What Is the Idaho State Veterans Home?
The Idaho State Veterans Home is a system of four state-operated skilled nursing facilities in Boise, Lewiston, Pocatello, and Post Falls, administered by the Idaho Division of Veterans Services (IDVS). The homes provide 24-hour nursing care, memory care, and rehabilitative services to honorably discharged Idaho veterans and their eligible spouses. All homes are Medicare and Medicaid certified.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit | Skilled nursing care, memory care, and rehabilitative services |
| Eligibility | Honorably discharged veterans (90+ days active duty) and eligible spouses; Idaho residency required |
| Application | Submit application to Idaho State Veterans Home Admission Department |
| Processing Time | Varies based on bed availability and clinical assessment |
| Official Agency | Idaho Division of Veterans Services (IDVS) |
| Required Forms | Idaho State Veterans Home Application for Admission; DD-214; proof of Idaho residency |
| Updated For | 2026 |
Idaho State Veterans Home Locations and Contact Information
Idaho operates four veterans’ homes across the state, each providing skilled nursing care in a distinct regional setting. The Boise home is the largest, with 122 skilled nursing beds and a 36-bed residential/domiciliary care unit. The Pocatello and Lewiston homes each have 66 skilled nursing beds. The Post Falls home opened in 2022 with 64 skilled nursing beds.
Boise
Address: 320 Collins Rd, Boise, ID 83702
Phone: (208) 780-1600
Capacity: 80 beds currently operational during construction (122 at full capacity)
Special Features: 17-bed Alzheimer’s special care unit; 36-bed residential/domiciliary care unit; physical therapy center; covered patio and courtyards
Lewiston
Address: 821 21st Ave, Lewiston, ID 83501
Phone: (208) 750-3600
Capacity: 66 skilled nursing beds
Special Features: Park-like setting at the confluence of the Clearwater and Snake Rivers; canteen; dining hall; physical therapy
Pocatello
Address: 1957 Alvin Ricken Dr, Pocatello, ID 83201
Phone: (208) 235-7800
Capacity: 66 skilled nursing beds
Special Features: Hilltop view of Pocatello; large therapy room; chapel; library; rose gardens
Post Falls
Address: 590 S Pleasant View Rd, Post Falls, ID 83854
Phone: (208) 415-3430
Capacity: 64 skilled nursing beds
Special Features: Centralized community center; chapel; therapy room; Bistro; sports club
Eligibility for Idaho State Veterans Home
You may be eligible for admission if you are an honorably discharged veteran who served at least 90 days of active duty, are a resident of Idaho, and are unable to earn a living due to age, illness, or disability. Spouses, widows, and widowers of eligible veterans may also qualify for nursing care.
Who Qualifies
Wartime and peacetime veterans with at least 90 days of active-duty service and an honorable discharge
Veterans discharged earlier than 90 days under honorable conditions because of a service-connected disability
Spouses, widows, and widowers of eligible veterans (nursing care only)
Veterans who are unemployable as a result of age, illness, or disability
Idaho residents at the time of application
Residency Requirement
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityApplicants must be a bona fide resident of the State of Idaho at the time of admission. A bona fide resident is a person who maintains a principal home in Idaho with the present intent to remain and return to it after any period of absence.
Income Limits
An applicant whose total monthly net income exceeds the current maximum annual rate of VA pension for a single veteran divided by twelve cannot be admitted unless granted a waiver by the Home Administrator. However, veterans may be admitted without regard to their financial status—they must either apply for and become eligible for Medicaid benefits or pay the established maximum monthly charge.
Service Requirements
Minimum service: 90 days of active-duty service
Discharge status: Honorable or under conditions other than dishonorable
Documentation: DD-214 or military discharge papers required
VA pension: Applicants must apply for or already be in receipt of VA pension and Aid & Attendance
What Services Are Offered at Idaho State Veterans Homes?
Idaho State Veterans Homes provide 24-hour skilled nursing care, memory care, rehabilitative therapies, and a range of supportive services designed to enhance quality of life for residents.
