Optical benefits are provided to Veterans and their dependents for an eye examination, refraction, and/or prescription eyewear to include contact lenses. This benefit is income- and asset-based, and upon MDVA approval of eligibility, you and your dependents may receive up to $600 for annual routine optical care paid to your choice of providers.
Optical benefits are open year-round. A recipient is limited to one first-tier optical benefit every 12 months. A previous recipient is eligible for the first-tier dental benefit 12 months after the first date of service paid for by MDVA in the recipient’s previous benefit period in accordance with MN Administrative Rules 9055.0320 Subp. 12 (a)(b).
To be eligible for this benefit, the applicant must be:
Maximum monthly household income limits and maximum household asset limits for the optical program activities are provided in the schedule of maximum monthly allowances for the optical program activity.
| Family Size | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 |
| Asset Limit | $10,000 | $18,000 | $18,000 | $18,000 | $18,000 | $18,000 | $18,000 | $18,000 | $18,000 | $18,000 |
| Income Limit | $2,430 | $3,287 | $4,143 | $5,000 | $5,857 | $6,713 | $7,570 | $8,427 | $9,283 | $10,140 |
An eligible applicant must apply for optical benefits through their County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO). You can find your CVSO here.
If your County Veterans Service Office is unable to assist you, please contact MDVA’s Field Operations Team, who can assist you with your application, by contacting FO.MDVA@state.mn.us.
If you qualify for this benefit, you may be eligible for other state Veterans benefits, to include dental, Veterans Relief Grant and disaster relief. Please contact your County Veteran Service Officer for assistance or more information on this and other benefits. Find your CVSO at macvso.org or by calling 1-888-LinkVet (546-5838), MDVA's one-stop customer service line for all Minnesota Veterans and their families.
