Benefits for Veterans: Federal and State Programs to Check

If you served in the military, you may qualify for multiple sources of help. Some benefits are just for veterans. Others are open to anyone who meets the income and other requirements, and veterans often qualify.

VA Benefits for Veterans

The US Department of Veterans Affairs offers several benefit programs:

• VA Disability Compensation. If you have a service-connected disability, you may receive monthly cash payments. The amount depends on how the VA rates your disability.
• VA Pension. If you have limited income and cannot work due to age or disability, you may qualify for a monthly pension.
• VA Health Care. Veterans can access medical services through the VA, including hospital care, prescription drugs, and mental health services.

To apply for VA benefits or learn more, visit VA.gov or contact your local VA office.

Learn more on our VA benefits page.

SNAP (Food Assistance)

SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly food stamps) gives monthly benefits on an EBT card to buy food. Many veterans qualify based on income.

For the period October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026, the gross monthly income limits in most states are:

• 1 person: $1,696
• 2 people: $2,292
• 3 people: $2,888
• 4 people: $3,483

If someone in your household is 60 or older or disabled, you only need to meet the net income limit (lower than the gross limit).

The maximum monthly benefit in most states is $298 for 1 person and $994 for 4 people. Your actual benefit is based on your net income after deductions.

Applying is free. Only the USDA decides eligibility. Use our SNAP calculator to estimate your benefits, or apply through your state.

Learn more on our SNAP page.

Medicaid (Health Coverage)

Medicaid is free or low-cost health coverage run by each state with federal funding. Many veterans qualify, especially if they have low income.

In states that expanded Medicaid, most adults aged 19 to 64 qualify with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level. In 2026, that means roughly $22,000 a year for 1 person in most states.

Medicaid also covers children, pregnant people, older adults, and people with disabilities. Income limits differ by group and by state.

You can apply for Medicaid at any time of year through your state Medicaid agency or at HealthCare.gov, which sends your application to the state.

Applying is free. Only your state decides eligibility.

Learn more on our Medicaid page.

Other Programs to Check

Depending on your situation, you may also qualify for:

• Housing assistance. If you struggle to afford rent, look into programs for veterans and low-income households.
• Job training and employment services. Many programs help veterans find work.
• Education benefits. If you haven't used your GI Bill or other education benefits, you may still have them available.
• Unclaimed money or tax credits. You may be owed money from past employers, states, or the IRS.

Use our benefits screener to see what you might qualify for, or explore our full list of state and federal programs.

How to Apply

Start by:

1. Gathering recent pay stubs, tax returns, and proof of income or expenses.
2. Using our benefits screener to find programs you may qualify for.
3. Applying directly to each program. Most applications are free and online.
4. Keeping copies of everything you submit.

If you recently lost your job or had a big change in income, you may suddenly qualify for benefits you didn't before. Visit our help section for people who lost a job to learn more.