Medical and Nursing Care
Each home provides comprehensive medical and nursing services including:
24-hour skilled nursing care
Physician services
Medication management
Medical supplies
Physical therapy
Occupational therapy
Speech therapy
Alzheimer’s and Memory Care
The Boise home includes a dedicated 17-bed special care unit for veterans with Alzheimer’s disease or related conditions.
Residential and Domiciliary Care
The Boise home offers a 36-bed residential/domiciliary care unit for veterans who are ambulatory and capable of performing daily living activities with minimal assistance.
Amenities
Residents have access to:
Chapel and spiritual services
Library
Canteen and dining hall
Therapy room and gym
Activity room
Covered patio and courtyards
Big screen televisions
Pool tables
Rose gardens (Pocatello)
Monthly Costs at Idaho State Veterans Homes
The cost of care at Idaho State Veterans Homes depends on the level of care, the specific home, and the veteran’s financial situation. Veterans must either apply for Medicaid or pay the maximum monthly charge.
Current Daily and Monthly Rates
| Home | Level of Care | Daily Rate | Monthly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boise | Nursing Care (Veteran) | $315.60/day | Approx. $9,468/month |
| Lewiston | Nursing Care (Veteran) | $289.30/day | Approx. $8,679/month |
| Pocatello | Nursing Care (Veteran) | $302.45/day | Approx. $9,074/month |
| Post Falls | Nursing Care (Veteran & Spouse) | $388.50/day | Approx. $11,655/month |
| All Homes | Non-Veteran Spouse Nursing Care | $392.97/day | Approx. $11,789/month |
| Boise | Residential Care (Assisted Living) | — | $1,234/month |
| Boise | Domiciliary (Short-Term) | — | $987/month |
Note: Rates are effective July 1, 2023, and are subject to change. All residents are responsible for the cost of their care; charges are due the first of each month.
Financial Assistance
Medicaid: All homes are Medicaid-certified. Veterans who qualify for Medicaid have their care costs covered.
VA Pension and Aid & Attendance: Applicants must apply for VA pension and Aid & Attendance. IDVS assists with the application process.
Personal Allowance: A $90 monthly personal allowance is deducted from the charge.
Low Assets: If a veteran has less than $1,500 in liquid assets, the residential care charge could be as little as 75% of income, and domiciliary care as little as 60% of income.
How to Apply for Idaho State Veterans Home
To apply, complete the Idaho State Veterans Home Application for Admission and submit it to the Admission Department. Applications are accepted at all four homes.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Contact the Admission Department at the home of your choice or call (208) 246-8736 for general admission questions.
Complete the application. The application requires personal information, military service details, financial information, and medical history.
Gather required documents. You will need your DD-214, proof of Idaho residency, Medicare and insurance cards, Social Security card, Medicaid card (if applicable), and proof of marriage for spouse applicants.
Apply for VA pension and Aid & Attendance. IDVS will assist you with this process. A State Service Officer is located at each Veterans Home.
Apply for Medicaid or arrange payment. Applicants must either be eligible for Medicaid or pay the maximum monthly charge. IDVS assists with Medicaid applications.
Submit the application to the Idaho State Veterans Home Admission Department, 320 Collins Road, Boise, ID 83702.
Undergo clinical assessment. The admissions committee reviews each application to ensure the home can provide the appropriate level of care.
Required Documents
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| DD-214 or Military Discharge | Proof of honorable service (minimum 90 days) |
| Proof of Idaho Residency | Verify bona fide residency |
| Medicare Card | Insurance verification |
| Private Insurance Cards | Insurance verification |
| Social Security Card | Identification |
| Medicaid Card (if applicable) | Financial assistance verification |
| Proof of Marriage (spouse applicants) | Verify eligibility |
| Bank Statements and Proof of Income | Financial assessment |
Required VA Forms
VA Form 21-526EZ (Application for Disability Compensation) — if not already receiving VA benefits
VA Form 21-2680 (Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance) — required for Aid & Attendance
VA Form 10-10EZ (Application for Health Benefits) — if not already enrolled in VA health care
The Boise Veterans Home Replacement Project
The Idaho State Veterans Home in Boise is undergoing a major replacement project. Construction began in 2025, and the new facility is expected to open in early 2029.
