Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Wisconsin

Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Wisconsin (2025 Authority Guide)

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help Box (always visible)

If you need help right now, start here.

Tip: If you’re not sure where to start, call 1-800-WIS-VETS. They can point you to the right office or program and help you connect with a CVSO.

How to use this guide

This guide focuses on benefits and help for senior veterans and surviving spouses living in Wisconsin. It covers urgent help first, then the main benefits, and how to get local help. All links go to official sources whenever possible. We also include real-world tips, common roadblocks, and how to get past them.

Emergency and urgent help (start here)

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.

  • Mental health crisis: Call or text 988 then press 1, or use chat at the Veterans Crisis Line. You do not need to be enrolled in VA health care to use this service.
  • Homelessness or eviction: Call 877-424-3838 (National Call Center for Homeless Veterans) or visit VA Homeless Programs. They can connect you to local emergency housing (SSVF), HUD-VASH vouchers, and case management.
  • Medical urgency: If it’s an emergency, seek care at the nearest ER. If it’s urgent but not life-threatening, call your VA facility’s nurse advice line or use VA health facility finder to contact your VA clinic.

Reality check: It’s common to feel overwhelmed by phone trees or online forms. If that happens, call your CVSO. They can sit with you, make the calls, and track applications.

Who can help you one-on-one in Wisconsin

  • County or Tribal Veterans Service Officers (CVSO/TVSO): Local experts who help you apply for VA and state benefits, gather records, and appeal decisions. Find yours through WDVA: Find your local Veterans Service Office (WDVA)
  • Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA): State-level programs, veterans homes, cemeteries, and outreach. Call 1-800-WIS-VETS (1-800-947-8387) or visit: WDVA home page
  • VA Patient Advocates: If you get care at a VA medical center and have a problem, ask for the Patient Advocate. Find your facility here: Find VA health facilities in Wisconsin

Your VA health care in Wisconsin

Most Wisconsin veterans get VA care through three main medical centers and their clinics. You may also use community providers if approved by VA. Enrollment and eligibility details are here: Apply for VA Health Care

Wisconsin VA medical centers (primary hubs)

Use these hubs for specialty care, inpatient care, and many tests. Each hospital also runs clinics across the state.

VA Medical Center Main Services Contact & Info
Clement J. Zablocki VA (Milwaukee) Full-service medical/surgical, mental health, specialty clinics Milwaukee VA Health Care System
William S. Middleton Memorial VA (Madison) Tertiary care, cardiac, oncology, specialty care Madison VA Health Care System
Tomah VA Medical Center (Tomah) Primary care, mental health, long-term programs Tomah VA Health Care System

Helpful services:

Transportation pages:

Reality check: Appointment wait times can vary. If the delay is long or travel is hard, ask about “Community Care” referrals or telehealth. Your CVSO can help with the request if needed.

Long-term care and Wisconsin State Veterans Homes

Wisconsin operates three state veterans homes that offer skilled nursing care, memory care, and rehabilitation. Spouses and Gold Star parents may also be eligible.

Wisconsin State Veterans Home Location Overview & Admissions
King Waupaca County Wisconsin Veterans Home at King (WDVA)
Union Grove Racine County Wisconsin Veterans Home at Union Grove (WDVA)
Chippewa Falls Chippewa County Wisconsin Veterans Home at Chippewa Falls (WDVA)

How they help:

  • Provide 24/7 nursing care, therapies, and memory care.
  • Offer activities, social programs, and on-site services.
  • Work with VA coverage, Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance (depending on your situation).

How to get in:

  1. Call 1-800-WIS-VETS to talk through eligibility (service character, Wisconsin residency, relationship for spouses/Gold Star parents).
  2. Ask for an admissions packet for the home you prefer.
  3. Gather documents (DD214 or discharge, medical info, insurance, financials if applying for Medicaid).
  4. Tour the facility if possible.

