Veterans Emergency Fund

 
 
Support you need, when you need it. When the unexpected happens, we can provide you funds for essentials like food, shelter, or medical expenses.

About this program

The Veterans Emergency Fund provides prompt financial support to Veterans, their families, and survivors, who are facing an unforeseen financial emergency that is threatening their health and well-being.

The Veterans Emergency Fund can cover essentials such as:

  • food;
  • clothing;
  • rent/mortgage;
  • medical care/expenses; and,
  • expenses required to maintain safety and shelter.

Every situation is unique. Applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis. We will also work with you to identify your long-term needs.

*If you receive the War Veterans Allowance, see the Assistance Fund to help you during financial emergencies.

Do you qualify?

You should apply for the Veterans Emergency Fund if you have an urgent financial need, are a Canadian resident*, and are a:

  • Veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF);
  • current spouse/common-law partner of a Veteran;
  • survivor of a deceased Veteran or CAF member; or
  • orphan of a deceased Veteran or CAF member (or the legal guardian if the orphan is under the age of 18).

*Someone who has resided in Canada for at least 183 days in the previous fiscal year (April 1-March 31).

How to apply

Before you apply

We will need as much information as possible about the financial emergency. This could include: invoices, quotes, notices, or statements to explain the situation.

If this is your first time applying to a VAC program, we will need proof of identity (e.g. driver’s license).

You can expect a decision within 1-2 business days. If approved, you will receive payment within 1-2 business days.

Online

Fill out and submit your application online through My VAC Account. This is the recommended approach, and will give you the quickest response.

If you are not registered with My VAC Account, you can register now.

Apply by mail

Download the application form and mail your completed form directly to:

Veterans Affairs Canada
PO Box 6000
Matane, QC
G4W 0E4

Get help with your application

Our staff can assist you.

Please note our service locations offer in-person services by appointment only.

Additional information

Related programs

The Assistance Fund can help if you in a financial emergency, if you receive the War Veterans Allowance.

The Canadian Forces Income Support is a tax-free monthly benefit to help low-income Veterans, survivors, and dependent children.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to receive benefits from Veterans Affairs Canada to apply for emergency funding?

No. However, we will require the information about the Veteran in order to confirm their service history.

What will staff use to quickly confirm a Veteran's service information?

VAC staff will be able to confirm a Veteran's service information by entering their name, service number and date of birth into our Client Service Delivery Network (CSDN). VAC will work with DND to obtain service information for those Veterans who don't have an existing relationship with VAC.

Are there policies for this program?

Yes. Read the Veterans Emergency Fund policy.

Find more Veterans Emergency Fund FAQs.

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