Project Details
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Capacity | 80 residents (capped during construction) |
| Future Capacity | 122 skilled nursing beds |
| Groundbreaking | October 2025 |
| Expected Completion | Late 2028 |
| Expected Opening | Early 2029 |
| Project Cost | Approximately $160 million |
| Funding | VA State Home Construction Grant; Idaho Legislature |
| Location | VA Campus near downtown Boise |
The original plans called for a five-story, 166-bed facility at a cost of $114 million. Due to pandemic-era cost increases, the project was scaled back to 122 beds. The home currently operates at reduced capacity during construction, with a perpetual waiting list.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Veterans and families applying for Idaho State Veterans Homes frequently make these errors.
Not contacting the Admission Department first. Call (208) 246-8736 to understand requirements before completing the application.
Assuming the home is free. Veterans must either qualify for Medicaid or pay the maximum monthly charge. Financial planning is essential.
Forgetting to apply for VA pension and Aid & Attendance. These benefits can significantly offset care costs, and IDVS assists with the application.
Providing incomplete documentation. Missing DD-214, proof of residency, or insurance cards delays the application.
Not verifying Idaho residency requirements. You must be a bona fide Idaho resident at the time of admission.
Assuming all homes offer all levels of care. Residential and domiciliary care are only available at the Boise home. Spouses are only eligible for nursing care, not residential or domiciliary care.
Missing the waiting list reality. The Boise home has a perpetual waiting list, especially during construction. Apply early and consider other Idaho homes.
Latest Rule Changes and Updates
Boise Construction and Reduced Capacity
The Boise home is operating at reduced capacity (80 beds) during the replacement project, which began in 2025. Demolition of the east wing began in 2026, and the new facility is expected to open in early 2029.
Post Falls Home Operations
The Post Falls Veterans Home, dedicated on November 11, 2022, continues to accept applications. It is the newest facility in the Idaho system.
Financial Eligibility Updates
Idaho Administrative Rules (IDAPA 21.01.01) govern admission, residency, and maintenance charges. The rules were last updated in 2022 and remain in effect. An applicant whose monthly net income exceeds the maximum VA pension rate for a single veteran cannot be admitted unless granted a waiver.
Common Questions
1. What is the Idaho State Veterans Home?
The Idaho State Veterans Home is a system of four state-operated skilled nursing facilities in Boise, Lewiston, Pocatello, and Post Falls. Administered by the Idaho Division of Veterans Services, they provide 24-hour nursing care, memory care, and rehabilitative services to honorably discharged veterans and eligible spouses.
2. Who is eligible for Idaho State Veterans Homes?
Honorably discharged veterans who served at least 90 days of active duty, are Idaho residents, and are unable to earn a living due to age, illness, or disability. Spouses, widows, and widowers of eligible veterans may qualify for nursing care.
3. How much does it cost to live at an Idaho State Veterans Home?
Costs vary by home and level of care. Nursing care rates range from $289.30 to $388.50 per day, depending on the facility. Residential care at Boise is $1,234 per month, and domiciliary care is $987 per month. Veterans must either qualify for Medicaid or pay the maximum charge.
4. How do I apply for an Idaho State Veterans Home?
Complete the Idaho State Veterans Home Application for Admission and submit it to the Admission Department at 320 Collins Road, Boise, ID 83702. Call (208) 246-8736 for assistance. You will need your DD-214, proof of Idaho residency, and financial documentation.
5. What documents are required for admission?
You need your DD-214 or military discharge papers, proof of Idaho residency, Medicare card, private insurance cards, Social Security card, Medicaid card (if applicable), and proof of marriage for spouse applicants. Bank statements and proof of income are also required.
6. Is there a waiting list for Idaho State Veterans Homes?
The Boise home has a perpetual waiting list, especially during construction. Other homes may have shorter wait times. Apply early and consider all four locations.
