How to apply for Chapter 115 Veterans' Benefits (Financial Assistance)

Who it's for

Massachusetts' Chapter 115 program pays needs-based financial assistance to veterans and their dependents facing hardship — help with daily living expenses, medical costs, rent, and outpatient behavioral health care. Every city and town has a Veterans' Service Officer who takes applications and determines benefits under the state's budget standards. The HERO Act broadened who counts as a veteran, including anyone the U.S. VA recognizes. Contact the local VSO to apply; the MassVets Benefit Estimator at vets.mass.gov gives a quick preview.

What you'll need

• DD-214 / discharge papers
• Proof of income and assets
• Proof of Massachusetts residency

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Chapter 115 Veterans' Benefits (Financial Assistance). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need dd-214 / discharge papers, proof of income and assets, proof of massachusetts residency — is anything else required? What is the best next step?”

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Gather your required documents: your DD-214 or discharge papers, proof of income and assets, and proof of Massachusetts residency.
2. Find your local Veterans' Service Officer (VSO) — every city and town in Massachusetts has one. The VSO takes applications and determines your eligibility and benefit amount under the state's annual budget standards.
3. Apply by contacting the Executive Office of Veterans Services online or by phone at 1-617-210-5480. Your local VSO will guide you through the process.
4. Submit your documents to the VSO. Be ready to share details about your income, assets, and any hardship needs such as rent, medical costs, or daily living expenses.
5. Ask your VSO about the benefit amount you may receive. Chapter 115 is needs-based, so the amount depends on the state's budget standards and your individual situation. Dependents of eligible veterans may also qualify.
6. Plan to renew your benefits annually. Your VSO will let you know what is needed at renewal time.

What to expect: After you submit your application and documents, your local Veterans' Service Officer reviews your eligibility and determines your benefit amount based on the state's annual budget standards. Processing times vary, so ask your VSO for an estimate of how long a decision may take. If approved, benefits can help cover daily living expenses, rent, medical costs, and outpatient behavioral health care. Because Chapter 115 is needs-based, benefits are reviewed every year — your VSO will reach out when it is time to renew.

Renewals

annual