How to apply for Florida State Veterans' Homes (Nursing Home and Assisted Living Care)

Who it's for

Florida runs State Veterans' Nursing Homes around the state — including Daytona Beach, Land O' Lakes, Pembroke Pines, Panama City, Port Charlotte, St. Augustine, and Port St. Lucie — plus a veterans' assisted living facility in Lake City. They provide skilled nursing care or assisted living for veterans who need help with daily living, generally at below private-market rates because federal VA per-diem support helps cover the cost. Florida law also makes the spouse or surviving spouse of a veteran eligible, with admission priority behind eligible veterans. Admission requires Florida residency, needing the level of care, and approval by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

What you'll need

• DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork
• Proof of Florida residency at the time of application
• Medical records supporting the need for nursing home or assisted living care
• Financial information (residents must first apply for assistance available through other government sources)

Where to apply

Step by step

1. Confirm eligibility before applying. You must be a veteran or the spouse or surviving spouse of a veteran, a Florida resident at the time of application, and have a documented medical need for nursing home or assisted living care. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs approval is also required.
2. Gather your required documents: your DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork, proof of Florida residency, medical records showing your need for the level of care requested, and financial information. You will also need to apply for any other government financial assistance you may qualify for before or during this process.
3. Apply online through the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs. Complete the application fully and upload or submit all required documents.
4. Contact the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs directly to ask about current bed availability, waiting lists, and cost rates at the specific home you are interested in. Costs are assessed per resident and vary.
5. After submitting, follow up with the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs if you have questions about your application status or next steps. Processing times vary, so ask the agency for an estimate.

What to expect: After submitting your application, the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs will review your eligibility, including approval by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Admission depends on bed availability at the specific home you choose, so wait times can vary. Veterans with service-connected disabilities receive admission priority, followed by other eligible veterans, and then eligible spouses or surviving spouses. There is no fixed renewal schedule noted for this program, but residents should stay in contact with the facility and the agency regarding any changes in their care needs or financial situation.