Veteran Resources in West Virginia
Last updated September 9, 2026
West Virginia has one of the highest rates of military veterans per capita in the nation, and a range of federal and state programs exist to support those who have served. Whether you need help accessing VA healthcare, understanding your disability benefits, finding stable housing, or navigating a mental health crisis, you do not have to figure it out alone. Starting with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance (WVDVA) is often the best first step.
Many veterans are unaware of all the benefits they have earned. A VA-accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can review your service history and help you file claims at no cost. VSOs are available through national organizations such as the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans (DAV), and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), all of which have chapters across West Virginia. The WVDVA also employs state-level VSOs who can connect you to both federal VA benefits and state-specific programs.
If you are unsure where to start, call 2-1-1 West Virginia (dial 2-1-1 or 1-800-642-8522). Trained specialists can help you identify veteran-specific services for housing, food, utilities, mental health, and more in your county. For immediate mental health crises, veterans should call or text 988 and press 1 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line, available 24 hours a day.
Key programs in West Virginia
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) — Healthcare & Benefits
Comprehensive healthcare, disability compensation, pension, education (GI Bill), home loan guarantees, and more for eligible veterans and their dependents.
How to access: Apply online at VA.gov, call 1-800-827-1000, or visit a VA medical center or community-based outpatient clinic (CBOC) in West Virginia. Locations include Martinsburg, Beckley, Clarksburg, Huntington, and others. A free VSO can help you file claims.
West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance (WVDVA)
State agency that helps WV veterans access both federal VA benefits and state-specific programs, including the State Veterans Homes (long-term care facilities for eligible veterans) and burial assistance.
How to access: Visit veterans.wv.gov or call the WVDVA main office. State VSOs are available across West Virginia at no cost to help file or appeal VA claims and connect veterans to state-level services.
Veterans Crisis Line — 988, Press 1
Free, confidential crisis support 24/7 for veterans, service members, and their families experiencing emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, or a mental health emergency.
How to access: Call or text 988 then press 1, or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net. Responders are specially trained to support veterans. You do not need to be enrolled in VA healthcare to use this service.
HUD-VASH (HUD-VA Supportive Housing Program)
Combines HUD Housing Choice Vouchers with VA case management and supportive services to help homeless or at-risk veterans find and maintain permanent housing.
How to access: Contact your nearest VA medical center in West Virginia and ask to speak with a social worker about HUD-VASH eligibility. You can also call 2-1-1 West Virginia to be connected to local homeless veteran resources and Continuum of Care programs in your area.
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) — West Virginia
Federally funded program that helps low-income households, including veterans, pay heating and cooling bills. Administered in West Virginia through the WV Department of Health and Human Resources.
How to access: Apply through your local DHHR office or call 2-1-1 West Virginia to find the nearest application site. Eligibility is based on household income. Applications typically open in the fall for the heating season.
Veteran Resources resources for West Virginia
Other resources in West Virginia
- Housing Assistance in West Virginia
- Food Assistance in West Virginia
- Utility Assistance in West Virginia
- Transportation Assistance in West Virginia
- Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance in West Virginia
- Mental Health Resources in West Virginia
- Domestic Violence Resources in West Virginia
- Disability Resources in West Virginia
- Child & Family Assistance in West Virginia
- Senior Resources in West Virginia