Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in New Jersey
Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in New Jersey (Authority Hub)
Last updated: August 2025
Quick Help Box (keep this handy)
| If you need… | Contact | What to say/ask |
|---|---|---|
| Mental health crisis or thoughts of suicide | Call or text 988, then press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line; or chat via the Veterans Crisis Line website | Say you’re a veteran in crisis. You can also text 838255. More info: Veterans Crisis Line (official) |
| Emergency housing now | Call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838 (24/7) | Ask for help in New Jersey. They can connect you to HUD-VASH, SSVF, and shelters |
| Any social service help in NJ (food, housing, utilities) | Dial 2-1-1 or visit NJ 211 | Ask for benefits screening and veteran-specific resources |
| Immediate safety (crime, fire, medical emergency) | Call 911 | Tell them your location and any medical needs |
| Help applying for benefits (free) | Contact a New Jersey Veterans Service Officer (VSO) | Ask for help with VA claims, state tax relief, and more |
- Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
- NJ 211: https://www.nj211.org/
- National Call Center for Homeless Veterans: https://www.va.gov/homeless/nationalcallcenter.asp
- NJ Veterans Service Officers (DMAVA): https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/services/vso/
How this guide helps
This is a practical, state-specific road map for senior veterans and families in New Jersey. It focuses on money savings, health care, housing, long-term care, transportation, food, legal help, and special supports for disabled, women, rural, and LGBTQ+ veterans. Every claim points to official sources so you can check details.
Reality check: some applications are slow, income limits change, and paperwork can be frustrating. We flag common delays, pitfalls, and easy wins. Use a New Jersey Veterans Service Officer (VSO) for free help with VA and state benefits.
Emergency and urgent supports in New Jersey
- Veterans Crisis Line: dial or text 988, then press 1 (24/7), or chat online: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
- National Call Center for Homeless Veterans: 877-424-3838 (24/7): https://www.va.gov/homeless/nationalcallcenter.asp
- NJ 211 (benefits, shelters, food, utility help): https://www.nj211.org/
- VA New Jersey Health Care System (East Orange and Lyons campuses): https://www.va.gov/new-jersey-health-care/
- Vet Centers (readjustment counseling — confidential, no cost): Find a Vet Center: https://www.vetcenter.va.gov/
Tips:
- If you’re at risk of losing housing within 14 days, say so. It can speed up help (HUD-VASH/SSVF).
- If you’re a caregiver in crisis, call the VA Caregiver Support Line at 855-260-3274: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/
Proving your service and getting claims help
- DD‑214 and records: If you lost your discharge papers, request them from the National Archives: https://www.archives.gov/veterans
- Free claims help: Meet with a New Jersey VSO: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/services/vso/
- Reality check: Never pay anyone to file a VA claim. Accredited VSOs are free. Claims can take months. Keep copies of everything and use certified mail when sending documents.
Money-saving benefits for NJ senior veterans
New Jersey tax relief, income exemptions, and fees
New Jersey offers several state tax breaks and fee savings for veterans. Details and income limits can change yearly. Always confirm on the official pages below.