Tip: If you want to stay at home, talk to your ADRC about home care, Family Care, IRIS, and respite. Start here: Wisconsin Family Care (DHS) and IRIS self-directed care (DHS).

Money help: VA pension, Aid & Attendance, and state tax relief

VA Pension for low-income wartime veterans

If you’re 65 or older (or permanently disabled) and have limited income and assets, you may qualify for VA Pension. Wartime service is required; combat service is not required.

  • What it is: A monthly, need-based benefit.
  • Who it helps: Veterans with wartime service and low income; income limits consider medical costs.
  • How to apply: Apply for VA Pension
  • Get help: Ask your CVSO to complete the forms and count medical expenses correctly.

Aid and Attendance (A&A) and Housebound

If you get VA Pension and need help with daily activities (bathing, dressing, feeding) or are largely confined to your home, you may qualify for a higher amount.

  • What it is: An increase to VA Pension for those needing daily assistance or who are housebound.
  • How to apply: VA Aid and Attendance and Housebound
  • Tip: Get a detailed doctor’s statement describing what help you need each day.

Reality check: A&A is only on top of VA Pension (not disability compensation). If you receive VA disability compensation, ask your CVSO about Special Monthly Compensation for aid and attendance needs.

Wisconsin Veterans & Surviving Spouses Property Tax Credit

Wisconsin offers a property tax credit for eligible veterans with certain VA disability ratings and for eligible surviving spouses. This can significantly reduce your annual property tax on your primary home.

  • What it is: A state income tax credit based on your property tax paid for your primary residence (eligibility rules apply).
  • Who may qualify: Certain veterans with a qualifying VA disability rating and eligible surviving spouses (residency and other rules apply).
  • How to apply:
    1. Request a WDVA Eligibility Certification letter.
    2. File for the credit with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) when you do your state taxes, attaching required documents.
  • Where to learn more:

Tip: Because details can change, ask your CVSO or call 1-800-WIS-VETS to confirm current eligibility and documents needed before you file.

Disability compensation and health supports

If you have an illness or injury connected to your service, you may qualify for VA disability compensation.

Reality check: Claims take time. Use an accredited representative (CVSO/TVSO) and keep copies of everything. If denied, appeals are common—don’t give up.

Mental health care, Vet Centers, and caregiver support

  • VA mental health care: Available through your VA medical center. Find your VA facility: Find VA health facilities in Wisconsin
  • Vet Centers: Confidential counseling for veterans and families (combat veterans and those who experienced MST qualify, among others). Find locations: Find a Vet Center
  • Caregiver support: If you care for a veteran at home, you may qualify for training, resources, and sometimes a stipend. Learn more: VA Caregiver Support Program or call 855-260-3274.

Housing and homelessness help in Wisconsin

  • SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families): Short-term help to prevent or end homelessness (rent, deposits, case management). Find local SSVF providers: Find SSVF Providers
  • HUD-VASH: Long-term housing vouchers plus VA case management. Learn more: HUD-VASH (VA)
  • Wisconsin Veterans Housing & Recovery Program (VHRP): State-run transitional housing for veterans. Ask WDVA at 1-800-WIS-VETS or visit: WDVA
  • County and community partners: Call 211 to locate shelters, utility help, and rental assistance near you: 211 Wisconsin

Reality check: If your move-in costs or documents are a barrier, tell your SSVF case manager. They can often cover deposits, application fees, and help get ID or DD214.

Transportation, travel pay, and rural access

Need What to know Where to start
Rides to VA appointments Many Wisconsin areas have DAV volunteer rides or VA shuttles; availability varies by county. Transportation – Milwaukee VA • Transportation – Madison VA • Transportation – Tomah VA
Travel reimbursement If you meet income/disability criteria, VA can reimburse mileage or common carrier costs. VA Beneficiary Travel
Rural telehealth Video visits, home BP cuffs, and remote monitoring can cut travel. VA Telehealth
Internet/device help VA can assess your need for devices or connectivity. Digital Divide Consult (VA)
Non-VA rides Call 211 or your ADRC for local rides (county vans, volunteer drivers). 211 Wisconsin • Find your ADRC (DHS)

Tip: Schedule rides as soon as you get your appointment date. Many driver programs fill up quickly.

