Assistance and Benefits for Veteran Single Mothers in Vermont
Assistance and Benefits for Veteran Single Mothers in Vermont
Last updated: September 2025
This is a practical, Vermont‑specific guide for veteran single moms who need real help now. It focuses on veteran‑only programs and benefits (not general state or federal programs). You’ll find immediate steps, statewide and regional contacts, realistic timelines, eligibility rules, and how to apply—plus back‑up plans when things don’t go as expected. For personalized help, you can start with the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs and the VA White River Junction Health Care System. (veterans.vermont.gov)
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call now: If you’re newly homeless or at risk within 7 days, call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans (877‑424‑3838) and ask for a HUD‑VASH or SSVF referral in Vermont. Also call SSVF at the University of Vermont to request same‑day screening. (hud.gov)
- Tap women‑veteran support: Text or call the Women Veterans Call Center (855‑829‑6636) and ask to be connected to the White River Junction Women Veteran Program Manager and Maternity Care Coordinator (if you’re pregnant or postpartum). Use VA White River Junction Women Veteran Care for local coordination. (womenshealth.va.gov)
- Stop a utility shutoff today: Call the Vermont Department of Public Service – CAPI and tell them you’re a veteran facing disconnection; ask for help negotiating a payment plan under PUC Rule 3.300, then contact your utility to set terms. If electric, call Green Mountain Power Customer Care (888‑835‑4672). (publicservice.vermont.gov)
Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and press 1, or text 838255; reach confidential care 24/7 via Veterans Crisis Line and WRJ Suicide Prevention Team. (womenshealth.va.gov)
- Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs (benefits & state programs): Call 1‑802‑828‑3379 and see Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs for property tax exemptions, plates, and local referrals. (veterans.vermont.gov)
- White River Junction VA Medical Center: Call 1‑802‑295‑9363 or 1‑866‑687‑8387; locations and hours at VA White River Junction Health Care. (va.gov)
- SSVF statewide housing navigation: Call Supportive Services for Veteran Families at UVM at 1‑844‑820‑3232 or 1‑802‑656‑3232 for rent/deposit/rapid rehousing help. (ssvf-uvm.com)
- Women Veterans Call Center (navigation & benefits): Call or text WVCC (855‑829‑6636); chat online through Women Veterans Health. (womenshealth.va.gov)
Who This Guide Is For
You served, you’re raising kids solo in Vermont, and you need veteran‑specific help fast. Use the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs for state benefits and trained service officer referrals, and lean on the VA White River Junction Health Care System for healthcare, maternity, and women‑specific services. This guide focuses on programs limited to veterans and their families—not general assistance for all residents. (veterans.vermont.gov)
VA Health Care and Women Veteran Services in Vermont
Start here: Enroll (or check your status) with VA White River Junction Health Care and ask for the Women Veteran Care Coordinator. If you’re unsure about eligibility, call VA Health Benefits (877‑222‑8387) or WVCC (855‑829‑6636) to get routed to the right person. (va.gov)
What you get: White River Junction offers primary care and specialty services for women, plus maternity coordination and mental health—along with CBOCs in Bennington, Brattleboro, Burlington‑Lakeside, Newport, and Rutland. Use Women Veteran Care (WRJ) and OVA’s Healthcare Locations list to find the nearest clinic. (va.gov)
Maternity & newborn care: VA covers prenatal care, labor/delivery, and newborn care on the date of birth plus 7 days; you also get a maternity care coordinator through 12 months postpartum for follow‑up, supplies (e.g., breast pump), and referrals. See VA Maternity Care and the recent expansion described by DAV. **Apply early—**tell your PCP you’re pregnant so the coordinator can authorize community obstetrics. (womenshealth.va.gov)
