Assistance and Benefits for Veteran Single Mothers in Mississippi

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is built for Mississippi veteran single moms who need straight answers and fast paths to real help. Every program here is veteran‑specific. When in doubt, verify details by calling the agency directly and asking for a women‑veteran point of contact.

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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call now if you’re at risk of homelessness: Contact the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 and press 1, or the VA’s National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1-877-424-3838. Ask to be connected to Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) in Mississippi; SSVF can pay deposits, first month’s rent, and past-due utilities to keep or secure housing. Learn what SSVF covers via the VA’s program page at Supportive Services for Veteran Families, and see recent Mississippi updates on SSVF Program Updates. (va.gov)
• Get into VA women’s health and maternity care: Call the Women Veterans Call Center at 1-855-829-6636 to fast‑track your enrollment and connect with your local Women Veterans Program Manager (WVPM). VA covers prenatal care, delivery, and newborn care for seven days after birth. Start at Women Veterans Health Care, use the WVPM locator, and review VA’s Maternity Care. (womenshealth.va.gov)
• Talk to a Mississippi Veterans Benefits Specialist about money you may be missing: Mississippi Department of Veterans Affairs (MSVA) has accredited Veterans Benefits Specialists who file claims for free and know the local rules. Start at MSVA Service Officers or call 1-601-576-4850. For federal claims questions or appointments, you can also contact the VA Jackson Regional Office at VA Jackson Regional Office (1-800-827-1000). (msva.ms.gov)

Quick help — numbers and links to keep handy

• Women Veterans help: Women Veterans Call Center 1-855-829-6636; connect to WVPMs at Jackson VA Women Veteran Care and VA Gulf Coast (Biloxi) Women Veteran Care. (womenshealth.va.gov)
• Housing & utilities crisis: National Call Center for Homeless Veterans 1-877-424-3838; local SSVF intake referrals via HUD Mississippi and Mississippi grantees such as MUTEH Legal Services for Veterans (601-960-0557). (hud.gov)
• DAV transportation to VA care: DAV Vans — Jackson VAMC 1-601-362-4471 ext. 51391; Gulf Coast system main line 1-800-296-8872 at VA Gulf Coast Contact. (va.gov)
• Debt relief on VA overpayments: VA Debt Management Center 1-800-827-0648; submit Financial Status Report (VA Form 5655). (va.gov)
• Job help for veterans & spouses: Free one‑on‑one coaching from Hire Heroes USA and local priority services at MDES WIN Job Centers. (hireheroesusa.org)

Who this guide is for and how to use it

You’ll find Mississippi and VA programs built for veterans, with steps that work for single parents. Every section starts with the most important action to take and ends with a Plan B. Keep your DD‑214, ID, and proof of Mississippi residency ready. Use your county Veterans Service Officer and Women Veterans Program Manager often; they are your fast lanes into the system at MSVA Service Officers and WVPM locator. (msva.ms.gov)

Fast‑Start Money You Might Be Missing (Veteran‑Only)

VA Disability Compensation and Adding Children

Action first: If you have a service‑connected rating and minor children, make sure your kids are added to your claim to receive the higher “with dependents” rate. Review the current dependent rates at VA compensation rates and update your dependents via your VSO. If you’re pregnant, tell your VSO now so the baby can be added once born. (va.gov)

• What to expect: VA updates usually show on your next monthly payment after the award is processed. Use VA Debt Management if you later get an overpayment letter due to timing. (va.gov)
• Plan B: If your claim is stuck, ask your MSVA Service Officer to file a “request for priority” noting you’re a single parent experiencing hardship, and keep documentation like eviction notices or shutoff warnings in your file. (msva.ms.gov)

Survivors benefits if you lost a spouse who served

Action first: If your child’s other parent died from service or had a permanent and total rating at death, apply for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) and/or Survivors Pension. Start with current DIC child and spouse rates and check the 2024–2025 Survivors Pension limits at Survivors Pension Rates. (va.gov)

• What to expect: Pension has strict income/net‑worth rules; as of December 1, 2024 the net‑worth limit is $159,240 and MAPR amounts adjust annually. Confirm with your VSO before filing. Learn how COLA adjustments affected 2024–2025 amounts in the Federal Register notice. (va.gov)
• Plan B: If denied, appeal with help from MSVA Service Officers or a VA‑accredited representative. You can search accreditation at VA OGC accreditation lookup. (msva.ms.gov)

