Chapter 115

State Safety Net for Veterans and Eligible Dependents

MGL Chapter 115

Chapter 115 is the needs-based state/town safety net program for Veterans and eligible dependents. Applicants must apply through the Veterans' Services Office in the Town they reside in.

Eligibility for this program depends on a variety of factors including the Veterans' discharge status, time in service, and applicant income and assets. For applicants under age 62, ability to find gainful employment is also a factor.

If an applicant is eligible, their monthly "ordinary benefit" amount is calculated with a formula that bridges the gap between applicant income and a budget number set by the state. Please note this budget number does not reflect the cost of market rent and the area cost of living. The Veterans' Services office can help applicants apply for affordable housing.

Out-of-pocket medical expenses may also be reimbursed if proper documentation is provided.

For more information, call 508-613-1315, and see list below for application documents.

Chapter 115 application documents: Please note this is the basic list of initial documents. Additional documentation may be requested.

Vital Documents

  • DD214
  • Marriage Certificate
  • Birth Certificates of Children Under 18 Living in Household

Income

Documentation of all sources of income (all household members)

  • Current SSA Benefit Letter; VA Benefit Letter; Current Retirement Statement; Current Pension Statement. All documentation must show gross income.
  • Any additional documentation must show the gross income that is from a valid source issued on letterhead.
  • This includes Payroll wages, DUA benefits, child support, worker's compensation, all other income. Documentation from a 3rd party may be required to verify income sources.

Rental

  • Copy of lease/rental agreement or completed landlord statement (enclosed)
  • Proof of payment-cashed check or matching transfer in November bank statement

Shelter - Home owner

  • Mortgage Statement; Recent Property Tax Bill; Recent Home Owners Insurance Bill; Recent Water and Sewage Bill; Detailed Maintenance Expense - lawn mowing, snow removal, etc.

Fuel

If you are responsible for your heating fuel

  • A utility or oil bill with your name and address. The bill must be specifically for heating.

Bank Accounts

  • Complete copy of 3 most recent bank statements for all accounts including all checking and/or savings accounts that list the applicant(s) as account holder or signatory.
  • Provide all pages even if blank.
  • Register print out of accounts is not acceptable.

No Bank Account

Direct Express or Electronic Transfer Account

  • 3 complete copies statements of all applicable accounts
  • Provide all pages even if blank.

Affidavit of Financial Accounts

Must be filled out and signed by all applicants, with accounts listed in the second half of the form.

Other Assets

In addition to the bank statements, statements must be provided for any other assets listed on the affidavit of financial accounts. This includes life insurance statements indicating cash value and face value.

Medicare B, D, C

  • Verification of deduction via SSA Award Letter or other document showing that the recipient is enrolled in the medical plan and pays the premium.

Other Medical Coverage

  • Copy of most recent monthly/quarterly bill from provider.
  • If billed quarterly or on other terms, the bill must clearly state the duration of coverage.