Benefits · Long Term Care
How to apply for New Jersey Veterans Memorial Homes (Long-Term Care)
New Jersey Department of Veterans Affairs, Division of Veterans Healthcare Services
Who it's for
New Jersey runs three long-term care nursing homes for veterans: the Veterans Memorial Homes at Menlo Park (Edison), Paramus, and Vineland. They provide 24-hour skilled nursing care, rehabilitation therapy, dining with special diets, and recreation programs. Honorably discharged veterans of war or peacetime service may apply, along with spouses and Gold Star parents. Residents pay according to ability, based on income — not a fixed private-pay rate. Preference goes to New Jersey residents of at least two years, and admission depends on the home being able to meet the applicant's care needs and on bed availability.
Admission requires needing 24-hour skilled nursing care and depends on the home's ability to meet the applicant's needs and on bed availability. A spouse must generally be at least 50 years old and married to the veteran for at least 10 years; unremarried surviving spouses and Gold Star parents may also qualify. Fees are set from income under state rules, and assets above the program's limits are spent toward care first. Call the admissions office at the preferred home to discuss a specific situation.
What you'll need
- Completed application for admission to a New Jersey Veterans Memorial Home
- DD-214 or other proof of discharge under other than dishonorable conditions
- Medical records supporting the need for 24-hour skilled nursing care
- Financial records (income and assets) for the admission and fee assessment
- Marriage certificate for spouse eligibility
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 609-530-4600
What to say when you call
“Hello, I'm calling to ask about New Jersey Veterans Memorial Homes (Long-Term 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 completed application for admission to a new jersey veterans memorial home, dd-214 or other proof of discharge under other than dishonorable conditions, medical records supporting the need for 24-hour 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.
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.