Health care that fits single‑parent life

Women‑veteran primary care, mental health, and maternity care

Action first: Call the Women Veterans Call Center 1-855-829-6636. Ask to connect with the WVPM at your VA medical center and to enroll in maternity care coordination if you’re pregnant. Review covered services and the newborn coverage window at Maternity Care. (womenshealth.va.gov)

• Where to go in Mississippi: G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VAMC in Jackson offers dedicated women’s care; reach the team via Jackson Women Veteran Care. On the Coast, contact VA Gulf Coast Women Veterans Program. Both systems publish contact details on their Contact Us and Gulf Coast Contact pages. (va.gov)
• What to expect: VA covers prenatal labs, ultrasounds, meds, labor and delivery, lactation support, and newborn care on the date of birth plus seven days. Ask your coordinator to order a pump and supplies two weeks before your due date. Full details are at Maternity Care. (womenshealth.va.gov)
• Plan B: If scheduling or coverage gets bumpy, call the WVCC again and ask for care navigation help, or contact your facility’s Patient Advocate via the Jackson phone directory or the Gulf Coast phone directory. (va.gov)

MST (military sexual trauma) care and counseling

Action first: You can get free MST‑related care at VA even if you never reported it and even if you’re not enrolled in VA health care. Start here: VA MST care overview and Vet Center MST counseling. (va.gov)

• Where to talk off‑record: Vet Centers in Flowood (Jackson‑area) and Biloxi offer confidential counseling for you and your family. See Jackson Vet Center and Biloxi Vet Center. After hours, call 1-877-927-8387. (va.gov)
• Plan B: If you feel unsafe or face harassment at a VA facility, call the Women Veterans Call Center 1-855-829-6636 and ask for the local MST Coordinator, or request a Patient Advocate via VA Jackson Contact. (va.gov)

Getting to appointments when you don’t have a ride

Action first: Use the DAV Transportation Network. At Jackson VAMC, call 1-601-362-4471 ext. 51391 to schedule a free ride to a VA appointment. Details: DAV Vans — Jackson. Gulf Coast main line is 1-800-296-8872 via VA Gulf Coast Contact. (va.gov)

• Plan B: Ask your clinic social worker for mileage reimbursement or ride‑share vouchers through VA Community Care policies when available; if you’re stuck, call the clinic and the Patient Advocate listed on VA Jackson Contact. (va.gov)

Keep your housing stable (rent, deposits, utilities)

SSVF and HUD‑VASH in Mississippi

Action first: If you’re facing eviction or a utility shutoff, ask for SSVF screening. SSVF provides time‑limited payments to landlords, utility companies, movers, and licensed childcare providers to keep you stably housed. Learn the rules at VA SSVF Program Services and find 2025 grant news at SSVF Program. For long‑term rental help with case management, ask your VA social worker about HUD‑VASH. (va.gov)

• Local contacts: Jackson VA Homeless Program (ask for HUD‑VASH) via 1-601-362-4471 ext. 5191, as posted in VA Jackson HUD‑VASH story page. For Coast‑area Veterans, call VA Gulf Coast at 1-800-296-8872 and ask for Homeless Programs. (va.gov)
• Mississippi SSVF legal help: If a custody or eviction case is blocking housing, ask for a Legal Services for Veterans referral. In Mississippi, MUTEH Legal Services for Veterans can help with family law, housing, child support, and discharge upgrades. (mutehlegalservices.org)
• Plan B: If you can’t reach a local team fast enough, contact HUD’s Mississippi field office for landlord or voucher referrals at HUD Mississippi Office or dial 2‑1‑1 and ask for veteran housing resources, as directed on HUD Mississippi resources. (hud.gov)

How to stop a utility shutoff in Mississippi today (veteran‑specific moves)

Action first: Call your VA homeless program or SSVF grantee and ask for “temporary financial assistance for utilities.” The program can pay past‑due amounts if it prevents homelessness. Bring your shutoff notice. Read SSVF’s payment rules at Program Services. (va.gov)

