How to Apply for Government Benefits as a Veteran

With over 18 million veterans around the country, there are some of them who will at some point need financial assistance. They may simply be between jobs or unable to find one that pays enough to meet their needs each month. Still others may have medical conditions or a disability as result of their military service. It’s important that they know how to apply for government benefits as a veteran, so they can get the assistance they need, during difficult financial times.

Government benefits are a great way to get financial assistance during difficult times. The government has created numerous programs to help veterans meet their basic needs. The programs are all federally funded and open to all veterans who meet the basic eligibility requirements. Applying for government benefits as a veteran is fairly easy, but the process varies for some programs.

How to Apply for Government Benefits as a Veteran

To apply for government benefits it is important to first locate the program you want to apply for. Each program has different eligibility requirements and varies with their application process. Once you know which programs you want to apply for, make sure you have the documentation you will need to complete the application. In most cases, you will need to show verification of your identity, address, and income. If you are applying for government benefits that are specific to being a veteran, you will need military documentation, and disability papers, if that pertains to your situation.

You can apply for some government benefits online, while others you will need to apply for in person. Still other programs allow you to apply over the phone or by mailing in an application. It’s important to look at the ways you can apply for any specific program, and then choose one of the routes to complete your application. Many programs allow you to start the application process online, with some requiring a follow up interview. Others require an in-person application process. If you are applying in person, you will often need to visit your local social services office or community action center.

Once you have all the documents you need for the application, you are then ready to begin the process. If you will be applying in person, be sure to take the documents with you, so that the application process is not delayed. Having everything you need from the start will help ensure your application process is expedited.

How to Apply for Specific Government Benefit Programs

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – You can apply for this food grant program online in many states, and in person in all states. You will need to contact the SNAP office in your state to begin the application process. To apply for SNAP, click here.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – This program provides a monthly cash grant to help with living expenses. You can apply for it online in some states, and in person in all states. To apply for TANF, click here.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Veterans who need help paying their energy bill can apply for a grant through LIHEAP. The program is also called HEAP in some states. You can apply online in some states, and in person in others. To apply in person, visit your local community action center. To apply for LIHEAP, click here.

 Medicaid – The national Medicaid program provides health care assistance to those with a low income. You can apply in person at your local social services office, or online in some states. To apply in person, visit your local social services office. To apply for Medicaid, click here.

Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) – Veterans who don’t qualify for Medicaid, but need health insurance for their children, can apply for CHIP. You can apply in person at your local social services office. To apply for CHIP, click here.

Lifeline Assistance – This program provides a monthly grant to help make your phone bill more affordable. You can apply online. To apply, click here.

Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Veterans in need of housing assistance, including paying rent, avoiding foreclosure, or locating affordable housing, can get help through HUD. To start the application process, you first need to speak with a HUD counselor in your state. To apply, click here.

These are some of the most popular government benefit programs. Be sure to follow the guidelines and requirements when applying, so your application isn’t held up.