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

Last updated: August 2025

Note on sources and accuracy: This guide pulls directly from official agencies and well‑established organizations. Please always double‑check details at the linked sources, because programs and contact info can change.

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Quick help box

• If you are in immediate danger: Call 911.
• Veterans Crisis Line (24/7): Dial 988, then press 1, or chat via the official site: Veterans Crisis Line.
• One‑on‑one benefits help in West Virginia: West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance (WVDVA).
• Apply for SNAP/Medicaid or check benefits online: WV PATH portal.
• Aging & disability help statewide: West Virginia Bureau of Senior Services.
• Find local social services by phone: Dial 2‑1‑1 or visit West Virginia 211.

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What this guide covers (and how to use it)

• Emergency help first.
• Clear steps to apply for VA and state benefits.
• State‑specific, senior‑focused programs (housing, healthcare, tax relief, food, transportation).
• Practical notes: reality checks, common hurdles, and how to avoid them.
• Inclusive resources for women, LGBTQ+, disabled, rural, and Native veterans.
• Regional resource lists to help you find the right office near you.
• FAQs and a full resource directory at the end.

Tip: Start with “Get one‑on‑one help in WV.” A WVDVA accredited representative can coordinate your VA claims and connect you to state benefits.

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At‑a‑glance: Who does what

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Emergency and urgent help (start here)

• Crisis or mental health: Dial 988 and press 1, or use secure chat at the Veterans Crisis Line. You can also text 838255.
• Adult abuse/neglect concerns: See WV Adult Protective Services. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 first.
• Homelessness or risk of eviction:
  • Contact your nearest VA facility and ask for the Homeless Veterans team: VA Homeless Programs.
  • HUD‑VASH supportive housing: VA HUD‑VASH.
  • Local help (shelters, rapid rehousing): West Virginia 211 and the WV Coalition to End Homelessness.
• Food today: Call 2‑1‑1 or apply for SNAP via WV PATH. Check your local senior center for congregate meals: WV Bureau of Senior Services.

Reality check:

• Many programs have waitlists or paperwork. If you can, get a WVDVA service officer to coordinate your applications and keep copies of everything.

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Get one‑on‑one help in West Virginia

• West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance (WVDVA): State service officers can help you apply for VA disability, pension, and survivor benefits; request records; and connect you to state programs like the Veterans Home and state veterans cemetery. Learn more and find offices: WVDVA official site.
• Aging & Disability Resource Network (via WV Bureau of Senior Services): Helps older adults and caregivers find in‑home help, transportation, nutrition, and long‑term care options. Start here: WV Bureau of Senior Services.
• Legal Aid of West Virginia: Free civil legal services for eligible residents; can help with benefit denials, advance directives, debt/consumer issues, and housing: Legal Aid of WV.
• DHHR local offices: For SNAP, Medicaid, Low‑Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP), and other benefits; you can apply online at WV PATH or see agency info at WV DHHR.

Tip:

• Bring a list of your service periods, discharge papers (DD‑214), recent medical records, and proof of income/assets when meeting with a service officer or caseworker.

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VA health care in West Virginia

You can receive care at four VA Medical Centers in the state, plus community clinics. Use this locator to find the nearest facility and clinics: Find VA locations in WV.

VA Medical Centers in West Virginia

How to enroll:

1. Check eligibility: Who can get VA health care.
2. Apply online: VA health care application.
3. Or apply with help from WVDVA: WVDVA.

Reality check:

• Rural travel can be tough. Ask about telehealth, community care referrals, and Beneficiary Travel pay: VA travel reimbursement.
• If you’re already on Medicare or Medicaid, you can still use VA care. Learn how they work together: Using VA with other insurance.

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Money and benefits for senior veterans

VA disability compensation

• What it is: Monthly tax‑free payment for disabilities linked to your service.
• Why it matters: Higher ratings can open doors to more health care, commissary privileges, and survivor protections.
• How to apply: VA Disability Compensation. Get free filing help via WVDVA.

Reality check:

• Claims take time. Strong medical evidence (diagnoses, nexus letters, treatment history) speeds decisions. Keep copies and respond quickly to VA requests.

VA pension and Aid & Attendance (A&A) / Housebound

• What it is: Need‑based monthly payment for wartime veterans and survivors with limited income/assets. A&A/Housebound add‑ons can increase the amount if you need help with daily activities or are mostly confined at home.
• Learn more and apply: VA Pension (Veterans), Aid and Attendance and Housebound, Survivors Pension.

