Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
Hi friend. Thank you for your service. If you're a veteran and things are hard, I'm really glad you picked this up. Michigan and the VA have help for housing, health care and benefits.
Here is the easy first step: if you're homeless or about to be, call the VA at 877.424.3838, any time. For Michigan benefits, call 1-800-MICH-VET. We'll walk through the rest together.
A few things to know
- You choose. Use what feels right for you and skip anything that doesn't.
- Each program decides who it can serve. We can't promise a benefit or a spot in any program.
- You may qualify for help even if you didn't serve in combat or don't get VA health care now.
Call the VA's National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877.424.3838, any time, day or night. You'll talk to a trained VA counselor who can connect you with help near you.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://department.va.gov/homeless/
What to say when you call
"Hi. I'm a veteran, and I'm homeless," or "I'm about to lose my housing."
"I'm in (town or county)."
"I served in the (branch), from (year) to (year)."
"What can you help me with tonight?"
What is 1-800-MICH-VET?
The Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) runs a resource line at 1-800-MICH-VET, which is 800.642.4838. They can help you find benefits and services near you, Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4:50 pm.
You can also find a Veteran Service Officer, who can help you file for VA benefits, at Michigan.gov/VSO.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.michigan.gov/mvaa
How to get started, step by step
- If you need a bed, call the VA homeless line first.
- Find your DD 214 or any discharge paper. If you don't have it, a Veteran Service Officer can help.
- Call 1-800-MICH-VET to ask about Michigan benefits.
- Meet with a Veteran Service Officer to file for VA benefits.
- Write down every name, date and claim number.
Ask for a Veteran Service Officer
A Veteran Service Officer can help you file claims and find your papers. Ask for one by name.
What if I'm in crisis?
Call 988 and press 1 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line, or text 838255. It's there 24 hours a day, and you don't have to be enrolled in VA care.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
Where can I get VA health care?
The VA runs health care systems in Michigan, including the VA Detroit Healthcare System and the VA Battle Creek Healthcare System. Their details are later in this guide.
Ask about mental health care and help for veterans who are homeless.
Papers that help veterans get services
Can I get other help too?
Yes. Veterans can also apply for Food Assistance, cash help, State Emergency Relief and the Healthy Michigan Plan on MI Bridges.
Michigan Works! centers offer job help, and veterans may get extra help there.
Say you're a veteran sleeping in your truck in Macomb County
You could call the VA homeless line tonight. Tomorrow, you could call Macomb County Veterans Services and 1-800-MICH-VET to ask about benefits. A Veteran Service Officer could help you file a claim.
Questions people ask a lot
Can I get help if I wasn't honorably discharged?
You may still qualify for some help. Ask the VA or a Veteran Service Officer.
Does it cost to get help from a Veteran Service Officer?
Ask your county office. Many help at no cost.
Can my family get help too?
Some programs serve family members. Ask when you call.
What if I lost my DD 214?
A Veteran Service Officer can help you get a copy.
You served, and you matter
Reaching out for help is a strong thing to do. There are people who want to help you.
How do I make the most of each call?
Calling for help can feel like a lot. A little planning makes each call easier, and you'll get further, faster.
- Call early in the day if you can. It leaves time to follow up the same day.
- Have a pen, paper and your papers close by before you call.
- Say what you need in one or two sentences first. Then answer their questions.
- Ask, "Is there anything else I should apply for?" One call can open more doors.
- Before you hang up, ask who you talked to and what happens next.
- Write it all down in your call log at the back of this guide.
If you get put on hold or cut off
"Hi, I was just talking with someone about (what you need), and we got cut off."
"Can you help me pick up where we left off?"
"Is there a direct number I can use if this happens again?"
Keep going, friend
If one place can't help, ask them who can. Each call gets you closer.
What if I'm told no, or put on a waitlist?
A no from one place isn't a no from everyone. Programs have different rules, funds and space, and things change from week to week.
- Ask why. Knowing the reason helps you know what to try next.
- Ask, "Who else could help with this?" Write down every name and number they share.
- If you're on a waitlist, ask how long it usually takes and how you'll hear from them. Ask how often you should check in.
- Keep your phone number and address up to date with every program, so you don't miss a call or letter.
- If a state agency denies you, the letter should tell you how to ask for a hearing and the deadline. Read it right away, and call legal aid if you need help.
- Dial 211 any time to look for other options near you.
Keep your papers safe
You're doing great
Asking for help, and asking again, takes strength. I'm cheering you on every step of the way.
Here is help that works across Michigan, then veteran help in the biggest counties, then an MDHHS office list for other counties. Call ahead for hours.
Federal help (works in every state)
Here are some places to start.
VA National Call Center for Homeless Veterans
What it offers Private, no cost calls 24/7 for Veterans who are homeless or at risk. Trained staff connect you to your nearest VA for help.
How to reach Call 877.424.3838. Live chat is linked from https://department.va.gov/homeless/
Source https://department.va.gov/homeless/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Veterans Crisis Line
What it offers Private, no cost crisis support 24/7 for Veterans, service members and the people who care about them.
How to reach Dial 988, then press 1. Chat at https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
Source https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Michigan
Here are some places to start.
Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency: Veteran Resource Service Center
What it offers Helps Veterans and families get discharge papers, connect with Veteran Service Officers and find benefits.
How to reach Call 1.800.MICH.VET (800.642.4838). Online at https://www.michigan.gov/mvaa
Source https://www.michigan.gov/mvaa
Last checked October 22, 2026
Michigan ID from the Secretary of State
What it offers A state ID costs $10 (first time, renewal or replacement). An ID with no fee is available if you are 65 or older, a Veteran, legally blind, experiencing housing insecurity, or receiving certain state or federal assistance. For housing insecurity, bring a homeless verification letter from a public service agency or an HMIS photo ID.
How to reach Details at https://www.michigan.gov/sos/all-services/id-with-no-fee and https://www.michigan.gov/sos/license-id/license-and-id
Source https://www.michigan.gov/sos/all-services/id-with-no-fee and https://www.michigan.gov/sos/license-id/license-and-id
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS county offices and customer service
What it offers The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) runs Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief, Medicaid and child care help through an office in every county. You can apply online at MI Bridges or at any county office.
How to reach Call MDHHS at 844.464.3447, or use the county directory to find your office.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Wayne County (Detroit)
Here are some places to start.
VA Detroit Healthcare System
What it offers VA health care for eligible Veterans in the Detroit area.
How to reach 4646 John R St., Detroit, MI 48201. Details at https://www.va.gov/detroit-health-care/
Source https://www.va.gov/detroit-health-care/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Oakland County (Pontiac and nearby)
Here are some places to start.
Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency: Veteran Resource Service Center
What it offers Helps Veterans and families get discharge papers, connect with Veteran Service Officers and find benefits.
How to reach Call 1.800.MICH.VET (800.642.4838). Online at https://www.michigan.gov/mvaa
Source https://www.michigan.gov/mvaa
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Macomb County (Clinton Township and nearby)
Here are some places to start.
Macomb County Veterans Services
What it offers County office that helps Veterans and families with benefits.
How to reach Call 586.469.5315.
Source https://www.macombgov.org/departments/veterans-services
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Kent County (Grand Rapids)
Here are some places to start.
VA Battle Creek Healthcare System
What it offers VA health care for eligible Veterans in West Michigan.
How to reach Details at https://www.va.gov/battle-creek-health-care/
Source https://www.va.gov/battle-creek-health-care/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Other counties (call your MDHHS county office)
Here are some places to start.
MDHHS Bay County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Bay County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 1399 W. Center Rd., Essexville. Call 989.895.2100. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Berrien County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Berrien County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 401 Eighth St., Benton Harbor. Call 269.934.2000. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Calhoun County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Calhoun County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 190 E. Michigan Ave., Battle Creek. Call 269.966.1284. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Chippewa County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Chippewa County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 463 East 3 Mile Rd., Sault Ste. Marie. Call 906.635.4100. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Genesee County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Genesee County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 125 E. Union St., 7th Floor, Flint. Call 810.760.2202. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Grand Traverse County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Grand Traverse County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 701 S. Elmwood, Ste. 19, Traverse City. Call 231.941.3900. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Ingham County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Ingham County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 5303 S. Cedar St., Lansing. Call 844.464.3447. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Jackson County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Jackson County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 301 E. Louis Glick Hwy., Jackson. Call 517.780.7400. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Kalamazoo County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Kalamazoo County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 427 E. Alcott St., Kalamazoo. Call 269.337.4900. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Livingston County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Livingston County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 2300 E. Grand River, Ste. 1, Howell. Call 517.548.0200. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Marquette County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Marquette County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 234 W. Baraga Ave., Marquette. Call 906.228.9691. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Monroe County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Monroe County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 903 S. Telegraph, Ste. A, Monroe. Call 734.243.7200. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Muskegon County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Muskegon County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 2700 Baker St., Muskegon Heights. Call 231.733.3700. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Ottawa County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Ottawa County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 12185 James St., Ste. 200, Holland. Call 616.394.7200. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Saginaw County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Saginaw County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 411 E. Genesee, Saginaw. Call 989.758.1100. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS St. Clair County office
What it offers The state benefits office for St. Clair County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 1430 Military St., Suite 4, Port Huron. Call 810.966.2000. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Washtenaw County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Washtenaw County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 22 Center St., Ypsilanti. Call 734.481.2000. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Papers that help veterans get services
My veteran plan
Fill this in with a pen, or snap a photo and keep it on your phone. You've got this!
My next steps
Calls I made today
My call log
Write down every call. It helps you keep track, follow up and remember what people told you.
Call 1
Call 2
Call 3
Key numbers to keep
You're doing the right thing
Asking for help is a strong thing to do, my friend. You don't need to have it all figured out before you call. Take it one step at a time, and call again tomorrow if you need to.
About this guide
Made by the Bunklow team. No sign up, no paywall, no cost. Please share it with anyone who could use it. Bunklow does not run these programs and cannot speak for them. We list what each place says it offers and how to reach it, and you decide what to use. This is not a full list of every place that can help. Every source was checked on October 22, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it. We are always happy to hear from you!
Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
Affordable living. Simplified
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