Delaware Veterans Home Cost, Eligibility & Admission Steps

Delaware Veterans Home: Complete Guide to Eligibility, Costs, and How to Apply

The Delaware Veterans Home (DVH) in Milford is a 144-bed skilled nursing facility for honorably discharged veterans who have lived in Delaware for at least one year and have a medically determined need for long-term care. Veterans rated 70% or higher by VA pay no room and board. Monthly costs for other veterans range from approximately $5,139 to $5,785 after VA per diem offsets. Applications are submitted directly to DVH Admissions.

Quick Facts

What Is the Delaware Veterans Home?

The Delaware Veterans Home is a state-operated, long-term care facility that provides skilled nursing and dementia care to eligible veterans. Established in 2007, it sits on 24 acres in Milford and is Delaware’s only state veterans home. The facility operates on four units with 144 beds and is certified by both Medicare and Medicaid.

What it is: A state-run nursing home exclusively for veterans (and, in limited cases, their spouses).

Who qualifies: Veterans who meet military service, residency, and medical need requirements (detailed below).

Why it matters: DVH maintains the lowest long-term care costs for veterans in Delaware. The state covers operational costs that exceed resident daily rates, and the VA per diem is applied directly to reduce what veterans pay out of pocket.

What veterans should do next: Call the admissions office at (302) 424-8572 to request an application packet, or download the application from vethome.delaware.gov.

Eligibility Requirements for the Delaware Veterans Home

To be considered for residency at DVH, applicants must meet all three of the following minimum requirements. Missing any one of these disqualifies the application.

Military Service Requirement

Applicants must meet one of the following:

• Honorably discharged from active service (peacetime or wartime) with a minimum of 180 days of service

• National Guard overseas with active service for a minimum of 180 days

• Reservist with a minimum of 180 days of active service

• Any National Guard service or Reservist who is eligible for retirement pay at age 60

• Gold Star family member

A DD214 is the standard proof of service. Veterans who need a copy can request one through the Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs at (302) 739-2792.

Residency Requirement

Applicants must have resided in the State of Delaware for at least one year immediately before applying for admission.

Important note: Some older documents list a three-year residency requirement, but the current DVH admissions application and website specify one year. Veterans should confirm the current standard by contacting the admissions office directly, as requirements can change.

Medical Need Requirement

Applicants must have a medically determined need for a long-term level of care, which means they require skilled nursing or intermediate care for activities of daily living. This is not an independent living or assisted living facility in the traditional sense—DVH provides nursing-level care. A physician must document this need as part of the application.

Who Does NOT Qualify

• Veterans with a less-than-honorable discharge (unless a Character of Discharge review changes the status)

• Veterans who have lived in Delaware for less than one year

• Veterans who do not require a nursing level of care

• Non-veterans (except eligible spouses of current DVH residents, subject to space availability)

Delaware Veterans Home Costs and Payment Options (2026)

The cost to live at the Delaware Veterans Home depends on your VA service-connected disability rating and the type of room. The VA pays a per diem directly to DVH for every qualified veteran, which reduces the daily rate the veteran owes.

Current Daily and Monthly Rates

The following rates reflect the most recent published figures from the DVH admissions application (updated March 2026).

Veterans with a 70%–100% VA Service-Connected Rating

Veterans with a Rating Below 70% or No Service Connection

Key rule: Veterans who are 70% or more disabled, as determined by the VA, are not billed for their stay. Veterans who are 100% VA disabled incur no fee at all. This is one of the most significant financial benefits of DVH compared to private nursing facilities.

What the Daily Rate Covers

The daily room and board rate includes:

• Routine nursing care

• Meals

• Activities

• Housekeeping

• Bed and bath linens

• Social services

• Telephone

• Basic cable

Additional charges may apply for barber/beautician services, laundry, transportation, pharmacy, and copays.

How to Pay

DVH accepts multiple payment sources:

• VA per diem (applied automatically for qualified veterans)

• Medicare (covers up to 100 days of short-term rehabilitation stays only)

• Long-Term Medicaid (for skilled/intermediate and dementia care)

• Private Pay (from military retirement, pension, Social Security, disability income, IRAs, 401Ks, or long-term care insurance)

Medicaid and the Miller Trust

Veterans whose income exceeds Delaware’s Medicaid long-term care limit may still qualify for Medicaid by establishing a Miller Trust (also called an Income Trust). This irrevocable trust holds excess income so the applicant becomes income-eligible for Medicaid. Income placed in the trust is composed only of Social Security, pension, and other income to the individual.

Veterans who have surrendered all assets to pay for care are permitted to retain **$90 per month** for personal needs. For non-veterans, the Medicaid subsistence level is $44 per month. Spouses of veterans approved for Medicaid can retain certain assets, including the primary residence and a vehicle.

Cost Comparison: DVH vs. Private Nursing Homes

The DVH maintains the lowest costs for veterans in Delaware by design. The state covers operational costs that exceed the daily rate, and the VA per diem is applied directly to reduce the veteran’s portion.

