Payments will begin increasing in February 2025, ultimately going up to $2,500 by August 2025

Boston - The Healey-Driscoll Administration is announcing that Massachusetts veterans and their families will begin receiving increased benefits in February 2025 as part of the historic HERO Act that Governor Healey signed into law last year. This is the first increase in 17 years to the annual annuity for 100% disabled veterans, Gold Star parents and Gold Star spouses.

This landmark increase raises the annuity from $2,000 to $2,500 annually, providing much-needed financial support to veterans and their loved ones. The increase will be phased in to ensure a smooth transition. In February 2025, recipients will receive an initial payment of $1,250. Beginning in August 2025 and continuing annually thereafter, recipients will receive a single annual payment of $2,500.

"By increasing this annuity, we are reaffirming our commitment to the veterans, Gold Star families, and servicemembers who have given so much for our state and our country," said Governor Maura Healey. "The HERO Act reflects our deep respect and gratitude for their service, ensuring that Massachusetts remains a leader in veteran support and recognition. I'm grateful for Secretary Santiago and his team, as well as the Legislature for their partnership to pass this impactful bill."

“As the proud daughter of a Navy Vet, I know firsthand how veterans and their loved ones rely on benefits like this annuity,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This increase means more money back in the pockets of our heroes to pay for food, housing, health care and anything else they might need.”

"This increase is more than just a financial adjustment – it’s a promise kept to those who have given so much,” said Veterans Services Secretary Jon Santiago. “We are proud to deliver tangible support to ensure veterans and their families can thrive in Massachusetts."

Most eligible recipients will receive a direct deposit of the increased annuity early next week. Others will receive a check in the mail later in the week.

Since taking office, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has prioritized revitalizing veterans' services in Massachusetts. In March 2023, Governor Healey established the state’s new Executive Office of Veterans’ Services and appointed Jon Santiago, the state’s first-ever Secretary of the Executive Office of Veterans Services, to spearhead the transformation of a cabinet-level secretariat focused on veteran care. Over the past year, the Executive Office of Veterans Services has overhauled operations and existing programs to redefine how veterans are cared for in Massachusetts. This includes passing the HERO Act, the most comprehensive piece of veterans’ legislation in Massachusetts history that increases benefits, modernize services and promote inclusivity for veterans in Massachusetts, moving forward on new, state-of-the-art veterans' homes in Holyoke and Chelsea and launching an initiative to End Veteran Homelessness.

The Executive Office of Veterans Services encourages eligible veterans and families to reach out with any questions about their benefits or the implementation of the HERO Act provisions. For more information about the HERO Act or the Executive Office of Veterans Services, please visit Chapter 115 Benefits/Safety Net Program | Mass.gov.

Statements of Support:

Jason Main, President, Massachusetts Veterans’ Service Officers Association (MVSOA)

“The increase to the annuity for disabled veterans and Gold Star families is a long-overdue step forward in ensuring that those who have sacrificed the most receive the support they deserve. For the first time in 17 years, Massachusetts is taking action to address this critical benefit, and we thank the Healey-Driscoll Administration for making this a priority.”

Peggy Griffin, Chair, Gold Star Wives of America, Greater Boston Chapter:

“The Greater Boston Chapter of Gold Star Wives of America deeply appreciates the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s commitment to supporting Gold Star families, veterans, and their loved ones. The long-overdue increase to the annuity recognizes the sacrifices made by those who have served and the families they leave behind. This additional financial support will provide meaningful relief to Gold Star spouses and parents who have endured profound loss, continue to face financial hardship and we are grateful for the continued leadership of Governor Healey and Secretary Santiago in ensuring that Massachusetts remains a leader in veteran services.”

Lisa McPhee, Adjutant, The American Legion Department of Massachusetts:

“The American Legion stands in strong support of this long-overdue increase to the annuity for Massachusetts’ 100% disabled veterans and Gold Star families. Our veterans and their loved ones have given so much in service to this country, and this increase provides meaningful financial support to those who need it most. We applaud Governor Healey and the Legislature for their continued dedication to ensuring Massachusetts remains at the forefront of veteran care and benefits.”