Overview table: Taxes and fees that help senior veterans in NJ
| Benefit | What it is | Who qualifies (summary) | Where to apply/learn more |
|---|---|---|---|
| Veterans Property Tax Deduction | Annual $250 property tax deduction | Eligible NJ veterans and surviving spouses (peacetime service included following constitutional change) | NJ Division of Taxation – Property Tax Relief Programs: https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/relief.shtml; contact your municipal tax assessor |
| Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption | Full property tax exemption on primary home | 100% permanent and total service-connected disability (or qualifying surviving spouse) | NJ Division of Taxation – Property Tax Relief: https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/relief.shtml; local tax assessor |
| NJ Income Tax – Veteran Exemption | $6,000 NJ income tax exemption per eligible veteran | Honorably discharged veteran; applies to NJ return | NJ Division of Taxation – Veterans: https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/ |
| Senior Freeze (Property Tax Reimbursement) | Reimburses increases in property taxes for eligible seniors | Age, residency, and income limits apply (updated annually) | NJ Division of Taxation – Senior Freeze: https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/ptr/ |
| MVC Veteran Status & License Plates | Veteran designation on license/ID; Disabled Veteran and Purple Heart plates; placards | NJ veterans with proper documentation; certain plate types have extra requirements | NJ Motor Vehicle Commission – Military and Veteran Services: https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/ |
| Free or discounted hunting/fishing (Disabled Veterans) | Free licenses for certain disabled veterans | Qualifying disabled veterans | NJDEP Fish & Wildlife – Disabled Veteran/PH: https://www.nj.gov/dep/fgw/licenses/disabled-veterans.htm |
Notes:
- For property tax benefits, you’ll apply through your municipal tax assessor. Bring your DD‑214 and VA disability letter if applying for the disability exemption.
- Senior Freeze income limits and the application window change each year; check the official page before filing.
- The NJ income tax veteran exemption is separate from federal taxes.
Sources:
- NJ Division of Taxation – Property Tax Relief Programs: https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/relief.shtml
- NJ Division of Taxation – homepage (veterans and income tax details): https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/
- NJ MVC – Military and Veteran Services: https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/
- NJDEP Disabled Veteran/Purple Heart Licenses: https://www.nj.gov/dep/fgw/licenses/disabled-veterans.htm
Health care, medicines, and long‑term care
VA health care in New Jersey
The VA New Jersey Health Care System serves the state from two main campuses (East Orange and Lyons) with community clinics.
- VA New Jersey Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/new-jersey-health-care/
- Eligibility and enrollment: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
Reality check:
- If you have Medicare and VA, you can use both. Keep track of which doctor handles which prescriptions.
- You may wait longer for specialty care. Ask about community care if eligible under the VA MISSION Act.
Medications: PAAD and Senior Gold (state pharmacy help)
New Jersey’s PAAD and Senior Gold programs can lower drug costs for seniors, including veterans.
- PAAD (Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled): Helps pay for many prescription drugs and insulin. Income limits apply. Official info: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/paad/
- Senior Gold: For seniors above PAAD limits; provides discounts. Official info: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/senior-gold/
Tip: If you use VA and a local pharmacy, bring all your medication lists to your appointments to avoid duplicates and interactions.
Long‑term care: nursing homes, assisted living, home care
New Jersey operates three state Veterans Memorial Homes and offers state Medicaid managed long-term services.
- NJ Veterans Memorial Homes (long‑term skilled nursing): Menlo Park (Edison), Paramus, and Vineland. Admissions include honorably discharged veterans, spouses, and Gold Star parents (wait lists possible). Official info: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/memorial-homes/
- Medicaid Managed Long Term Services & Supports (MLTSS): Helps eligible seniors get nursing home, assisted living, or in‑home care through NJ FamilyCare (Medicaid). Info: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmahs/clients/ltc/mltss.html
- Long‑Term Care Ombudsman (for complaints and resident rights): https://www.nj.gov/ooie/
Reality check:
- Veterans Homes have had periods of high demand and federal oversight. Ask about current staffing, infection control, and inspection reports when choosing a facility.
- MLTSS financial eligibility can be complex (look‑back rules apply). Consider free counseling via your county Aging & Disability Resource Connection (ADRC): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/
VA pensions and extra help for those who need daily care
- VA Pension (for low‑income wartime veterans): Income/asset limits apply. Info: https://www.va.gov/pension/
- Aid and Attendance or Housebound (add‑on for those who need help with daily activities or are largely homebound): https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
Tip: Filing for Aid & Attendance takes time. Gather doctor statements about your need for help with bathing, dressing, medications, and mobility.
