Veterans' Services

Alex R. Arriaga, Veterans' Services Officer/Director

About Us

The Veterans' Services Division provides support to residents of Worcester who are veterans, currently serving members of the military and their families. In conjunction with the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services, the City of Worcester takes applications and disperses veterans' benefits (also known as "Chapter 115 Benefits") enacted through Chapter 115 of the Massachusetts General Law. Support services vary based on individual circumstances but may include financial aid, reimbursement of medical costs and referral services for a variety of issues such as housing, health care, employment, education and other safety net programs.

The Veterans' Services Division assists clients in finding more permanent solutions to meet their needs by referring veterans and dependents to a variety of social service agencies and programs. Individuals found ineligible for Chapter 115 benefits can also receive these referral services. All individuals, regardless of discharge status, time in the service, branch of service, etc. can utilize this office for questions and concerns related to veterans' benefits, both state and federal. Please use the appropriate links on this webpage to get information on a variety of services, local organizations and frequently asked questions.

Applications for M.G.L. Chapter 115
Assistance Applying for ChampVA Healthcare for Dependents
Assistance With Discounted Utility Rate Application
Assistance With Education Benefits
Assistance With Healthcare Benefits (VA, Masshealth, Etc.)
Assistance With SSI/SSDI Applications
Assistance With Tax Exemptions Applications
Burial Benefits/Flags & Markers
Case Management of Chapter 115 Applicants
Certificates of Eligibility for VA Home Loans
Dental Care Reimbursement (Under Chapter 115)
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (D.I.C.) Claims
Non-Service Connected VA Pension Claims
Prescription Drug Reimbursement (Under Chapter 115)
Referrals to Community, State and Federal Resources
Referrals to Nonprofit Partners
Requesting DD214/Records/Medals
Welcome Home Bonus and Annuity Applications

M.G.L. Chapter 115 Veterans' Safety Net Program Pre-Eligibility Screening

Under Massachusetts General Laws M.G.L. Chapter 115, the Commonwealth provides a needs-based means tested program of financial and medical assistance for indigent veterans and their dependents. Qualifying veterans and their dependents receive necessary financial assistance for food, shelter, clothing, fuel and medical care in accordance with a formula which takes into account the number of dependents and income from all sources. Eligible dependents of deceased veterans are provided with the same benefits as if the veteran were still living.

Online Prescreening Form

Solder and Doctor Shaking Hands in Front of Flag

City of Worcester Opens Applications for Mental Health and Job Training ARPA Programs

The City of Worcester has released applications for two more programs related to ARPA Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds. Eligible applicants can now submit proposals for funding in the areas of Mental Health Support Programs and Services, and in Job Training.
Posted: Tuesday 01/17/23

City of Worcester Announces Oliver de la Paz as Next Poet Laureate

City Manager Eric D. Batista, Mayor Joseph M. Petty, the Worcester City Council, and the City’s Cultural Development Division have announced the appointment of Oliver de la Paz as the City of Worcester’s next Poet Laureate.
Posted: Wednesday 01/04/23

Residents Advised to Take Precautions as Crews Respond to Storm

City officials continue to monitor the ongoing winter storm, and the Department of Public Works & Parks is prepared to respond appropriately based on changing conditions. High winds and heavy rain are expected to give way to freezing temperatures and icy conditions this evening, with the cold lasting through the weekend.
Posted: Friday 12/23/22

More Announcements...

It's been quite a busy season, and we have a belated introduction and congratulations to share......
Posted: Tuesday 01/31/23 2:52 PM

This week's schedule of COVID-19 vaccine/booster clinics......
Posted: Monday 01/30/23 9:46 AM

Reminder that an ASL interpreter will be available at today's Worcester Public Library COVID-19 vaccine clinic from 12 - 3:30 pm!...
Posted: Saturday 01/28/23 10:00 AM

Reminder!...
Posted: Thursday 01/26/23 10:45 AM

More News...

Have a Question?

Are we part of the VA?

No, we are not part of the VA. We work with the VA, state agencies and many other resources to assist the City of Worcester's Veterans and their families access needed benefits.
How can I get a copy of my DD214?

If you entered the service from Massachusetts, your record may be in the MRO database, which is accessible to any Veterans' Services Officer (VSO). To inquire about your record, please request an appointment through the portal and include your full name, branch of service and date of birth, and staff will reach out to you. *Please do not put your social security number in the request; staff will confirm all identifying information over the phone.*

If you entered the service from outside of Massachusetts, your records can be requested through The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) Website.

Referrals Illustration with Yellow Sticky Note that Says Referrals

Veteran Referrals

The Veterans' Services Division assists clients in finding more permanent solutions to meet their needs by referring clients to a variety of social service agencies and programs.

Appointment Scheduling App/Site on a Tablet

Appointment Request

Request an in-person appointment with the Veterans' Services Division.

Contact Information

Veterans' Services
City Hall Room 101
455 Main Street
Worcester, MA 01608

Accessible via WRTA Bus Line. View Schedules

Phone: 508-799-1041
Fax: 508-799-1018
Email Us

Office Hours:
Monday, Tuesday,
Thursday & Friday
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Wednesday
8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
12 p.m. - 5 p.m. by appointment

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