7. What levels of care are available?
Skilled nursing care is available at all four homes. The Boise home also offers residential care (assisted living) and domiciliary care (short-term assisted living). Spouses are eligible for nursing care only.
8. What is the Alzheimer’s care like at Idaho State Veterans Homes?
The Boise home has a dedicated 17-bed special care unit for veterans with Alzheimer’s disease or related conditions.
9. Can spouses live at Idaho State Veterans Homes?
Yes, spouses, widows, and widowers of eligible veterans may be admitted for nursing care only. They must provide proof of marriage. Residential and domiciliary care are available to veterans only.
10. What VA benefits help pay for Idaho State Veterans Homes?
VA pension and Aid & Attendance can help offset costs. All homes are Medicaid-certified. Veterans must apply for VA pension and Aid & Attendance, and IDVS assists with the application process.
11. What is the Boise Veterans Home construction project?
The Boise home is being replaced with a new 122-bed facility on the VA Campus near downtown Boise. Construction began in 2025, and the new home is expected to open in early 2029. The current home is operating at reduced capacity during construction.
12. How do I contact the Idaho State Veterans Home?
Call the Admission Department at (208) 246-8736. For specific homes: Boise (208) 780-1600; Lewiston (208) 750-3600; Pocatello (208) 235-7800; Post Falls (208) 415-3430.
13. Are Idaho State Veterans Homes Medicare and Medicaid certified?
Yes. All Idaho State Veterans Homes are Medicare and Medicaid certified facilities.
14. What is the history of Idaho State Veterans Homes?
The “Old Soldiers Home” formally opened in Boise in May 1895. The current system includes homes in Boise (dedicated 1966), Lewiston (established 1994), Pocatello, and Post Falls (dedicated 2022).
15. What happens if I can’t afford the monthly charge?
Veterans who qualify for Medicaid have their care costs covered. If a veteran has less than $1,500 in liquid assets, the residential care charge could be as little as 75% of income, and domiciliary care as little as 60% of income. IDVS assists with Medicaid applications.
Key Takeaways
Idaho State Veterans Homes operate in four locations: Boise, Lewiston, Pocatello, and Post Falls, providing skilled nursing care to honorably discharged veterans and eligible spouses.
Eligibility requires 90+ days of honorable active-duty service, Idaho residency, and unemployability due to age, illness, or disability.
Veterans must either qualify for Medicaid or pay the maximum monthly charge. Nursing care rates range from $289.30 to $388.50 per day.
The Boise home is undergoing a $160 million replacement project, with a new 122-bed facility expected to open in early 2029.
All homes are Medicare and Medicaid certified, and IDVS assists with VA pension and Aid & Attendance applications.
Spouses, widows, and widowers are eligible for nursing care only, not residential or domiciliary care.
The Boise home has a perpetual waiting list, especially during construction. Apply early.
Required documents include DD-214, proof of Idaho residency, Medicare/insurance cards, and financial statements.
The Boise home offers the only Alzheimer’s special care unit in the Idaho system, with 17 dedicated beds.
Apply by contacting the Admission Department at (208) 246-8736 or submitting the application to 320 Collins Road, Boise, ID 83702.
Official Resources
Idaho Division of Veterans Services: veterans.idaho.gov
Idaho State Veterans Home – Boise: veterans.idaho.gov/veterans-home/boise/
Idaho State Veterans Home – Lewiston: veterans.idaho.gov/veterans-home/lewiston/
Idaho State Veterans Home – Pocatello: veterans.idaho.gov/veterans-home/pocatello/
Idaho State Veterans Home – Post Falls: veterans.idaho.gov/veterans-home/post-falls/
Idaho State Veterans Home Application: veterans.idaho.gov/pressrelease/idaho-state-veterans-home-admissions-application/
VA Aid & Attendance: va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
VA Health Benefits: va.gov/health-care/
USA.gov Veterans Benefits: usa.gov/veterans-benefits
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📌 Information provided as of June 2026. Always verify current eligibility and rules with official .gov sources.
This site is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency. All information is for educational purposes only. Please visit VA.gov for official information.
