Health Benefits for Veterans
If you served in the military, you may be eligible for veterans health benefits. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) runs the program.
Benefits include:
Find VA Medical Facilities
When you sign up for VA health benefits, you'll pick one VA location for your regular care. The VA may refer you to other locations for specialty care.
Use the VA facility locator to find VA medical centers, clinics, and vet centers.
Check Your Eligibility
You may qualify for VA health benefits if:
Learn more about veterans health care eligibility to see if you qualify.
Apply for Medical Benefits
You can apply for VA medical benefits online, by phone, mail, or in person. The VA will make its decision within one week.
Manage Your Care with My HealtheVet
Use the My HealtheVet website to:
Order prescription refills
Schedule appointments
Send secure messages to your VA health care team
View lab and test results
View, download, and print your medical records
Problems with Veterans Health Care
If you have a problem with your care provider, VA medical facility, or any other aspect of your care, you can:
For more information, call 1-877-222-VETS (1-877-222-8387).
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Help for Veterans
If you or someone you know needs help now, contact the Veterans Crisis Line. Counselors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can:
Mental Health Services from the VA
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) mental health services can help with:
Eligibility for Mental Health Services
Veterans enrolled in VA health care can receive mental health services.
Even if you're not enrolled in VA health care, you may be able to get help.
Find VA Facilities
You can call or go to any VA medical center or vet center to get help. VA medical centers are open 24/7. Find VA locations near you.
Substance Abuse Treatment for Veterans
Veterans with substance use problems can get help through the VA. Treatment may include:
You can seek treatment at a VA location or you can find a VA substance use disorder treatment program near you.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
The VA can help veterans with PTSD, no matter when the triggering event occurred.
Support Programs for Life Events
The inTransition program offers specialized coaching for military members and veterans during transitions like:
To enroll, call 1-800-424-7877. Outside the U.S., call (DSN) 1-800-424-4685.
Make the Connection helps vets, friends, and family find help for various life issues.
Self-Help Resources and Apps
Use these mobile apps and online tools to help work through challenges:
Free mental health smartphone apps help with managing stress, fighting depression, relaxation, and positive thinking. Other apps can help you quit smoking, lose weight, and work with a therapist.
Specialized Helplines for Veterans and Families
You can also find help through these websites and toll-free numbers:
Do you have a question?
Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They'll get you the answer or let you know where to find it.
Last Updated:
March 13, 2020