Reality Check: Coverage for abortion services is in flux at VA as of August–September 2025. If you might be affected, ask WVCC for the latest guidance and local referrals for time‑sensitive care. Track updates via Washington Post coverage and AP News, and confirm with Women Veterans Health before decisions. (washingtonpost.com)
Military Sexual Trauma (MST): Care for MST‑related conditions is free—no disability rating, proof, or VA enrollment required. Contact the MST Coordinator via VA MST page, or use the confidential Vet Center in South Burlington. Both are survivor‑centered and can connect you to counseling, groups, and claims support. (va.gov)
PTSD & mental health: Vermont hosts the headquarters (Executive Division) of the National Center for PTSD in White River Junction. Use National Center for PTSD and WRJ Mental Health Clinic for evidence‑based care, apps, and groups. For urgent risk, call 988 (press 1). (ptsd.va.gov)
Dental care: Most veterans don’t qualify for full VA dental; however, enrolled veterans and CHAMPVA beneficiaries can buy discounted coverage via VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP). Ask WRJ if dental is provided via community care in your case and use VADIP details for plan options. (va.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Women Veterans Call Center to escalate; ask Patient Advocate at WRJ contact page; and consider Vet Center services if you prefer off‑record counseling. (womenshealth.va.gov)
Quick Overview Table — Health & Wellness for Women Veterans in Vermont
Cite the contacts below when you call to speed things up. Use the WRJ Health Care main line if you’re unsure which office you need. (va.gov)
| Program | What it covers | How to start | Typical timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Women Veteran Care (WRJ) | Primary care, gyn, maternity coord., mental health | Call WRJ; ask for Women Veteran Care Coordinator | New patient appt. often within 30 days; urgent sooner |
| Maternity Care | Prenatal, delivery, newborn day‑of‑birth + 7 days, supplies | Notify PCP; MCC authorizes OB care | Referrals typically 3–10 business days |
| MST Care | Free MST‑related care regardless of status | Ask for MST Coordinator; or Vet Center | Intake within days; therapy schedules vary |
| PTSD resources | Evidence‑based therapy, apps, education | Call WRJ Mental Health Clinic | Varies; ask for earliest available |
| VADIP dental | Discounted dental insurance | Enroll via Delta/MetLife | Coverage starts per plan rules |
Housing Help for Veteran Single Moms
First call: Use SSVF at the University of Vermont for screening if you’re homeless or about to lose housing; they provide rapid rehousing, prevention, and case management statewide. If you can’t reach them, call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans (877‑424‑3838) and ask for a Vermont referral. (ssvf-uvm.com)
HUD‑VASH vouchers: Ask your VA social worker about HUD‑VASH (voucher + case management). Vermont’s vouchers are coordinated with Vermont State Housing Authority and local housing authorities; for general HUD questions, contact HUD Vermont Field Office. Expect waitlists in Chittenden and other tight markets—ask about temporary placements while you wait. (vsha.org)
Friends of Veterans (local emergency aid): If you need one‑time help (rent, deposit, utilities, car repair to keep your job), apply to Friends of Veterans (cap usually 750–750–1,000; documentation required). They serve VT and NH and can help with the application by phone. (fovvtnh.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs about the Vermont Veteran Assistance Fund (one‑time up to about $500; quick phone application if funds are available). Call 1‑888‑666‑9844 or 1‑802‑828‑3379 to request screening. (veterans.vermont.gov)
Housing Programs at a Glance (Vermont)
Use these side‑by‑side notes when you call. For new homelessness, contact SSVF at UVM first, then ask about HUD‑VASH seconds. (ssvf-uvm.com)
| Program | Who it helps | What it pays for | How to apply | Expected time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SSVF at UVM | Very low‑income veteran families homeless or at risk | Arrears, deposits, short‑term rent, case mgmt. | Call 1‑844‑820‑3232 or 1‑802‑656‑3232 | Screening often same day; payments vary by documentation |
