How to apply for Ohio Veterans Homes (Long-Term Care in Sandusky and Georgetown)

Who it's for

Ohio operates two state veterans homes: Sandusky (nursing care plus a domiciliary for veterans who can live mostly independently) and Georgetown (nursing home with standard care and a memory-care unit for Alzheimer's disease and other dementias). Care is for veterans themselves — the veteran must have lived in Ohio for at least a year, have an honorable discharge, have served during a period of war or armed conflict (or earned an expeditionary or Vietnam Service Medal), and have a disability that makes earning a living impossible. Residents pay a below-market rate based on ability to pay, and VA per-diem funding helps cover the cost of care. Apply directly to either home, or ask for the first available bed at both.

What you'll need

• DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork (honorable or under honorable conditions)
• Proof of Ohio residency for at least one year
• Medical records supporting the disability and level-of-care need
• Financial information for the ability-to-pay assessment

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Ohio Veterans Homes (Long-Term Care in Sandusky and Georgetown). 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 (honorable or under honorable conditions), proof of ohio residency for at least one year, medical records supporting the disability and level-of-care need — 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.