Caregivers
- VA Caregiver Support Program (includes a helpline and potential stipend for eligible veterans): https://www.caregiver.va.gov/
- NJ Statewide Respite Care Program (short‑term relief for unpaid caregivers): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/
Housing, homelessness prevention, and utility help
Housing programs veterans use in NJ
| Program | What it does | Who it helps | Where to learn/apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| HUD‑VASH | VA health care plus a Housing Choice Voucher for long‑term rental housing | Homeless veterans and families | HUD‑VASH overview: https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash/; VA NJ Health Care: https://www.va.gov/new-jersey-health-care/ |
| SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) | Rapid rehousing or prevention; pays deposits, short‑term rent, utilities; case management | Very low‑income veterans at risk of or experiencing homelessness | Find local SSVF providers: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/ |
| Veterans Haven North/South (DMAVA) | State residential programs with housing, treatment, and employment services | Homeless veterans in recovery | Veterans Haven North: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/services/veterans-haven-north/; Veterans Haven South: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/services/veterans-haven-south/ |
| NJ State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP) | State rental help for seniors, people with disabilities, and others (when open) | Income limits apply; waitlists open/close | NJ DCA – Rental Assistance: https://www.nj.gov/dca/ |
| Affordable senior housing | Subsidized apartments for seniors | Age/income limits; waitlists common | Check NJHousing.gov (NJHMFA) and local housing authorities: https://njhousing.gov/ |
Reality check:
- Waitlists are long. Apply to multiple properties and housing authorities. Ask about veterans preferences where available.
- For quick help (within 30 days), SSVF is often the fastest path to stabilize a rent situation.
Utility and weatherization help
| Program | What it does | Who it helps | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) | Helps pay heating and sometimes cooling bills | Low‑income households | NJ DCA – Utility Assistance: https://www.nj.gov/dca/dcaid/services/utility-assistance/ |
| USF (Universal Service Fund) | Reduces monthly electric and gas bills | Income‑qualified NJ households | NJ DCA – Utility Assistance: https://www.nj.gov/dca/dcaid/services/utility-assistance/ |
| Weatherization Assistance Program | Lowers energy costs through home repairs/upgrades | Low‑income households | Through NJ DCA/local agencies: https://www.nj.gov/dca/ |
| Winter Termination Program | Protects eligible customers from shutoffs during winter | Certain income‑eligible or medically dependent customers | NJ Board of Public Utilities info via NJ 211: https://www.nj211.org/utility-assistance |
Tips:
- Apply for LIHEAP/USF early in the season. Bring ID, proof of address, income, and utility bills.
- If you have breathing or temperature‑sensitive conditions, ask your doctor for a medical certificate to protect utilities during treatment windows.
Transportation and mobility
| Benefit | What it is | Who qualifies | Where to learn/apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| NJ TRANSIT Reduced Fare | Discounted fares for seniors (62+) and people with disabilities | Seniors with ID; disabled riders | Reduced Fare details: https://www.njtransit.com/ |
| NJ TRANSIT Access Link | Door‑to‑door paratransit aligned with bus routes | Riders who can’t use local bus due to disability | Access Link: https://www.njtransit.com/accessible/access-link-paratransit |
| County Paratransit | Low‑cost rides to medical, shopping, and services | Seniors and people with disabilities | Contact your county Office on Aging (ADRC): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/ |
| VA Beneficiary Travel | Mileage or common carrier reimbursement for eligible veterans going to VA care | Income/disability criteria apply | VA Travel Pay: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/ |
| MVC Disabled Veteran Plates & Placards | Parking privileges and special plates | Disabled veterans | NJ MVC – Military/Veterans: https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/ |
Reality check:
- Access Link trips must be booked in advance. Provide the exact pickup and drop‑off details.
- For VA appointments, ask your VA clinic about shuttle options between facilities (East Orange ↔ Lyons). Schedules can change.
