patients.

Note: If you identify as Native and are eligible for IHS, let your VA team know; VA and IHS have agreements to coordinate care.

Table 5. Housing and homelessness programs for NH veterans

Program What it does How to connect
SSVF Prevents homelessness with rent, utility, and case management help VA SSVF – Find help
HUD‑VASH Long‑term housing vouchers with VA case management HUD‑VASH – VA.gov
2‑1‑1 NH Shelter referrals and local services 211 NH
NH Housing Affordable rentals and vouchers New Hampshire Housing
Legal help Evictions, benefits, elder law NH Legal Assistance

Step‑by‑step: Your first 30 days plan

Day 1–3

  • If not enrolled, apply for VA health care: Apply for VA Health Care.
  • Call ServiceLink (1‑866‑634‑9412) for an options counseling appointment.

Day 4–10

  • Gather your DD214 and any prior VA decision letters.
  • Meet (in person or by phone) with NH Office of Veterans Services or an accredited VSO to review possible claims: NH OVS.

Day 11–20

  • File any needed claims: VA disability, pension/A&A, or survivors benefits.
  • If housing is unstable, call 2‑1‑1 and ask for SSVF/HUD‑VASH connections.

Day 21–30

  • Ask your VA team about telehealth, transportation help, and community care if access is an issue.
  • If you own a home, contact your town/city assessor about veterans’ property tax credits and deadlines: NH DRA guidance.
  • Apply for Fuel Assistance (seasonal) and Electric Assistance if eligible.

Keep a simple notebook with dates, names, and confirmation numbers. It helps if you need to appeal, reapply, or follow up.

Resources by region (selected)

Seacoast

Southern NH and Merrimack Valley

Monadnock and Upper Valley

Lakes Region, White Mountains, North Country

Statewide

  • NH Office of Veterans Services (claims help and outreach): NH OVS.
  • NH 2‑1‑1: 211 NH.

Note: Exact clinic locations can change. Always confirm through VA’s locator or the Manchester VA site.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How do I know if I qualify for the NH Veterans’ Property Tax Credit?

  • Eligibility and the amount depend on state law and your town/city’s local adoption. Start by contacting your assessor’s office and reviewing the state’s rules here: NH DRA – Property Tax Credits & Exemptions. Bring your DD214 and proof of residency. Deadlines are set locally.

Q2: What is Aid and Attendance (A&A) and how do I apply in New Hampshire?

  • A&A is extra money added to VA Pension if you need help with daily activities or are largely housebound. It’s a federal benefit, so the process is the same in every state. Learn the rules and apply here: Aid & Attendance and Housebound. For free application help, contact NH Office of Veterans Services.

Q3: Which VA facility serves most New Hampshire veterans?

  • The main VA facility is the Manchester VA Medical Center. VA also uses clinics and community providers to reduce travel. Find a location near you with the VA locator: Find VA locations near you.

Q4: Can I use both VA health care and Medicare?

  • Yes. Many seniors keep Medicare while using VA. Medicare covers care at non‑VA providers; VA covers authorized VA care. They don’t duplicate coverage. More here: VA and other insurance. For Medicare plan counseling, call ServiceLink.

Q5: Is there a New Hampshire veterans nursing home?

  • Yes. The New Hampshire Veterans Home in Tilton serves eligible veterans. See admissions info and contact details here: NH Veterans Home.

Q6: I live in a rural area and can’t get to appointments. What are my options?

  • Ask your VA team about transportation (DAV rides), telehealth, and Community Care if travel time exceeds VA access standards. Start here: VA Community Care and DAV Transportation.

Q7: Where can I get help fast if I’m about to be evicted?

  • Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for SSVF. Also contact the VA Homeless Programs Call Center at 877‑424‑3838. Learn about SSVF and HUD‑VASH here: VA Homeless Programs.

Q8: How do I get my DD214 if I lost it?

Q9: Does NH tax my military retirement or Social Security?

  • No. New Hampshire does not tax wages, Social Security benefits, or military retirement pay. See NH DRA.

Q10: I’m a woman/LGBTQ+ veteran. Can I get specialty care?

Q11: Who can help me appeal a VA decision?

Q12: Is there help for heating and electric bills?

Reality checks, warnings, and tips

  • Processing times: VA and state programs can take weeks to months. Apply early and keep copies.
  • Scams: Avoid “pension poaching.” Never pay high fees to “qualify” for VA pension or A&A. See the VA’s warning: Avoid pension poaching scams.
  • Deadlines: Property tax credit applications and local relief programs have strict annual deadlines. Ask your assessor’s office now.
  • Appeals: If denied, don’t give up. Many claims are approved with better evidence or the right appeal lane. Get help from an accredited representative.

Source links (official and well‑established)

Disclaimer

Program rules, dollar amounts, locations, and phone numbers can change. Always confirm details using the official links in this guide or by contacting the agency directly. This guide is informational and 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.

Share this post:
Share on Pinterest Share on WhatsApp
Check Assistance Programs and Benefits for Seniors in Your State
Alabama Montana
Alaska Nebraska
Arizona Nevada
Arkansas New Hampshire
California New Jersey
Colorado New Mexico
Connecticut New York
Delaware North Carolina
Florida North Dakota
Georgia Ohio
Hawaii Oklahoma
Idaho Oregon
Illinois Pennsylvania
Indiana Rhode Island
Iowa South Carolina
Kansas South Dakota
Kentucky Tennessee
Louisiana Texas
Maine Utah
Maryland Vermont
Massachusetts Virginia
Michigan Washington
Minnesota West Virginia
Mississippi Wisconsin
Missouri Wyoming