Mass Vets Chapter 115

Massachusetts has made generous provisions for providing to veterans in need of financial assistance. This coverage is extended to the veteran’s eligible dependents.

Anyone qualifying under the “Veteran” definition, including eligible dependents, may apply for veterans’ benefits in the community in which they reside, provided that they meet the Income and Asset Limits for this needs-based program. However, applicants whose income is slightly above the income limit may be eligible at a “spend down” adjustment amount.

Veterans or their dependents can use the online Mass Vet Benefit Calculator to help determine if they might be eligible for financial assistance through this program. If you choose to use this calculator, please download or email yourself the document with your answers once you complete the steps. Please note that this calculator is neither an application for benefits nor a guarantee of benefits.

Benefits may be available at several levels, and include financial assistance to help pay shelter, heating, and medical expenses. To determine eligibility, the VSO will ask the applicant to provide proof of the veteran’s military service and certain expenses, as well as proof of income and assets. The VSO may require other supporting documents such as marriage, birth, or death certificates, depending on the situation. Using the documents provided, the VSO will determine an allowable budget as outlined in 108 CMR. Once the applicant’s budget has been established, the VSO will determine if the applicant is eligible for any financial assistance.

Recipients of financial assistance under this program may fall into several categories. For instance, a recipient who is not totally and permanently disabled or retired, would be expected to seek full time employment, and might expect to receive assistance for a brief period of time while they secure a job. A recipient who is totally and permanently disabled, or who is retired, might find themselves in a financial situation whereby their needs dictate that they continue to receive benefits indefinitely.