Benefits · Long Term Care
How to apply for Florida State Veterans' Homes (Nursing Home and Assisted Living Care)
Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs (FDVA)
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.
Admission requires being a veteran (or the spouse or surviving spouse of one), Florida residency at application, a documented need for the level of care, applying for other available government financial assistance first, and approval as eligible by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — and it depends on bed availability at a specific home. Veterans with service-connected disabilities get admission priority. Costs are assessed per resident; contact the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs for current rates and waiting lists.
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
Apply online: official application
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.