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Assistance and Benefits for Veteran Single Mothers in Montana

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is built for Montana veteran single moms who need fast, specific help that actually pays bills, keeps housing, and covers care. You’ll find exact steps, phones, deadlines, and links to veteran‑only programs in Montana. We skip general “for everyone” programs on purpose and focus on what your service unlocked.


If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

  • Call the veteran homelessness line now: Dial 1-877-424-3838 to reach the 24/7 National Call Center for Homeless Veterans. Ask for Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) for rent, deposit, or utility shutoff help. Use your phone’s speaker and gather your lease and shutoff notices while they screen you. VA Homeless Programs, Housing resources page. (va.gov)
  • Get into VA Montana care today: Call 1-877-468-8387 (or 1-406-442-6410) to enroll, book same‑day mental health (if needed), and ask for the Women Veterans Program Manager. If pregnant, say “maternity care coordination” so VA assigns a Maternity Care Coordinator immediately. VA Montana Health Care, Women Veteran care in Montana. (va.gov)
  • Stop a utility shutoff or eviction fast: Tell SSVF you are a veteran with kids and imminent shutoff/eviction. Ask about “temporary financial assistance” and “shallow subsidy.” If you can’t get through, ask your VA social worker to submit an internal referral. SSVF program library, SSVF updates (2025). (va.gov)

Quick Help Box – Keep These 5 at Your Fingertips

Who this guide is for (and how to use it)

You’re a veteran and a single mom in Montana. Use this guide to move quickly through veteran‑only programs, including housing like HUD‑VASH in Montana, women’s health through VA Montana Health Care, and state benefits such as the Disabled Veteran Property Tax Assistance (MDV). Bookmark this page, keep your DD‑214 handy, and call to confirm current amounts and slots before applying. Funding shifts during the year. (commerce.mt.gov)

Fast‑Track Montana Veteran‑Only Benefits (At a Glance)

Program What it covers First action to take Typical timeline
SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) Back rent, utilities, deposits, case management Call 1-877-424-3838 and ask for SSVF screening Same day screening; payments vary by grantee
HUD‑VASH in Montana Long‑term rental voucher + VA case management Tell your VA social worker you want HUD‑VASH referral Waitlist depends on area and vouchers
VA Montana Women Veteran care Primary care, gynecology, maternity care coordination Call 1-877-468-8387; ask for Women Veterans Program Intake same week; maternity coordination starts ASAP
Beneficiary Travel Mileage, tolls, sometimes lodging/meals Turn on travel pay in the VA Health & Benefits app Claim within 30 days; pay to direct deposit
MDV Property Tax Relief 50%–100% property tax rate reduction for 100% SC vets Apply by April 15 with VA rating letter + income docs Annual verification; relief on current bill
Veterans’ Home Loan Program (MT) 30‑year mortgage at a special lower fixed rate Call 1-406-841-2700 or a participating lender Funding opens/closes; check availability

Notes: Income thresholds, loan limits, and travel mileage rates change; confirm before you apply. (va.gov)

Housing: Keep or Find a Place Fast

Start here: Call 1-877-424-3838 and say you’re a veteran with children in Montana at risk of homelessness. Ask for SSVF prevention (for back rent, utilities, deposits) or rapid re‑housing (if already homeless). SSVF is a veteran‑only program that can pay bills directly and pair you with a case manager. VA Homeless Programs, SSVF program library. (va.gov)

  • Eligibility: You must be a veteran (any discharge other than dishonorable), very low income, and either homeless or at imminent risk (e.g., eviction notice, utility shutoff). Tell them you’re a single parent to prioritize child safety. Have your DD‑214, lease, and notices ready. VA Housing Assistance, Housing resources page. (va.gov)
  • Where to get local help right now: In Montana, a major SSVF grantee is Volunteers of America Northern Rockies, with outreach offices in Billings, Butte, Great Falls, Helena, Miles City, Missoula, and Kalispell. Call 1-844-4‑VOA‑VET or contact your nearest VOA office. VOA Northern Rockies – locations (SSVF), DAV Montana rides to VA. (old.voanr.org)

