State Soldiers Assistance Program
Subsistence, Dental & Optical

General Information About State Soldiers Assistance Program (SSAP)

The Minnesota Department of Veteran’s Affairs (MDVA) provides subsistence, dental and optical assistance to veterans and their dependents (spouse/children) based upon income and need.

What Is Covered?

• Subsistence: Temporary financial assistance when veterans are disabled and cannot work at their normal occupations. Can assist with rent/mortgage payments, utility bills, groceries, etc. Veterans MAY NOT receive subsistence from the Department of Veterans Affairs and other state/local assistance (such as GA) at the same time.
• Dental: A maximum of $1000 per calendar year may be approved for dental assistance for veterans and their dependents. To qualify, veterans and their dependents must meet strict income and asset guidelines.
• Optical: A maximum of $400 for an eye exam and prescription eyewear may be approved once every calendar year for veterans and their dependents. To qualify, veterans and their dependents must meet strict income and asset guidelines.

How Often Can I Do This?

• Subsistence: Maximum length of assistance is six months
• Dental: Yearly
• Optical: Yearly

How Does It Work?

• Subsistence: A current medical report is required. Applicant must be unable to work for at least 30 days.
• Dental and Optical: Once your application is approved, you will receive an authorization letter. Make an appointment with a local dentist or eye doctor. Be sure to check and make sure that they will accept payment from the MDVA. Take the authorization letter with you to your appointment so the doctor will know how to do their billing.

Who is Eligible?
Veterans and their dependents (spouse/children), provided the income/assets do not exceed the maximum allowed. Veterans must have had 180 consecutive days of active duty to qualify as a veteran for this program, and must be a Minnesota resident.

How To Apply For Dental and Optical Assistance

You can apply for dental and optical assistance by completing an MDVA-1 Application Form (available at the local Veterans Service Office) and submitting it to the MDVA.

Important - please note:
Applications for the SSAP must be made through the CVSO.
 

Your CVSO can assist you in obtaining relevant documents and submitting your claim to the appropriate VA regional office. Please contact us so that we may offer our assistance and guidance.