Tips:

• Use a VA accredited representative (WVDVA) to avoid scams and to document unreimbursed medical expenses, which can reduce “countable income” for pension purposes.

Social Security and Medicare

• Many senior veterans rely on both VA care and Medicare. Check your options:
  • Medicare basics, plans, and enrollment: Medicare.gov.
  • Social Security retirement/SSI: SSA Benefits.

West Virginia property tax relief (Homestead Exemption)

• What it is: A property tax break for eligible homeowners who are 65+ or totally and permanently disabled.
• How it works and how to apply: See the state guidance and contact your County Assessor: WV Homestead Exemption (Tax Dept.).

Reality check:

• You must apply with your County Assessor, and you usually need to file once (then it carries forward). Bring proof of age or disability and ID.

Vehicle and licensing benefits

• Military/veteran plates, fee waivers, and more are handled by the WV DMV:
  • Learn what’s available and how to apply: WV DMV – Military/Veteran Services.

Note:

• Some plate types (e.g., POW, Purple Heart) have specific eligibility. Check requirements at the DMV link.

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Housing, long‑term care, and in‑home help

State veterans facilities

Tip:

• Contact WVDVA early to review eligibility and get help with the application and required documents.

Medicaid long‑term services and supports (LTSS)

If you need help at home or in a facility, Medicaid may cover services if you meet medical and financial rules.

• West Virginia Aged & Disabled Waiver (ADW): Helps eligible seniors get in‑home care to avoid or delay nursing home placement. Program information: WV Medicaid – Bureau for Medical Services. Ask your local DHHR or ADRN for the ADW intake process.
• Personal Care Services: In‑home assistance with daily activities. Ask your DHHR worker or ADRN for current rules and providers.
• Money Follows the Person (Take Me Home, West Virginia): Helps people move from nursing facilities back into the community with supports. See the Medicaid office and ask about Take Me Home: WV Medicaid – BMS.

Apply for Medicaid or check status online: WV PATH.

Reality check:

• Waiver programs often have waitlists. Get on the list as soon as possible and keep your contact info updated with DHHR. Ask about interim help (Personal Care, Area Agency on Aging services).

Federal housing supports

• HUD‑VASH (housing vouchers with VA case management): VA HUD‑VASH.
• HUD West Virginia resources (rent help, public housing, counseling): HUD – West Virginia.
• USDA Rural Development home repair loans/grants (for low‑income homeowners in rural areas): USDA RD – West Virginia.

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Food, utilities, and daily living

• SNAP (food stamps): Apply, report changes, and manage benefits: WV PATH. Program overview at DHHR: DHHR – SNAP.
• Senior nutrition, Meals on Wheels, and congregate meals: Find your local programs via the state office: WV Bureau of Senior Services.
• Low‑Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP): Heating bill help during open enrollment: DHHR – LIEAP.
• Home weatherization: Ask your local community action agency; federal program overview: U.S. DOE Weatherization Assistance Program.

Reality check:

• Some benefits open only during certain seasons (like LIEAP). Mark your calendar and sign up for reminders from DHHR or your local senior center.

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Transportation

Getting to medical appointments is a top need in rural WV.

Reality check:

• Rides must often be scheduled days in advance. Ask about recurring rides for weekly treatments. Keep appointment letters and get driver receipts if you claim travel pay.

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Inclusive supports

Women veterans

• VA provides primary and specialty care for women, including mammography referrals, gynecology, and Maternity Care Coordination. Contact your closest VA Medical Center and ask for the Women’s Health Program: Find VA care in WV.
• National resource and helpline: VA Office of Women’s Health, and Center for Women Veterans.

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

• VA policy supports respectful, inclusive care, including for transgender and gender diverse veterans. Learn what’s covered and how your VA protects privacy: LGBTQ+ Veteran care at VA.
• If you’ve had discrimination concerns, speak to the facility Patient Advocate and your WVDVA representative.

Disabled senior veterans

• Home modifications and accessibility:
  • Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) and Special Housing Adaptation (SHA): VA SAH grants.
  • Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA): VA HISA benefit.
• Mobility devices, prosthetics, hearing/vision aids: Ask your VA primary care team for a Prosthetics consult.

Native and tribal veterans

• West Virginia does not have federally recognized tribes. Native veterans can work directly with VA and, if eligible, the Indian Health Service (IHS). VA’s tribal liaison team can help coordinate: VA Office of Tribal Government Relations.

