How to apply for Texas State Veterans Homes (Long-Term Care)

Who it's for

Texas operates State Veterans Homes providing skilled nursing and long-term care for qualified veterans, their spouses, and Gold Star parents, at rates well below typical private nursing homes. Veterans with a 70% or higher service-connected disability rating can generally live in a Texas State Veterans Home at no cost, with VA per-diem benefits covering care, medication, and therapy. Admission has medical, financial, and military-service requirements.

What you'll need

• DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork
• VA disability award letter, if rated (70%+ service-connected can mean no-cost care)
• Medical records supporting the level-of-care need
• Financial information for the admission assessment

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Texas State Veterans 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 dd-214 or other military discharge paperwork, va disability award letter, if rated (70%+ service-connected can mean no-cost care), medical records supporting the 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.

Step by step

1. Gather your military discharge paperwork, such as your DD-214 or other discharge documents, to prove military service.
2. Collect your VA disability award letter if you have a service-connected disability rating. A 70% or higher rating can mean no-cost care.
3. Pull together medical records that show your current level-of-care need, such as physician notes or recent hospital records.
4. Prepare financial information for the admission assessment, which helps determine your daily rate if VA per-diem benefits do not fully cover your care.
5. Apply online through the Texas Veterans Land Board or call 800-252-8387 to start your application by phone.
6. Work with the Veterans Land Board to complete the admission assessment, which reviews your medical, financial, and military-service eligibility under Texas Administrative Code Title 40 and USDVA rules.
7. Ask the Veterans Land Board about bed availability at the specific Texas State Veterans Home you prefer, since admission also depends on an open bed at that location.

What to expect: After submitting your application, the Texas Veterans Land Board will review your medical, financial, and military-service information to determine eligibility. Processing times vary, so contact the Veterans Land Board at 800-252-8387 for an estimate. If approved, veterans with a 70% or higher service-connected disability rating generally live at no cost, with VA per-diem benefits covering care, medication, and therapy. Other eligible residents pay a below-market daily rate. Admission also depends on bed availability at your chosen home, so it is a good idea to ask about current openings when you call. Check with the Veterans Land Board about any renewal or reassessment requirements that may apply after admission.