| HUD‑VASH | Homeless veterans eligible for case mgmt. | Long‑term voucher + case mgmt. | Ask VA or VSHA about openings | Waitlist likely; plan for interim shelter |
| Friends of Veterans | VT/NH veteran families in crisis | Rent, utilities, car repair, service dog support | Online form or call 1‑802‑296‑8368 | 1–2 weeks if documents complete |
| Vermont Veteran Assistance Fund | VT veterans w/ urgent critical need | One‑time small grant | Call OVA 1‑888‑666‑9844 or 1‑802‑828‑3379 | 1–5 business days depending on funds |
Reality Check: SSVF and HUD‑VASH are grant‑ and voucher‑limited. If funds are exhausted, ask SSVF to flag you for the next opening and to help you apply for any VSHA programs in the meantime. Always confirm current availability before applying. (vsha.org)
Plan B: If veteran‑specific funds are tapped out, ask your SSVF case manager to help you file a formal complaint with Vermont Public Utility Commission Consumer Service for disconnection protection and contact DPS CAPI for negotiated payment arrangements while other aid is pending. (puc.vermont.gov)
Money, Transportation, and Daily Needs
Emergency cash help: Beyond OVA’s small grants, some national nonprofits can help post‑9/11 wounded/ill/injured veterans with essential bills. Check Operation Homefront—Critical Financial Assistance (eligibility varies; typical 3‑stage process over 2–4 weeks) and PenFed Foundation programs (grants are cyclical; confirm current status). Always verify rules and wait times before counting on them. (operationhomefront.org)
Travel to care: File mileage and common carrier claims via the Beneficiary Travel system. As of August 26, 2025, you can submit mileage‑only claims in the VA Health & Benefits app; otherwise use BTSSS or call 855‑574‑7292 (BTSSS help desk). For free rides, ask the DAV Transportation Network at WRJ. (news.va.gov)
Local counseling off the record: Vet Centers keep separate records and can support kids/partners in sessions. Contact the South Burlington Vet Center, and check hours for White River Junction Vet Center if that’s closer. (va.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Veteran Service Organizations (VSO) at WRJ for a service officer to advocate for you and find backup resources (American Legion, VFW, DAV). (veterans.vermont.gov)
State of Vermont Benefits That Help Veteran Single Moms
Property tax exemption (disabled veterans & survivors): Vermont towns must offer at least a 10,000homesteadvaluereduction(someraiseitupto10,000 homestead value reduction (some raise it up to 40,000). Eligible groups include veterans with 50%+ service‑connected disability, veterans on non‑service‑connected pension, those on permanent medical retirement, and certain surviving spouses. Apply annually by May 1 through the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs so your town assessor gets your eligibility verification. Amounts vary by town—ask your Town Clerk what your town voted to offer this year. (veterans.vermont.gov)
DMV veteran plates & license “Veteran” indicator: Many military plates are available (Disabled Veteran, Purple Heart, etc.), and you can add a “Veteran” marker to your license/ID at no extra charge (with verified status). Use the Vermont DMV Military Plates page and the Certificate of Veteran Status form; OVA verifies your service. (dmv.vermont.gov)
Free hunting/fishing license (60%+ service‑connected): Disabled veterans rated 60%+ can get a no‑cost permanent license (excludes moose lottery). Confirm via Vermont Fish & Wildlife and the underlying statute 10 V.S.A. §4255. (vtfishandwildlife.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your town lost your paperwork or the exemption doesn’t show on the tax bill, call OVA immediately and resubmit proof; see Department of Taxes fact page for process notes. (tax.vermont.gov)
Quick State Benefits Table
Use these to lower fixed costs so your monthly budget stretches further. The Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs can verify eligibility. (veterans.vermont.gov)
