How to apply for North Carolina State Veterans Homes (Skilled Nursing Care)

Who it's for

North Carolina operates State Veterans Homes providing 24-hour skilled nursing care in Black Mountain, Kinston, Salisbury, and Kernersville. Care includes nursing supervision, IV and oxygen therapy, wound care, and physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Admission requires active-duty service other than for training, a discharge under honorable conditions, North Carolina residency for the two years before applying, and a physician referral showing the need for skilled nursing care. When beds are available, a veteran's spouse or surviving spouse may also be admitted. The homes accept Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, and payment is based on the actual cost of care and ability to pay.

What you'll need

• DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork showing discharge under honorable conditions
• Proof of North Carolina residency for the 24 months before the application
• Physician referral and medical records supporting the need for skilled nursing care
• Financial information for the admission assessment (payment is based on ability to pay)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about North Carolina State Veterans Homes (Skilled Nursing Care). 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 other military discharge paperwork showing discharge under honorable conditions, proof of north carolina residency for the 24 months before the application, physician referral and medical records supporting the need for skilled nursing care — 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 have served on active duty other than for training, received a discharge under honorable conditions, lived in North Carolina for the two full years before applying, and have a physician-confirmed need for skilled nursing care. Admission also depends on bed availability at a specific home.
2. Contact the NCDMVA to discuss your situation and check bed availability. Call 844-624-8387 or reach out to the admissions coordinator at the home in Black Mountain, Kinston, Salisbury, or Kernersville that you are interested in.
3. Ask your physician for a referral and gather your medical records. These documents must show that you need skilled nursing care. Your doctor's referral is required for admission.
4. Gather your military discharge paperwork. You will need your DD-214 or other official documents showing you were discharged under honorable conditions.
5. Collect proof of North Carolina residency covering the 24 months immediately before your application date.
6. Gather financial information for the admission assessment. Payment is based on the actual cost of care and your ability to pay. The homes accept Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance.
7. Submit your application online or by phone at 844-624-8387. Have all documents ready when you apply.

What to expect: After submitting your application, the admissions team will review your eligibility, medical need, and financial information. Admission depends on bed availability at the home you choose, so processing times vary — ask the admissions coordinator for an estimate specific to your situation. Spouses, surviving spouses, and Gold Star parents may be considered for admission only when space allows, as state law limits non-veteran residents to 25% of beds. If admitted, your payment rate will be set based on the actual cost of care and your ability to pay. Ask the NCDMVA at 844-624-8387 about any renewal or reassessment requirements that apply to your stay.