Food and nutrition
- NJ SNAP (food assistance): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/njsnap/
- Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (summer/fall produce checks for eligible seniors): Check with your county Office on Aging: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/
- Home‑delivered meals and congregate meals (through county aging network): Contact your county Office on Aging/ADRC: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/
Tip: If you use VA health care, ask your VA primary care team for a dietitian referral. VA offers nutrition counseling and classes.
Work, income, and legal protections
- NJ Department of Labor – Veterans Services (priority of service at One‑Stop centers, job coaching): https://www.nj.gov/labor/
- Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) – help for veterans with disabilities returning to work: https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/rehabilitation-services/
- Civil Service Veterans Preference (state jobs): https://www.state.nj.us/csc/seekers/veterans/
- VA Disability Compensation (tax‑free monthly benefit for service‑connected disabilities): https://www.va.gov/disability/
Legal help and courts:
- NJ Courts – Veterans Diversion Program (alternative to prosecution with treatment and mentoring for eligible offenses): https://www.njcourts.gov/
- Rutgers Law School – Veterans Clinic (free legal help on certain issues; call to confirm scope and availability): https://law.rutgers.edu/
- Discharge upgrades (DoD/VA guidance): https://www.va.gov/discharge-upgrade-instructions/
Consumer protection:
- Check charities before donating: NJ Division of Consumer Affairs Charity Search: https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/charity/pages/charitysearch.aspx
- Report scams: https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/
Reality check:
- Veterans preference helps with hiring lists, but you still need to meet job qualifications and pass exams where required.
- If debt collectors contact you about VA copays or other bills, ask for an itemized bill and consider talking to a VSO or legal aid before paying.
Burial and memorial benefits
- Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery (state veterans cemetery in Wrightstown): https://www.nj.gov/military/cemetery/
- VA National Cemeteries in NJ: Beverly National Cemetery and Finn’s Point National Cemetery (National Cemetery Administration): https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/
- VA burial benefits (headstone/marker, burial flag, Presidential Memorial Certificate): https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/
Tip: Record your DD‑214 with your county clerk and tell your family where originals are kept. Pre‑need eligibility for national cemeteries can be determined in advance: https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/pre-need-eligibility/
Special situations: inclusive supports
LGBTQ+ senior veterans
- VA LGBTQ+ Veteran Health offers culturally competent care and coordinators at VA facilities: https://www.va.gov/health-care/health-needs-conditions/lgbtq-veterans-health/
- Ask the VA NJ Health Care System for its LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator to help you navigate services and patient rights: https://www.va.gov/new-jersey-health-care/
- SAGEVets (transition and aging support for LGBTQ+ veterans): https://sageusa.org/what-we-do/sagevets/
Tip: If you experienced harassment or bias in care, ask to speak with the VA Patient Advocate at your facility and the LGBTQ+ care coordinator.
Disabled senior veterans
- VA Disability Compensation: https://www.va.gov/disability/
- NJ MVC disabled veteran plates/placards and parking privileges: https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/
- Paratransit and Access Link (door‑to‑door rides): https://www.njtransit.com/accessible/access-link-paratransit
- PAAD/Senior Gold to reduce drug costs: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/paad/ and https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/senior-gold/
- Home modifications: Ask your VSO about VA Specially Adapted Housing grants if eligible: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/
Female senior veterans
- VA Women’s Health (primary care, mammograms, reproductive health, MST counseling): https://www.va.gov/health-care/health-needs-conditions/womens-health-needs/
- Ask for the Women Veterans Program Manager at VA NJ Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/new-jersey-health-care/
- DMAVA Women Veterans Program (state-level advocacy and referrals): https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/
Tip: If you faced sexual trauma in service (MST), you can get counseling and related care through VA without needing a disability rating. Ask the VA or a Vet Center.
Rural senior veterans and limited access
- VA Telehealth (home video visits, remote monitoring): ask your VA team; overview: https://telehealth.va.gov/
- Lifeline (discounted phone/internet if eligible): https://www.lifelinesupport.org/
- County paratransit rides to VA appointments and ADRC information lines: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/
Reality check: Home internet programs can change and may have waitlists or limited providers in rural areas. Ask your county ADRC to check all local options.