Rural veterans with limited access

• Ask your VA team about telehealth options and in‑community care when travel is a barrier: VA Telehealth.
• If broadband is weak, ask if your area has an approved telehealth site or library/clinic partnership; your VA facility can advise.

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How to apply: step‑by‑step

1. Get your documents together

• DD‑214 or other separation papers
• Photo ID
• Proof of WV residency (mail, utility bill)
• Income and asset info (bank statements, award letters)
• Medical records (VA and non‑VA)
• For survivors: marriage certificate, death certificate, veteran’s discharge papers

2. Book an appointment with WVDVA

• They can file VA claims, help with evidence, and track decisions: WVDVA.

3. Apply for health coverage and care

• VA health care: Apply online.
• Medicare: Medicare.gov.
• Medicaid (if you may qualify for long‑term care or in‑home help): WV PATH.

4. Apply for income benefits

• VA disability or pension/Aid & Attendance: VA benefits.
• Social Security retirement/SSI: SSA Benefits.

5. Apply for support programs

• SNAP (food): WV PATH.
• Homestead property tax exemption (65+ or disabled): Contact your County Assessor; guidance at WV Tax – Homestead Exemption.
• Transportation options: DAV Transportation, VA travel reimbursement, WV Public Transit.

6. Track your applications

• Create online accounts when offered (VA, PATH). Save confirmation numbers. If something is denied, ask WVDVA about appeals and deadlines.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing deadlines: VA appeals and DHHR recertifications are time‑sensitive.
• Not reporting changes: Update DHHR about income/household changes to keep benefits right‑sized.
• Paying for help to file VA claims: VA‑accredited help is free via WVDVA.

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Program details you should know

West Virginia Veterans Home (domiciliary care)

• What it is: A communal living setting for eligible veterans who are mostly independent but benefit from structured support and services.
• What it does: Provides a safe home base, meals, recreation, and access to medical care coordination.
• Who it serves: Eligible veterans (honorable discharge) who can live in a group setting without 24/7 nursing.
• How to start: Contact WVDVA and ask for admissions requirements and application.

West Virginia Veterans Nursing Facility (skilled nursing)

• What it is: A state‑run nursing home dedicated to veterans needing a higher level of medical and personal care.
• What it does: Offers skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and long‑term care with veteran‑focused services.
• Who it serves: Veterans who meet nursing facility level‑of‑care criteria and admission rules.
• How to start: Reach out through WVDVA for admissions and bed availability.

Aid & Attendance (A&A) add‑on to VA pension

• What it is: Extra monthly money for veterans/survivors who need help with daily activities, are largely housebound, or live in care facilities.
• What it does: Helps pay for in‑home aides, assisted living, or nursing care.
• Who it serves: Wartime veterans and eligible survivors with limited income/assets and care needs.
• How to start: VA Aid & Attendance. Ask WVDVA to assemble medical forms and expense documentation.

Medicaid Aged & Disabled Waiver (ADW)

• What it is: In‑home care funded by Medicaid so seniors can stay in the community.
• What it does: Pays for personal care, homemaker services, case management, and sometimes respite.
• Who it serves: Seniors who meet financial limits and nursing facility level‑of‑care criteria but want to remain at home.
• How to start: Apply via WV PATH and ask DHHR about the ADW path; program specifics at WV Medicaid – BMS.

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Reality checks, warnings, and tips

• Scams: Be wary of anyone promising a “guaranteed” VA increase for a fee. Use accredited help via WVDVA or the VA’s accreditation search.
• Paperwork load: It’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Organize a simple folder system: “Submitted,” “Decisions,” and “To‑Do.” Bring this to appointments.
• Waitlists: For Medicaid waivers and housing, waitlists are common. Get on the list early; ask about temporary or alternative services.
• Appeals: If a claim is denied, you usually have appeal rights. Don’t miss the deadline, and talk to a WVDVA service officer about your options.

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Resources by region (WV)

Tip:

• To find the closest WVDVA field office for claims help, start here: WVDVA and click on “Field Offices” or “Contact.”

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q: Where can I get free help filing my VA claim in West Virginia?

• A: Contact the West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance. Their accredited service officers can file claims, gather evidence, and help with appeals at no cost.

Q: I’m over 65. Can I get both VA care and Medicare?

• A: Yes. Many veterans use both. Medicare helps with non‑VA providers and hospitals; VA covers care at VA facilities (and some community care when authorized). Learn more: How VA works with other insurance.

