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State Soldiers Assistance Program
Subsistence, Dental and Optical Assistance

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 and Optical: Based on fee schedules, portions of the cost of exams, dental work, and eye glasses are paid for applicants.

How Often Can I Do This?

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

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 a DVA-1 Application Form (available at the local Veterans Service Office) and submitting it to the MDVA.

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© Cass County, MN, 2013