Entitlement often is determined by the period of military service, service-connected disabilities and financial need. Your local state veteran counselor or veterans service agency can advise you of eligibility and assist you in the preparation and presentation of claims for entitled benefits. These benefits provide monthly financial assistance to those veterans who incurred a service-connected disability or disease, or wartime veterans, who are totally disabled and have low incomes.
Similar programs provide monthly income to eligible surviving spouses.
Long term health care is offered wartime veterans and certain eligible spouses at New York State Veterans Homes. This benefit is extended to the unremarried surviving spouse who remains a resident of the State. Headstones and gravemarkers also are provided for veterans with unmarked gravesites. Burial in National Cemeteries is available for eligible veterans and spouses.