By MOAA Staff. Updated May 17, 2021, with new details.

Through grants to its local chapters, MOAA already has distributed more than $50,000 via its COVID-19 Relief Fund – an effort made possible by the overwhelming generosity of members nationwide.

That generosity makes it possible for MOAA to continue offering relief to members of the military and veteran community who are struggling to fend off economic disaster.

Grants of up to $500 per household are available. Some of these Emergency Financial Relief Grants already have made a difference.

One recipient: “I was at my wit’s end as far as finances go. … For my wife of a few months and me, it was like a miracle to be approved for the MOAA grant. It gave us the financial breathing room to be able to put food on the table, cover some utilities and convince the landlord that the remainder of the July rent would be paid. I am very happy that I was chosen to receive the grant and appreciate it more than I can say.”

Another: “Thank you for the consideration of the MOAA grant. It will help my family and assist us in maintaining or basic needs. … It was a very difficult time when your limited pay unexpectedly gets cut due to COVID closures and you can’t maintain your affairs. Again, thank you.”

And another: “My wife and I were previously homeless. Until MOAA came through, we were facing the same problem yet again. Thank you.”

If you are a member of a council or chapter and want to share the application in your community, please visit MOAA.org/billreliefapp. Information on printer-friendly and fillable PDF versions can be found on that website, as well. Chapter-connected applicants should select “chapter application” for the first question.

For any MOAA councils or chapters who would like to facilitate and endorse a grant application, you can visit MOAA.org/billreliefverify to find the facilitation form. If you’re facing financial stress brought on by the pandemic (or know someone who is) and you aren't affiliated or near a MOAA chapter, visit the above link for instructions and to fill out the digital application.

For any additional application questions, please email relief@moaa.org

As a MOAA chapter official stated, “Veterans are reluctant to come forward and say, ‘I need help’ until the very last minute.” For many, that “last minute” has arrived.

[LEARN MORE: MOAA’s COVID-19 Relief Fund]

Below, you’ll find some basic information on the program, including eligibility guidelines. Questions? Call MOAA’s Member Service Center at (800) 234-6622 or e-mail relief@moaa.org.

Eligibility

Grants are available to currently serving members, spouses of active duty members, veterans with honorable discharges, or caregivers of the same. You’ll be asked to prove negative financial impact from the COVID-19 crisis as part of the application process.

National MOAA or MOAA chapter membership is not a requirement, and members won’t receive preference.

All ranks are eligible. Preference will be given to those ineligible for other relief programs, such as service relief societies.

Eligible Debts

The grant can be used to pay a range of bills to include rent/mortgage, car loan/lease, utilities, telecommunications (cellphone/Internet), and additional categories considered on a case-by-case basis.