Veterans Services serves, advocates and honors all veterans, military members and their dependents throughout Dakota County.
The county is home to more than 20,000 veterans and their dependents. Veterans Services assists veterans, dependents, and survivors in obtaining benefits through county, state and federal programs.
To be eligible for veterans benefits, you must be one of the following:
- Veteran
- Spouse
- Surviving spouse
- Child or parent of a deceased veteran
- Active duty military service member
- Member or have served in the Reserves or National Guard
Locations & hours
Veterans Services offers appointments at the following service locations.. Appointments are encouraged. Walk-in clients are welcome, but may not be immediately served.
Call 651-554-5601 or email vets@co.dakota.mn.us to schedule an appointment with a CVSO near you.
- Northern Service Center, 1 Mendota Road West #420, West St. Paul: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (Closed noon–1 p.m.)
- Western Service Center, 14955 Galaxie Ave., First Floor, Apple Valley: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 pm. (Closed noon–1 p.m.)
- Hastings City Hall, 101 4th Street East, Hastings: First and third Friday of each month, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (Closed noon–1 p.m.) Scheduled appointments are recommended.
- Virtual appointments by phone or video teleconferencing
Non-Dakota County residents
Due to the high volume of veterans, new applicants must live within Dakota County. Veterans who live outside of Dakota County can locate their office by visiting the Minnesota Association of County Veterans Service Officers Directory.
Preparing for your Veterans Services appointment
When scheduling your appointment, staff may request the following documents:
- DD-214
- Marriage certificates
- Birth certificates
- Identification card or proof of residency
- Military or private medical records
- Military personnel file
- Banking information to establish direct deposit