Our Primary Duty
The City of Springfield’s DVS Office's primary duties are to furnish information, advice, and assistance to veterans and their dependents. It is necessary for veterans to procure the benefits to which they are entitled relative to employment, vocational or other educational opportunities, hospitalization, medical care, pensions, and other veteran benefits.
Office Hours: Monday – Friday
9:00AM to 4:00PM
Springfield Department of Veterans Services
City of Springfield
36 Court Street
Room 101
Springfield, MA 01103
413-787-6141
Fax: 413-787-6143
Veterans’ Bill of Rights
Veterans, you have a right to:
- File a written application for veterans' benefits at any time. You can insist upon this right, even if told that you are ineligible. [108 CMR 4:02 (1)]
- Receive assistance from your local veterans' agent in completing your application. [(M.G.L. c. 115, s. 3)]
- Receive a full explanation of the services and benefits available under M.G.L., Ch.115, as well as other available benefits.
- Receive a written notice and explanation of the approval or denial of your application for benefits. [108 CMR 8:02 (1)]
- Be treated with dignity and respect and to receive accurate, courteous and timely service.
- Appeal and request a hearing if you disagree with any action taken in your case. [108 CMR 8:07(1)]
- Expect confidentiality; personal information will not be collected or used except for the purpose of determining your eligibility for benefits. [(M.G.L. c. 40. s.51)]
Chapter 115 Benefits
Under Chapter 115 of Massachusetts General Laws (M.G.L. Ch. 115), the Commonwealth provides a uniform program of financial and medical assistance for indigent veterans and their dependents. Qualifying veterans and their dependents receive necessary financial assistance for food, shelter, clothing, housing supplies and medical care in accordance with a formula which takes into account the number of depenents and income from all sources. Eligible dependents of deceased veterans are provided with the same benefits as they would were the veteran still living.
The Springfield Department of Veterans Services can provide information about:
Annuities • Awards and Medals • Burial • Chapter 115 benefits • Education • Elder Services • Employment • Flags and Markers • Financial Assistance • Food • Graves Care • Housing • License Plates • Medical Assistance • Pensions • Pharmaceuticals • Real Estate Tax Exemption • Review of Discharge • Sales Tax Exemptions
The staff consists of:
Director of the Department of Veterans Services
Joe DeCaro
Deputy Director of the Department of Veterans Services
Investigator
Gerald Champigny
Investigator
Joseph Dougherty
Administrative Assistant
Danielle Witherspoon