Many resources are available to people who have served in the U.S. military. Eligibility for some programs depends upon the specific nature of the person’s service. Some people who served in the military may not consider themselves “veterans,” but still may qualify for veterans programs.

The United States Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA) provides services to people who have served in the U.S. armed forces. USDVA also provides some benefits to dependents of veterans. Benefits provided by USDVA include hospital treatment and pensions for service related disabilities.

Some applicants for and participants of assistance must apply for USDVA benefits. See 0012.12 (Applying for Other Benefits).

Refer people who might be eligible for veteran's benefits to:

United States Department of Veterans Affairs
Regional Office and Insurance Center
1 Federal Drive
Fort Snelling
St. Paul, Minnesota 55111-9986
1-800-827-1000


The VA Community Resources and Referral Center (CRCC) Triage Line at 612-313-3240 can help connect veterans with VA services and supports.

LinkVet provides veterans with information on compensation, pension, education, medical, employment and other benefits. Veterans can use the LinkVet web site or call 1-888-LinkVet (546-5838).

The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) provides cash and medical assistance for temporarily disabled veterans and their dependents, for up to a maximum of 6 months. To apply, people must contact MDVA at 651-296-2562 or the County Veterans Service Officer in their county of residence.

Every county has a County Veteran Service Officer (CVSO) who can help veterans connect to many benefits. The Find Your CVSO web site lists the CVSO for each county. Tribal Veterans Service Officers (TVSO) assist Native American veterans and their dependents to access benefits. Contact MDVA at 507-456-5067 or email tvso.mdva@state.mn.us.

The Homeless Veteran Registry connects veterans who are experiencing homelessness with housing and services. For more information, go to the Homeless Veteran Registry web site, or call LinkVet at 1-888-LinkVet (546-5838).

Veterans who are experiencing a crisis can call the Veterans Crisis Line for assistance. Dial 988 on a cell phone, or text 838255. There is a chat option online. Services are available 24/7, 365 days a year.

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has programs for veterans who are seeking employment, education or training. The CareerForce veterans resources web site links to Veteran Employment Specialists who can assist veterans with career planning and job search.

Veterans who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness can get help applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. To refer someone to the MDVA SOAR Program, contact LinkVet at 1-888-LinkVet (546-5838).

Also see the Minnesota Health Care Programs Eligibility Policy Manual for related medical information.