Veterans Services Office

The Mower County Veterans Service Office provides assistance to veterans, their dependents, or survivors in all programs of veterans' affairs available at federal, state, and local levels including Veterans Administration and the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs. The Mower County Veterans Service Office is committed to providing professional and courteous service to veterans and dependents while striving to ensure they receive the maximum benefits and services they are entitled to. Individual right to privacy and confidentiality is always respected. 

The Mower County Veterans Service Office provides assistance and technical support to veterans and their dependents with a diverse array of benefits and services. These include claims assistance, benefit counseling, and advocacy. The Veterans Service Office can also assist in obtaining military discharges and documents. We consider our office a one-stop shop to apply for all Veterans Administration benefits (state and federal). For an appointment, call 507-434-2712.

Van Service To and From Minneapolis VA Medical Center

Our office helps coordinate transportation service to the Minneapolis VA Medical Center. The van transports from Austin on even days only during the morning hours. To schedule or inquire further about transportation to and from the Minneapolis VA, please contact the Mower County Veterans Service Office at 507-434-2712.

COVID-19 Financial Assistance for Veterans 

On March 26, 2020, the Minnesota State Legislature voted to fund a special appropriation to assist Veterans who may be financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 Specific Programs have been activated specifically in response to mitigate the economic effects COVID-19 is having on our Veterans and their families. 

These programs can be closed at any time without notice due to the exhaustion of approved funding. Status updates will be posted on the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs website regarding the status of these programs. All of the grants are awarded on a first come, first serve basis, and the amount of grants awarded is limited to the length of existing funding. 

COVID-19 Disaster Relief Grant 

The purpose of the COVID-19 Disaster Relief Grant is to mitigate the negative effects and economic impact of COVID-19 has had on Veterans and their families by providing a one-time financial relief grant int he amount of $1,000. 

Visit the MDVA COVID-19 Disaster Relief Grant web page for more information. 

COVID-19 Special Needs Grant 

The purpose of the COVID-19 Special Needs Grant is to provide one-time financial assistance to a Veteran or surviving spouse who needs assistance due to a  COVID-19 related event. Any funding awarded from this grant would go directly to the vendor or creditor of the applicant, and no money awarded goes directly to an applicant or an applicant's family member. 

Visit the MDVA COVID-19 Special Needs Grant web page for more information.