HUD‑VASH (voucher + VA case management): If you need long‑term rent help, ask your VA social worker for a HUD‑VASH referral. Montana’s Department of Commerce administers vouchers and a project‑based option at Fort Harrison. Expect a waitlist in populated areas. HUD‑VASH in Montana, VA Montana Health Care. (commerce.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call MVAD at 1-406-324-3742 for a list of county VSO offices and ask them to escalate with VA social work; also call the VA Homeless Coordinator via 1-877-424-3838 and ask for a supervisor callback. Montana Veterans Affairs Division, Homeless Veterans hotline. (dma.mt.gov)

How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in Montana Today

First call: 1-877-424-3838. Say you have a shutoff notice and request an urgent SSVF prevention intake. Ask about (1) arrears payment, (2) deposit assistance, and (3) temporary financial assistance caps for your grantee. Keep the call open while you upload your shutoff letter. Housing resources page, SSVF program updates (Aug–Sep 2025). (va.gov)

Second call: Ask your VA social worker to email/fax your documents to the SSVF provider that same day and to note “imminent loss of utilities with minor child.” If you’re not enrolled, call VA Montana at 1-877-468-8387 and ask for the Homeless Program or Women Veterans Program for help coordinating. VA Montana contact, Women Veteran care in Montana. (va.gov)

Third option: If no SSVF funds are open, ask about SSVF “shallow subsidy” (a two‑year modest subsidy) and any emergency funds at local veteran nonprofits (e.g., VOA Northern Rockies, NW MT Veterans Food Pantry). Then call your utility to place a medical or safety hold while paperwork moves. SSVF housing resources, VOA locations (MT). (va.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Request a same‑day Vet Center counseling appointment to document the crisis and ask your counselor to email a warm handoff to VA social work/SSVF. Missoula, Billings, Great Falls, and Kalispell Vet Centers take walk‑ins during business hours. Missoula Vet Center, Billings Vet Center. (va.gov)

Women’s Health, Pregnancy, and Newborn Coverage

Most important: Tell VA you’re pregnant as soon as you know. VA assigns a Maternity Care Coordinator (MCC) who schedules community OB care, sets up supplies (pump, bras), and checks on you each trimester and through 12 months postpartum. Newborn care is covered on the date of birth plus 7 days. VA Maternity Care, VA FAQ maternity coverage. (womenshealth.va.gov)

  • How to start in Montana: Call VA Montana at 1-877-468-8387 and ask for the Women Veterans Program Manager (WVPM) or Maternity Care Coordination. You can also call the national WVCC at 1-855-829-6636 to connect you directly. VA Montana contact, WVCC. (va.gov)
  • What’s covered: Prenatal care, ultrasounds, genetic testing if needed, labor/delivery, lactation support, pumps/bras, and mental health support. If you get care off‑site, bills go to VA—not to you. Keep your MCC in the loop. VA maternity services, VA News: maternity coordination expanded. (womenshealth.va.gov)
  • Mental health & MST counseling: You can get same‑day mental health care at Fort Harrison, and confidential counseling at Vet Centers (no enrollment needed if you qualify). Schedule by phone; Missoula Vet Center offers same‑day crisis support. VA Montana – same‑day mental health, Missoula Vet Center. (va.gov)

CHAMPVA for your children: If you’re rated permanent and total and your kids aren’t eligible for TRICARE, CHAMPVA can cover them. Cards arrive in about 6 weeks after approval; call 1-800-733-8387 for status and ask about CITI care at VA facilities. CHAMPVA guide, Helpful VA phone numbers. (va.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Women Veterans Call Center at 1-855-829-6636 and ask them to contact Montana’s WVPM for you; or contact VA Health Connect 24/7 at 1-406-442-6410 to message your team. WVCC, VA Health Connect (MT). (womenshealth.va.gov)

Transportation to Care (So You Don’t Miss Appointments)

DAV Transportation Network runs free vans across Montana. Book a ride 2–3 business days ahead through Hospital Service Coordinators: Western MT 1-406-447-7760; Eastern MT 1-406-651-2143. Wheelchair transport may need VA Veteran Transportation Service (VTS); ask your clinic for coordination. Montana DAV Vans page, Fort Harrison location info. (va.gov)

Claim your mileage: VA pays $0.415/mile (deductible applies) for approved trips. Turn on “travel pay” in the VA Health & Benefits app or file online in BTSSS within 30 days; for help call 1-855-574-7292. Mileage rate & deductibles, How to file online. (va.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic to document “no‑show risk due to transport barrier” and to request VTS or social work assistance. If you had to drive, submit the mileage claim anyway—late claims are usually denied, but ask the BTSSS help line if an exception is possible. Submit travel claims, VA press: simpler phone claims. (va.gov)