How to Apply for the Delaware Veterans Home

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Request or download the application

Call the admissions office at (302) 424-8572, or download the DVH Admissions Application and VA Form 10-10EZ from vethome.delaware.gov.

Step 2: Gather required documents

The application checklist requires:

• Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or military ID)

• Insurance cards (front and back of Medicare Parts A and B, Medicaid proof, supplemental insurance such as Tricare or Medicare Part D)

• DD214 (honorable discharge form)

• Financial Power of Attorney documentation or Guardianship document

• Medical Power of Attorney documentation (if applicable)

• Medical records from the previous year (a record release form is included in the packet)

Step 3: Complete the application

Fill out the DVH admissions application and VA Form 10-10EZ (Application for Health Care Benefits). Both forms are required.

Step 4: Submit the application

Submit by mail, fax, or email:

• Mail: Attn: DVH Admissions, The Delaware Veterans Home, 100 Delaware Veterans Blvd., Milford, DE 19963

• Fax: 302-424-6033

• Email: DOSDVH_Admissions@delaware.gov

Step 5: Attend the pre-admission assessment

After the application is reviewed, applicants are scheduled for a pre-admission interview assessment with members of the DVH clinical team.

Step 6: Receive decision

The admissions team determines eligibility based on medical need and ability to pay via VA, Private Pay, or Medicaid/Medicare.

Important: 90-Day Application Validity

All applications are valid for 90 days from the date of submission. If the application is not fully completed within that period, it will be closed, and the applicant must restart the process. Submitting all supporting documents with the initial application prevents delays.

Delaware Veterans Home Waiting List and Bed Availability

There is no traditional waiting list for DVH. The facility’s admissions team has publicly debunked the “waiting list myth” at client advocacy events, stating that applications are processed based on eligibility and bed availability rather than a numbered queue.

Current occupancy is approximately 48% to 51%, meaning roughly 68 to 73 residents occupy the 144 available beds. However, staffing shortages have historically limited the number of staffed beds. As of a 2023 report, 100 beds were occupied and staffed while 50 were offline due to staffing shortages.

What this means for applicants: Even though the facility is not at full census, admission depends on whether a suitable bed is available for the applicant’s level of care (semi-private vs. private, skilled nursing vs. dementia unit). Veterans should apply as early as possible and maintain open communication with the admissions office.

Spouse Admission to the Delaware Veterans Home

Spouses of veterans who are current DVH residents are eligible for admission subject to space availability. Spouses must cover costs through Private Pay or Medicaid—they do not qualify for the VA per diem that reduces veterans’ costs.

If married, service-connected veterans may share a room with their spouse.

Spouses who have Power of Attorney for a veteran may apply on the veteran’s behalf for admission.

Required VA Form 10-10EZ

VA Form 10-10EZ (Application for Health Care Benefits) is required as part of the DVH admission application. This form enrolls the veteran in VA healthcare and is used by DVH to coordinate care and billing.

How to complete it:

• Apply online at VA.gov

• By phone: 1-877-222-VETS (8387)

• By mail: Download and print the form, then submit with the DVH application

Documents needed for 10-10EZ:

• DD214

• VA disability award letters (if applicable)

• Income information from the previous calendar year (for non-service-connected veterans)

• Current insurance cards

Common Mistakes Veterans and Families Make

1. Submitting an incomplete application.
Applications missing required documents are delayed or closed after 90 days. Use the checklist included in the application packet.

2. Assuming there is a waiting list.
DVH does not operate on a numbered waiting list. Applications are reviewed based on eligibility, medical need, and bed availability. Call admissions directly to discuss your situation.

3. Not confirming the current residency requirement.
Some older sources list a three-year residency requirement, but the current application specifies one year. Verify the current standard with DVH Admissions before assuming you are ineligible.

4. Waiting until a crisis to apply.
Because DVH is not a waiting-list facility, but bed availability depends on staffing and level of care, families should begin the application process before the veteran’s medical need becomes urgent.

5. Not exploring Medicaid and Miller Trust options.
Veterans with income above Medicaid limits may still qualify by establishing a Miller Trust. Families should consult with a Medicaid planning professional or the DVH financial office at (302) 424-6000.

6. Assuming Medicare covers long-term care.
Medicare covers only up to 100 days of short-term rehabilitation. It does not cover long-term nursing home stays. Veterans and families should plan for Medicaid or private pay for extended care.

DVH Quality Ratings and Inspections

The Delaware Veterans Home is rated 5 out of 5 stars overall by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), placing it above average nationally.

However, recent inspection data shows areas for family awareness:

• The most recent health inspection (March 2026) identified deficiencies related to treatment and care according to orders and resident preferences.

• CMS has placed an abuse icon on the facility’s record, though the star rating runs ahead of what underlying measures support.

• The facility has been cited for 64 deficiencies since record-keeping began, which is close to the Delaware average of 62.9 deficiencies per facility.

• One fine totaling $31,837 has been levied against the facility.

What families should do: Ask DVH Admissions for the most recent inspection report and plan of correction. Visit the facility in person and observe conditions, staff interactions, and resident engagement. CMS inspection data is available at Medicare.gov Care Compare.