Tribal connections for veterans in NJ
New Jersey has state-recognized tribes and Native communities. Tribal veterans can use:
- VA Office of Tribal Government Relations (information, outreach): https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/
- National Native American Veteran resources via VA: work with VA NJ Health Care System for local access: https://www.va.gov/new-jersey-health-care/
If you identify as Native/Indigenous, tell your VSO and VA care team; it can help with outreach and cultural connections.
Step‑by‑step: applying for common NJ veteran benefits
- Get your documents together
- DD‑214 (or a certified copy), proof of NJ residency, and any VA rating letters.
- For tax benefits: recent tax bill, proof of home ownership, and marital status documents if needed.
- For MLTSS/Medicaid: proof of income, assets, and 5‑year financial history (look‑back rules apply).
- Meet with a New Jersey VSO
- Book a free appointment: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/services/vso/
- Ask them to review: VA disability claim status, pension or Aid & Attendance eligibility, state property tax relief, and health care enrollment.
- File for state property tax relief
- Go to your municipal tax assessor with required forms. Clarify deadlines and proof needed.
- Read state guidance: https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/relief.shtml
- Lower your drug costs
- Apply for PAAD and Senior Gold if eligible: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/
- Check long‑term care options early
- Tour the NJ Veterans Memorial Homes if appropriate: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/memorial-homes/
- If money is tight, talk to your county ADRC about MLTSS: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmahs/clients/ltc/mltss.html
- If housing is unstable
- Call 877-424-3838 (Homeless Veterans line) to trigger HUD‑VASH/SSVF referrals.
- Ask about Veterans Haven North/South: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/services/
- Transportation to care
- Apply for Reduced Fare or Access Link: https://www.njtransit.com/
- Ask VA about travel pay: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
- Keep records and follow up
- Mark deadlines on a calendar.
- Don’t hesitate to call and ask for status updates. VSOs can nudge the process.
Resources by region (statewide links first, then local)
Statewide cornerstone links:
- NJ Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMAVA): https://www.nj.gov/military/
- NJ Veterans Service Officers (find your nearest office): https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/services/vso/
- VA New Jersey Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/new-jersey-health-care/
- County Offices on Aging/ADRC (gateway to local senior services and paratransit): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/
- NJ 211 (benefits screening and local referrals): https://www.nj211.org/
North Jersey highlights:
- VA main campuses: East Orange and Lyons (see VA NJ HCS): https://www.va.gov/new-jersey-health-care/
- County veteran services often sit within county government; start with ADRC for local contacts: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/
- Example county veteran services pages:
- Bergen County Veterans Services: https://www.co.bergen.nj.us/veterans-services
- Essex and Hudson counties: use ADRC to locate county veteran staff and paratransit
Central Jersey highlights:
- Ask about county paratransit to VA clinics and hospitals via ADRC: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/
- Housing help: combine local housing authorities with SSVF providers (find via VA SSVF locator): https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/
South Jersey highlights:
- NJ Veterans Memorial Home at Vineland (long‑term care): https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/memorial-homes/
- Veterans Haven South (Winslow, Camden County area): https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/services/veterans-haven-south/
- County veteran offices: contact via ADRC or county government websites
Tip: County ADRC lines know the local veteran transportation schedules, food pantries, home‑delivered meals, and low‑cost dental/vision clinics for seniors.
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
- Missing paperwork: Keep copies of every application and letter. If you mail something, use certified mail or submit online when possible.
- Income/asset limits change yearly: Always check the current limits on the official page before you apply (PAAD, SNAP, MLTSS, Senior Freeze).
- Long waitlists: Apply to multiple housing lists. Ask about preferences for veterans or seniors. Use SSVF for urgent help.
