Veteran Resources Resources in New York
Last updated September 6, 2026
New York is home to one of the largest veteran populations in the country, and a wide network of federal, state, and local programs exists to help veterans and their families access healthcare, housing, financial assistance, and mental health support. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) remains the primary gateway to many of these benefits, and New York veterans can connect with VA services through the VA New York Harbor Healthcare System, the VA Hudson Valley Healthcare System, or the Syracuse VA Medical Center, among other regional facilities.
The New York State Division of Veterans' Services (DVS) is the state agency dedicated to connecting New York veterans with state-level benefits, including education grants, employment programs, and burial assistance. DVS also operates a network of Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) stationed across the state who can help veterans file claims and navigate benefits at no cost. To find a VSO near you, contact DVS directly or call 2-1-1 New York for a referral.
If you are in crisis or unsure where to start, calling 2-1-1 New York (dial 2-1-1) is one of the fastest ways to get connected to veteran-specific and general social services in your county. The Veterans Crisis Line (dial 988, then press 1) is available 24/7 for any veteran experiencing emotional distress or a mental health emergency.
Key programs in New York
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
Comprehensive healthcare, disability compensation, pension, education (GI Bill), home loan guarantees, and mental health services for eligible veterans and their dependents.
How to access: Apply online at VA.gov, call 1-800-698-2411 (1-800-MyVA411), or visit the nearest VA medical center or community-based outpatient clinic in New York. A VSO can help you file claims at no charge.
New York State Division of Veterans' Services (DVS)
State-level benefits including the Veterans Tuition Awards, burial reimbursement, property tax exemptions, and employment assistance. DVS Veterans Service Officers help veterans file federal and state claims at no cost.
How to access: Visit veterans.ny.gov or call 1-888-838-7697 to locate a DVS county office or VSO near you.
HUD-VASH (HUD-VA Supportive Housing)
Combines Housing Choice Voucher rental assistance from HUD with VA case management and supportive services to help homeless or at-risk veterans find and maintain stable housing.
How to access: Contact your nearest VA medical center's homeless veteran coordinator, or call the VA's National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1-877-424-3838. You can also dial 2-1-1 New York for referrals to local HUD Continuum of Care programs serving veterans.
Veterans Crisis Line
Free, confidential crisis support available 24/7 for veterans, service members, and their families experiencing suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, or a mental health emergency.
How to access: Dial 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net. Responders are specially trained to support the veteran community.
SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) in New York
Monthly food assistance benefits loaded onto an EBT card for income-eligible veterans and their households. Many veterans with service-connected disabilities or low incomes qualify.
How to access: Apply online through myBenefits.ny.gov, visit your local Department of Social Services office, or call 2-1-1 New York for application help. Income and household size determine eligibility.
Veteran Resources resources for New York
Other resources in New York
- Housing Assistance in New York
- Food Assistance in New York
- Utility Assistance in New York
- Transportation Assistance in New York
- Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance in New York
- Mental Health Resources in New York
- Domestic Violence Resources in New York
- Disability Resources in New York
- Child & Family Assistance in New York
- Senior Resources in New York