The Michigan Veterans Trust Fund (MVTF) has expanded emergency financial assistance eligibility to include peacetime-era veterans age 65 and older and their surviving spouses under the 65+ Peacetime Program. This program mirrors the Emergency Grant Program available to wartime-era veterans and is designed to assist eligible individuals experiencing temporary or short-term financial hardship.
The 65+ Peacetime Program provides financial assistance to address unforeseen emergencies that create temporary hardship. The grant must fully resolve the emergency situation, and the applicant must demonstrate the ability to meet future financial obligations
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, the veteran must:
- Have served during a peacetime era
- Have completed at least 180 days of active-duty service
- Have received an Honorable Discharge or General Discharge Under Honorable Conditions
A veteran or surviving spouse may apply at any time during the calendar year in which the veteran turns — or would have turned — 65 years old.
Covered Expenses May Include:
- Utility bills
- Emergency home repairs
- Rent assistance
- Mortgage assistance
Documentation Typically Required
Applicants should contact MVTF or the Lenawee County Veterans Relief Service Officer for a complete list of required documents. Commonly requested items include:
- DD-214 (Member Copy 4 showing service dates and character of discharge)
- To request a copy, call 1-800-MICH-VET
- Proof of Michigan residency
- Bills or account statements related to the emergency
- Proof of income
- VA disability rating documentation (if applicable)
- Marriage, birth, or death certificates (if applicable)