Published Jul 31, 2026, 3:00 AM EDT
New VA Policy Can Pay Up to 10 Months of Rent for Homeless Veterans
VA medical centers can now cover rent, meals, rides, clothing and phones for eligible homeless veterans through September 2027.
The Department of Veterans Affairs can now cover up to 10 months of rent, pay utility bills, buy groceries and arrange transportation for eligible homeless veterans under a new policy that took effect July 29. The authority allows VA medical centers to purchase goods or pay service providers when staff determines the help is necessary to keep a veteran safe, prevent the loss of housing or connect the veteran with care, employment and permanent housing. Assistance can include restaurant meals, groceries, hotel stays, moving expenses, clothing, tents, ride-share trips and smartphones with service plans. The policy remains in effect through Sept. 30, 2027. Veterans will not receive unrestricted cash payments. VA will generally pay landlords, utility companies, stores, transportation providers or other vendors directly, and each request will be reviewed by VA staff.
What the VA Can Pay For