| Benefit | Who qualifies | How to apply | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Property Tax Exemption | ≥50% SC disability, pension, or permanent medical retirement; some survivors | Submit proof to OVA by May 1 each year | Towns may raise exemption up to $40k (municipal list); verify locally |
| Veteran License Plates/Indicator | Verified veteran status | File Certificate of Veteran Status via OVA | Indicator on DL/ID; specialty plates available |
| Free Hunt/Fish License | VT resident, 60%+ SC disabled | Call Licensing Unit 802‑828‑1190; submit VA rating | Permanent license; some tags excluded by law |
Education and Career — Veteran‑Only Options
Post‑9/11 GI Bill & Yellow Ribbon: Compare schools, MHA, and fees using the GI Bill Comparison Tool, and check if your program participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program. The VA payment rate page explains caps and housing calculations. Don’t rely on a school’s brochure; verify with the Tool and the school’s certifying official. (va.gov)
Local example: The University of Vermont offers Yellow Ribbon slots (limits differ by level). See UVM Yellow Ribbon Scholarship for current terms and UVM application form. (ets.uvm.edu)
Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E): If you have a service‑connected disability that makes employment harder, VR&E can fund training, certifications, and supports. Call VBA White River Junction and ask for VR&E intake, and link with DVOP at the Vermont Department of Labor Veteran Services for job placement help. (benefits.va.gov)
Veterans hiring preference (State jobs): Eligible veterans (and some spouses) receive preference points and special access to “state‑promotional‑only” postings. See VT Department of Human Resources—Veterans Preference and Government Employment Options for state and federal paths. (humanresources.vermont.gov)
Apprenticeship & credentials: Translate your MOS to a trade and get paid to learn through Vermont Registered Apprenticeship—Veteran Resources; you may stack GI Bill benefits onto registered programs. Use the GI Bill Tool to confirm. (labor.vermont.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the GI Bill Hotline (888‑442‑4551) to resolve MHA or certification issues, and file a formal complaint through the GI Bill Tool if a school misrepresents your benefits. (va.gov)
Education & Career Table — What Fits Your Situation
| Your situation | Best first step | Why it helps | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Need a degree or cert quickly | GI Bill Comparison Tool + school’s certifying official | Confirms coverage, flags “caution” schools | GI Bill Tool; school VA office |
| Post‑service disability affecting work | VR&E + VT DOL Veteran Services | Pays training; coaches your job search | VBA WRJ; VTDOL DVOP/LVER |
| Want lower out‑of‑pocket | Yellow Ribbon search | Fills the gap beyond GI Bill cap | VA Yellow Ribbon list |
| Prefer earn‑while‑you‑learn | VT Apprenticeship—Veterans | Wages during training; portable credential | VTDOL apprenticeship |
Income, Survivors, and Health Coverage for Families
CHAMPVA (health coverage for dependents): If you’re rated 100% permanent & total—or you’re a surviving spouse/child of a veteran who died of a service‑connected condition—your dependents may qualify for CHAMPVA. Apply promptly for newborns to avoid claims delays. (va.gov)
DIC (tax‑free survivors compensation): Surviving spouses may receive DIC; current base rates effective 12/01/2024 are posted on 2025 DIC Rates (with add‑ons for each child, Aid & Attendance, and the 8‑year provision). Confirm your category before you apply. (va.gov)
Plan B: If you’re unsure which benefit applies (DIC vs. Survivors Pension), call the VBA main line (800‑827‑1000) or meet with a VSO at WRJ (American Legion, VFW, DAV) listed on OVA—Contact Info for Veteran Organizations. (va.gov)
How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in Vermont Today
Call first: Contact your utility and say you’re a veteran parent requesting a reasonable payment arrangement under PUC Rule 3.300. Then call Department of Public Service—Utility Consumer Protections and ask CAPI staff to help negotiate. For electric, Green Mountain Power can also set up no‑interest payment plans. (publicservice.vermont.gov)
