Veterans Emergency Fund
Support you need, when you need it. You may receive funds for essentials like food, clothing, or shelter.
About this program
The Veterans Emergency Fund provides prompt non-taxable financial support to qualified Veterans and their families, who are facing an emergency that is threatening their health and well-being.
The Veterans Emergency Fund can cover essentials such as:
- food
- clothing
- uninsured medical care or expenses
- expenses required to maintain 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 a financial emergency, are a Canadian resident*, and are one of the following:
- Veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF)
- current spouse or common-law partner of a Veteran
- survivor of a deceased Veteran or CAF member
- 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 to March 31).
How to apply
Before you apply
We will need as much information as possible about your financial emergency. This could include invoices, quotes, notices, or statements explaining your situation.
If this is your first time applying for a VAC program, we will need proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license).
Once you have submitted a complete application, you can expect a decision within two business days.
A complete application means that your identity has been verified and any requested documentation has been received.
If your application is approved, a payment will be processed within two business days of the decision date.
Apply online
The application process is easier and faster when you use the guided form available in My VAC Account.
If you have a My VAC Account, you can submit your application for this benefit online. If you are not registered, you can register now.
Apply by mail
Download and complete the form.
Then print and mail your application form to the address provided.
Get help with your application
Our staff can assist you.
- Call us toll-free at 1-866-522-2122 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. local time).
- Send us a My VAC Account secure message.
- Request an in-person appointment using our online booking form or by calling 1-866-522-2122.
Additional information
Related programs
Trust Funds Administered by Veterans Affairs Canada: Established through generous donations and bequests of private individuals to help address unmet essential needs.
Assistance Fund: If you receive the War Veterans Allowance, this fund can provide you with quick access to funds for urgent needs such as food, shelter, or medical expenses.
Canadian Forces Income Support: A tax-free monthly benefit to help low-income Veterans, survivors, and dependent children.
Financial Management: Resources that can help you with financial management planning.
Would you prefer a PDF about this program?
Download the Veterans Emergency Fund Fact Sheet.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to receive benefits from Veterans Affairs Canada to apply for emergency funding?
No, but 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 do not have an existing relationship with VAC.
Are there policies for this program?
Yes. Read the Veterans Emergency Fund policy.
More information about the program can be found in the Veterans Emergency Fund FAQs.