Food and basic needs

  • FoodShare (SNAP) for Wisconsin: FoodShare Wisconsin
  • Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (seasonal produce vouchers): Senior Farmers’ Market (DHS)
  • VA food insecurity help: Ask your VA social worker about local food pantries and benefit screening.
  • 211 Wisconsin for local pantries and deliveries: 211 Wisconsin

Reality check: Many seniors qualify for FoodShare even with Social Security and small pensions, especially if you have high medical costs. Don’t assume you make “too much”—check with your ADRC.

Legal help and records

Tip: Never pay anyone to “speed up” a VA claim. Use accredited, free help through your CVSO.

Burial and memorial benefits (state and federal)

Tip: Pre-need eligibility can save your family stress later. Check VA’s form and keep copies with your important papers.

Wisconsin-specific programs and supports (at a glance)

Program What it does How to connect
County/Tribal Veterans Service Offices (CVSO/TVSO) Free help with VA/state claims, appeals, and benefits Find your CVSO (WDVA)
Wisconsin Veterans Homes Skilled nursing/memory care for eligible veterans, spouses, Gold Star parents Call 1-800-WIS-VETS or visit WDVA
Veterans & Surviving Spouses Property Tax Credit State income tax credit based on property taxes for eligible veterans/survivors Ask your CVSO; see WDVA and Wisconsin DOR
Veterans Housing & Recovery Program (VHRP) Transitional housing with case management Call 1-800-WIS-VETS or see WDVA
Veterans Outreach and Recovery Program (VORP) State outreach, peer support, and connections to care Call 1-800-WIS-VETS or see WDVA
ADRC network Long-term care counseling, Family Care/IRIS info, benefits checks Find your ADRC (DHS)

Note: URLs above point to official state sites. Ask your CVSO for the exact form or subpage you need if you can’t find it quickly.

Inclusive support for all senior veterans

LGBTQ+ senior veterans

  • VA provides inclusive care and has LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinators at each VA medical center. Learn more here: LGBTQ+ Veteran care at VA
  • For privacy or concerns about past discrimination, you can ask for a coordinator directly at Milwaukee, Madison, or Tomah VA hospitals (call the main number and ask for the LGBTQ+ coordinator).

Disabled seniors

  • If your disability is service-connected, see: VA Disability Compensation
  • For home- and community-based services, ask your ADRC about Family Care and IRIS: Family Care (DHS) • IRIS (DHS)
  • Mobility and equipment in VA: Talk to your VA provider about prosthetics, wheelchairs, and home safety evaluations.

Tribal members and American Indian/Alaska Native veterans

  • Ask for your Tribal Veterans Service Officer (TVSO) through WDVA or your tribe’s administration. WDVA can connect you: WDVA
  • VA partners with tribes and the Indian Health Service. Learn about VA’s Tribal Government Relations: VA Office of Tribal Government Relations
  • If you use IHS or tribal clinics, ask about VA reimbursement agreements to coordinate your care and reduce costs.

Rural senior veterans

  • Use telehealth and phone visits when travel is tough: VA Telehealth
  • Ask your VA clinic about remote monitoring devices and community care if the drive is too long.
  • Transportation: Check DAV/VA rides and county options via your ADRC and 211: 211 Wisconsin

Women veterans

  • Each VA medical center has a Women Veterans Program Manager to coordinate gender-specific care, including mammograms and menopause care. Learn more: Women Veterans Health Care (VA)
  • If you prefer a female provider or specific setting, tell the scheduler up front—VA will try to accommodate.