Know your rights: Disconnections have time‑of‑day limits and specific notice rules; municipal water/sewer disconnections follow 24 V.S.A. Chapter 129, and electric/gas/water disconnections follow PUC Rule 3.300. If talks fail, file a complaint with the Public Utility Commission (ePUC). (legislature.vermont.gov)
Plan B: If veteran‑specific funds are pending, ask SSVF to send a “vendor assurance” letter to your utility and request a short hold. Document every call and keep copies of notices. Use Beneficiary Travel reimbursement via the VA app to free up gas money while you stabilize. (news.va.gov)
Diverse Communities and Inclusive Services
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask the Women Veteran Care team for affirming providers, and use Women Veterans Health—Resources for LGBTQ+ care information. Vet Centers offer confidential support regardless of discharge. Contact South Burlington Vet Center and request women‑only or LGBTQ+‑friendly groups. Accessibility note: request a specific‑sex clinician if that helps you feel safe. (womenshealth.va.gov)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Leverage VA Caregiver Support for caregiver coaching and respite; ask WRJ for PCAFC vs. PGCSS eligibility. For dependent coverage, review CHAMPVA rules and coordinate therapies through WRJ social work. Accessibility note: ask for large‑print forms or call CSL (1‑855‑260‑3274) to complete steps by phone. (caregiver.va.gov)
Veteran single mothers (women who served): Women‑specific coordination is available—use Women Veterans Call Center to get routed to WRJ’s Women Veteran Program Manager and Maternity Care Coordinator. MST care is free, private, and available even if you’re not enrolled. Language access: VA provides interpreters; ask for language services when you schedule. (womenshealth.va.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms who are veterans: You can use VA care regardless of your current citizenship if you otherwise meet veteran eligibility. Request an interpreter through Women Veterans Health and get legal referrals via Veterans Legal Assistance (VLGS—VLAP) for documentation issues affecting benefits. (womenshealth.va.gov)
Tribal‑specific resources: If you’re a member of a federally recognized tribe living in VT, consider the Native American Direct Loan (NADL) for homes on federal trust land (requires a tribal MOU). Vermont’s recognized Abenaki tribes are state‑recognized; contact the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs to explore state resources and veteran connections. Reality check: NADL requires federal recognition and an MOU; confirm your tribe’s status with VA before planning. (va.gov)
Rural single moms with limited access: Use VA Video Connect through WRJ for telehealth, request mailed meds, and ask about DAV rides or community transit to reach appointments. Vet Centers can offer flexible hours—call South Burlington Vet Center to ask about outreach days. TTY services available: Dial 711 for WRJ lines. (va.gov)
Single fathers and male caregivers: All programs above apply. Contact VA Caregiver Support and Vet Centers for family counseling and parenting groups. Request male or female clinicians as preferred. (caregiver.va.gov)
Language access: Say your preferred language when you call. Women Veterans Call Center and WRJ can add professional interpreters; see hours on Women Veterans Health and WRJ contact page. Accessibility note: Ask for large print, TTY 711, and mobility accommodations. (womenshealth.va.gov)
Resources by Region (Vermont)
Use the closest clinic or Vet Center for faster appointments. Find full numbers at OVA—Healthcare Options and WRJ Contact. (veterans.vermont.gov)
- Chittenden County—Burlington/South Burlington: Burlington‑Lakeside CBOC (802‑657‑7000) and South Burlington Vet Center. For housing, SSVF is statewide via UVM; for jobs, call Burlington Job Center (802‑863‑7676). (veterans.vermont.gov)
- Rutland County—Rutland: Rutland CBOC (802‑772‑2300) and Rutland Job Center (802‑786‑5837). For voucher info, contact VSHA. (veterans.vermont.gov)
