How to apply for MDVA Soldiers Assistance Program (veterans financial help)

Who it's for

The Soldiers Assistance Program provides short-term financial help to eligible Minnesota veterans and their dependents — subsistence help for veterans unable to work due to a temporary disability, plus dental and optical benefits for those with limited income. Apply through your County Veterans Service Officer, who prepares and submits the application to MDVA. Call your county CVSO or LinkVet at 1-888-546-5838.

What you'll need

• DD-214 or discharge papers
• Income information
• County Veterans Service Officer appointment

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about MDVA Soldiers Assistance Program (veterans financial help). 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 or discharge papers, income information, county Veterans Service Officer appointment — 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. Call your County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) or LinkVet at 1-888-546-5838 to start the process and schedule an appointment.
2. Gather your DD-214 or military discharge papers before your CVSO appointment.
3. Collect current income information for yourself and any dependents who will be included in the application.
4. Meet with your CVSO, who will review your situation, prepare your application, and submit it to the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs on your behalf.
5. Work with your CVSO to answer any follow-up questions from MDVA as they determine your eligibility case by case.

What to expect: After your CVSO submits the application, the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs reviews it and determines eligibility on a case-by-case basis under Minn. Stat. 197.05. Benefit levels and income tests are set by MDVA, so outcomes vary by individual situation. Processing times vary — ask your CVSO for an estimate of how long a decision may take. There is no scheduled renewal for this program, but you may contact your CVSO or call 1-888-546-5838 if your circumstances change and you need to revisit your eligibility.

Renewals

none