- Medicare + VA confusion: Tell each provider about the other’s prescriptions and specialists to avoid duplication or dangerous interactions.
- Scams: If someone guarantees VA benefit approval for a fee, walk away. Use accredited VSOs: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/services/vso/
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do New Jersey veterans still get only wartime property tax benefits?
A: New Jersey voters approved expanding certain veteran property tax benefits to include peacetime service. The $250 Veterans Property Tax Deduction and the Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption are administered locally by municipal tax assessors. Always confirm current rules and forms here: https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/relief.shtml
Q: What is the NJ income tax exemption for veterans and how do I claim it?
A: NJ allows an income tax exemption (currently $6,000) for each honorably discharged veteran on your NJ return. See the NJ Division of Taxation for forms and updates: https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/
Q: How do I get into a New Jersey Veterans Memorial Home?
A: Visit the DMAVA page for Menlo Park (Edison), Paramus, and Vineland. You’ll find admissions information, eligibility, and contacts. Waitlists are common. Start here: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/memorial-homes/
Q: Can I use VA health care and Medicare at the same time?
A: Yes. Many veterans use VA doctors for some care and Medicare doctors for others. Keep both providers informed. Learn about VA enrollment: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
Q: I need help at home (bathing, dressing). What can help pay for that?
A: Check VA Aid and Attendance (if you receive VA pension): https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/. Also ask about NJ MLTSS (Medicaid long‑term supports): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmahs/clients/ltc/mltss.html. Your county ADRC can screen you for options: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/
Q: I’m a homeless veteran. What’s my fastest path to housing?
A: Call 877-424-3838 (24/7) to connect with HUD‑VASH or SSVF. In New Jersey, DMAVA also runs Veterans Haven North and South: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/services/
Q: Where can I get free help filing a VA claim?
A: New Jersey Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) provide free help: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/services/vso/
Q: How do I get a veteran designation on my NJ driver license or ID?
A: Check the NJ MVC Military and Veteran Services page for current steps and documents: https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/
Q: Are there discounts for NJ Transit?
A: Yes. Seniors (62+) can use the Reduced Fare Program. Details: https://www.njtransit.com/. Disabled veterans may also qualify for Access Link paratransit: https://www.njtransit.com/accessible/access-link-paratransit
Q: I’m a surviving spouse. Do I qualify for property tax relief or VA benefits?
A: Surviving spouses may qualify for the NJ $250 deduction or continue the disabled veteran exemption if they meet criteria. Contact your municipal assessor and see: https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/relief.shtml. For VA survivors benefits (DIC, burial), see: https://www.va.gov/family-member-benefits/
Key program snapshots (what they are, what they do, who they serve)
- NJ Veterans Memorial Homes: State-run long‑term care in Edison (Menlo Park), Paramus, and Vineland. They provide skilled nursing and memory care for veterans, spouses, and Gold Star parents. Expect waitlists, clinical screening, and standard nursing home admission steps. Official: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/memorial-homes/
- Veterans Haven North and South: State residential treatment and transitional housing for homeless veterans. They combine safe housing with counseling, job help, and case management to get veterans back into stable community housing. Official: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/services/
- PAAD and Senior Gold: State pharmacy programs that cut prescription costs for eligible seniors and people with disabilities. They coordinate with Medicare Part D and pharmacies to reduce out‑of‑pocket spending. Official: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/paad/
- HUD‑VASH and SSVF: Federal VA partnerships that move homeless veterans into permanent housing (HUD‑VASH vouchers plus case management) or prevent homelessness with short‑term financial help and support (SSVF). Official: https://www.va.gov/homeless/
- MLTSS (NJ FamilyCare): Medicaid pathway that funds nursing homes, assisted living, or home care for seniors who meet medical need and financial rules. Complex but vital for long‑term support. Official: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmahs/clients/ltc/mltss.html