- Bennington County—Bennington: Bennington CBOC (802‑440‑3300) and Vermont Veterans’ Home admissions (802‑447‑6539); careers via Bennington Job Center (802‑442‑6376). (veterans.vermont.gov)
- Windham County—Brattleboro: Brattleboro CBOC (802‑251‑2200) and Brattleboro Job Center (802‑254‑4555). Vet Center groups are often available via South Burlington. (veterans.vermont.gov)
- Orleans/Essex—Newport & Northeast Kingdom: Newport CBOC (802‑334‑9777) and St. Johnsbury Job Center (802‑748‑4954); ask about telehealth through WRJ. (veterans.vermont.gov)
- Washington County—Montpelier/Barre: OVA HQ (802‑828‑3379) and Barre Job Center (802‑476‑2600); for property tax exemption questions, pair OVA with your Town Clerk. (veterans.vermont.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the May 1 property tax deadline: You must resubmit proof annually unless you’re rated permanent & total. File early with OVA so your town assessor applies it to the current bill. (veterans.vermont.gov)
- Relying on verbal promises from schools about GI Bill coverage: Always verify with the GI Bill Comparison Tool and check Yellow Ribbon participation. Some schools overstate coverage; confirm in writing. (va.gov)
- Waiting to report pregnancy to VA: Notify your WRJ team early so Maternity Care authorizations and supplies arrive on time. (womenshealth.va.gov)
- Not documenting utility shutoff talks: After calling DPS CAPI and your utility, save call logs and emails; it helps if you must file with the PUC. (publicservice.vermont.gov)
Reality Check — What Delays or Denials Look Like
- SSVF/HUD‑VASH wait times: Expect triage within days, but payments or units can take weeks due to documentation and inventory. Ask about bridge solutions while you wait through SSVF at UVM and HUD Vermont. (ssvf-uvm.com)
- Women’s reproductive care policy shifts: VA abortion coverage may change after rulemaking. Keep in touch with WVCC and verify the current rule before you decide. (womenshealth.va.gov)
- GI Bill payments & MHA: School certifiers file enrollments; if they lag, your MHA lags. Use GI Bill Hotline to resolve. Verify Yellow Ribbon in writing with both the school and VA’s list. (va.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Housing now: Call SSVF at UVM; if no answer, Homeless Veterans (877‑424‑3838). (ssvf-uvm.com)
- Women’s health & pregnancy: Contact Women Veteran Care (WRJ) and WVCC. (va.gov)
- MST/mental health: Use MST services and South Burlington Vet Center. (va.gov)
- Money and transport: OVA emergency assistance; file Beneficiary Travel or get a DAV ride. (veterans.vermont.gov)
- State benefits: Property tax exemption; DMV veteran plates/indicator. (veterans.vermont.gov)
Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot
- Proof of service: DD214 or VA Summary of Benefits (get through VA.gov profile or ask a VSO listed by OVA). (veterans.vermont.gov)
- ID and residency: Vermont ID with Veteran indicator option; utility bill or lease. (dmv.vermont.gov)
- Income documents: Last 30–60 days of pay stubs or benefits letters (SSVF/HUD‑VASH). Start with SSVF at UVM. (ssvf-uvm.com)
- Housing paperwork: Lease, eviction/notice, arrears statements; VSHA forms if requested by VSHA. (vsha.org)
- Medical enrollment: VA Form 10‑10EZ (health), request links via WRJ Eligibility. (veterans.vermont.gov)
- Maternity items: Referral from WRJ and approval for supplies via VA Maternity Care. (womenshealth.va.gov)
- Property tax exemption: OVA eligibility verification before May 1; town application form listed by VT Dept. of Taxes. (tax.vermont.gov)
Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied
- Housing (SSVF/HUD‑VASH): Ask for the denial in writing and the appeal or recertification process. Request a supervisor case conference with SSVF at UVM and your VA homeless program point of contact via HUD Vermont page. While appealing, ask VSOs (DAV/Legion/VFW) to issue a support letter. (ssvf-uvm.com)
- Women’s health services authorization: Contact WRJ Patient Advocate, then escalate via the Women Veterans Call Center. (va.gov)
- GI Bill or Yellow Ribbon: Call the GI Bill Hotline; if a school misrepresented coverage, file a complaint through the Tool; consider alternative programs listed in the Tool’s comparisons. (va.gov)
