How to apply for VA health care
Find out how to apply for VA health care benefits as a Veteran or service member.
How do I prepare before I start my application?
- Social Security numbers for you, your spouse, and your qualified dependents.
- Your military discharge papers (DD214 or other separation documents), military service history information, and details about exposure to any toxins or other hazards.
- Insurance card information for all insurance companies that cover you, including any coverage provided through a spouse or significant other. This includes Medicare, private insurance, or insurance from your employer.
- Gross household income from the previous calendar year for you, your spouse, and your dependents. This includes income from a job and any other sources. Gross household income is your income before taxes and any other deductions.
- Your deductible expenses for the past year. These include certain health care and education costs.
Note: You don’t have to tell us about your income and expenses when you apply. But if you’re not eligible based on other factors, we’ll need this information to decide on your application.
How do I apply?
You can apply online right now.
Apply for health care benefits
You can also apply in any of these 4 ways
Option 1: Apply by phone
Call our toll-free hotline at 877-222-8387 to get help with your application. We’re here Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET.
Option 2: Apply by mail
Fill out an Application for Health Benefits (VA Form 10-10EZ).
Get VA Form 10-10EZ to download
You or someone acting as your power of attorney must sign and date the form. And:
- If you’re using a power of attorney, you’ll need to submit a copy of the Power of Attorney form along with your application.
- If you sign with an “X,” 2 people you know must witness your signature. They’ll also need to sign and print their names on the form.
Send your completed application here:
Health Eligibility Center
PO Box 5207
Janesville, WI 53547-5207
Option 3: Apply in person
Fill out an Application for Health Benefits (VA Form 10-10EZ).
Get VA Form 10-10EZ to download
You or someone acting as your power of attorney must sign and date the form. And:
- If you’re using a power of attorney, you’ll need to submit a copy of the Power of Attorney form along with your application.
- If you sign with an “X,” 2 people you know must witness your signature. They’ll also need to sign and print their names on the form.
Go to your nearest VA medical center or clinic. Bring a signed Application for Health Benefits (VA Form 10-10EZ) with you.
Find a VA medical center or clinic near you
Or get help through your state’s Department of Veterans Affairs.
Find your state’s Department of Veterans Affairs
Option 4: Apply with the help of a trained professional
You can work with an accredited attorney, claims agent, or Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representative to get help applying for health care benefits.
Get help filling out an application
What happens after I apply?
Find out what happens after you apply
If you’ve also applied for a VA pension or disability benefits, you can check the status of those claims online.
Check the status of your claim
How long does it take VA to make a decision?
Less than 1 week
If more than a week has passed since you gave us your application and you haven’t heard back, please don’t apply again. Call our toll-free hotline at 877-222-8387. We’re here Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET.
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