Money You Earned: Disability, Education, and State Tax Relief

VA Disability Compensation (monthly, tax‑free): Rates effective Dec 1, 2024 (paid in 2025) show, for example, a 100% rating at $3,831.30/mo for a single veteran, with added amounts for children; rates adjust annually. File increases if symptoms worsened; add each child as a dependent. Current VA comp rates, VA disability overview. (va.gov)

Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E – Chapter 31): If you have a service‑connected disability that makes work harder, VR&E can fund training or school and pays a subsistence allowance (FY25 full‑time starts around 793–793–1,159 depending on dependents; some get the Post‑9/11 BAH alternative). Apply before using up your GI Bill if possible. VR&E FY25 rates, VR&E subsistence page. (benefits.va.gov)

GI Bill & school tools: Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool to see your Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) and decide between Post‑9/11, Montgomery, or VR&E. Verify enrollment monthly or your MHA will pause. Call 1-888-442-4551 for GI Bill questions. GI Bill home, Enrollment verification. (benefits.va.gov)

Montana Honorably Discharged Veteran Tuition Waiver: If your federal VA education benefits are exhausted, MUS may waive remaining in‑state tuition (last‑dollar). Apply by week 3 of your first term using the MUS portal. Keep SAP and residency. MUS Veteran Tuition Waiver, Award Montana veteran waiver FAQ. (mus.edu)

Montana Disabled Veteran (MDV) Property Tax Relief: If you’re 100% service‑connected (or an unremarried surviving spouse), you may get 50%–100% rate reduction based on income. Apply by April 15 each year with your VA rating letter and prior‑year income. 2025 income caps include Single up to $61,071 for minimum relief; brackets are adjusted annually. MDV 2025 page, MT Revenue deadlines (2025). (revenue.mt.gov)

Montana Veterans’ Home Loan Program: Fixed 30‑year mortgage, typically 1% below FNMA or MBOH rates; no income or asset limits, true first‑time homebuyer requirement, loan limit $517,020 (effective 05/13/25). Funds are limited; check availability before making offers. Veterans’ Home Loan (MT), Program update (July 30, 2025). (commerce.mt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a state VSO (MVAD) to review your file and file MDV or VA claims on your behalf; they can also fast‑track dependency adds and evidence. Call 1-406-324-3742 or visit Fort Harrison. MVAD, Fort Harrison Regional Benefits – VSOs. (dma.mt.gov)

Local Organizations and Veteran‑Focused Charities (Montana)

Employment and Small‑Business Help (Veteran‑Only Lanes)

Job Service Montana – DVOP/LVER: Ask for a Disabled Veterans’ Outreach Program (DVOP) specialist for one‑on‑one job search and training referrals; veterans get priority of service at job centers. Use your nearest office (Billings, Bozeman, Butte, Great Falls, Helena, Kalispell, Missoula, Polson). Veteran Services – Job Service Montana, Contact DVOPs list. (wsd.dli.mt.gov)

Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) – Big Sky EDA: Free coaching, business plans, loan readiness, Boots‑to‑Business. Montana is served by Big Sky VBOC in Billings (covers MT, WY, UT). Call 1-406-869-8411 or visit SBA’s MT District Office for lender referrals. VBOC directory (Rocky Mountain Region), SBA Montana District. (sba.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a DVOP to set a warm handoff to VBOC and local SBDC. For child‑care barriers, talk with your SSVF case manager; some can cover short‑term child‑care during job start as part of stabilization. Veteran Services – Job Service MT, SSVF program library. (wsd.dli.mt.gov)

Tables You Can Use Quickly

Health & Maternity: Where to Call

Need Best contact Notes
Women’s primary/OB care VA Montana Women Veteran care Ask for WVPM; MCC assigned if pregnant
Maternity benefits specifics VA Maternity Care Newborn care covered date of birth + 7 days
24/7 nurse/urgent questions VA Health Connect (MT) Call 1-406-442-6410 for advice and routing

(va.gov)

Housing & Homelessness: Fast Programs

Program What it pays for How to start
SSVF Arrears, deposits, utility shutoffs, case mgmt Call 1-877-424-3838 and request SSVF screening
HUD‑VASH (MT Commerce) Voucher + VA case management Ask VA social worker for HUD‑VASH referral

