Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Virginia (Authority Guide)

Last updated: August 2025

Note on sources and timing: This guide links directly to official government and well‑established sources. Program details can change. Always confirm using the links provided or by calling the agency.

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Quick Help Box

Use these trusted contacts first if you need immediate help. Save or print this box.

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Emergency help first (Virginia-specific)

If you are in danger now, call 911.

• Mental health and suicide: Call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line, or text 838255, or chat online. This is confidential and available 24/7. Source: Veterans Crisis Line (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs) — https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
• Homelessness or eviction: Call 877‑424‑3838 (VA Homeless) to get connected to local shelters, HUD‑VASH housing vouchers (VA health care + HUD), and SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) for rent and deposit help. Source: VA Homeless Programs — https://www.va.gov/homeless/
• Abuse, neglect, or exploitation: If you or an older veteran you know is being mistreated, call Virginia Adult Protective Services at 888‑832‑3858. You can report anonymously. Source: Virginia Department of Social Services — https://www.dss.virginia.gov/
• Emergency fuel/utility shutoff: Crisis Fuel Assistance is available through Virginia DSS during winter and certain crisis periods. Apply at CommonHelp or call your local DSS. Source: Virginia Energy Assistance Program (DSS) — https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/
• Food right now: Use 2‑1‑1 Virginia to find the nearest food pantry and meal sites. Source: https://211virginia.org/

Reality check: Waiting times and documentation can slow things down. If you are facing a utility shutoff or eviction, tell the intake worker you have a shutoff/eviction notice and bring it with you; this can speed up emergency processing.

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Who this guide is for

This guide focuses on Virginia veterans in their 60s, 70s, and beyond, plus family caregivers. Some programs use different age cutoffs (often 60 or 65). Many benefits also depend on service dates, disability ratings, income, and residency. We explain each program in plain language and link to official pages so you can check your exact eligibility.

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How to get one-on-one help in Virginia

• Work with a Virginia DVS benefits office: Trained staff can help you file VA disability, pension (including Aid and Attendance), appeals, and survivor benefits—all at no cost. Start at Virginia DVS: https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/
• Use accredited help only: To avoid scams, search for accredited representatives via the VA Office of General Counsel: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/ or find a recognized Veterans Service Organization (VSO): https://www.va.gov/vso/

Tip: Never pay upfront fees to file a VA claim. It’s illegal for unaccredited people to charge for claims preparation.

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Health care and long‑term care

Enroll in VA health care (and how Medicare fits in)

• What it is: Comprehensive health care for eligible veterans through VA medical centers and clinics. You can have both VA care and Medicare. Many seniors use Medicare (or TRICARE For Life) for local providers and VA for specialized services, prescriptions, and connected veteran programs.
• How to apply: Online, by phone, by mail, or in person. Source: VA Health Care — https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
• Help with copays and travel: VA may cover mileage or common carrier for eligible veterans traveling to VA appointments (Beneficiary Travel). Source: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/

Reality check: Appointment wait times vary by location and specialty. If you have urgent needs, ask about community care referral options through your VA provider when appropriate.

VA medical systems serving Virginia

Note: Services and clinic locations change. Use the health system pages to check clinics near you and to confirm hours.

State veterans care centers (Virginia)

Virginia operates skilled nursing care centers for eligible veterans. These are not VA hospitals; they are state-run long‑term care facilities for veterans and eligible spouses.

Tip: Admission rules and availability change. Contact the care center through Virginia DVS to confirm current eligibility, waiting lists, and costs: https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/

Caregiver support

• VA Caregiver Support Program: Offers two levels of support. One program provides education and resources to all caregivers; another offers a monthly stipend for eligible veterans injured in the line of duty and needing personal care. Source: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/
• Respite and in‑home support: Ask your VA provider about Homemaker/Home Health Aide services, respite care, and adult day health care. Availability varies by location.

