How to apply for Massachusetts Veterans Homes (Chelsea & Holyoke)

Who it's for

The Massachusetts Veterans Homes at Chelsea and Holyoke (formerly the Soldiers' Homes) provide long-term nursing care, memory care, and hospice for eligible veterans — Chelsea also offers a residential (domiciliary) campus. Applicants must be Massachusetts residents, medically suitable for long-term care, and meet the state's veteran definition (broadened by the HERO Act). Chelsea's long-term care fee is $30 a day with income exemptions. Admissions: Chelsea 617-887-7146; Holyoke 413-552-4764.

What you'll need

• DD-214 (presented to the admissions office)
• Medical/behavioral suitability screening
• Proof of Massachusetts residency

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Massachusetts Veterans Homes (Chelsea & Holyoke). 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 (presented to the admissions office), medical/behavioral suitability screening, 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. Confirm eligibility before applying. You must be a Massachusetts resident, meet the state's veteran definition under the HERO Act, and be medically and behaviorally suitable for long-term care. Bed availability also affects admission, so a waiting list may apply.
2. Gather your required documents: your DD-214, proof of Massachusetts residency, and any medical or behavioral health records needed for the suitability screening.
3. Choose how to apply — online or by phone. To apply by phone, call the admissions office directly: Chelsea at 617-887-7146 or Holyoke at 413-552-4764.
4. Submit your DD-214 and proof of residency to the admissions office as directed during your application.
5. Complete the medical and behavioral suitability screening. A nurse will conduct this screening as part of the admissions process.
6. Follow up with the admissions team about your status. Processing times vary, so ask the admissions office for an estimate when you apply.

What to expect: After submitting your application and completing the nurse screening, the admissions team at the Massachusetts Veterans Home you applied to will review your eligibility and suitability. Because admission depends on residency, veteran status, medical and behavioral suitability, and bed availability, you may be placed on a waiting list while your application is considered — the admissions team makes the final decision. If admitted, your status is reviewed annually, so be prepared to provide updated information at renewal time. Contact Chelsea at 617-887-7146 or Holyoke at 413-552-4764 with any questions about your application.

Renewals

annual