• Ask these two charities while SSVF screens your case:
  • The American Legion Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA) — one‑time grant up to $2,500 for Legion members or Title 10 active‑duty with minor children at home; request through a local post. Update May 2025 raised the cap: TFA grant amount increases. (legion.org)
  • PenFed Foundation Military Heroes Individual Grants — emergency help for veterans in extraordinary hardship; decisions aim within 10 days; funds paid to creditors. See the broader program at Military Heroes Program. (penfedfoundation.org)
• Reality check: The VFW “Unmet Needs” program now focuses on active‑duty/activated Guard & Reserve (up to $2,500), not most veterans; read eligibility carefully at VFW Financial Assistance. (vfw.org)
• Plan B: If you’re still short, ask your VA social worker to document medical necessity (e.g., refrigerated meds) and request a utility medical‑hardship hold, then request a rapid re‑evaluation with your SSVF case manager (utility aid can be re‑issued if it prevents loss of housing). Guidance lives on SSVF Program. (va.gov)

Location‑specific help

• Jackson Water Bill Help: Ask Voice of Calvary Ministries about rent/utility stabilization and housing counseling while SSVF processes your case; reach Jackson VA Homeless Program at 1-601-362-4471 ext. 5191 via HUD‑VASH contact. (vocm.org)
• Gulfport–Biloxi Water Bill Help: Contact VA Gulf Coast (Biloxi) — main 1-800-296-8872 and ask for Homeless Programs; consider counseling support through the Biloxi Vet Center. (va.gov)
• Hattiesburg–Pine Belt Water Bill Help: Ask SSVF to coordinate with Pine Belt Mental Healthcare Resources and check for veteran family support groups through NAMI Pine Belt; connect to Jackson VA’s Hattiesburg clinic via VA Jackson Locations. (msreentryguide.com)

Home loans, owning a place, and property taxes

Mississippi Veterans’ Home Purchase Board (state program)

Action first: If you want to buy or refinance in Mississippi with a VA‑backed mortgage and competitive rates serviced by a veteran‑run state agency, apply at the Veterans’ Home Purchase Board (VHPB) or call 1-601-576-4800. They publish a document checklist and accept online applications. See contact details at VHPB — Contact. (vhpb.ms.gov)

• What to expect: Typical mortgage timelines are 30–45 days if your documents are complete; have DD‑214/NGB‑22, pay stubs, W‑2s/tax returns, and bank statements ready as listed on the application page. (vhpb.ms.gov)
• Plan B: If you can’t qualify today, ask your WVPM or VSO to screen you for SAH/SHA home adaptation grants if you have a qualifying disability. The FY2025 maximums are $121,812(SAH)and$24,405 (SHA); temporary residence caps are $49,062(SAH)and$8,760 (SHA). (va.gov)

Property tax, tags, and hunting/fishing benefits (disabled veterans)

Action first: If you’re 100% service‑connected permanent and total, claim the full ad valorem tax exemption on your homestead and $1 license tag. Start at MSVA state benefits and see DOR’s plate guidance at DOR Motor Vehicle Licensing FAQs. (msva.ms.gov)

• Outdoor benefits: If you’re totally service‑connected disabled, you don’t need a hunting/fishing license; carry proof of Mississippi residency and VA disability. See MDWFP Disabled Exempt License and application details under Permits & Applications. (mdwfp.com)
• Plan B: If the tax office pushes back on your exemption, take your VA rating letter or IU letter to your county assessor and cite Miss. Code §27‑33‑75 and §27‑33‑67 as summarized at MSVA state benefits. (msva.ms.gov)

Education, training, and career moves

In‑state tuition and GI Bill

Action first: Non‑resident veterans and eligible GI Bill users are charged in‑state tuition under Mississippi Code §37‑103‑25; verify with your campus Veteran Services. See state summary at MSVA education benefits and note 2025 legislative clarifications to the in‑state tuition law in SB2526 (2025). (msva.ms.gov)

• Campus example: Mississippi State University waives 100% of the non‑resident portion for veterans, service members, and dependents; see MSU Veteran Non‑Resident Waiver and Admissions Veterans page. (veterans.msstate.edu)
• Plan B: If you’re out of GI Bill and low income with children, ask MSVA to screen you for Survivors Pension (if you’re a surviving spouse) or look at VR&E Chapter 31 if you have a service‑connected disability and employment barrier. (va.gov)

