Navigating the complexities of housing benefits available to veterans and service members can be overwhelming. To assist, we've compiled a list of resources designed to shed light on the various programs and support systems available. Whether you're seeking assistance with homeownership, rental assistance, or navigating specific housing challenges, these resources can provide valuable information and guidance.
Home Ownership Benefits
One of the most significant housing benefits for veterans is the VA Home Loan program. These loans, guaranteed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, offer eligible veterans and service members the opportunity to purchase a home with little to no down payment and competitive interest rates. VA loans can be used for a variety of purposes, including purchasing a home, building a home, or refinancing an existing mortgage. They also offer protection against foreclosure and assistance for those experiencing financial difficulties.
Learn more: VA Home Loans
The Utah Veteran First-Time Homebuyer Grant program is open to eligible Veterans and current service members (Active Duty, Reserve, or Guard). Eligible first-time homebuyers may apply for a $2,500 grant to go towards the purchase of a home in Utah. If you are a recently separated Veteran (last 5 years) or a currently serving member of the military living in Utah and are interested in buying a home for the first time in Utah, this program is for you.
Learn more: Utah First-Time Homebuyer Grant
Active or Reserve Duty Armed Forces members serving 200+ days outside their state within a 365-day period may be eligible for a property tax exemption covering the full taxable value of their primary residence. To qualify, submit your application and verifying military documents by September 1st of the year following the qualifying service period. Reapply annually if eligible, as only one exemption is granted per qualifying service period. Contact your county tax office for further assistance and to initiate the application process.
Disabled veterans, their unmarried surviving spouses, and minor orphans may qualify for significant property tax relief. This abatement can reduce the taxable value of a primary residence by up to $479,504, and the reduction amount is directly tied to the veteran's service-connected disability rating. Additionally, the abatement can be applied to tangible personal property like vehicles. To apply, contact your county assessor's office and provide proof of military service and disability.
Veterans Nursing Homes and Assisted Living
The VA offers a comprehensive range of residential settings and nursing homes for Veterans, ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve. From VA-operated nursing homes to community living centers, there are various options tailored to meet individual needs. Eligibility criteria, benefits, and application processes are all provided to help veterans and their families make informed decisions. Whether you or a loved one requires skilled nursing care, assisted living, or home-based care, the VA has resources to assist you.
Learn more: VA Residential Settings and Nursing Homes
The State of Utah has four beautiful Veteran nursing homes for Veterans needing long-term care. The Utah Department of Veterans and Military Affairs oversees these homes and the day-to-day operations are provided by a contracted private healthcare provider.
Learn more: Utah Veterans Nursing Homes
The VA offers specialized Geriatrics and Extended Care services for aging veterans and their caregivers. These programs cater to the unique healthcare needs of elderly veterans and include adult day health care, geriatric evaluation, and respite care. Whether veterans require long-term care, rehabilitation, or palliative services, the VA's Geriatrics and Extended Care programs aim to deliver personalized and compassionate care.
Learn more: VA Geriatrics and Extended Care
Affordable Housing and Homelessness Resources
If you are a Veteran who is homeless or at risk of becoming homeless due to financial hardship, unemployment, addiction, depression, or transition from jail, VA Salt Lake City health care can help you. Contact a homeless services care coordinator to get help.
Learn more: VA Homeless Veteran Care
Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness—and their family members, friends and supporters—can make the call to or chat online with the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans, where trained counselors are ready to talk confidentially 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Learn more: National Call Center for Homeless Veterans
Local housing authorities throughout the state can help Veterans and their families find and apply for affordable housing that fits their needs and budget. Do not hesitate to reach out to your local authority to learn more.
Learn more: Utah Housing Corporation – Housing Authorities
Homeless Veterans Fellowship is a non-profit organization that offers a comprehensive set of services designed to address homelessness among Veterans. Located in Ogden, Utah, their services have provided for veterans all over Utah and the intermountain area since HVF was founded in 1989.
Learn more: Homeless Veterans Fellowship
211 Utah can connect you to a variety of federal, state and local resources and services to address your housing and other needs. They have up-to-date information and representatives ready to help you find support.
Learn more: 211 Utah
If you're a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one, connect with our caring, qualified Veterans Crisis Line responders for confidential help. Many of them are Veterans themselves. This service is private, free, and available 24/7. Chat online or over the phone with a trained VA staff member.
Learn more: VeteransCrisisLine.net
Houses for Warriors help, guide, and direct homeless and at-risk military veterans and first responders into self-sufficient status while providing a safe, caring and loving environment. They believe that every Warrior deserves a Hand-Up so they are more equipped to handle modern society’s fast-paced lifestyle. Growth is possible at any age, any stage of life, and for any life path. Warriors have spent their whole lives Serving, so now it is time for them to be given a place to transform their lives.
Learn more: HousesForWarriors.org
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development offers several assistance programs and resources to address housing and rental needs. They also help find other local resources that may be able to help.
Learn more: U.S. HUD – Rental Help