Q: Is there a property tax break for seniors in WV?

• A: Yes. The Homestead Exemption can reduce your property taxes if you’re 65+ or totally and permanently disabled. Details: WV Homestead Exemption. Apply with your County Assessor.

Q: What long‑term care options exist for WV veterans?

• A: The state runs the West Virginia Veterans Home (domiciliary care) and the West Virginia Veterans Nursing Facility (skilled nursing). See WVDVA for current admissions and eligibility. Medicaid also offers in‑home supports via the ADW program: WV Medicaid – BMS.

Q: How do I get help paying for someone to help me at home?

• A: Ask about VA Aid & Attendance (if you receive a VA pension): Aid & Attendance. Also apply for Medicaid’s Aged & Disabled Waiver if you may qualify: WV PATH.

Q: I live far from a VA hospital. Can I still get care?

• A: Yes. Ask your VA team about telehealth, community care when eligible, and travel pay: VA travel reimbursement and VA Telehealth.

Q: I’m a woman veteran. Where do I go for women’s care?

• A: Each WV VA Medical Center has women’s health services or can refer you. Start with the facility pages: Beckley, Clarksburg, Huntington, Martinsburg. National info: VA Women’s Health.

Q: Where can I get a veteran license plate?

• A: See options and requirements at WV DMV – Military/Veteran Services.

Q: I need a ride to the VA. Who can help?

• A: Try the DAV Transportation Network and ask your VA clinic about local shuttles. If eligible, use VA travel reimbursement. Medicaid members can ask DHHR about NEMT.

Q: Are there resources for LGBTQ+ veterans in WV?

• A: Yes. VA provides inclusive care. Learn more here: LGBTQ+ Veteran care at VA. Your facility’s Patient Advocate can help if you have concerns.

Q: How do I apply for food assistance?

• A: Apply for SNAP online at WV PATH or contact your local DHHR office via DHHR.

Q: Who can help if I’m being scammed or harassed by a debt collector?

• A: Contact Legal Aid of West Virginia and the WV Attorney General’s Consumer Protection office: WV Attorney General – Consumer Protection.

Q: How do I arrange a burial at the state veterans cemetery?

• A: Contact WVDVA for eligibility and arrangements: WVDVA – State Cemetery information.

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Helpful tables (summary)

Money and taxes: quick summary

Health care & long‑term care: quick summary

Transportation: quick summary

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Full resource directory (official links)

• West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance: WVDVA
• VA – Find care and offices: VA facility locator (WV pre‑filtered)
• VA benefits overview: VA.gov
• VA disability: VA Disability Compensation
• VA pension and A&A: VA Pension, Aid & Attendance
• VA Caregiver Support: Caregiver.va.gov
• VA Women Veterans: Women’s Health at VA, Center for Women Veterans
• VA LGBTQ+ health: LGBTQ+ Veteran care at VA
• VA Tribal Government Relations: VA Tribal Relations
• VA Telehealth: telehealth.va.gov
• VA Homeless Programs and HUD‑VASH: VA Homeless Programs, VA HUD‑VASH
• WV DHHR (Medicaid, SNAP, LIEAP): DHHR, apply at WV PATH
• WV Bureau of Senior Services (ADRN, nutrition, senior centers): wvseniorservices.gov
• WV Tax – Homestead Exemption: Homestead Exemption
• WV DMV – Military/Veteran Services: DMV Military
• WV Division of Public Transit: Public Transit
• HUD – West Virginia: HUD WV
• USDA Rural Development – West Virginia: USDA RD WV
• Legal Aid of West Virginia: legalaidwv.org
• West Virginia 211: wv211.org
• Adult Protective Services (DHHR): APS info
• Veterans Crisis Line: veteranscrisisline.net

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Important notes on statistics

Because official counts change every year and by source, this guide links to the primary agencies so you can verify the latest numbers for West Virginia:

• VA Veteran population and demographics (state summaries): VA National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics.
• American Community Survey (U.S. Census): data.census.gov.

These are the best places to find current, verified figures on veteran population, age breakdowns, income, and housing in West Virginia.

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About this guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

• Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
• Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
• Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

• Last Updated: August 2025
• Sources Verified: August 2025
• Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.

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Disclaimer

This guide is for general information only and does not replace professional, legal, or medical advice. Program rules, amounts, and eligibility can change. Always confirm details with the relevant agency using the official links provided above.