Job placement and resume help for veterans and spouses

Action first: Register with Hire Heroes USA for free 1‑on‑1 coaching, resume writing, and mock interviews. Then visit your nearest MDES WIN Job Center and ask for the Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) specialist for priority services. (hireheroesusa.org)

• Reality check: Federal and state hiring use veteran preference points and tie‑breakers; Mississippi lists veterans and disabled veterans at the top of eligible lists. See MS State Personnel Board — Information for Veterans and veteran retention scoring at LII State regs (27 Miss. Code R. 110‑7.3). (mspb.ms.gov)
• Plan B: If you need a federal resume reviewed or want to switch to federal employment, join Hire Heroes’ federal webinars (see events on Hire Heroes USA) and connect with a VSO at the VA Jackson Regional Office for USAJOBS preference verification. (hireheroesusa.org)

Legal help when custody, support, or eviction threatens stability

Action first: If a court date could cost you housing or custody, ask your VA social worker or VSO for a Legal Services for Veterans (LSV) referral. In Mississippi, MUTEH Legal Services for Veterans serves homeless/at‑risk veterans with housing law, child support, and more. (mutehlegalservices.org)

• Local clinic option: Mississippi College School of Law runs a free Veterans Legal Aid Clinic most Fridays in Jackson; bring your DD‑214. The state judiciary lists it under veteran resources at MS Courts — Civil Legal Assistance. (law.mc.edu)
• Plan B: Ask for an SSVF “critical needs” payment to stop eviction while your case is pending. Program rules for time‑limited payments are at SSVF Program Services. (va.gov)

Mental health and peer support

Action first: Use Vet Centers for confidential, family‑friendly counseling that won’t show in your VA medical record. Contact Jackson Vet Center (Flowood) or Biloxi Vet Center; after hours call 1-877-927-8387. (va.gov)

• Local events & prevention: Jackson VA hosts community summits and women‑veteran events; watch the VA Jackson Health Care events pages and ask the Women Veterans team listed at Jackson contact. (va.gov)
• Plan B: If you’re in crisis, dial 988 and press 1, or text 838255. Ask your VA clinic about local mobile crisis teams; Pine Belt MHC and other CMHCs operate 24/7 teams listed by county at MS Dept. of Mental Health — Intensive Community Services. (dmh.ms.gov)

Transportation, records, and debt

Action first: Set up rides to VA through DAV Vans — Jackson or the Coast’s main line at VA Gulf Coast Contact. For records or benefits appointments, go to VA Jackson Regional Office. (va.gov)

• If VA says you owe money: Call VA Debt Management Center at 1-800-827-0648 and, if needed, submit VA Form 5655 to request a waiver or payment plan. VA pauses collections during review when you request help on time. (va.gov)
• Plan B: Ask your VSO to file a dispute if you believe the overpayment is wrong; instructions and timelines are posted under VA Debt Management resources. (va.gov)

Mississippi resources at a glance (tables you can use)

Quick links for veteran single moms

(va.gov)

Women’s health & maternity — Mississippi contacts

(va.gov)

Housing & legal — veteran‑specific

(va.gov)

Emergency cash — veteran & family‑focused

Education & career

(msva.ms.gov)

How to apply (and win) — step‑by‑step

Filing a VA claim or update with a Mississippi VSO

Action first: Book a VSO appointment. Use MSVA Service Officers to find your county or campus office; they file free. If you live near Jackson VAMC, MSVA has an embedded Veterans Benefits Specialist listed on the MSVA directory. (msva.ms.gov)

• Bring these documents:
  • DD‑214/NGB‑22: Proof of service. Get help requesting it via your VSO at MSVA Service Officers.
  • Mississippi ID + proof of address: Lease or utility bill for state programs like MSVA state benefits.
  • Children’s birth certificates/SSNs: To add dependents; see VA compensation rates (dependents).
  • Medical evidence: Clinic notes, nexus letters; coordinators at VA Jackson Health Care can help print records.