More comparison tables to help you choose
Health and long‑term care options at a glance
| Option | Setting | Typical wait time | Who it fits best | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VA NJ Health Care | Outpatient/inpatient | Varies by clinic/specialty | Veterans enrolled in VA who want integrated care | https://www.va.gov/new-jersey-health-care/ |
| NJ Veterans Memorial Homes | Skilled nursing | Waitlists possible | Veterans and spouses needing 24/7 nursing care | https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/memorial-homes/ |
| MLTSS (home/assisted living) | Home or facility | Weeks to months for eligibility | Seniors with low income/assets or after spend‑down | https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmahs/clients/ltc/mltss.html |
| VA Aid & Attendance | Home or facility | Months (claim processing) | Veterans on VA pension who need help with ADLs | https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/ |
Housing help at a glance
| Program | Speed | Financial help | Case management | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SSVF | Fast (days/weeks) | Deposits, short‑term rent/utilities | Yes | Prevention or rapid rehousing |
| HUD‑VASH | Slower (voucher search) | Long‑term rental subsidy | Yes (VA case manager) | Chronic homelessness with ongoing support needs |
| Veterans Haven (N/S) | Intake needed | Transitional housing | Yes | Recovery with structured support |
Documents and forms checklist
- DD‑214 (Member 4 copy preferred)
- Government photo ID (NJ driver license or ID with veteran status if you have it)
- Proof of NJ residency (utility bill, lease, or tax bill)
- VA disability rating letter (if applying for tax exemption or benefits tied to disability)
- Social Security and pension award letters (for income‑based programs)
- Bank statements and asset proof (for MLTSS/Medicaid and some housing programs)
- Medical records or doctor statements (for Aid & Attendance, disability claims)
Keep everything in a folder. Bring copies to your VSO appointment.
Resource directory (official links)
- NJ Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMAVA): https://www.nj.gov/military/
- NJ Veterans Service Officers: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/services/vso/
- VA New Jersey Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/new-jersey-health-care/
- NJ Veterans Memorial Homes: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/memorial-homes/
- Veterans Haven North: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/services/veterans-haven-north/
- Veterans Haven South: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/services/veterans-haven-south/
- VA Pension and Aid & Attendance: https://www.va.gov/pension/ and https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
- NJ Division of Taxation – Property Tax Relief: https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/relief.shtml
- NJ Division of Taxation – homepage (income tax and veterans): https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/
- NJ MVC – Military and Veteran Services: https://www.state.nj.us/mvc/
- PAAD and Senior Gold: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/paad/ and https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/senior-gold/
- NJ FamilyCare MLTSS: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmahs/clients/ltc/mltss.html
- NJ Office of the Long‑Term Care Ombudsman: https://www.nj.gov/ooie/
- NJ 211: https://www.nj211.org/
- LIHEAP/USF (Utility Assistance): https://www.nj.gov/dca/dcaid/services/utility-assistance/
- SNAP (Food Assistance): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/njsnap/
- Vet Centers: https://www.vetcenter.va.gov/
- Homeless Veterans (HUD‑VASH/SSVF): https://www.va.gov/homeless/
- VA Travel Reimbursement: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
- Doyle Veterans Cemetery: https://www.nj.gov/military/cemetery/
- NJ Department of Labor – Veterans: https://www.nj.gov/labor/
- DVRS (Rehabilitation Services): https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/rehabilitation-services/
- NJ Courts – Veterans Diversion Program: https://www.njcourts.gov/
- Consumer Affairs Charity Search: https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/charity/pages/charitysearch.aspx
- VA LGBTQ+ Health: https://www.va.gov/health-care/health-needs-conditions/lgbtq-veterans-health/
- SAGEVets: https://sageusa.org/what-we-do/sagevets/
- VA Caregiver Support: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/
- VA Beneficiary Travel: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
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 and does not replace advice from a qualified professional or the official agency. Program rules, income limits, forms, and phone numbers can change. Always confirm details with the official sources linked in this guide or with your local Veterans Service Officer.