Resources by region (Wisconsin)

Below are the main federal VA hubs by region. Your CVSO and ADRC can help you connect to local clinics and services in your county.

Region Main VA hub Key links
Southeast (Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha, Waukesha, Ozaukee, Washington) Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center (Milwaukee) Milwaukee VA Health Care System • Transportation – Milwaukee VA
South Central (Madison, Dane, Rock, Jefferson, Sauk, Columbia) William S. Middleton Memorial VA (Madison) Madison VA Health Care System • Transportation – Madison VA
West/Central (La Crosse, Monroe, Jackson, Juneau, Portage, Wood) Tomah VA Medical Center (Tomah) Tomah VA Health Care System • Transportation – Tomah VA
Northeast (Green Bay, Appleton, Oshkosh, Waupaca) Served by Milwaukee/Madison hubs plus local clinics Find VA locations in Wisconsin
North/Northwest (Eau Claire, Wausau, Superior, Ashland) Served by Tomah and Twin Ports area clinics Find VA locations in Wisconsin

Always combine your VA hub with your county’s two key partners:

Step-by-step: applying for the most-used benefits

  1. VA health care
  1. VA disability compensation
  1. VA Pension and Aid & Attendance
  • Check eligibility and gather income/asset info and medical expense receipts.
  • Apply online or with your CVSO: VA Pension and Aid & Attendance
  1. Wisconsin property tax credit
  • Ask your CVSO to request your WDVA eligibility certification.
  • File the credit with your WI income tax at Wisconsin Department of Revenue (attach required documents).
  1. Wisconsin Veterans Home admission
  • Call 1-800-WIS-VETS and request an admissions packet for King, Union Grove, or Chippewa Falls.
  • Work with your family, doctor, and CVSO to complete medical and financial paperwork.

Reality check: Keep a single folder with copies of your DD214, VA letters, doctor statements, and tax paperwork. It saves hours later.

Common roadblocks and how to handle them

  • “I can’t find my DD214.” Use the National Archives portal (free): Request Military Records
  • “I was denied a VA claim.” Appeals are normal. Talk to your CVSO about a Supplemental Claim or Higher-Level Review. Accredited help: Find accredited representatives
  • “I can’t travel for appointments.” Ask your VA clinic about telehealth, community care, or rides. Start with your facility’s transportation page (links above).
  • “I can’t afford meds or food this month.” Tell your VA social worker and call your ADRC. Also check FoodShare Wisconsin and 211 Wisconsin.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1) I’m a surviving spouse. What state or federal benefits might I get?

Q2) How do I get into a Wisconsin Veterans Home?

  • Call 1-800-WIS-VETS to confirm eligibility and request an admissions packet for King, Union Grove, or Chippewa Falls. You’ll need your DD214, medical information, and insurance details. See: WDVA

Q3) I’m over 65 and have low income. Which benefit is best: VA Pension or Social Security?

  • You can receive both, but VA Pension is income-based and will consider Social Security as income. Medical expenses can lower “countable” income for VA. Apply with help from your CVSO: VA Pension

Q4) Can I get both VA disability compensation and VA Pension?

  • Usually no. VA pays the higher of the two. If you get VA disability compensation and need aid and attendance, ask about Special Monthly Compensation. See: VA Disability

Q5) How does the Wisconsin property tax credit work for veterans?

  • Eligible veterans and surviving spouses may receive a state income tax credit based on property taxes paid on a primary residence. You must request a WDVA eligibility letter and file the credit with the Department of Revenue. See: WDVA and Wisconsin DOR

Q6) I live in a rural area and my internet is poor. Can I still do telehealth?

Q7) Where do I get free help with claims and appeals near me?

Q8) I’m facing eviction. What’s the fastest action I can take?

  • Call 877-424-3838 for the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans. Ask for SSVF prevention help. Also call 211 for local rental assistance. VA Homeless Programs • 211 Wisconsin

Q9) I experienced military sexual trauma (MST). Can I get care even if I’m not service-connected?