  (msva.ms.gov)

• Timelines: VSO callbacks usually within 3–5 business days. Claims vary widely; complex claims may take months. Ask your VSO to set alerts and upload any missing dependent docs to prevent avoidable delays, then follow up every 30 days. Use VA Jackson Regional Office appointment system (VERA) when you need to escalate. (benefits.va.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: If you get no response after a week, call MSVA HQ 1‑601‑576‑4850 and request a different Service Officer from the list at MSVA Service Officers. (msva.ms.gov)

Getting a Mississippi veterans’ mortgage (VHPB)

Action first: Apply online with the Veterans’ Home Purchase Board or call 1‑601‑576‑4800 for a document packet and pre‑qualification. (vhpb.ms.gov)

• Required documents: DD‑214/NGB‑22, Mississippi driver’s license, last two years’ W‑2s/tax returns, 30 days of pay stubs, and two months of bank statements — exactly as listed under “Required Documents” at How to Apply. (vhpb.ms.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: If credit or debt‑to‑income is the hurdle, ask about credit‑rebuild steps and recheck in 60–90 days. If disability affects access, consider VA housing adaptations via Disability Housing Grants for Veterans. (va.gov)

Diverse Communities — tailored tips and contacts

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your WVPM for providers with LGBTQ+ experience and request a trauma‑informed, gender‑affirming clinician through Women Veterans Health Care. Use Vet Centers for confidential family counseling at Jackson Vet Center or Biloxi Vet Center. For housing help, SSVF is identity‑neutral and focused on rapid stabilization at SSVF Program. (womenshealth.va.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: If your rating is 70%+ and you need a caregiver, the PCAFC program may provide caregiver stipends and CHAMPVA for the caregiver; start at VA Caregiver Support Program (PCAFC). Children of 100% P&T veterans may qualify for CHAMPVA — file quickly after birth or adoption. (caregiver.va.gov)
• Veteran single mothers (women veterans facing MST or postpartum): Use Maternity Care for postpartum support and lactation supplies; for trauma‑informed care, ask for the MST Coordinator via VA MST overview. Vet Centers offer MST groups with strict confidentiality at Vet Center MST counseling. (womenshealth.va.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms who are veterans: Your VA care and benefits eligibility is based on service, not citizenship. Use Women Veterans Call Center to navigate language options and set appointments; request interpreters at VA Jackson Health Care. For legal status issues that affect housing, ask for an LSV referral via MUTEH Legal Services for Veterans. (womenshealth.va.gov)
• Tribal‑specific resources: Ask your WVPM to connect you with VA staff experienced in serving Native veterans, and note that SSVF has a 2026 priority to expand rural and tribal outreach — Mississippi veterans can still access current grantees via SSVF Program Updates. Use HUD‑VASH or SSVF regardless of tribal affiliation by calling 1‑877‑424‑3838 or your VA Homeless Program listed at HUD‑VASH contact (Jackson). (va.gov)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Use DAV Vans — Jackson and ask your clinic for VA Video Connect appointments via your WVPM. If phone service is spotty, the VA public affairs team in Jackson can help coordinate rides; see press contact info and rides callout at DAV Transportation page. (va.gov)
• Single fathers: If you’re a single dad veteran, every program here also applies to you. Contact the Women Veterans Call Center to get routed to the right local coordinator, or go directly through VA Jackson Health Care and ask for Primary Care. For legal parenting issues that affect housing, try MUTEH Legal Services for Veterans. (womenshealth.va.gov)
• Language access & accessibility: Ask your VA to provide TTY 711 services and large‑print materials through VA Gulf Coast Contact and VA Jackson Contact. For hearing or mobility barriers, request accommodations in your appointment request. (va.gov)

Resources by Region (Mississippi)

(va.gov)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Not adding kids to your VA file: You won’t receive the higher “with dependents” rate until you add each child — fix it with your VSO using the tables at VA compensation rates. (va.gov)
• Waiting too long to call about housing: SSVF works best before an eviction; call 1‑877‑424‑3838 at SSVF as soon as the notice hits your door. (va.gov)
• Ignoring VA debt letters: If you don’t respond by the deadline, collections start. Call VA Debt Management immediately and request a waiver or plan with VA Form 5655. (va.gov)

