Aug
29How do I Sign Up for VA Health Benefits?
Tagged Under : Benefits, Health Benefits
Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
- 1
Make sure you first meet basic qualifications to sign up for VA benefits. A veteran must have served in active air, naval or military service, and been honorably released or discharged. Or if a member of the National Guard–or a Reservist in another branch–a veteran had to be called to active duty by a Federal Order (not including training sessions only), and had to complete the full period of required service.
- 2
Determine if you meet the additional criteria required for veterans: 1) being discharged for either a hardship or medical reason, for a prior disability, or released early; 2) serving in some form of combat for the past 5 years; 3) receiving the distinguished Purple Heart; 4) being a former prisoner of war (POW); or 5) you currently receive state Medicaid benefits or VA disability or pension benefits.
- 3
Apply for VA Health benefits online at the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, by filling out form 10-10EZ. This can be downloaded from the VA’s website at VA.gov.
- 4
Call the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs at 1-877-222-8387 to apply for VA Health benefits by phone. A representative will walk you through the application process to make sure you qualify, and that your questions are answered.
- 5
Enroll for VA Health benefits in person at a VA Medical Clinic or Center. For a list of facilities in your area, you may call the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (number listed above), or visit www2.VA.gov to click on a map for the closest location to you.

