There are over 18 million veterans in the country. It’s estimated that nearly 4 million of them that have a service-related disability. This means that they have acquired a disability during the time they were serving, or later on something developed as a result of them serving in the military. Having the disability can make it difficult for veterans to get a job that will help them meet their living expenses. The good news is that there are financial assistance programs for disabled veterans, and they can make an important difference in making sure their needs are met each month.
Being a disabled veteran may make it more difficult to do the duties involved in many jobs. This can lead disabled veterans to experiencing financial difficulty. Many will need to utilize financial assistance programs for disabled veterans, so that they can make ends meet each month. Most of the financial assistance programs are funded through the federal government. The programs are available in every state around the country.
Types of Financial Assistance Programs for Disabled Veterans
Social Security – Disabled veterans may qualify to receive a monthly cash grant through the Social Security Administration. The federally funded program helps those who are considered disabled, which means that they cannot work for at least a year. To qualify for Social Security, you have to be at least 18 years old, not currently already receiving Social Security, are unable to work due to a disability, and haven’t been denied Social Security within the past 60 days. When applying, you will need to provide your Social Security number, names and birthdates of your minor children, and provide information about your medical condition. You can apply online, by phone, or in person. To apply, click here.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – Disabled veterans typically qualify for monthly food assistance through the federal government. Those who qualify for SNAP will receive a monthly grant that can be used to purchase food from the grocery store or farmer’s market. You can apply for SNAP at your local social services office, or online at your state’s SNAP office. SNAP is formerly known as food stamps. Some states still refer to it as food stamps or food assistance. To apply, click here.
Disability Compensation – There is disability compensation offered through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The compensation is available for veterans who have medical conditions, are disabled, or who have incurred military-related injuries. You will need to supply your medical and military records when applying for the program. You can apply for the program online. To apply, click here.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) – Veterans who have at least one minor dependent child in the home may qualify for cash assistance through the TANF program. Veterans who do not have at least one minor dependent child in the home may qualify for General Assistance through the TANF program. Both programs are usually limited to how many months you can receive the assistance. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements, and be a citizen or legal immigrant. You can apply in person at your local social services office, or online at your state’s TANF website. To apply, click here.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Disabled veterans may qualify for help paying for their energy bills. LIHEAP provides grants that pay for energy bills for those who have a low income. The program makes one-time energy assistance payments, directly to your energy provider on your behalf. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements. You can apply for a LIHEAP grant at your local community action center. Most states have an application window you will need to follow. You can re-apply for a grant with LIHEAP every year. To apply, click here.
Lifeline Assistance – The federal government provides phone grants to help those with a low income be able to afford a phone each month. Those who qualify will only have to pay $9.25 per month for their phone, and the government will pay the rest. To apply, click here.
The financial assistance programs for disabled veterans will help make ends meet each month. Check with these programs to also see if they can refer you to other financial assistance programs in your local area.