Reality check: The caregiver stipend program has strict rules and periodic reassessments. If declined, you can appeal. Keep detailed care logs and medical notes.

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Disability compensation, pension, and the PACT Act

• Disability compensation: Tax‑free payments for injuries or illnesses linked to your service. You can file for new conditions, increases, or secondary conditions. Source: https://www.va.gov/disability/
• Pension and Aid & Attendance: VA pension supports wartime veterans with limited income and assets. Aid & Attendance and Housebound add‑ons may increase the amount if you need help with daily activities or are largely homebound. Source: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-and-attendance-housebound/
• PACT Act: Expands benefits and health care for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxins. If you served in locations covered by the Act, you may qualify for presumptions that make claims easier. Source: https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/

Tip: Use accredited help when filing. Bring your DD214, medical records, and a list of doctors. To check accreditation: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/

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Virginia tax relief, licenses, and ID benefits

Virginia offers several state and local benefits for disabled veterans and older veterans. Your local Commissioner of the Revenue or Treasurer often handles applications.

Reality check: Property tax relief requires paperwork and annual confirmations in some localities. Bring your VA disability letter showing “permanent and total” if required, proof of occupancy, and ID.

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Housing stability and home repairs

• HUD‑VASH: Combines a Section 8 housing voucher from HUD with VA case management. Helps homeless veterans get stable housing and supportive services. Source: https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash/
• Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): Short‑term help for low‑income veteran households to prevent homelessness or quickly rehouse, including rent, deposits, and case management. Source: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/
• Weatherization and energy help: Virginia’s Energy Assistance Program offers Fuel, Crisis, and Cooling assistance. Weatherization services may be available through local agencies. Source: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/
• Property tax relief and vehicle tax relief: See the tax table above for exemptions that can lower your monthly costs.

Reality check: Demand is high, and funding can run out. Apply early, keep copies of leases, shutoff notices, and income documents. If turned down, ask for the reason in writing and seek a referral to SSVF or community partners via 2‑1‑1 Virginia: https://211virginia.org/

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Food and nutrition

• SNAP (food stamps): Apply online using CommonHelp. Seniors can claim medical expense deductions to qualify for more. Source: https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/
• Senior meals and home-delivered meals: Contact your Area Agency on Aging to request Meals on Wheels or congregate meals. Virginia Office for Aging Services directory: https://dars.virginia.gov/aging
• Farmers’ market benefits: Virginia may offer Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program benefits through local agencies. Check availability through your AAA or state agriculture department. Start at VDACS: https://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/

Tip: Ask your AAA for help with SNAP applications and to screen for additional benefits like Medicaid waivers.

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Transportation

• Mileage and common carrier reimbursement: VA Beneficiary Travel may cover trips to VA care for eligible veterans. Apply online or at the facility. Source: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
• Local transit discounts: Many Virginia transit systems offer senior and disability discounts. Check your local transit site or start at Virginia DRPT: https://www.drpt.virginia.gov/
• Volunteer rides: Some counties and nonprofits provide rides for medical visits. Use 2‑1‑1 Virginia to search “transportation” for your ZIP code: https://211virginia.org/

Reality check: Set up rides early. Keep your VA appointment letter handy for travel pay claims.

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Employment, training, and money management

• Virginia Values Veterans (V3): State program that connects veterans with V3‑certified employers and job resources. Source: Virginia DVS — V3 Program: https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/
• VA pension/compensation and work: Some benefits allow work; others (like needs‑based pension) may be reduced by income. Confirm with VA or a benefits counselor before starting a job. Source: https://www.va.gov/pension/ and https://www.va.gov/disability/
• Financial counseling: Check with VA, your AAA, or nonprofit credit counseling services. Use caution with anyone promising “pension planning” or selling annuities for Aid & Attendance—ask if they are VA‑accredited. Source: VA OGC Accreditation Search — https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/

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Education and survivors’ benefits (Virginia focus)

• Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP): Tuition and mandatory fee waivers at Virginia public colleges for eligible spouses and children of certain veterans who are disabled (service‑connected), deceased, MIA, or POW. Rules can be complex; confirm details and any changes. Source (law): Code of Virginia §23.1‑608: https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title23.1/chapter6/section23.1-608/; Program info via Virginia DVS: https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/
• Federal VA survivors’ benefits: Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), Survivors Pension, burial benefits, and more. Sources: DIC — https://www.va.gov/disability/dependency-indemnity-compensation/; Survivors Pension — https://www.va.gov/pension/survivors-pension/; VA Burials — https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/

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Burial and memorial options

• Virginia state veterans cemeteries: Virginia Veterans Cemetery (Amelia), Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery (Suffolk), and Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery (Dublin). Eligibility is similar to national cemeteries. Source: Virginia DVS — Cemeteries: https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/
• National cemeteries: Quantico National Cemetery (Triangle), Culpeper National Cemetery, and others nearby. Check eligibility and pre‑need applications. Source: National Cemetery Administration — https://www.cem.va.gov/
• Arlington National Cemetery: Separate from VA; special eligibility rules. Source: https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/

Tip: Consider completing VA’s pre‑need burial eligibility application to reduce stress on your family later. Source: https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/pre-need-eligibility/

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Inclusive supports: getting the right fit for your situation

LGBTQ+ senior veterans in Virginia

• VA provides LGBTQ+‑affirming care and has nondiscrimination protections in health care. Each VA health system has an LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator to help with identity‑affirming services. Source: VA LGBTQ+ Health — https://www.patientcare.va.gov/LGBT/
• For records corrections related to sexual orientation or gender identity, see VA discharge upgrade instructions. Source: https://www.va.gov/discharge-upgrade-instructions/

Disabled senior veterans

• If you have a VA rating, review property and vehicle tax exemptions (see table above) and ask VA about in‑home support, prosthetics, and adaptive equipment. Sources: Property tax (VA Constitution §6‑A) — https://law.lis.virginia.gov/constitution/article10/section6-A/; Vehicle tax (§58.1‑3668) — https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title58.1/chapter36/section58.1-3668/
• Check the Aid & Attendance benefit if you need help with bathing, dressing, or mobility. Source: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-and-attendance-housebound/

Native/Tribal veterans in Virginia

• Federally recognized tribes in Virginia have veterans among their members. The VA Office of Tribal Government Relations helps Native veterans access VA care and benefits and builds partnerships with tribes. Source: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/
• Ask your VA facility about culturally informed care and outreach in rural or tribal areas.

Rural senior veterans (limited access to care)

• Use VA Telehealth for routine and specialty visits without long travel. Source: https://telehealth.va.gov/
• Ask your VA team for a Digital Divide Consult if you lack internet devices or service; VA may help with connectivity or a loaned device when eligible. Source: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/connected-care/digital-divide-consult/
• For travel pay and community care, see: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/

Women senior veterans

• Virginia DVS has a Women Veterans Program focused on outreach, benefits, and care navigation. Source: Virginia DVS — Women Veterans: https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/
• VA covers gender‑specific care, mammography, osteoporosis screening, menopause care, and MST (military sexual trauma) counseling. Ask to speak with your facility’s Women Veterans Program Manager. Source: Find your VA health system above.

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Step‑by‑step: Common Virginia situations

1) Lower my property taxes as a 100% disabled veteran

1. Get your VA rating letter showing permanent and total, service‑connected (if applicable).
2. Find your locality’s Commissioner of the Revenue website or office.
3. Complete the “Veterans Real Property Tax Exemption” application. Bring your ID, proof of residence, and the VA letter.
4. Ask if the locality requires annual confirmation.
   Sources: VA Constitution §6‑A — https://law.lis.virginia.gov/constitution/article10/section6-A/; Virginia DVS — https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/

Reality check: Rules vary by county/city. Some require a deed or property record. Keep copies.

