MassVets Benefit Estimator makes it easier to access veteran financial assistance programs expanded under Governor Healey’s HERO Act

Boston - The Healey-Driscoll Administration is today unveiling its new MassVets Benefit Estimator, designed to help veterans and their families quickly determine their eligibility for monthly financial assistance.

As a newly established secretariat, the Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS) has developed its own MassVets Benefit Estimator to provide a more seamless experience for veterans seeking financial relief through the Chapter 115 Safety Net Program.

“Our administration was proud to expand benefits for veterans and their families under the HERO Act, but we need to make sure that they know about and can access them,” said Governor Maura Healey. “This new tool makes it easier for veterans to determine what they are eligible for, how much and how to get it. We encourage everyone to use the Benefit Estimator to make sure they receive the benefits and resources they deserve.”

“No one who has served our country should ever struggle to pay for everyday necessities like housing, groceries or medical care, including mental health care,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Here in Massachusetts, we’re proud to have expanded resources to help our heroes cover these expenses, and now we’re making sure that veterans and their families know about it.”

“This new tool reaffirms our commitment to making Massachusetts the best state for veterans and their families,” said Veterans Services Secretary Jon Santiago. “With a more accessible and user-friendly benefit estimator, we are ensuring that no veteran in need is left without access to critical financial assistance.”

A Financial Lifeline for Massachusetts Veterans

Chapter 115 is a state-funded program that provides direct financial assistance to eligible Massachusetts veterans and their families who are facing financial hardship. Benefits may cover essential needs, including:

• Daily living expenses
• Medical and dental costs
• Rent and housing support
• Support for dependents
• Homelessness prevention
• Outpatient behavioral health services, including psychiatric care, substance use disorder treatment, and prescription assistance

With the passage of the 2024 HERO Act, Chapter 115 benefits have expanded, ensuring veterans do not lose eligibility due to annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) in state or federal benefits. Additionally, municipalities may now provide direct deposit options for faster and more convenient benefit distribution.

How to Use the Benefit Estimator

Veterans and their families can use the new MassVets Benefit Estimator to determine potential monthly benefits in just a few clicks. This streamlined process makes it easier than ever to access the state’s veteran financial assistance programs.

For those who qualify, applications can be submitted through their local Veterans’ Service Officer (VSO). Veterans unsure of their eligibility or needing further assistance can locate their local VSO through the Find Your Local VSO feature on the EOVS website or contact the office directly at (617) 210-5480.

For more information and to access the MassVets Benefit Estimator, visit vets.mass.gov.