- Property tax exemption: Re‑submit proof to OVA and ask your Town Clerk about local procedures if your exemption level changed. (veterans.vermont.gov)
Local Veteran Organizations, Charities, and Support
- Friends of Veterans (Upper Valley HQ): Financial crisis help for rent, utilities, deposits, and vehicle repair; apply at Friends of Veterans or call 1‑802‑296‑8368. (fovvtnh.org)
- Vermont Veterans’ Home (Bennington): Residential nursing and rehab for veterans, spouses, and Gold Star parents—contact admissions at Vermont Veterans’ Home or call 1‑802‑447‑6539. (vvh.vermont.gov)
- Veteran Service Organizations: Service officers at WRJ (no membership required) via VSO contacts; ask about transportation and emergency funds. (veterans.vermont.gov)
- Vermont National Guard Family Programs: For Guard/Reserve families and veterans, connect to peer networks through the Military Family Community Network. (ngfamily.vt.gov)
Step‑by‑Step: Filing VA Travel and Getting a Ride
- Download the VA Health & Benefits app: After your appointment, tap “Travel Claim” and submit mileage under the new feature. See VA News update for how it works. (news.va.gov)
- If you can’t use the app: File online through BTSSS or call 855‑574‑7292 for help. (content.govdelivery.com)
- Need a ride: Ask the DAV Transportation Coordinator at WRJ to schedule a van; rides are free for ambulatory passengers. (va.gov)
County‑Level Variations to Know
- Property tax benefit level changes by town: The state mandates a minimum value reduction of 10,000,butmanytownsvotehigherlevels(upto10,000, but many towns vote higher levels (up to 40,000) for the municipal list. Verify your town’s figure with your Town Clerk after OVA approves your eligibility via OVA Property Tax Exemption and Dept. of Taxes overview. (veterans.vermont.gov)
- Voucher pressure in Chittenden County: Expect longer waits for HUD‑VASH in Burlington; keep SSVF at UVM engaged and request interim options. (hud.gov)
Frequently Asked Questions (Vermont‑Specific)
- How fast can SSVF help with rent to stop an eviction?
If your documents are ready, SSVF can often triage the same day and issue commitments within 1–2 weeks. Call SSVF at UVM and ask what they need (ID, income, lease, notice). If timing is tight, also call Homeless Veterans (877‑424‑3838). (ssvf-uvm.com) - Does VA cover newborn care after birth?
Yes—VA covers newborn care on the date of birth plus 7 days. Your Maternity Care Coordinator can also help for 12 months postpartum with follow‑up and supplies. See VA Maternity Care and VA/DAV update. (womenshealth.va.gov) - I experienced MST years ago and never reported it. Can I get care?
Yes. MST‑related care is free and available even without documentation or enrollment. Contact the MST Coordinator via VA MST page or call the South Burlington Vet Center. (va.gov) - What if my VA dental eligibility is limited?
Consider VADIP for discounted plans (Delta/MetLife) if you’re enrolled in VA care or CHAMPVA. Ask WRJ if community dental can be authorized in your case. (va.gov) - How do I add “Veteran” to my VT driver’s license?
Submit the Certificate of Veteran Status through OVA, then visit DMV to update your license/ID. Specialty plates are under Military License Plates. (dmv.vermont.gov) - I’m a surviving spouse—how much is DIC, and do my kids get anything?
Base spouse rate is posted at 2025 DIC Rates with extra amounts per child and for the 8‑year provision or A&A. Rates adjust annually. (va.gov) - Can I get help finding a job that fits my service‑connected limitations?
Yes—apply to VR&E via VBA WRJ and work with VT DOL Veterans’ Coordinators (DVOP/LVER) for job development. (benefits.va.gov) - How do I stop a shutoff when a high bill hit at the worst time?
Call your utility to arrange payments, then contact DPS CAPI to assist. Rules for disconnection are in PUC Rule 3.300. (publicservice.vermont.gov) - Is there veteran‑specific legal help in Vermont?
Yes—the Vermont Veterans Legal Assistance Program (VLAP) at Vermont Law & Graduate School serves homeless and at‑risk veterans statewide, including pop‑up hours at VA CBOCs. (vermontlaw.edu) - Do Abenaki veterans in Vermont get NADL home loans?