  • Yes. MST-related care is available regardless of service connection status. Contact your VA medical center and ask to speak with an MST Coordinator. Find your facility: Find VA health facilities in Wisconsin

Q10) Are there special benefits for Wisconsin women veterans?

  • You have access to all state and federal benefits, plus VA Women’s Health programs and coordinators at each VA medical center. Learn more: Women Veterans Health Care (VA)

Short, real-world examples

  • Property tax relief: A Vietnam-era veteran in Dane County with a qualifying VA disability rating worked with the CVSO to obtain the WDVA eligibility letter and claimed the Wisconsin property tax credit on their state return, reducing their annual tax bill. Start with: WDVA and Wisconsin DOR
  • Staying at home safely: A Korean War-era veteran and spouse used their ADRC to enroll in Family Care for in-home help and adult day services, while using VA telehealth with Madison VA for regular check-ins. Learn about options: Family Care (DHS) • VA Telehealth
  • Ending homelessness: A Gulf War veteran in Milwaukee called 877-424-3838, connected with an SSVF grantee for deposit and first month’s rent, and followed up with HUD-VASH for stable housing and VA case management. Learn more: Find SSVF Providers • HUD-VASH

Key links (official sources)

Quick-reference tables

  1. Emergency contacts (print-friendly)
Help Phone/Link Notes
Veterans Crisis Line 988 (Press 1) • Veterans Crisis Line Call, text, or chat 24/7
Homeless Veterans 877-424-3838 • VA Homeless Programs Prevention and rehousing
WDVA Help Line 1-800-WIS-VETS (1-800-947-8387) • WDVA State programs and referrals
Find VA care Find VA locations in Wisconsin Hospitals and clinics
Elder abuse reporting Report elder abuse (DHS) Or call 911 if urgent
  1. VA medical centers in Wisconsin
Facility Main page Transportation info
Milwaukee VA Medical Center Milwaukee VA Health Care System Transportation – Milwaukee VA
Madison VA Hospital Madison VA Health Care System Transportation – Madison VA
Tomah VA Medical Center Tomah VA Health Care System Transportation – Tomah VA
  1. Long-term care options
Option Who it serves Learn more
Wisconsin State Veterans Homes (King, Union Grove, Chippewa Falls) Veterans, eligible spouses, Gold Star parents needing skilled nursing/memory care WDVA
Family Care (managed long-term care) Seniors needing help at home or in assisted living Family Care (DHS)
IRIS (self-directed) Seniors who want to self-direct long-term services IRIS (DHS)
  1. Money and tax benefits
Benefit What it does Start here
VA Pension Monthly payment for low-income wartime veterans VA Pension
Aid & Attendance Adds to Pension if you need help with daily activities Aid & Attendance
WI Veterans & Surviving Spouses Property Tax Credit State tax credit for eligible veterans/survivors WDVA • Wisconsin DOR
  1. Housing support
Program Purpose Link
SSVF Prevent/exit homelessness with short-term help Find SSVF Providers
HUD-VASH Long-term voucher + VA case management HUD-VASH
VHRP (State) Transitional housing with case management WDVA

Reality checks, warnings, and tips

  • Watch for scams. No one can “expedite” a claim for a fee. Use accredited help: Find accredited representatives (VA OGC)
  • Keep deadlines. VA appeals and SSVF paperwork have firm timelines. Ask your helper (CVSO) to track them.
  • Share barriers. Tell your provider or social worker if you can’t travel, can’t afford meds, or have poor internet. There are programs for each problem, but they can’t help if they don’t know.

Resources (at the end)

Disclaimer

We do our best to provide accurate, current information. Programs change and eligibility rules can be updated at any time. Always confirm details with the official agency (VA, WDVA, Wisconsin DHS, or DOR) before applying or making decisions.

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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