Delaware Veterans Home vs. Other Care Options

Decision tree:

• Do you need skilled nursing care and meet DVH eligibility? → Apply to DVH

• Do you need assisted living only? → DVH is not the right fit; explore private assisted living with VA Aid & Attendance

• Are you a 100% service-connected veteran? → VA is required to find long-term care at no cost to you

• Do you need short-term rehabilitation only? → Medicare may cover up to 100 days at DVH or another facility

• Is your income too high for Medicaid? → Explore a Miller Trust with a Medicaid planning professional

Common Questions

What is the Delaware Veterans Home?

The Delaware Veterans Home is a 144-bed skilled nursing facility in Milford, Delaware, exclusively for veterans who meet military service, residency, and medical need requirements. Established in 2007, it provides long-term nursing care, dementia care, and rehabilitation services. Veterans rated 70% or higher by VA pay no room and board costs.

Who is eligible for the Delaware Veterans Home?

Veterans must have an honorable discharge with at least 180 days of active service (or qualifying National Guard/Reservist service), have lived in Delaware for at least one year before applying, and have a medically determined need for skilled nursing care. Gold Star family members are also eligible.

How much does the Delaware Veterans Home cost?

For veterans with a VA rating below 70%, the semi-private monthly cost is approximately $5,139 after VA per diem. Private rooms cost about $6,189. Veterans rated 70% or higher pay nothing for their stay. Medicaid and private pay are also accepted for eligible applicants.

Is there a waiting list for the Delaware Veterans Home?

No. DVH does not operate on a traditional numbered waiting list. Applications are reviewed based on eligibility, medical need, and bed availability. The admissions team has publicly debunked the “waiting list myth” and encourages families to apply directly.

How do I apply for the Delaware Veterans Home?

Download the DVH Admissions Application and VA Form 10-10EZ from vethome.delaware.gov, complete both, and submit by email (DOSDVH_Admissions@delaware.gov), fax (302-424-6033), or mail to 100 Delaware Veterans Blvd., Milford, DE 19963. Include your DD214, insurance cards, photo ID, and financial POA documentation.

Can my spouse live at the Delaware Veterans Home with me?

Yes, if you are a current DVH resident and space is available. Spouses must cover their own costs through Private Pay or Medicaid. They do not qualify for the VA per diem that reduces veterans’ costs. Married service-connected veterans may share a room.

Does Medicare cover the Delaware Veterans Home?

Medicare covers up to 100 days of short-term rehabilitation stays only. It does not cover long-term nursing home care. For long-term stays, veterans rely on VA per diem (if eligible), Medicaid, or private pay. DVH accepts Medicare and Medicaid.

What if my income is too high for Medicaid?

Delaware allows veterans to establish a Miller Trust (Income Trust) to hold excess income, making them eligible for Medicaid long-term care. Veterans who have spent down assets may retain $90 per month for personal needs. Spouses can retain the primary residence and a vehicle.

What level of care does the Delaware Veterans Home provide?

DVH provides skilled nursing care, intermediate nursing care, dementia care, and rehabilitation services. It is not an independent living or standard assisted living facility. All applicants must have a medically determined need for a nursing level of care.

Can I tour the Delaware Veterans Home before applying?

Yes. Tours must be scheduled in advance. Call the admissions office at (302) 424-8572 to arrange a visit. Family members have 24-hour access to residents after admission, and hospice care is available on-site.

Key Takeaways

• The Delaware Veterans Home in Milford is a 144-bed skilled nursing facility for honorably discharged veterans with at least 180 days of service, one year of Delaware residency, and a medical need for nursing care.

• Veterans rated 70% or higher by VA pay $0 for room and board.

• Veterans rated below 70% pay approximately $5,139 per month for a semi-private room after VA per diem offsets.

• The application requires two forms: the DVH Admissions Application and VA Form 10-10EZ, plus DD214, insurance cards, and financial documentation.

• Applications are valid for 90 days—incomplete applications are closed and must be restarted.

• There is no waiting list; admission depends on eligibility and bed availability.

• Spouses of current DVH residents may be admitted subject to space availability and must cover costs through Private Pay or Medicaid.

• Medicaid planning tools include the Miller Trust for veterans whose income exceeds eligibility limits.

• The facility holds a 5-star CMS rating but has recent inspection deficiencies families should review.

• Call (302) 424-8572 for admissions questions or to request an application packet.

Official Resources

• Delaware Veterans Home: vethome.delaware.gov

• Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs: vets.delaware.gov

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: VA.gov

• VA Form 10-10EZ (Health Care Application): va.gov/health-care/apply

• CMS Care Compare (Nursing Home Ratings): medicare.gov/care-compare

• Delaware Medicaid Long-Term Care: dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dmma

• Social Security Administration: ssa.gov/people/veterans

• Delaware Veterans Home Phone: (302) 424-6000

• DVH Admissions Phone: (302) 424-8572

• DVH Admissions Email: DOSDVH_Admissions@delaware.gov

• Veterans Crisis Line: 988 (press 1)

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