NADL requires federal recognition and an MOU between the tribe and VA; Vermont Abenaki tribes are recognized by the state, not the federal government. Verify eligibility via NADL and learn about Vermont’s state‑recognized tribes via the VCNAA. (va.gov)
Tables You Can Use Quickly
Table — Who to Call for What (Vermont Veterans)
| Need | Best first call | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Homeless or at risk | SSVF at UVM | Homeless Veterans 877‑424‑3838 |
| Women’s health or pregnancy | Women Veterans Call Center | WRJ Women Veteran Care |
| MST or confidential counseling | South Burlington Vet Center | MST Services |
| Benefits claims or appeals | VSO at WRJ | VBA WRJ |
| Utility shutoff | DPS CAPI | PUC complaint |
Table — Key WRJ and CBOC Contacts
| Facility | Main number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| WRJ VAMC | 1‑802‑295‑9363 / 1‑866‑687‑8387 | Use ext. for Mental Health, Scheduling |
| Bennington CBOC | 1‑802‑440‑3300 | SW Vermont |
| Brattleboro CBOC | 1‑802‑251‑2200 | SE Vermont |
| Burlington‑Lakeside CBOC | 1‑802‑657‑7000 | Chittenden |
| Newport CBOC | 1‑802‑334‑9777 | NEK |
| Rutland CBOC | 1‑802‑772‑2300 | Rutland County |
Table — Financial Relief and Transportation
| Program | What it covers | How to access |
|---|---|---|
| Vermont Veteran Assistance Fund | Small one‑time grants for critical needs | Call OVA 1‑888‑666‑9844 / 1‑802‑828‑3379 |
| Operation Homefront—CFA | Grants for eligible post‑9/11 families | Apply online (docs needed) |
| VA Beneficiary Travel (app) | Mileage reimbursement | Use VA Health & Benefits app |
| DAV Transportation Network | Free rides to VA care | Call coordinator at WRJ |
Real‑World Examples
- You’re 6 months pregnant, lost housing last week: Call SSVF at UVM for rapid rehousing; ask the Women Veterans Call Center to connect you with WRJ’s Maternity Care Coordinator for OB authorization and postpartum supports. Request a DAV ride if your car is unreliable. (ssvf-uvm.com)
- You’re rated 70% and fell 2 months behind on rent and electric: Apply to Friends of Veterans; ask DPS CAPI for help setting a payment plan; file Beneficiary Travel to recoup appointment mileage. (fovvtnh.org)
- You’re a surviving spouse with two kids: Check 2025 DIC rates and CHAMPVA for coverage. Ask a VSO (Legion/DAV/VFW at WRJ) through OVA contacts to file the claim. (va.gov)
Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español
Esta guía está dirigida a madres solteras veteranas en Vermont. Para ayuda inmediata con vivienda, llame a SSVF en la Universidad de Vermont (1‑844‑820‑3232) y al Centro Nacional para Veteranos sin Hogar (877‑424‑3838). Para salud de la mujer y embarazo, contacte el Women Veterans Call Center (855‑829‑6636) y VA White River Junction. Para beneficios estatales de veteranos (exención de impuestos a la propiedad, placas), llame a la Oficina de Asuntos de Veteranos de Vermont (802‑828‑3379). Para emergencias de servicios públicos, contacte a Public Service—CAPI.
Nota: Esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA; verifique detalles con las agencias oficiales. (ssvf-uvm.com)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs and Programs/Contacts. (veterans.vermont.gov)
- VA White River Junction Health Care System and Women Veteran Care. (va.gov)
- Women Veterans Health / WVCC and VA Maternity Care. (womenshealth.va.gov)
- Supportive Services for Veteran Families—UVM and HUD Vermont. (ssvf-uvm.com)
- Vermont Dept. of Taxes—Disabled Veteran Exemption and OVA Property Tax Exemption. (tax.vermont.gov)
- Vermont DMV—Military Plates and Certificate of Veteran Status. (dmv.vermont.gov)
- Vermont Department of Labor—Veteran Services and Job Centers. (labor.vermont.gov)
- National Center for PTSD—WRJ Executive Division and PTSD site. (ptsd.va.gov)
- Public Utility Commission—Rule 3.300 and DPS Utility Consumer Protections. (puc.vermont.gov)
Last verified: September 2025, next review April January 2026.
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
This guide provides general information for veterans and their families in Vermont and is not legal, medical, or financial advice. Benefit rules change; always confirm details directly with the VA, Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs, or the relevant agency before applying. If you are in crisis, call 988 and press 1 or contact the nearest emergency department. (va.gov)
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