Reality Check — delays and shortages you should plan around

• Housing help is funding‑limited: SSVF and HUD‑VASH funds shift each year. Mississippi continues to receive awards nationally (2024–2025 cycles), but local capacity changes. Ask your VA Homeless Program about current openings and waitlists shown in SSVF announcements and VA press releases like FY2025 homelessness grants. Always call to confirm availability. (va.gov)
• Women’s care staffing: WVPMs juggle many roles. If calls go unanswered, use the Women Veterans Call Center to escalate and document the request. (womenshealth.va.gov)
• Mortgage interest rates: VHPB offers competitive rates but can change with the market. Confirm today’s rate and points at VHPB and compare with a VA loan from a private lender. (vhpb.ms.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Women Veterans enrollment & maternity: WVCC 1-855-829-6636; Maternity Care. (womenshealth.va.gov)
• Housing stabilization: SSVF/1‑877‑424‑3838; HUD‑VASH (Jackson contact). (va.gov)
• Free claims help: MSVA Service Officers; VA Jackson Regional Office. (msva.ms.gov)
• Transportation: DAV Vans — Jackson and VA Gulf Coast Contact. (va.gov)
• Debt & hardship: VA Debt Management / VA Form 5655. (va.gov)

Application Checklist (screenshot this)

• Proof of service: DD‑214/NGB‑22 (ask your VSO at MSVA Service Officers if you need a copy).
• Mississippi residency: MS driver’s license + lease/utility bill (needed for property tax, MSVA state benefits).
• Children’s documents: Birth certificates, Social Security numbers (for VA compensation dependents).
• Income/benefit proof: Pay stubs, tax returns, award letters (helps with SSVF or VHPB).
• Landlord/utility info: Lease, shutoff notices, account numbers (for SSVF payments).
• Medical records list: Ask Release of Information at VA Jackson Health Care to print needed records for claims.

  (msva.ms.gov)

If Your Application Gets Denied (troubleshooting)

• Housing denial: Ask for the reason in writing. If “income just over limit,” show new bills or childcare costs and request reconsideration; SSVF allows time‑limited payments if they prevent homelessness per Program Services. If “no units,” ask to be bridged to HUD‑VASH via Jackson HUD‑VASH. (va.gov)
• VA benefits denial: Immediately contact your MSVA Service Officer to file a Supplemental Claim or Higher‑Level Review. Keep deadlines tight. If debt results, call VA Debt Management and request a waiver while your appeal runs. (msva.ms.gov)
• Education/tuition waiver denial: Cite §37‑103‑25 (in‑state tuition for veterans/GI Bill users) and show the school MSVA state benefits page plus recent legislative clarifications SB2526. (msva.ms.gov)

Local organizations, charities, churches, and support groups (veteran‑friendly)

• Voice of Calvary Ministries (Jackson): Housing counseling, rent/utility support, and food distributions; see VOCM Housing Program and Contact VOCM. (vocm.org)
• MUTEH (statewide CoC lead): Coordinates homeless services and veteran initiatives; start at MUTEH About and veteran legal support at MUTEH Legal Services for Veterans. (muteh.org)
• DAV Mississippi: Rides to care and local veteran support through the state department; contact at DAV Department of Mississippi. For Jackson VAMC van scheduling, see DAV Vans — Jackson. (davms.org)
• Vet Centers (confidential counseling): Jackson Vet Center and Biloxi Vet Center; 24/7 call center 1‑877‑927‑8387. (va.gov)
• WIN Job Centers (statewide employment): Find your local center at MDES WIN Job Centers; ask for DVOP/LVER veterans staff. Pair with Hire Heroes USA for resume help. (mdes.ms.gov)

County differences to know

• Homestead property tax: Exemption processing is county‑by‑county. Bring your 100% P&T rating letter to the county tax assessor. Statutory authority summarized at MSVA state benefits. Car tags for disabled veterans are $1 under §27‑19‑53; DOR guidance at DOR Motor Vehicle FAQs. (msva.ms.gov)
• Hunting/fishing exemptions: Wardens may vary in enforcement; carry your residency and disability proof even if you obtained the Disabled Exempt license. Rules posted at MDWFP Exempt Licenses. (mdwfp.com)
• DAV van routes: Schedules vary by county; call the Volunteer Services number listed on DAV Vans — Jackson to confirm pickup points. (va.gov)

FAQs (Mississippi veteran single moms)