2) Apply for VA pension with Aid & Attendance for home care needs

1. Gather documents: DD214, marriage/death records if applicable, income/asset records, medical evidence showing need for help with daily activities.
2. Contact a Virginia DVS benefits office or an accredited VSO for free help.
3. File online or by mail. Source: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-and-attendance-housebound/
4. If approved, consider telling your local AAA; you may also qualify for in‑home services.

Tip: Be cautious of “planners” who push annuities to qualify. Use accredited help only: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/

3) Get health care closer to home

1. Apply for VA health care if you haven’t: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
2. Ask your VA team about telehealth.
3. If your VA cannot provide needed care in a timely manner or within required drive times, ask about community care eligibility and referral.

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Benefits that are often missed

• Travel reimbursement for VA care: Many seniors don’t claim mileage. File within required timelines. Source: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
• Vet Centers: Confidential counseling for combat veterans, MST survivors, and families—even if you’re not enrolled in VA health care. Source: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/?facilityType=vet_center
• Senior SNAP medical deduction: Seniors can count out‑of‑pocket medical costs to increase SNAP. Ask DSS or your AAA. Source: https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/

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Health systems and support at a glance (Virginia)

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Housing and utility programs summary

Reality check: Demand is high in winter and during heat waves. Apply at the first sign of trouble.

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Resources by region (Virginia)

Use these starting points and then drill down using the linked directories.

Northern Virginia

• VA care: Many veterans use the Washington DC VA Medical Center network and local clinics; Vet Centers include Alexandria.
• State help: Virginia DVS for benefits and state programs — https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/
• Local supports: 2‑1‑1 Virginia resource search — https://211virginia.org/; Area Agency on Aging via DARS — https://dars.virginia.gov/aging

Hampton Roads/Tidewater

• VA care: Hampton VA Health Care System — https://www.va.gov/hampton-health-care/
• Vet Centers: Norfolk and surrounding areas — Find locations: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/?facilityType=vet_center
• State help: DVS; Women Veterans and Care Centers (Virginia Beach): https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/

Richmond/Central Virginia

• VA care: Richmond VA Medical Center — https://www.va.gov/richmond-health-care/
• State care center: Sitter & Barfoot (Richmond) — https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/
• Local supports: Use 2‑1‑1 Virginia and your AAA via DARS.

Shenandoah/Charlottesville/Blue Ridge

• VA care: Often served by clinics connected to Richmond or Salem systems; check both system pages.
• Vet Centers: Check the locator for Staunton/Charlottesville area options — https://www.va.gov/find-locations/?facilityType=vet_center

Roanoke/New River Valley/Southwest

• VA care: Salem VA Health Care System — https://www.va.gov/salem-virginia-health-care/
• State care center: Virginia Veterans Care Center (Roanoke) and Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery (Dublin) — https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/

Southside and Rural Counties

• Telehealth: Ask for VA telehealth and Digital Divide Consult — https://telehealth.va.gov/
• Transportation: Check 2‑1‑1 Virginia for local medical ride programs — https://211virginia.org/

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How do I claim Virginia’s real estate tax exemption as a 100% disabled veteran?
A: Contact your city or county Commissioner of the Revenue. Bring your VA letter showing permanent and total service‑connected disability, proof the home is your principal residence, and ID. Rules are based on Article X §6‑A of the Virginia Constitution: https://law.lis.virginia.gov/constitution/article10/section6-A/

Q2: Can my spouse keep the real estate exemption if I pass away?
A: The Virginia Constitution allows the surviving spouse to keep the exemption in certain cases, as long as they do not remarry and the home remains their principal residence. Confirm with your local Commissioner of the Revenue. Legal basis: Article X §6‑A — https://law.lis.virginia.gov/constitution/article10/section6-A/

Q3: Where can I get free help filing VA claims in Virginia?
A: Start with Virginia DVS to connect to state benefits offices and accredited VSOs: https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/. Verify anyone helping you is accredited: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/

