Massachusetts Chapter 115 Program

What is the Chapter 115 Benefits Program?

The Chapter 115 Benefits Program is a Massachusetts state initiative that provides financial aid for food, shelter/housing, clothing, and medical care to veterans and their dependents who have limited incomes and reside in Massachusetts. The program is overseen by the Massachusetts Department Veterans’ Services (DVS), which runs the program in partnership with local Veterans’ Service Officers (VSOs).  

Who can get Chapter 115 Benefits? 

There are three requirements to get these benefits. 

You must (1) be a veteran or a dependent of a veteran; 

(2) have financial need; and (3) live in Massachusetts

What types of Chapter 115 Benefits are available?

Cash Assistance

You can get a monthly cash payment.  Whether you can get this cash payment depends on your living situation, special needs, and income. For example, if you are a single applicant living alone, you might qualify for between $1 and $1436 each month.

Medical Expense Reimbursements 

You can be reimbursed (in full or in part) for various types of medical expenses, such as insurance premiums, co-pays, dental work, hearing aids, and eyeglasses.
Even if you have too much income to get cash assistance, you still might be able to get medical expense reimbursements.

Emergency Assistance

You might be able to get financial aid if you are behind on your mortgage, rent, or utility bills. You might be able to get financial aid for emergency home repairs or in cases of natural disasters. 

Other State Veteran Benefits

DVS provides other benefits besides Chapter 115 benefits. These include Annuities, Bonuses, Burial Allowances, Moving Assistance, and Transportation to Medical Appointments.