(va.gov)

Money & School

Benefit Why it helps Where to apply
VA Disability Compensation Monthly, tax‑free; higher with minor children Apply/Increase via VA.gov or with MVAD VSO
VR&E (Chapter 31) School/training + subsistence 793–793–1,159+ Apply online; ask about BAH option
MUS Veteran Tuition Waiver Last‑dollar tuition waiver if VA ed benefits exhausted Apply by week 3 of first term

(va.gov)

Transportation

Option Who to call Key details
DAV Vans (MT) West 1-406-447-7760; East 1-406-651-2143 Book 2–3 business days ahead
Beneficiary Travel 1-855-574-7292 41.5¢/mile; file within 30 days

(va.gov)

Montana State & Local

Resource What it does Contact
MVAD (state VSOs) Claims help; state benefits; referrals 1-406-324-3742; Fort Harrison
MDV property tax relief Up to 100% rate reduction Apply by April 15 annually

(dma.mt.gov)

Diverse Communities: Tailored Tips and Direct Lines

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask the WVPM to place you with LGBTQ‑affirming OB and mental health providers and to note pronouns in your record. Use the Women Veterans Call Center (1-855-829-6636) to escalate if you hit barriers, and request a Vet Center counselor with MST experience. WVCC, Vet Centers (Missoula example). Accessibility: TTY users can call 711 for relay to VA lines. (womenshealth.va.gov)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: If your condition limits work, VR&E can fund training plus a monthly allowance; ask about Post‑9/11 VR&E BAH option if larger. For a disabled child’s health coverage when you’re P&T, apply for CHAMPVA and ask your MCC/WVPM to help with forms. VR&E FY25 rates, CHAMPVA overview. Accessibility: Ask for large‑print letters and request reasonable accommodations at school and VA. (benefits.va.gov)

Veteran single mothers (post‑deployment stress or MST): You can get same‑day mental health at Fort Harrison and confidential Vet Center counseling without going through the hospital. If pregnant, your MCC keeps postpartum check‑ins for up to 12 months after delivery. VA Montana – same‑day mental health, VA expands maternity coordination. Accessibility: VA Video Connect appointments reduce travel. (va.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms who are U.S. veterans: Use MVAD to verify discharge and benefits and to help with documents if names vary across records. The Women Veterans Call Center can arrange interpreters via MyVA411 (ask when you call). MVAD, Helpful VA phone numbers (interpretation). Accessibility: Call for large‑print applications or TTY 711 if needed. (dma.mt.gov)

Tribal‑specific resources: SSVF is expanding in tribal and rural communities nationwide; ask the hotline for tribal SSVF coverage near you. Vet Centers also run services in rural posts by schedule. SSVF NOFO/expansion notes, Missoula Vet Center satellite info. Accessibility: Ask about telehealth or ATLAS sites at UM/MSU. (va.gov)

Rural single moms with limited access: Use VA Health Connect 24/7 at 1-406-442-6410; schedule telehealth or VA Health Chat so you don’t burn gas. ATLAS rooms on the UM and MSU campuses offer private, high‑speed VA telehealth pods. VA Health Connect (MT), ATLAS at MT universities. Accessibility: Ask for captioning in televisits if you need it. (va.gov)

Single fathers: Many programs in this guide are gender‑neutral for veterans with children. Use SSVF, HUD‑VASH, and DAV rides; for OB equivalents, ask for primary care and parenting support options. SSVF library, DAV Montana. (va.gov)

Language access: When calling MyVA411 (1-800-698-2411) say you need a language interpreter; they will add one to your call. Many Vet Centers can schedule interpreters if arranged in advance. Helpful VA numbers, Billings Vet Center locations. (va.gov)

Resources by Region (Examples You Can Call Today)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Reality Check (Read Before You Apply)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Goal Do this now Who to call / link
Stop eviction/shutoff Ask for SSVF prevention 1-877-424-3838; SSVF library
Get prenatal care Ask WVPM for MCC 1-877-468-8387; Women Veteran care (MT)
Ride to VA Book DAV van West 1-406-447-7760; East 1-406-651-2143; DAV Vans
Tuition help after GI Bill MUS Veteran Waiver MUS waivers
Lower property tax File MDV by Apr 15 MDV 2025

(va.gov)

Application Checklist (Print or Screenshot)

Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

Housing (SSVF/HUD‑VASH): Ask for the denial in writing and for a supervisor review. You can ask another SSVF grantee to review eligibility if boundaries overlap. Meanwhile, request a one‑time hotel or emergency rental bridge from local veteran nonprofits (VOA, Stand Down pantry). SSVF updates page, VOA locations (MT). (va.gov)

Benefits (VA claims, CHAMPVA): Use a state VSO (MVAD) to file a supplemental claim with new evidence or a higher‑level review. Call 1-800‑827‑1000 for claim status; for CHAMPVA, call 1‑800‑733‑8387. MVAD, Helpful VA numbers. (dma.mt.gov)

School funding: If MUS waiver is denied, ask financial aid to recalculate last‑dollar after new scholarships/PELL post, and resubmit before census date. For GI Bill hiccups, call 1‑888‑442‑4551. MUS Waivers, GI Bill contact. (mus.edu)

County‑Level Differences You Should Know

FAQs (Montana, Veteran Single‑Mom Focus)

How fast can SSVF actually pay a landlord or a utility?
It varies by grantee and documentation speed. Screening is often same day; payments take several days once your packet is complete. Ask your SSVF worker about General Housing Stability Assistance caps and whether shallow subsidy is available. SSVF weekly updates (Aug–Sep 2025), Jan 17, 2025 update. (va.gov)

I’m pregnant—will VA cover my birth in a community hospital near me?
Yes. VA covers maternity with community providers and assigns an MCC who coordinates it all. Newborn care is covered on the birth date plus 7 days; ask about pumps and lactation supplies. VA Maternity Care, Women’s Health FAQs. (womenshealth.va.gov)

Can I get a DAV ride with kids?
DAV vans carry ambulatory veterans to VA appointments; policies on children vary—ask the coordinator when booking. If no, ask VA about VTS or schedule telehealth. DAV Vans MT, VA Health Connect. (va.gov)

What’s the mileage rate and do I qualify for travel pay?
Most eligible veterans get $0.415/mile, minus a small deductible up to a monthly cap. File within 30 days or it’s usually denied. Mileage rate, How to file. (va.gov)

Does Montana waive tuition for veterans?
Yes—if you’re a Montana resident and your federal VA education benefits are exhausted, MUS can waive remaining in‑state tuition. Apply by week 3 of your first term. MUS Veteran Waiver, Award Montana FAQ. (mus.edu)

How do I lower my Montana property taxes as a 100% disabled vet?
Apply for MDV by April 15 with your VA 100% SC letter and prior‑year income. Relief ranges 50%–100% based on income and filing status. MDV 2025, Deadlines note. (revenue.mt.gov)

Who helps with claims if I’m overwhelmed?
Call MVAD (1‑406‑324‑3742) to meet a state Veterans Service Officer. They’ll file your claim or appeal for free and help with CHAMPVA and MDV. MVAD, Fort Harrison VSOs list. (dma.mt.gov)

Is there veteran‑specific business help in Montana?
Yes, VBOC (Big Sky EDA) in Billings covers Montana; they’ll coach you, prep lender files, and plug you into SBA programs. Phone 1‑406‑869‑8411. VBOC directory, SBA Montana District. (sba.gov)

Can I get confidential counseling without going to the hospital?
Yes—Vet Centers offer counseling (including MST) for eligible veterans and some family members. After hours, call 877‑927‑8387. Missoula Vet Center, Great Falls Vet Center. (va.gov)

What if I’m in immediate crisis?
Dial 988, Press 1, text 838255, or chat online. You don’t need to be enrolled in VA to use it. Veterans Crisis Line, What is 988. (veteranscrisisline.net)

Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Nota: Este resumen en español fue producido con herramientas de traducción de IA. Verifique detalles críticos por teléfono o con un representante.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

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

Eligibility rules, payment amounts, and availability change often and can differ by county and funding cycles. Call to confirm current availability before applying. Use links and phone numbers in this guide to reach official sources directly. If you are in crisis, dial 988 and Press 1 or call 911 for emergencies. VeteransCrisisLine, VA Contact. (veteranscrisisline.net)

What to do if this page didn’t answer your question

Tip: Save this guide, then add these to your phone favorites: 1‑877‑424‑3838, 1‑877‑468‑8387, 1‑855‑829‑6636, 1‑406‑447‑7760, 1‑406‑651‑2143. VA Homeless line, VA Montana. (va.gov)

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