Q4: I need help paying for in‑home care. What should I look at?
A: Check VA Aid & Attendance (if you need help with daily activities): https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-and-attendance-housebound/. Also ask your Area Agency on Aging about in‑home supports and Medicaid waivers: https://dars.virginia.gov/aging

Q5: Does Virginia reduce taxes on my military retirement pay?
A: Virginia provides a subtraction for military retirement income. Amounts and rules can change; check current guidance at Virginia Tax: https://www.tax.virginia.gov/military

Q6: I’m homeless (or about to be). Who do I call today?
A: Call 877‑424‑3838 (VA Homeless). Ask about HUD‑VASH and SSVF. Learn more: https://www.va.gov/homeless/

Q7: How do I get the “Veteran” label on my Virginia driver’s license?
A: Apply through Virginia DMV with proof of veteran status. Details: https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/

Q8: Can I get discounted hunting or fishing licenses as a disabled veteran?
A: Yes. Virginia DWR has free or discounted licenses for certain disabilities. Requirements vary. Details: https://dwr.virginia.gov/licenses/disabled-veteran-and-military/

Q9: How do I get a copy of my DD214?
A: Request records from the National Archives: https://www.archives.gov/veterans

Q10: What if my discharge status is holding me back from benefits?
A: You may seek a discharge upgrade or correction. Start with VA instructions and deadlines: https://www.va.gov/discharge-upgrade-instructions/

Q11: I can’t drive far. Can VA still see me?
A: Ask about VA telehealth and travel reimbursement. If you qualify for VA community care based on drive time or wait time, your VA team can refer you. Telehealth: https://telehealth.va.gov/; Travel pay: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/

Q12: Where do I find burial options for veterans in Virginia?
A: State veterans cemeteries are in Amelia, Suffolk, and Dublin. Check eligibility via Virginia DVS: https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/. For national cemeteries, see VA NCA: https://www.cem.va.gov/

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Practical documents to keep in one folder

• DD214 or separation papers (and any corrections)
• VA rating decision letters and recent benefit summaries
• Medicare card, insurance cards, medication list
• Property tax exemption paperwork (copy of approval)
• Durable power of attorney, advance directive, and a list of emergency contacts

Tip: Tell a trusted family member or caregiver where this folder is kept.

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Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

• Pitfall: Paying someone to “qualify” you for Aid & Attendance with complex annuities.
  Fix: Use accredited help. Ask for their VA accreditation ID: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/
• Pitfall: Missing property tax relief deadlines.
  Fix: Call your local Commissioner of the Revenue and ask about deadlines and whether annual verification is required.
• Pitfall: Skipping VA travel pay because the process seems hard.
  Fix: Create an online account or get help from the facility’s travel office. Keep your appointment letters and mileage.

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Handy links (Virginia and Federal)

• Virginia Department of Veterans Services (DVS): https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/
• VA Benefits (VBA): https://www.va.gov/
• VA Health Care enrollment: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
• VA Disability compensation: https://www.va.gov/disability/
• VA Pension with Aid & Attendance: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-and-attendance-housebound/
• PACT Act info: https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/
• VA Accredited Reps search: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/
• Vet Centers: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/?facilityType=vet_center
• 2‑1‑1 Virginia: https://211virginia.org/
• CommonHelp (DSS): https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/
• Virginia Tax — Military: https://www.tax.virginia.gov/military
• Virginia DMV — Military & Veterans: https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/
• Virginia DWR — Military & Veteran Licenses: https://dwr.virginia.gov/licenses/disabled-veteran-and-military/
• VA Homeless Programs: https://www.va.gov/homeless/
• Virginia Office for Aging Services (DARS): https://dars.virginia.gov/aging
• Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

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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: See linked official pages throughout this guide
• 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 only. Benefits and program rules can change, and local practices vary across Virginia. Always verify details directly with the agency or program using the links and phone numbers provided. We do not provide legal or financial advice.