1. How fast can SSVF pay a landlord or utility company?
   SSVF aims for rapid stabilization; once enrolled, time‑limited payments to third parties can process quickly if your documentation is complete. Ask your case manager for expected turnaround in your county. Program payment authority is outlined at SSVF Program Services and general program info at SSVF main page. Always call to confirm current availability. (va.gov)
2. Does VA maternity care include newborn coverage?
   Yes — newborn care is covered on the date of birth plus seven days. Coordinate through your Maternity Care Coordinator listed under Maternity Care. (womenshealth.va.gov)
3. Where do I get confidential counseling that won’t show in my VA medical record?
   Vet Centers. Call 1‑877‑927‑8387, or reach out to Jackson Vet Center or Biloxi Vet Center. (va.gov)
4. Can the state help me buy a home as a veteran?
   Yes — Mississippi operates the Veterans’ Home Purchase Board (VHPB) offering VA‑backed mortgages with local servicing. Call 1‑601‑576‑4800. (vhpb.ms.gov)
5. Do my kids qualify for CHAMPVA?
   If you’re 100% permanent and total and your children aren’t eligible for TRICARE, they may qualify for CHAMPVA. Apply as soon as you have birth certificates and SSNs. (va.gov)
6. I got a VA overpayment I can’t afford. What now?
   Call VA Debt Management at 1‑800‑827‑0648 and request a waiver or repayment plan with VA Form 5655. Collections pause while your request is reviewed if you file on time. (va.gov)
7. Can SSVF pay for childcare so I can keep my job?
   Yes — if it is necessary to maintain housing, SSVF can make time‑limited payments to licensed childcare providers. Confirm with your grantee using SSVF Program Services. (va.gov)
8. How do I claim the $1 disabled veteran tag and homestead exemption?
   Take your rating letter to your county tax office; see statutes summarized at MSVA state benefits and DOR guidance at DOR Motor Vehicle FAQs. (msva.ms.gov)
9. Are there jobs that actually give me preference right now?
   Yes — State of Mississippi hiring lists veterans at the top and disabled veterans first. See MSPB Information for Veterans. Pair that with free coaching via Hire Heroes USA. (mspb.ms.gov)
10. What about hunting weekends with my kids — do I need to buy a license?
    If you’re totally service‑connected disabled, you’re exempt from hunting/fishing license purchases in Mississippi, but carry proof of disability/residency. See MDWFP Exempt Licenses. (mdwfp.com)

Spanish — Resumen breve (producido con herramientas de traducción de IA)

Acción inmediata: Llama al 1‑877‑424‑3838 para vivienda de emergencia (SSVF) y al 1‑855‑829‑6636 para atención médica de mujeres veteranas y embarazo (WVCC). Programas y contactos: SSVF — Vivienda para Familias de Veteranos, Salud de Mujeres Veteranas, Atención de Maternidad de VA.

• Reclamaciones y beneficios en Mississippi: Cita con MSVA — Oficiales de Servicio. Oficina Regional del VA en Jackson: VA Jackson Regional Office 1‑800‑827‑1000.
• Apoyo legal y vivienda: MUTEH — Servicios Legales para Veteranos 1‑601‑960‑0557; HUD‑VASH (váucher de alquiler) en Contacto HUD‑VASH Jackson.
• Transporte y deudas: Transporte DAV — DAV Vans Jackson; deudas con VA — Gestión de Deuda del VA 1‑800‑827‑0648.
• Educación y empleo: Matrícula como residente para veteranos — MSVA Beneficios Educativos; empleo — Hire Heroes USA y MDES WIN Job Centers.

(va.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Mississippi Department of Veterans Affairs (MSVA)
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — Women Veterans Health
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs — SSVF
• VA Jackson Health Care System
• VA Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System
• Veterans’ Home Purchase Board of Mississippi
• HUD — Mississippi Field Office

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

Scope: This guide focuses on veteran‑specific programs for Mississippi single parents who served. It does not cover general public benefits. Verification: Benefit amounts and rules can change; always confirm current availability with the agency links provided. Safety: If you’re in danger or at risk of homelessness tonight, call 988 (press 1) or 1‑877‑424‑3838 immediately and ask for veteran assistance through the resources linked above at Women Veterans Health and SSVF. (womenshealth.va.gov)

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• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery