The VA Coverage Guide

Will the VA pay for this?

337 answers about VA health care and benefits: what is covered, what is not, who qualifies, and what it costs. Every answer links to the VA rule it comes from.

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Who can get VA care

Costs

The rulesUpdating your income with VAYou only need to update income each year if you gave it for free medicines or travel pay. VA checks IRS and Social Security records yearly and contacts you if something changes.

Who qualifies: Veterans who completed a financial assessment.
How to get it: Update through VA if your income changes.
Limits: If you skip the income form and agree to copays, VA may not enroll you, and you cannot get free medicines or travel pay.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.36). Checked 2026-10-24.

Enhanced eligibility

Some veteransCombat veterans: 10 years of free care for conditions linked to serviceIf you served in a combat theater after November 11, 1998, you can get no-cost care for conditions possibly related to that service for 10 years after discharge. Apply soon after you get out.

Who qualifies: Combat veterans discharged after September 11, 2001 (10-year window). A one-time enrollment window for those discharged Sept 11, 2001 to Oct 1, 2013 ran Oct 1, 2022 to Sept 30, 2023.
What it costs: $0 for care for conditions possibly related to combat service.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Limits: After 10 years, combat status no longer counts for your priority group. The 2022-2023 special window has closed.
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 U.S.C. 1710(e)(1)(D), (e)(3)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransToxic exposure veterans (PACT Act enrollment)Since March 5, 2024, veterans exposed to toxins or hazards in service (at home or abroad), and those who served in Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, or other post-9/11 combat zones, can enroll without first filing a disability claim.

Who qualifies: Veterans who meet basic service and discharge rules and had toxic exposure, or served in the listed eras and places.
What it costs: Copays depend on priority group (usually group 6).
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Limits: Law phased in dates through 2032. VA moved them up to March 5, 2024.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710(e)(1)(G), (e)(6); PACT Act sec. 103). Checked 2026-10-24.

Enrollment

The rulesDischarge status (other than honorable, bad conduct, dishonorable)A dishonorable discharge bars VA health care. With an other than honorable or bad conduct discharge, VA decides case by case through a Character of Discharge review.

How to get it: Apply anyway and VA will review, or apply for a discharge upgrade.
Limits: Some care is open to people with OTH discharges (see A-oth-mental-health and A-compact-crisis).
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 5303; 38 CFR 3.12). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredEmergency mental health help at a VA medical centerIn a mental health emergency you can go to any VA medical center, no matter your discharge status or whether you are enrolled.

Who qualifies: Any veteran in crisis.
How to get it: Walk in to any VA medical center, or dial 988 then press 1.
Source: va.gov. Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesHow to apply for VA health careApply with VA Form 10-10EZ online, by phone, by mail, or in person. VA usually decides in less than a week.

Who qualifies: Veterans who meet basic service and discharge rules.
What it costs: Free to apply.
How to get it: Online at va.gov; phone 877-222-8387 (Mon to Fri, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET); mail to Health Eligibility Center, PO Box 5207, Janesville, WI 53547-5207; or at a VA facility.
Limits: Have your DD214, insurance cards, and last year's household income ready.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.36). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesIncome limitsIf you do not qualify another way, VA looks at your household income to decide your priority group and copays. Limits change each year and vary by where you live (zip code).

Who qualifies: Veterans without enhanced eligibility.
How to get it: Check VA's income limits tool by zip code and number of dependents, then apply with VA Form 10-10EZ.
Limits: Uses last year's gross household income minus some deductible expenses.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1722; 38 CFR 17.36). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransMental health care with an other than honorable dischargeFormer service members with an other than honorable discharge can get a mental health assessment and needed mental and behavioral health care.

Who qualifies: Not dishonorable and not court-martial discharge, not enrolled in VA, and either served over 100 days with deployment to a combat theater or contingency operation, or experienced sexual assault or harassment in service.
How to get it: Go to any VA medical center or call 877-222-8387.
Limits: Not for dishonorable or court-martial discharges.
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 U.S.C. 1720I). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesMinimum service length (24 months)If you enlisted after September 7, 1980, or entered active duty after October 16, 1981, you generally need 24 months in a row or the full period you were called up.

Who qualifies: Exceptions: discharged for a service-connected disability, hardship or early out discharge, or served before September 7, 1980.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 5303A). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesNational Guard and Reserve membersGuard and Reserve members can qualify if they were called to active duty by federal order and finished the full period. Training only does not count.

Who qualifies: Guard and Reserve members federally activated who completed the full call-up.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Limits: Active duty for training alone does not qualify.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 101). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesWho can enroll in VA health careMost veterans who served on active duty and did not get a dishonorable discharge can apply. VA then puts you in a priority group.

Who qualifies: Veterans who served in the active military, naval, or air service and did not receive a dishonorable discharge.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1705, 1710). Checked 2026-10-24.

Priority groups

The rulesPriority group 1Veterans with a service-connected rating of 50% or more, those VA finds unemployable because of service-connected disability, and Medal of Honor recipients.

Who qualifies: Rated 50% or more; or individual unemployability; or Medal of Honor.
What it costs: No copays, including medications.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1705; 38 CFR 17.36). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesPriority group 2Veterans with a service-connected rating of 30% or 40%.

Who qualifies: Rated 30% or 40%.
What it costs: No outpatient or inpatient copays. Medication copays may apply for non-service-connected conditions.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.36). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesPriority group 3Former POWs, Purple Heart recipients, veterans discharged for a disability caused or worsened in service, veterans rated 10% or 20%, and veterans with special eligibility under 38 U.S.C. 1151.

Who qualifies: Former POW; Purple Heart; disability discharge; rated 10% or 20%; 38 U.S.C. 1151.
What it costs: No outpatient or inpatient copays. Medication copays may apply for non-service-connected conditions.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.36). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesPriority group 4Veterans who get VA Aid and Attendance or Housebound benefits, or whom VA finds catastrophically disabled.

Who qualifies: Aid and Attendance or Housebound; or catastrophically disabled.
What it costs: Catastrophically disabled veterans are exempt from outpatient copays.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.36). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesPriority group 5Veterans with no service-connected disability (or 0% noncompensable) and income below VA limits for their area, veterans getting VA pension, and veterans eligible for Medicaid.

Who qualifies: Low income under VA limits; VA pension; or Medicaid eligible.
What it costs: Usually low or no copays based on income.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.36). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesPriority group 6Veterans with a 0% compensable rating, toxic exposure (Agent Orange, radiation, burn pits and other TERA), Camp Lejeune (30 days, 1953-1987), Gulf War (Aug 2, 1990 to Nov 11, 1998), WWII, Project 112/SHAD, and recent combat veterans.

Who qualifies: See summary. Combat veterans: served in a combat theater after Nov 11, 1998 and discharged on or after Oct 1, 2013.
What it costs: No copay for care related to the qualifying condition. Copays may apply for other care.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Limits: Enhanced eligibility lasts 10 years from discharge for combat veterans; then VA moves you to the highest group you qualify for.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.36; 38 U.S.C. 1710(e)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesPriority group 7Veterans with household income below the geographic income limit (GMT) for where they live who agree to pay copays.

Who qualifies: Income below GMT limit for your area; agree to copays.
What it costs: Inpatient copays at reduced rate ($347.20 plus $2 a day for first 90 days, 2026). Outpatient and medication copays apply.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.36). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesPriority group 8Veterans with income above VA and GMT limits who agree to pay copays. Whether you can enroll depends on subgroup (a through g).

Who qualifies: Can enroll: subgroups a and c (enrolled since Jan 16, 2003), b and d (income over the limit by 10% or less, enrolled on or after Jun 15, 2009). Subgroup e: care only for 0% service-connected condition. Subgroup g: not eligible.
What it costs: Full copays ($1,736 plus $10 a day for first 90 inpatient days, 2026).
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.36). Checked 2026-10-24.

Health care

Costs

The rulesCopay for a hospital stayVeterans in priority groups 7 and 8 pay inpatient copays for non-service-connected care. Group 7 pays 20% of the group 8 rate (2026).

Who qualifies: Priority groups 7 and 8; group 6 for non-service-connected care.
What it costs: Group 7: $347.20 plus $2 a day (first 90 days in 365), then $173.60 plus $2 a day. Group 8: $1,736 plus $10 a day, then $868 plus $10 a day.
Limits: No inpatient copay if rated 10% or more. Some veterans in high-cost areas can get a reduced rate.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.108(c)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesCopay for a primary care visitVeterans who owe copays pay $15 for a primary care visit for conditions not related to service (2026).

Who qualifies: Mostly priority groups 7 and 8 and some in group 6 for non-service-connected care.
What it costs: $15 per visit (2026). Several primary care visits on one day count as one copay.
Limits: No copay if rated 10% or more.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.108(b)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesCopay for a specialty care visit or MRI/CTVeterans who owe copays pay $50 for a specialty visit or a specialty test like an MRI or CT scan (2026).

Who qualifies: Same as primary care copays.
What it costs: $50 per visit or test (2026). Only one specialty copay if you have primary and specialty care the same day.
Limits: No copay if rated 10% or more.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.108(b)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesCopay for prescriptions (tiers)Groups 2 to 8 may pay a copay for medicines for conditions not related to service. The amount depends on the drug tier (2026).

Who qualifies: Priority groups 2 to 8, for non-service-connected conditions and some over-the-counter meds.
What it costs: Per 30/60/90-day supply: Tier 1 preferred generics $5/$10/$15; Tier 2 other generics $8/$16/$24; Tier 3 brand name $11/$22/$33. Tier 0: $0. Yearly cap $700.
Limits: Group 1 pays nothing. Veterans rated 40% or less with income at or below VA's free-medication limit can get free meds.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.110). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesCopay for urgent care (VA or community)Priority groups 1 to 5 get 3 free urgent care visits a year, then pay $30. Groups 7 and 8 pay $30 each visit (2026).

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans who got VA care in the past 24 months.
What it costs: Groups 1-5: first 3 visits free each calendar year, then $30. Group 6: $0 for special-authority conditions, otherwise $30. Groups 7-8: $30. Flu shot only: $0.
How to get it: Use a VA-approved urgent care provider in VA's network.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.4600). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesHelp if you cannot pay a VA billYou can ask VA to waive or reduce a bill, set up a payment plan, or ask for a hardship exemption from future copays if your income dropped.

Who qualifies: Veterans with VA copay bills.
How to get it: Act within 30 days of the bill. Waiver or compromise: VA Form 5655. Payment plan: VA Form 10-323. Hardship: VA Form 10-10HS.
Limits: Hardship exemption does not cover pharmacy copays. Payment plans usually must finish within 3 years.
Source: va.gov. Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesNo visit or hospital copays if rated 10% or moreVeterans with a service-connected rating of 10% or more pay no outpatient or inpatient copays. They may still owe medication copays for non-service-connected conditions unless in group 1.

Who qualifies: Service-connected rating of 10% or more.
What it costs: $0 for visits and hospital stays.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.108(d)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesOther veterans exempt from visit copaysFormer POWs, Purple Heart and Medal of Honor recipients, WWII veterans, catastrophically disabled veterans, veterans VA finds unable to pay, and others listed in the rule pay no outpatient copays.

Who qualifies: Groups listed in 38 CFR 17.108(d), including American Indian and Alaska Native veterans (from Jan 5, 2022).
What it costs: $0 outpatient copays
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.108(d)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesServices that are always freeSome care has no copay for anyone: service-connected care, MST care, readjustment counseling, registry and claim exams, lab tests, X-rays, EKGs, preventive screenings and shots, weight and smoking programs, hospice, in-home video telehealth, and emergency suicide care.

Who qualifies: All enrolled veterans.
What it costs: $0
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.108(e)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesUsing an HSA or HRA for VA copaysYou can use a health savings account (with a high-deductible plan) or a health reimbursement account to pay for non-service-connected VA care.

Who qualifies: Veterans with an HSA or HRA.
Source: va.gov. Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesVA and MedicaidVA does not bill Medicaid. Veterans eligible for Medicaid are placed in priority group 5.

Who qualifies: Veterans with Medicaid.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.36). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesVA and MedicareVA does not bill Medicare. You choose which coverage to use for each visit. VA urges you to sign up for Medicare Part B when eligible to avoid lifelong penalties.

Who qualifies: Veterans 65 and older or on Medicare.
What it costs: VA may bill Medicare supplemental (Medigap) plans.
How to get it: Enroll in Medicare through Social Security when first eligible.
Limits: VA only pays for care at VA or care VA approves ahead of time. Dropping Part B can mean a wait until January and a penalty.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1729). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesVA billing your private health insuranceVA bills your private insurance for care for conditions not related to service. You do not pay what your insurer will not cover, and insurer payments can lower your VA copay.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans with private or employer insurance.
What it costs: You never pay the insurance balance. Copays based on priority group may still apply.
How to get it: Give VA your insurance card information.
Limits: Having insurance does not affect your VA eligibility. VA does not need your OK to bill for sensitive diagnoses (MISSION Act 2018).
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1729). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesWho pays no copays at allPriority group 1 (rated 50% or more, unemployable due to service-connected disability, or Medal of Honor) pays no copays, including medications.

Who qualifies: Priority group 1.
What it costs: $0
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.108(d); 38 CFR 17.110). Checked 2026-10-24.

Doctor visits and checkups

CoveredCancer and health screenings (colon, breast, cervical, and others)VA covers screening tests like mammograms, Pap tests, and periodic checks for people at high risk of certain diseases.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: $0 for visits only for preventive screening.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Limits: Screening schedule depends on your age and risk.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(2)(i),(ix); 38 CFR 17.108(e)(11)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredHelp with forms (family leave, life insurance, disability forms)VA providers can fill out some forms based on your exam or condition, like family medical leave or life insurance forms.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
How to get it: Ask your VA provider.
Limits: Not forms for exams that a third party usually pays doctors for but will not pay VA for.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(xv)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredPreventive care and checkupsVA covers regular checkups, screenings for high-risk groups, and other care to keep you from getting sick.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: $0 for visits only for preventive screening or shots.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(2); 38 CFR 17.108(e)(11)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredPrimary care (regular doctor visits)VA covers checkups and care for everyday health problems from a primary care team. This is the main way you get care at VA.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: No copay for service-connected care or if rated 10% or more. Otherwise $15 primary care or $50 specialty visit (2026), based on priority group.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Limits: Only when your VA provider decides it is needed to promote, preserve, or restore your health and it meets accepted medical standards.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(i); 38 CFR 17.108). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredRoutine eye examsVA covers routine vision testing and eye care as preventive care.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: Outpatient copay may apply for non-service-connected care.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Limits: Glasses have separate rules (see A-eyeglasses-hearing).
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(2)(viii)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredShots and vaccines (flu shot, other immunizations)VA covers vaccines that protect against infectious diseases, like the flu shot.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: $0. A flu shot visit has no copay in any priority group.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(2)(v); 38 CFR 17.108(e)(11)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredSpecialty care (heart, cancer, skin, and other specialists)VA covers visits to specialists such as cardiology, oncology, and dermatology when your care team refers you.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: No copay for service-connected care or if rated 10% or more. Otherwise $50 per specialty visit (2026). Only one copay per day.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team. You usually need a referral.
Limits: Only when your VA provider decides it is needed to promote, preserve, or restore your health and it meets accepted medical standards.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(i); 38 CFR 17.108). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredTelehealth (video visits, phone visits, home monitoring)VA offers video visits through VA Video Connect, phone visits, and home devices that send your health readings to your care team.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: In-home video telehealth has no copay.
How to get it: Ask your VA care team if telehealth fits your needs. More at telehealth.va.gov.
Limits: Services vary by location.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38; 38 CFR 17.108(e)(16)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredToxic exposure screeningEvery enrolled veteran gets a short screening about possible toxic exposures, with a follow-up at least once every 5 years.

Who qualifies: All enrolled veterans. Eligible veterans not enrolled can enroll to get one.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Ask at your next VA visit or ask for the toxic exposure screening navigator. Questions: 800-698-2411.
Source: va.gov (PACT Act sec. 603 (38 U.S.C. 1710 note)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Hospital and surgery

CoveredEmergency careVA covers emergency care at VA hospitals. Emergency care at non-VA hospitals is covered in some cases.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans. Non-VA emergency care has its own rules (see the Community care section).
What it costs: No outpatient copay for non-VA emergency care paid under 38 U.S.C. 1725 or 1728. Other costs depend on your situation.
How to get it: In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest ER. If you go to a non-VA ER, tell VA within 72 hours.
Limits: Non-VA emergency care must meet VA rules to be paid.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(iv); 38 CFR 17.108(e)(9)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredHospital stays (inpatient care)VA covers care when you stay overnight in a hospital, including medical, surgical, and mental health stays.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: No inpatient copay if rated 10% or more. Priority group 7: $347.20 plus $2 a day for the first 90 days. Priority group 8: $1,736 plus $10 a day (2026).
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Limits: Only when your VA provider decides it is needed to promote, preserve, or restore your health and it meets accepted medical standards.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(ii); 38 CFR 17.108). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredOutpatient or same-day surgeryVA covers surgery where you go home the same day, such as many eye, joint, and skin procedures.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: Specialty care copay of $50 may apply for non-service-connected care (2026). None if rated 10% or more.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Limits: Only when your VA provider decides it is needed to promote, preserve, or restore your health and it meets accepted medical standards.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(i)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredReconstructive surgery after injury or illnessVA covers reconstructive surgery needed because of disease or injury.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: Usual copay rules apply.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Limits: Cosmetic surgery that is not medically necessary is not covered.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(x)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredSurgery in the hospitalVA covers surgery that needs a hospital stay when your VA surgeon says you need it.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: Inpatient copays may apply (see A-cost-inpatient). None if rated 10% or more.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Limits: Only when your VA provider decides it is needed to promote, preserve, or restore your health and it meets accepted medical standards.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(ii)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Medicines

CoveredMedicine reviews and drug monitoringVA keeps track of your medicines and checks for problems, and teaches you about your medicines.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(2)(iii)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredOver-the-counter medicines and medical suppliesVA covers some over-the-counter drugs and medical and surgical supplies that are on the VA National Formulary.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: Tier 2 copay ($8 for 30 days) may apply to some over-the-counter meds for non-service-connected conditions (2026).
How to get it: Ask your VA provider or VA pharmacy.
Limits: Formulary items only.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(iii)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredPrescription medicinesVA covers prescription drugs on the VA National Formulary (VA's list of approved drugs) when a VA provider prescribes them.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: Priority group 1: $0. Others: $5 to $11 for a 30-day supply of non-service-connected meds, capped at $700 a year (2026). See A-cost-meds.
How to get it: Your VA provider prescribes. Refill online, by phone, or by mail.
Limits: Must be on the VA National Formulary, or approved through VA's non-formulary request process.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(iii)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesVA drug list (VA National Formulary)VA uses one national list of covered drugs. If you need a drug not on the list, your VA provider can ask for an exception.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: Same tier copays as other prescriptions.
How to get it: Ask your VA provider.
Limits: Drugs not approved by the FDA are not covered except in approved research or compassionate use.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(iii)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Mental health and substance use

CoveredCare for military sexual trauma (MST)VA provides counseling and care for experiences of military sexual trauma. You may get MST care even if you do not qualify for other VA health care.

Who qualifies: Veterans and former service members who experienced MST, including many not eligible for other VA care.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Ask any VA medical center or Vet Center.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.108(e)(4); 38 U.S.C. 1720D). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredCounseling for your family as part of your careVA can provide counseling, training, and mental health services to your immediate family or caregiver when it helps your treatment.

Who qualifies: Immediate family members or legal guardian of a veteran in VA care, as set in 38 CFR 71.50.
How to get it: Ask your VA care team.
Limits: Must support the veteran's treatment.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(vii); 38 CFR 71.50). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredGrief (bereavement) counselingVA provides grief counseling under set rules, including for family members in some cases. Vet Centers also offer bereavement counseling.

Who qualifies: Family members as described in 38 CFR 17.98, and veterans through Vet Centers.
What it costs: $0 at Vet Centers.
How to get it: Contact your VA medical center or a Vet Center (877-927-8387).
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(v); 38 CFR 17.98). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredMental health care (counseling, therapy, PTSD, depression)VA covers mental health care, including counseling, therapy, medicine, and care for PTSD and depression. Some mental health care is free even without enrollment.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans. Some services (crisis care, Vet Centers, MST care) are open to more people.
What it costs: Readjustment counseling and MST care have no copay. Other outpatient visits may have a $15 or $50 copay for non-service-connected care (2026).
How to get it: Ask your VA provider, or walk in to any VA medical center. Crisis: dial 988 then press 1, or text 838255.
Limits: Only when your VA provider decides it is needed to promote, preserve, or restore your health and it meets accepted medical standards.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(i)-(ii); 38 CFR 17.108(e)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredMental health peer supportVA offers peer support, where a fellow veteran in recovery helps you. There is no copay for these services.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.108(e)(17)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredOverdose reversal (naloxone) educationVisits only to learn how to use opioid overdose reversal medicine have no copay.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.108(e)(18)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredSubstance use treatment (alcohol, opioids, other drugs)VA covers safe withdrawal (detox), medicines that reduce cravings like buprenorphine and methadone, outpatient counseling, intensive outpatient, and live-in (residential) treatment.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans. In a crisis, any veteran can go to a VA medical center no matter discharge status.
What it costs: Outpatient copays may apply for non-service-connected care. Inpatient copays for priority groups 7 and 8.
How to get it: Talk to your VA primary care provider, or call 800-827-1000, or contact your local VA medical center.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(i)-(ii); 38 CFR 17.38(a)(2)(iv)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not covered (exclusions)

Not coveredAbortionAs of January 30, 2026, VA health care does not cover abortion. Care to save your life, such as for ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage, is not counted as abortion and is still covered.

Limits: No exception for rape or incest. Care for life-threatening pregnancy problems remains covered.
Source: federalregister.gov (38 CFR 17.38(c)(1); 90 FR 61310 (Dec 31, 2025)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredAbortion counselingAs of January 30, 2026, VA does not provide abortion counseling.

Source: federalregister.gov (38 CFR 17.38(c)(1); 90 FR 61310 (Dec 31, 2025)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredAbortion for CHAMPVA family membersCHAMPVA (VA's program for some family members) does not cover abortion unless a doctor certifies the mother's life is in danger.

Limits: Only exception: physician certifies the mother's life would be endangered if the pregnancy continued.
Source: federalregister.gov (38 CFR 17.272; 90 FR 61310 (Dec 31, 2025)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredCare VA providers decide is not medically neededVA only covers care a VA provider decides you need to promote, preserve, or restore your health, using accepted medical standards.

How to get it: You can ask your VA patient advocate or appeal a clinical decision.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(b)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredCare while in prison, jail, or another government institutionVA does not provide hospital or outpatient care to veterans who are patients or inmates in another government agency's institution that must provide their care.

Limits: Exception: veterans released into temporary housing like a halfway house or residential re-entry center can get VA care.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(c)(5)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredCosmetic surgeryVA does not cover cosmetic surgery that is not medically necessary. Reconstructive surgery after disease or injury is covered.

Limits: Exception: reconstructive surgery needed because of disease or trauma.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(x)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredDrugs or devices not approved by the FDAVA does not cover drugs, biologicals, or medical devices that the FDA has not approved.

Limits: Exceptions: approved clinical trials (IND or IDE) and compassionate use exemptions.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(c)(3)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredGender alteration surgeryVA does not provide gender alteration surgery. Since March 17, 2025, VA does not provide other medical or surgical treatment for gender dysphoria either.

Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38(c)(4)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredGym, health club, or spa membershipsVA does not pay for memberships in health clubs or spas.

Limits: VA weight management programs are covered instead.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(c)(6)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredHormone therapy for gender dysphoria (new patients)Since March 17, 2025, VA does not start cross-sex hormone therapy for gender dysphoria. Veterans already getting it from VA, or who got it from the military at separation, can continue.

Limits: Exception: veterans already receiving it from VA, or from the military at separation.
Source: va.gov (VA policy (Mar 17, 2025); 38 CFR 17.38(c)(4)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredIn vitro fertilization (IVF) in generalIVF is not part of regular VA health care. It is only available as a special benefit for veterans with service-connected infertility.

Limits: See A-ivf-sc for the exception.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(c)(2); 38 CFR 17.380). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredJob training through VA health careVocational rehab is not part of the health benefits package. It is a separate benefit (Veteran Readiness and Employment).

Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(vi)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredSurrogacyVA does not pay for gestational surrogacy for any veteran.

Source: govinfo.gov (38 CFR 17.380). Checked 2026-10-24.

Rehab, equipment and wellness

CoveredChiropractic careVA covers chiropractic services as part of preventive care.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: Outpatient copay may apply for non-service-connected care.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team. A referral is usually needed.
Limits: Only when your VA provider decides it is needed to promote, preserve, or restore your health and it meets accepted medical standards.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(2)(x)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredHealth and nutrition educationVA covers health education, including nutrition classes, as preventive care.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: $0 for weight management counseling.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(2)(ii); 38 CFR 17.108(e)(12)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredPhysical therapy and rehabilitationVA covers rehab services like physical, occupational, and speech therapy to help you recover function.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: Specialty care copay may apply for non-service-connected care.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Limits: Vocational rehab (job training) is a separate benefit, not part of health care.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(vi)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredProsthetics, medical equipment, and supplies (wheelchairs, braces, home oxygen)VA covers artificial limbs and other prosthetic and rehab items and services, which include durable medical equipment.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: Depends on item and priority group.
How to get it: Your VA provider orders items through VA Prosthetics.
Limits: Only when your VA provider decides it is needed to promote, preserve, or restore your health and it meets accepted medical standards.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(viii); 38 CFR 17.3200-17.3250). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredQuit smoking helpVA offers counseling and medicines to help you quit tobacco. Counseling has no copay.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: $0 for counseling. Medication copays may apply.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.108(e)(13)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredWeight management programsVA offers weight management counseling with no copay.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Limits: Health club and spa memberships are not covered.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.108(e)(12)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Tests and scans

CoveredGenetic counselingVA covers genetic counseling about inherited diseases.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: Outpatient copay may apply for non-service-connected care.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Limits: Only when your VA provider decides it is needed to promote, preserve, or restore your health and it meets accepted medical standards.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(2)(vii)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredLab tests (blood work)VA covers lab tests your provider orders. There is no copay for lab tests.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(i); 38 CFR 17.108(e)(14)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredMRI and CT scansVA covers specialty imaging like MRI and CT scans when your provider orders them.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: $50 per test for non-service-connected care (2026). None if rated 10% or more.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Limits: Only when your VA provider decides it is needed to promote, preserve, or restore your health and it meets accepted medical standards.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(i)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredX-rays and EKGsVA covers regular X-rays and EKG heart tests with no copay.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.108(e)(14)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Women's and family health

CoveredBirth control and family planningVA covers birth control and counseling before pregnancy.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: Medication copays may apply for non-service-connected care.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Limits: Abortion and abortion counseling are not covered (see A-x-abortion).
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransCare for your newborn babyVA covers care for a newborn on the day of birth plus 7 days after.

Who qualifies: Newborns of enrolled veterans who got VA maternity care, born in a VA facility or another facility under a VA maternity authorization.
How to get it: Your Maternity Care Coordinator helps arrange this.
Limits: Only birth day plus 7 calendar days. After that, the baby needs other coverage (for example private insurance, Medicaid, or CHIP).
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(xiv)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredFertility care (other than IVF)VA provides infertility evaluation and treatment as part of health care. IVF has its own stricter rules.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
How to get it: Enroll in VA health care (VA Form 10-10EZ) online, by phone at 877-222-8387, or at a VA facility. Then ask your VA care team.
Limits: IVF only for service-connected infertility (see A-ivf-sc).
Source: govinfo.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1); 38 CFR 17.380). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredPregnancy and delivery care (maternity care)VA covers prenatal care, delivery, and care after birth for enrolled veterans. Maternity Care Coordinators help guide you.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans who are pregnant.
What it costs: Community care copays may apply for non-service-connected care.
How to get it: Tell your VA provider or Women Veterans Program Manager you are pregnant. Ask for a Maternity Care Coordinator.
Limits: Covered 'to the extent authorized by law'. Much delivery care is given by community providers.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)(1)(xiii)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredWomen's health care (gynecology, menopause, mammograms)VA offers full women's health care, including gynecology, menopause care with hormone therapy, breast and cervical cancer screening, and maternity care.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, when a VA provider says you need it.
What it costs: Usual copay rules apply. No copay for preventive screenings.
How to get it: Ask for a Women's Health Primary Care Provider at your VA.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38(a)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Dental, hearing, vision and more

Children of veterans

Separate benefitHealth care for children with spina bifida (Vietnam and Korea DMZ veterans)Children born with spina bifida to certain Vietnam-era or Korea DMZ veterans can get VA health care benefits and a monthly payment.

Who qualifies: Biological children with spina bifida (not spina bifida occulta) of a parent who served in Vietnam or Thailand January 9, 1962 to May 7, 1975, or near the Korean DMZ September 1, 1967 to August 31, 1971, conceived after the parent's service there.
What it costs: Not stated on VA page.
How to get it: Apply with VA Form 21-0304 by mail, at a VA regional office, or with an accredited representative.
Limits: Parent's discharge or length of service does not matter.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1802 to 1803; 38 CFR 17.900 to 17.905). Checked 2026-10-24.

Dental

Some veteransDental care for a service-connected dental condition rated 10% or more (Class I)Veterans with a dental condition that VA has rated at 10% or more can get any dental care they need.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a service-connected dental disability or condition rated 10% or higher.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Ask your VA health care team or the dental clinic at your VA medical center to check your dental class. Questions: 1-877-222-8387.
Limits: Repeat care is allowed when needed.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1712; 38 CFR 17.161). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransDental care for former prisoners of war (Class IIC)Former prisoners of war can get any dental care they need.

Who qualifies: Former prisoners of war (POWs).
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Ask your VA health care team or the dental clinic at your VA medical center to check your dental class. Questions: 1-877-222-8387.
Limits: Repeat care is allowed.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1712; 38 CFR 17.161). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransDental care for teeth hurt by combat wounds or injury in service (Class IIA)Veterans whose teeth were damaged by a combat wound or an injury during service can get the care needed to keep those teeth working, for life.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a 0% (noncompensable) service-connected dental condition caused by combat wounds or service trauma.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Ask your VA health care team or the dental clinic at your VA medical center to check your dental class. Questions: 1-877-222-8387.
Limits: Care is for the teeth and gums VA has listed as trauma-related. Repeat care is allowed.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1712; 38 CFR 17.161). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransDental care for veterans in Veteran Readiness and Employment (Class V)Veterans in VA's job training program (VR&E, Chapter 31) can get dental care needed to start or finish the program or get a job.

Who qualifies: Veterans actively taking part in a Chapter 31 Veteran Readiness and Employment program.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Ask your VR&E counselor to request dental care.
Limits: Only care a VA dentist finds needed for your program or job goals.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1712; 38 CFR 17.161). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransDental care for veterans in a VA homeless program (Class IIB)Veterans in certain VA homeless residential programs can get one course of dental care to ease pain, help get a job, or treat gum disease.

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled at least 60 days in a qualifying VA-sponsored homeless residential rehabilitation program.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Ask your homeless program case manager to refer you to VA dental.
Limits: One-time course of care that is medically needed.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 2062; 38 CFR 17.161). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransDental care for veterans rated 100% or paid at 100% for unemployability (Class IV)Veterans with a 100% service-connected rating, or who are paid at the 100% rate because they cannot work due to service-connected conditions, can get any dental care they need.

Who qualifies: Veterans rated 100% service-connected, or receiving Individual Unemployability (TDIU) paid at the 100% rate.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Ask your VA health care team or the dental clinic at your VA medical center to check your dental class. Questions: 1-877-222-8387.
Limits: A temporary 100% rating (for a hospital stay, recovery period, or pre-stabilization) does not count.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1712; 38 CFR 17.161). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransDental care when a tooth problem complicates treatment you are getting (Class VI)Veterans already getting VA care can have a dental problem treated if it is making their current medical treatment harder.

Who qualifies: Veterans receiving VA care or scheduled for inpatient care whose dental condition complicates a medical condition being treated.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Your VA doctor refers you to VA dental.
Limits: Covers only the dental problem that complicates the medical condition.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1712; 38 CFR 17.161). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransDental care when a tooth problem makes a service-connected condition worse (Class III)If a VA dentist finds that a dental problem is making a service-connected medical condition worse, VA treats that dental problem.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a dental condition that VA clinically finds is linked to and aggravating a service-connected medical condition.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Ask your VA health care team or the dental clinic at your VA medical center to check your dental class. Questions: 1-877-222-8387.
Limits: Covers only the dental care that affects that medical condition.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1712; 38 CFR 17.161). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransDoes VA cover dental care?VA dental care is not part of regular VA health care for most veterans. Veterans get dental care only if they fit one of VA's dental classes (Class I to VI).

Who qualifies: Veterans who fit a dental class: a rated dental condition, 100% service-connected rating, former POW, recent discharge, VR&E, homeless program, and a few others (see the class rows).
What it costs: No copay for outpatient dental care given under 38 U.S.C. 1712.
How to get it: Ask your VA health care team or the dental clinic at your VA medical center to check your dental class. Questions: 1-877-222-8387.
Limits: Being enrolled in VA health care does not by itself give you dental care.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1712; 38 CFR 17.160 to 17.166; 38 CFR 17.108(e)(7)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredEmergency dental care or tooth pain for veterans without a dental classVA usually does not treat tooth pain for veterans who are not in a dental class. Class VI may help if the dental problem complicates other VA treatment.

Who qualifies: Veterans in a dental class; Class VI for dental problems that complicate other VA care.
What it costs: Full cost if not eligible.
How to get it: Ask your VA provider whether Class VI applies.
Limits: Urgent care and emergency room benefits do not include dental care.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1712; 38 CFR 17.161). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransOne-time dental care after leaving the military (Class II)Veterans who recently left active duty can get one round of dental care if the military did not finish their dental work before discharge.

Who qualifies: Veterans who served on active duty 90 days or more, were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable, and apply within 180 days of discharge.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Apply at a VA medical center within 180 days (6 months) of discharge. Bring your DD214.
Limits: One time only. Not available if your DD214 shows the military completed a full dental exam and all needed treatment before discharge.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1712; 38 CFR 17.161). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredRoutine dental cleanings and checkups for most veteransMost veterans enrolled in VA health care do not get routine cleanings, fillings, or checkups from VA. These are covered only for veterans in a dental class.

Who qualifies: Covered only for veterans in Class I, IIA, IIC, or IV (and limited care for other classes).
What it costs: Full cost if you are not in a dental class. VADIP insurance is one low-cost option.
How to get it: Ask VA whether you fit a dental class. If not, look at VADIP or community dental clinics.
Limits: VA medical benefits package does not include routine dental care for veterans outside the dental classes.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1712; 38 CFR 17.161). Checked 2026-10-24.

Separate benefitVA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP)VADIP lets veterans buy private dental insurance at a group rate through Delta Dental or MetLife. You pay the premiums yourself.

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care. Also spouses and children enrolled in CHAMPVA.
What it costs: You pay the full monthly premium plus any copays. Prices depend on the carrier and plan you pick.
How to get it: Choose a plan and enroll online through the Delta Dental or MetLife VADIP page.
Limits: Not free. Coverage is only in the U.S. and its territories. Having VADIP does not change your VA dental class.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1712C; 38 CFR 17.169). Checked 2026-10-24.

Emergency and urgent care

The rules72-hour rule: telling VA about a non-VA emergencyVA must be told within 72 hours after emergency care starts at a non-VA hospital. The hospital usually does this, but you or someone for you can too.

Who qualifies: Anyone getting non-VA emergency care they want VA to pay for.
How to get it: The hospital reports through the VA emergency care reporting portal. You can also call VA (TTY 711).
Limits: Missing 72 hours does not mean automatic denial, but the claim is then judged under the stricter unauthorized-care rules.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.4020(c); 38 CFR 17.1004). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransAmbulance ride in an emergencyVA may pay for an emergency ambulance when VA also pays for the emergency care.

Who qualifies: Veterans who meet the rules for VA-paid emergency care.
What it costs: Not stated on VA page.
How to get it: Notify VA within 72 hours and file a claim.
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 U.S.C. 1725; 38 U.S.C. 1728; 38 CFR Part 70). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredEmergency care at a VA hospitalEnrolled veterans can get emergency care at a VA emergency department.

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care.
What it costs: Standard VA copays may apply based on your priority group.
How to get it: In an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. You do not need to ask VA first.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710; 38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransEmergency care outside the U.S.VA covers emergency care in another country only for a service-connected condition.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a service-connected condition being treated.
How to get it: Use the Foreign Medical Program.
Limits: Nonservice-connected care abroad is not covered.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1724; 38 CFR 17.35). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransEmergency room visit at a non-VA hospitalVA may pay for emergency care at a non-VA hospital if no VA or federal facility was close enough and a reasonable person would think waiting could put your life or health at risk.

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care (or with an exemption) who meet the rules for service-connected or nonservice-connected care (see related rows).
What it costs: Often $0 for the visit itself. VA cannot pay copays your other insurance charges.
How to get it: You do not need VA approval first. You or the hospital should notify VA within 72 hours.
Limits: Must be an emergency department, not an urgent care clinic. VA pays only until you can be safely moved to a VA or federal facility.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1725; 38 U.S.C. 1728; 38 CFR 17.120; 38 CFR 17.1000 to 17.1008). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransNon-VA emergency care for a non-service-connected condition (Mill Bill, 38 U.S.C. 1725)VA may pay for outside emergency care for other conditions if you are enrolled and got VA care in the past 24 months. This is often called the Mill Bill.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans who received VA or VA community care in the 24 months before the emergency and who are personally liable for the bill.
What it costs: VA cannot pay copays or cost sharing your other insurance charges. Otherwise often $0.
How to get it: File your claim within 90 days of leaving the hospital (or after other insurance finally denies payment).
Limits: VA pays only after other insurance (VA is the last payer). Not covered if you or the provider missed your other insurer's rules or deadlines.
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 U.S.C. 1725; 38 CFR 17.1000 to 17.1008). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransNon-VA emergency care for a service-connected condition (38 U.S.C. 1728)VA pays for outside emergency care for a service-connected condition, or for any condition if you are permanently and totally disabled.

Who qualifies: Veterans treated for a service-connected condition (or one that makes it worse); veterans rated permanently and totally disabled; veterans needing care to return to VR&E.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Notify VA within 72 hours. Claims must be filed within 2 years of the care.
Limits: No VA or federal facility could feasibly be used.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1728; 38 CFR 17.120; 38 CFR 17.126). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransUrgent care clinic visits (in-network)Enrolled veterans can go to an in-network urgent care clinic for minor illnesses and injuries without a VA referral.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans who got care from VA or an in-network provider in the past 24 months. Family members cannot use this benefit.
What it costs: 2026: Priority groups 1 to 5: $0 for first 3 visits a year, then $30. Group 6: same as 1 to 5 if related to a special-authority condition; otherwise $30 per visit. Groups 7 and 8: $30 per visit. Flu shot only visits: $0.
How to get it: Go to an in-network urgent care clinic. To check, call 888-901-6609 (east) or 866-620-2071 (west).
Limits: Out-of-network clinics generally are not paid. Preventive care is not part of this benefit. Life-threatening problems should go to 911 or an ER.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1725A; 38 CFR 17.4600). Checked 2026-10-24.

Fertility

Some veteransAdoption expense helpVA can pay back up to $2,000 in adoption costs for veterans whose service-connected disability causes infertility.

Who qualifies: Veterans with service-connected infertility.
How to get it: Contact VA.
Limits: Up to $2,000.
Source: va.gov. Checked 2026-10-24.

Separate benefitAdoption expense reimbursementVeterans with service-connected infertility can be paid back for some adoption costs.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a service-connected disability that causes infertility.
What it costs: Up to $2,000 per child under 18, up to $5,000 per calendar year.
How to get it: Ask VA or call the Women Veterans Call Center at 855-829-6636.
Source: womenshealth.va.gov. Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransFertility preservation before cancer treatment or similar careVA covers freezing eggs or sperm when a needed medical treatment, like chemotherapy, will likely make you unable to use them later.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans facing medical treatment likely to cause infertility.
What it costs: Not stated.
How to get it: Ask your VA provider before treatment starts.
Limits: Not covered just to delay having children. Storage covered for 10 years.
Source: womenshealth.va.gov (38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransFreezing and storing eggs, sperm, or embryos for IVFVeterans eligible for IVF can have eggs, sperm, and embryos frozen and stored for life.

Who qualifies: Veterans eligible for VA IVF.
What it costs: Not stated.
How to get it: Ask your VA fertility provider.
Source: womenshealth.va.gov (38 CFR 17.380(b)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransIVF (in vitro fertilization)VA covers IVF and other assisted reproductive technology for veterans whose service-connected condition, or its treatment, caused their infertility.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a service-connected disability that caused infertility. Married, unmarried, or single veterans may qualify. A veteran's lawful spouse may also get care.
What it costs: Not stated on VA page.
How to get it: Ask your VA provider or call the Women Veterans Call Center at 855-829-6636.
Limits: Lifetime limit of up to 6 attempts to create embryos, for up to 3 completed embryo transfers. VA does not pay for donor eggs, sperm, or embryos (you may use them at your own cost). VA cannot treat a partner who is not a lawful spouse.
Source: womenshealth.va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710; 38 CFR 17.380; 38 CFR 17.412). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransIVF for service-connected infertilityVA can provide IVF if a service-connected condition keeps you from having a child without fertility treatment. Since March 28, 2024, you do not need to be married, and donor eggs, sperm, or embryos can be used.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a service-connected disability that causes infertility. Lawful spouses can get related fertility care.
What it costs: Veteran or spouse pays for donor material and its storage or transport.
How to get it: Talk to your VA provider or Women Veterans Program Manager.
Limits: Surrogacy is not covered.
Source: govinfo.gov (38 CFR 17.380; 38 CFR 17.412; Instruction of the Secretary 01-24). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredInfertility tests and basic treatmentAll enrolled veterans can get fertility tests, counseling, hormone treatment, surgery, and intrauterine insemination (IUI).

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care, regardless of service connection, relationship, or marital status.
What it costs: Standard copays may apply. Donor sperm for IUI is paid by the veteran.
How to get it: Ask your VA primary care or women's health provider.
Limits: VA does not pay for donor sperm.
Source: womenshealth.va.gov (38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredSurrogacy (gestational carrier)VA does not list surrogacy as a covered fertility service.

Limits: VA's fertility page does not include surrogacy.
Source: womenshealth.va.gov (38 CFR 17.380). Checked 2026-10-24.

Hearing

CoveredCochlear implantsSurgical implants, which can include cochlear implants, are provided through VA prosthetics when medically needed.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans when a VA clinician finds it medically needed.
What it costs: Standard copays may apply.
How to get it: Talk with your VA audiologist or ear, nose, and throat doctor.
Source: prosthetics.va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710; 38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransHearing aid batteries and accessoriesVeterans who got hearing aids through VA can order free batteries and accessories by mail.

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care, registered at a VA medical center, with VA-prescribed hearing aids or supplies.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Order online (if you ordered in the past 2 years), by phone from the VA Denver Logistics Center, or by mailing VA Form 2346a.
Limits: Online ordering only if you ordered hearing aid supplies within the past 2 years.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.149). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransHearing aidsVA gives hearing aids at no cost to veterans in certain groups. In practice, many enrolled veterans with hearing loss qualify because hearing loss can make it hard to take part in their own care.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a compensable service-connected disability; former POWs; Purple Heart recipients; veterans with 38 U.S.C. 1151 benefits; veterans on pension with aid and attendance or housebound; veterans whose hearing loss comes from a condition VA treats; veterans with major functional or cognitive impairment; veterans whose hearing loss is bad enough that aids are needed to take part in their own treatment. Veterans rated 0% for hearing loss can get aids for that hearing loss.
What it costs: $0 for eligible veterans.
How to get it: Ask for an audiology exam at your VA. The audiologist decides if you need hearing aids.
Limits: You must already be receiving VA care. Normal age-related hearing loss alone is not one of the listed groups unless it is severe enough to affect your care.
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 CFR 17.149(b) and (c)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredHearing tests and audiology careEnrolled veterans can get hearing tests and hearing care from VA audiology when medically needed.

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care.
What it costs: Standard outpatient copay may apply: $0 if rated 10% or more; otherwise $50 specialty copay.
How to get it: Ask your VA primary care team for an audiology referral. Many VA sites allow you to book audiology directly.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710; 38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredTinnitus (ringing in the ears) careVA audiology can check and treat tinnitus as part of regular VA health care.

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care.
What it costs: Specialty copay may apply ($0 if rated 10% or more; otherwise $50).
How to get it: Ask your VA primary care team for an audiology referral.
Limits: Hearing aids or sound devices for tinnitus follow the hearing aid rules in 38 CFR 17.149.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710; 38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

Mental health

CoveredCare related to military sexual trauma (MST)VA gives free care for any physical or mental health condition related to military sexual trauma. You do not need proof, a rating, or VA enrollment.

Who qualifies: Veterans and most former service members, no matter their discharge status or length of service.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Ask any VA health care professional for an evaluation, ask for the MST Coordinator at your VA, or contact a Vet Center.
Limits: Some current service members may need a Defense Department referral.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1720D; 38 CFR 17.108(e)(4)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransFree emergency care in a suicide crisis (COMPACT Act)If you are in an acute suicidal crisis, VA pays for emergency care at any VA or non-VA facility, even if you are not enrolled in VA health care.

Who qualifies: Veterans with more than 24 months of active service and a discharge other than dishonorable; former members (including Reserve) who served more than 100 days in combat or a contingency operation; former members who experienced sexual assault, battery, or harassment in service.
What it costs: $0. Includes ambulance or transport, up to 30 days of inpatient or crisis residential care, and up to 90 days of outpatient care.
How to get it: Go to any emergency room or call 988 and press 1. The facility should notify VA.
Limits: Discharge must be other than dishonorable (except the sexual trauma group).
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1720J; 38 CFR 17.1200 to 17.1230). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredLive-in mental health or substance use treatment (residential programs)VA runs residential programs where you live on site for about 30 to 60 days to get intensive treatment for PTSD, substance use, or other mental health conditions.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans who are medically stable, can care for themselves, and are referred and screened.
What it costs: Inpatient or extended care copays may apply based on priority group.
How to get it: Ask your mental health provider to place a consult.
Limits: Not for people at immediate risk of harm (use 911, an ER, or the Crisis Line).
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710; 38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransMental health care for veterans with an other-than-honorable dischargeSome former service members with an other-than-honorable discharge can get VA mental health care, including emergency suicide care and MST-related care.

Who qualifies: Former members covered by the COMPACT Act groups or MST rules; others may be eligible under VA's other-than-honorable mental health rules.
What it costs: Varies.
How to get it: Ask at any VA medical center or Vet Center.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1720I; 38 U.S.C. 1720D; 38 U.S.C. 1720J). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredPTSD treatmentVA offers PTSD care such as talk therapy (Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, EMDR) and medicine.

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care. Some veterans can also get help at Vet Centers without enrolling.
What it costs: $0 if rated 10% or more; otherwise standard outpatient copays may apply.
How to get it: Ask your VA primary care team or mental health clinic. Many VAs offer same-day mental health help.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710; 38 U.S.C. 1712A; 38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredPeer support specialistsPeer specialists are veterans in recovery who are trained to support other veterans. Peer support visits have no copay.

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Ask your VA mental health clinic for a peer specialist.
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 CFR 17.108(e)(17)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransVet Center counseling (readjustment counseling)Vet Centers are small community offices that offer free, private counseling. You do not need to be enrolled in VA health care.

Who qualifies: Veterans and service members (including Guard and Reserve) who served in a combat zone or area of hostilities; gave combat casualty medical, mental health, or mortuary care; flew drones in combat; served in a national emergency or major disaster response, or state Guard disaster duty; Coast Guard drug interdiction; and family members of these groups. Survivors of military sexual trauma also qualify. Family members of service members who died by suicide or in service can get bereavement counseling.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Walk in or call a Vet Center. You can call 877-927-8387 any time.
Limits: Not for people with a dishonorable discharge (they get referrals and help appealing).
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 U.S.C. 1712A; 38 CFR 17.2000). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredVeterans Crisis LineThe Veterans Crisis Line gives free, private crisis support any time. You do not need to be enrolled in VA care.

Who qualifies: Veterans, service members, and their families and friends.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Dial 988 then press 1, text 838255, or chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1720F). Checked 2026-10-24.

Prosthetics and equipment

CoveredArtificial limbs and bracesVA provides artificial limbs, braces, and other prosthetic devices that are medically needed.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans with a VA order from their provider.
What it costs: Not stated in VA fact sheet.
How to get it: Talk to your VA primary care provider. They send an order to the Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service (PSAS).
Limits: Items must be medically needed and commercially available.
Source: prosthetics.va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1701(6)(F); 38 CFR 17.150). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredBreast pumps, nursing bras, and wigs for hair lossVA prosthetics provides breast pumps, nursing bras, and wigs for hair loss (alopecia) when medically needed.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans with a VA order.
What it costs: Not stated in VA sources.
How to get it: Ask your VA provider or Maternity Care Coordinator.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1701(6)(F); 38 CFR 17.150). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransCar and van adaptive equipment (hand controls, lifts)VA can pay for equipment that lets you drive safely or get in and out of a vehicle, like hand controls, lifts, and wheelchair tie-downs.

Who qualifies: Veterans with service-connected loss or loss of use of a hand or foot, or service-connected ankylosis (stiffening) of a knee or hip; veterans in VR&E; veterans with service-connected burn injuries after October 1, 2011; veterans with severe vision loss in both eyes (20/200 or less) who hold a valid license.
What it costs: Not stated. VA pays for or reimburses approved equipment.
How to get it: Need an approved VA Form 21-4502 or a VBA rating; medical need is set with VA Form 10-1394 through PSAS.
Limits: Equipment must be needed to drive safely and meet state licensing rules.
Source: prosthetics.va.gov (38 U.S.C. 3902; 38 CFR 17.156 to 17.158). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransHome Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) grantHISA is a lifetime grant for medically needed changes to your main home, like ramps, wider doors, or a roll-in shower.

Who qualifies: Veterans and service members with a medical need. Up to $6,800 for a service-connected condition or for any condition if you are rated 50% or more. Up to $2,000 for other veterans.
What it costs: $0 up to the lifetime limit. You pay anything above it. (Veterans who first applied before May 5, 2010 have lower limits: $4,100 and $1,200.)
How to get it: Ask your VA provider for a HISA prescription; apply through the Prosthetic Service at your VA medical center (VA Form 10-0103). You may ask for a 50% advance payment.
Limits: Lifetime limit. Not for decks, hot tubs, security systems, portable ramps, porch lifts, stair glides, or routine repairs. Home must be your primary residence.
Source: prosthetics.va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1717(a)(2); 38 CFR 17.3100 to 17.3130). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredHome oxygenVA provides home oxygen and home respiratory care when your VA provider orders it.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans with a VA order.
What it costs: Not stated in VA sources.
How to get it: Your VA provider orders it through PSAS.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1701(6)(F); 38 CFR 17.150). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredMedical equipment for home (hospital beds, lifts, aids for daily living)VA provides medical equipment you need at home when your VA provider orders it.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans with a VA order.
What it costs: Not stated in VA sources.
How to get it: Ask your VA provider to place a PSAS consult.
Limits: Items must be medically needed and commercially available.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1701(6)(F); 38 U.S.C. 1717(b); 38 CFR 17.150). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransProsthetic socksVeterans with amputations can order free prosthetic socks by phone or mail.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans with amputations who have a VA prescription.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Call the VA Denver Logistics Center or mail VA Form 2345.
Limits: Diabetic compression socks are ordered through your care team instead.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.150). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredWheelchairs, scooters, walkersVA provides wheelchairs, seating, walkers, and other mobility aids when medically needed.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans with a VA order.
What it costs: Not stated in VA fact sheet.
How to get it: Ask your VA provider to place a PSAS consult.
Source: prosthetics.va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1701(6)(F); 38 CFR 17.150). Checked 2026-10-24.

Service dogs

Not coveredDog food, grooming, boarding, or buying the dogVA does not pay for everyday dog costs or for the dog itself.

What it costs: You pay these costs.
Limits: Not covered: nonprescription food, grooming, boarding, pet sitting, dog walking, nail trims, non-sedated teeth cleaning, over-the-counter medicine, license tags, personal injury insurance. VA does not buy or own service dogs.
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 CFR 17.148(d)(4)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredEmotional support animalsVA does not cover emotional support animals. The VA dog benefit is only for trained guide and service dogs prescribed by VA.

What it costs: You pay all costs.
Limits: Only dogs prescribed under 38 CFR 17.148 and trained by an accredited group are covered.
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 CFR 17.148). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransHarness and other service dog equipmentVA pays for hardware the dog needs to do its job, plus repairs and replacements.

Who qualifies: Veterans approved for the service dog benefit.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Request through Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service at your VA medical center.
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 CFR 17.148(d)(2)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransPAWS Act service dog training pilot for PTSDThe PAWS Act created a 5-year VA pilot where veterans with PTSD learn to train service dogs as part of their therapy.

Who qualifies: Veterans with PTSD at the 5 pilot sites (Anchorage AK, Asheville NC, Palo Alto CA, San Antonio TX, West Palm Beach FL). Clinicians at each site decide eligibility.
What it costs: Not stated.
How to get it: Ask the mental health team at a pilot site.
Limits: Only at the 5 pilot sites. Not a national benefit.
Source: news.va.gov (PAWS for Veterans Therapy Act, Pub. L. 117-37 (2021)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransService dog for PTSD or other mental health conditionVA covers vet care for a mobility service dog when a mental health condition is the main cause of a substantial mobility problem. A dog for PTSD symptoms alone is not covered by this benefit.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans whose VA mental health provider finds a mobility service dog is the best option.
What it costs: $0 for the vet insurance benefit.
How to get it: Meet with your VA mental health provider for an evaluation.
Limits: Not for emotional support. The mobility limitation must be substantial.
Source: prosthetics.va.gov (38 CFR 17.148). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransTravel to get a service dogVA can pay travel costs to get a service dog, including a replacement dog.

Who qualifies: Veterans prescribed a dog by a VA clinical team.
What it costs: $0 for approved travel.
How to get it: Ask your VA team before you travel.
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 CFR 17.148(d)(3)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransVet bills for a guide dog or service dogVA pays for a veterinary health insurance policy for one approved guide or service dog at a time. The policy covers medically needed vet care, including prescriptions.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans whose VA clinical team prescribes a dog for vision loss, hearing loss, or a substantial mobility impairment (including spinal cord injury, some traumatic brain injury, and seizure disorders). The dog must be trained by an Assistance Dogs International or International Guide Dog Federation accredited group.
What it costs: $0. VA pays the premiums, copays, and deductibles. You pay costs over the policy limits.
How to get it: Get an evaluation from your VA clinician (or a VA mental health provider for a mental health mobility dog). They coordinate with Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service.
Limits: One dog at a time. VA does not provide the dog itself.
Source: prosthetics.va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1714(c); 38 CFR 17.148). Checked 2026-10-24.

Toxic exposure

Some veteransCare for veterans who served at Camp LejeuneVeterans who served at Camp Lejeune for 30 days or more between August 1, 1953 and December 31, 1987 can enroll and get care for 15 related conditions at no cost.

Who qualifies: Veterans with 30 or more days of service at Camp Lejeune in that period.
What it costs: $0 for the 15 covered conditions.
How to get it: Apply for VA health care at VA.gov or call 1-877-222-8387. Tell VA about your Camp Lejeune service.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710(e)(1)(F); 38 CFR 17.400). Checked 2026-10-24.

Separate benefitHealth care costs for Camp Lejeune family membersFamily members who lived at Camp Lejeune can be paid back for out-of-pocket costs for 15 conditions, such as some cancers, infertility, and miscarriage.

Who qualifies: Dependents of veterans who lived on Camp Lejeune for 30 or more days between August 1, 1953 and December 31, 1987.
What it costs: VA pays costs left after other insurance (VA is the last payer).
How to get it: Apply online at the Camp Lejeune Family Member Program site or call 1-866-372-1144.
Limits: Only the 15 listed conditions.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1787; 38 CFR 17.410). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransRegistry exams (Agent Orange, Gulf War, burn pit, radiation, depleted uranium)VA offers free, voluntary health exams for veterans who may have been exposed to Agent Orange, Gulf War hazards, burn pits, ionizing radiation, or depleted uranium.

Who qualifies: Veterans with possible exposure for each registry (for example, Vietnam or other Agent Orange locations; Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, and other deployments for burn pits).
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Call 1-800-698-2411 and press 8, or contact the Environmental Health Coordinator at your VA.
Limits: A registry exam is not a disability claim and is not required for other benefits.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710(e); 38 CFR 17.108(e)(3)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Travel

Some veteransAmbulance or wheelchair van to appointments (special mode transportation)VA can pay for an ambulance or wheelchair van if your condition requires it.

Who qualifies: Veterans eligible for travel pay whose VA provider finds an ambulance or specially equipped vehicle is medically needed.
What it costs: No deductible for special mode travel.
How to get it: Must be approved in advance, except in an emergency. In an emergency, notify VA within 72 hours.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR Part 70; 38 CFR 70.31). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransGas money or mileage to VA appointmentsVA pays 41.5 cents per mile for travel to approved health care, minus a small deductible, if you qualify.

Who qualifies: Veterans traveling to VA care or VA-approved community care who have a 30% or higher rating, get a VA pension, have income below the maximum VA pension rate, are traveling for a service-connected condition, a scheduled claim exam (C&P), a service dog, or approved transplant care, among other reasons.
What it costs: VA pays $0.415 per mile. Deductible is $3 each way ($6 round trip), up to $18 a month. After $18, VA pays in full for the rest of the month.
How to get it: File within 30 days of the appointment: online through VA's travel pay system, during smartphone check-in (mileage only), or with VA Form 10-3542.
Limits: Claims filed after 30 days are usually denied.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 111; 38 CFR 70.10 to 70.50). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransTolls, parking, bus, taxi, meals, and lodging for appointmentsEligible veterans can be paid back for tolls and parking. Taxis, flights, public transit, meals, and lodging need approval first.

Who qualifies: Veterans eligible for travel pay.
What it costs: Meals and lodging paid at actual cost up to 50% of the federal employee rate, with receipts.
How to get it: Get approval before using taxis, planes, public transit, meals, or lodging. Keep receipts.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 70.30). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransTravel pay for a caregiver or attendantTravel pay may cover a family caregiver in the National Caregiver Program, a medically required attendant, or a transplant donor or support person.

Who qualifies: Caregivers and attendants in those groups.
What it costs: Same mileage and rules as veterans.
How to get it: Caregivers file through VA's Beneficiary Travel Self-Service System (BTSSS).
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 111; 38 CFR 70.10). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesWaiver of the travel deductibleVA waives the travel deductible if paying it would be a severe money hardship.

Who qualifies: Veterans getting a VA pension, or whose household income is at or below the VA income limit, and those traveling for a scheduled C&P exam.
What it costs: Waiver means VA does not take the $3 deductible.
How to get it: Usually automatic. You can also ask in person or in writing.
Limits: Waiver lasts through the end of the calendar year or until income changes. You must tell VA if your income goes up.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 70.31). Checked 2026-10-24.

Veterans abroad

Some veteransHealth care while living or traveling outside the U.S. (Foreign Medical Program)VA's Foreign Medical Program pays for care abroad for a service-connected condition or a condition linked to it.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a VA-rated service-connected disability, a condition that worsens it, or care needed for VR&E.
What it costs: $0 for covered care.
How to get it: Show your FMP benefits letter (VA.gov, Letters) to your provider, or file an FMP claim yourself.
Limits: Does not cover nonservice-connected conditions. Does not cover care or supplies from the U.S. or its territories.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1724; 38 CFR 17.35). Checked 2026-10-24.

Vision

Some veteransContact lensesContact lenses follow the same rules as eyeglasses.

Who qualifies: Same groups as eyeglasses under 38 CFR 17.149(b).
What it costs: $0 for eligible veterans.
How to get it: Ask your VA eye doctor.
Limits: Not for cosmetic use.
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 CFR 17.149(b)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransEyeglassesVA pays for eyeglasses only for veterans in certain groups.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a compensable service-connected disability; former POWs; Purple Heart recipients; veterans with 38 U.S.C. 1151 benefits; veterans on pension with aid and attendance or housebound; veterans whose vision problem comes from a condition VA treats; veterans with major functional or cognitive impairment; veterans whose vision loss is bad enough that glasses are needed to take part in their own treatment.
What it costs: $0 for eligible veterans.
How to get it: Get an eye exam at VA. The eye doctor will tell you if VA can provide glasses.
Limits: Normal age-related vision changes alone do not qualify unless another rule applies.
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 CFR 17.149(b)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredLow vision and blind rehabilitationVeterans who are blind or have low vision can get training, devices, and counseling to stay independent, either as outpatients or by living at a VA Blind Rehabilitation Center for a short time.

Who qualifies: Veterans and active-duty service members who are blind or have low vision and are eligible for VA health care.
What it costs: Not stated on VA page.
How to get it: Contact the Visual Impairment Services Team (VIST) coordinator at your nearest VA medical center.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710; 38 U.S.C. 1714; 38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

Whole Health

CoveredAcupuncture, massage, yoga, tai chi, meditation, biofeedback, hypnosis, guided imageryVA covers these complementary and integrative health approaches when you and your care team decide they fit your care.

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care.
What it costs: Standard copays may apply.
How to get it: Ask your VA care team or Whole Health program. Care may be at VA or in the community.
Limits: Only the approaches on VA's approved list.
Source: va.gov (VHA Directive 1137 (December 13, 2022); 38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredHelp to quit smoking or tobaccoVA offers counseling to quit smoking with no copay. Medicines to help you quit may be available too.

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care.
What it costs: $0 for counseling. Medicine copays may apply.
How to get it: Ask your VA primary care team.
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 CFR 17.108(e)(13)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredWeight management (MOVE!)VA offers weight management counseling, including the MOVE! program, with no copay for counseling.

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care.
What it costs: $0 for weight management counseling.
How to get it: Ask your VA primary care team.
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 CFR 17.108(e)(12)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Women veterans

CoveredBreastfeeding help and breast pumpsVA supports breast or chest feeding and provides breast pumps, nursing bras, pads, and maternity belts.

Who qualifies: Veterans using VA maternity care, including adoptive parents.
What it costs: Not stated.
How to get it: Ask your Maternity Care Coordinator 6 to 8 weeks before your due date.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredMaternity Care CoordinatorEach VA has a Maternity Care Coordinator who helps you set up care, find resources, cope with pregnancy loss, and sort out billing.

Who qualifies: Pregnant veterans using VA care.
What it costs: $0
How to get it: Ask your VA provider or call 855-829-6636.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredPregnancy and maternity careVA covers care from a positive pregnancy test through after the birth, including prenatal visits, tests, ultrasounds, delivery, and mental health support.

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care.
What it costs: Not stated in VA brochure.
How to get it: Tell your VA provider you are pregnant, or call or text the Women Veterans Call Center at 855-829-6636.
Limits: Delivery is usually with community maternity providers through a VA referral.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710; 38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

Seeing a doctor outside the VA

Basics

Some veteransSeeing a non-VA doctor paid by VA (community care)VA can pay for care from a doctor or clinic outside VA when you meet at least one of six rules. VA must approve the care first, except for urgent or emergency care.

Who qualifies: Veterans who are enrolled in or eligible for VA health care and who meet at least one of the six community care rules.
What it costs: Same copay you would pay at VA, if any. VA bills you, not the community provider.
How to get it: Ask your VA health care team for a referral. VA checks if you are eligible and then sets up the referral.
Limits: VA must approve the care before you go (except urgent or emergency care). The provider must be in VA's community care network.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1703; 38 CFR 17.4000 to 17.4040). Checked 2026-10-24.

Costs

The rulesA community provider sent me a billYou should never pay a community provider directly for VA-approved care. Call VA if a provider bills you.

Who qualifies: Veterans who got approved community care.
What it costs: You should not owe the provider. Any copay comes from VA.
How to get it: Call the Community Care Contact Center at 877-881-7618, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.
Limits: Applies to care VA approved. Care outside your authorization may not be paid.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.4020). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesCopays for community careYou owe the same VA copay you would owe at a VA facility. VA sends you the bill; do not pay the community provider.

Who qualifies: All veterans using community care.
What it costs: Same as 2026 VA copays (for example $15 primary care, $50 specialty care for veterans who owe copays). No copay for service-connected care.
How to get it: Pay VA at the address on the VA bill. Copay questions: 866-400-1238.
Limits: VA may also bill your private health insurance for non-service-connected care.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1703; 38 CFR 17.108). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredSeeing an outside doctor without VA approvalVA generally does not pay for non-emergency care you get outside VA without a referral and authorization. VA will not cover services beyond what your authorization letter lists.

Who qualifies: Applies to all veterans.
What it costs: You may have to pay the full cost yourself.
How to get it: Get a referral first. For emergencies, see the emergency care row; VA must be told within 72 hours.
Limits: Emergency care has separate rules (38 U.S.C. 1725 and 1728). Urgent care must be at an in-network provider.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.4020(a)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Eligibility rules

The rulesCommunity care is better for my health (best medical interest)If you and your VA provider agree that a community provider is best for your health, you can use community care. VA looks at things like distance, how often you need care, your health, and whether travel is a burden.

Who qualifies: Veterans whose VA provider agrees with them that community care is in their best medical interest.
What it costs: Same as VA copays, if any.
How to get it: Talk with your VA provider. The decision is made by you and your referring provider together.
Limits: VA may consider distance, type and frequency of care, wait times, continuity, quality, and travel burden (including needing an attendant).
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.4010(a)(5); Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act (Pub. L. 118-210)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesI moved after getting community careIf you move, you must tell VA within 60 days so it can recheck your community care eligibility.

Who qualifies: Veterans using community care who change where they live.
What it costs: None.
How to get it: Tell your VA health care team or community care office.
Limits: Your eligibility may change with your new address (for example, drive time).
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.4010(b)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesMy state has no full-service VA hospitalIf you live in a state or territory without a full-service VA medical facility, you can use community care.

Who qualifies: Veterans who live in places VA lists, such as Alaska, Hawaii, New Hampshire, Guam, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
What it costs: Same as VA copays, if any.
How to get it: Ask your VA health care team for a community care referral.
Limits: VA must still approve the care. If you move, tell VA within 60 days.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.4010(a)(2)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesOld 40-mile rule (grandfathered Choice eligibility)Some veterans who qualified under the old Veterans Choice 40-mile rule can still use community care.

Who qualifies: Veterans who qualified under the Choice Program 40-mile distance rule as of June 6, 2018, still live in a qualifying spot, and live in Alaska, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota or Wyoming (or meet other limited conditions).
What it costs: Same as VA copays, if any.
How to get it: Ask your VA health care team or community care office.
Limits: Only for veterans who already qualified in 2018 and still meet the location rules.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.4010(a)(3)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesTwo things you need before any community careBefore VA pays for community care, you must be enrolled in (or eligible for) VA health care, and VA must approve the care first.

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care or eligible for it.
What it costs: No cost to check eligibility.
How to get it: Talk to your VA health care team or your local VA community care office.
Limits: Urgent and emergency care have their own rules and do not need approval ahead of time.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.4010; 38 CFR 17.4020). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesVA cannot see me soon enough (wait time standard)If VA cannot give you an appointment in time, you can use community care. The limit is 20 days for primary care, mental health and non-institutional extended care, and 28 days for specialty care, counted from the date of your request.

Who qualifies: Veterans whom VA cannot schedule within 20 days (primary care, mental health, non-institutional extended care) or 28 days (specialty care).
What it costs: Same as VA copays, if any.
How to get it: Ask your VA health care team for community care if VA cannot meet the wait time.
Limits: You and your VA provider can agree to a later date; then the standard does not apply.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.4040; 38 CFR 17.4010(a)(4)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesVA care does not meet quality standardsIf VA finds that a VA service line is not meeting its quality standards, you can get that care in the community.

Who qualifies: Veterans who need care from a VA service line that VA has found does not meet its quality standards (va.gov gives cardiology as an example).
What it costs: Same as VA copays, if any.
How to get it: Ask your VA health care team or community care office.
Limits: This is decided by VA for a whole service line, not by the individual veteran.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.4010(a)(6); 38 CFR 17.4015). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesVA clinic is too far to drive (drive time standard)If the average drive from your home to a VA facility that can see you is too long, you can use community care. The limit is 30 minutes for primary care, mental health and non-institutional extended care, and 60 minutes for specialty care.

Who qualifies: Veterans whose average drive time to a VA facility that offers the needed care is over 30 minutes (primary care, mental health, non-institutional extended care) or over 60 minutes (specialty care).
What it costs: Same as VA copays, if any.
How to get it: Ask your VA health care team. VA uses mapping software to figure the average drive time from your home.
Limits: Drive time is an average figured by VA, not your actual trip on a given day.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.4040; 38 CFR 17.4010(a)(4)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesVA does not offer the service I needIf no VA facility offers the care you need, you can get it in the community. VA gives maternity care and IVF as examples.

Who qualifies: Veterans who need a service that no VA facility provides.
What it costs: Same as VA copays, if any.
How to get it: Ask your VA health care team for a community care referral.
Limits: VA must still approve the care before you go.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.4010(a)(1)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesVA said no to community careIf VA denies your community care request, you can file a clinical appeal. The facility's chief medical officer or a designee reviews it.

Who qualifies: Veterans whose community care request was denied.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Ask your VA facility's patient advocate how to file a clinical appeal.
Limits: Clinical appeals go through the VA facility, not the Board of Veterans' Appeals.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.4010). Checked 2026-10-24.

Emergency care

Some veteransGoing to a non-VA emergency roomVA can pay for emergency care at a non-VA emergency room if VA is told within 72 hours. The hospital, you, or someone for you can tell VA.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans in a true emergency. For non-service-connected emergencies, you generally must have had VA care in the past 24 months.
What it costs: Depends on your situation; VA copays may apply.
How to get it: Report through VA's emergency care reporting portal or call 844-724-7842 within 72 hours.
Limits: VA pays only until you can be safely moved to a VA or other federal facility. Urgent care clinics do not count as emergency rooms.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.4020(c); 38 U.S.C. 1725; 38 U.S.C. 1728). Checked 2026-10-24.

Prescriptions

CoveredPrescriptions from a community providerShort prescriptions (14 days or less) can be filled at a VA pharmacy or an in-network pharmacy. Longer ones go to the VA pharmacy.

Who qualifies: Veterans with approved community care.
What it costs: VA medication copays apply (2026: $5 to $11 for a 30-day supply by tier, capped at $700 per year). Out-of-network pharmacy: you pay first and ask VA to pay you back.
How to get it: Your community provider sends prescriptions over 14 days, or not urgent, to your VA medical center pharmacy.
Limits: Opioid prescriptions are limited to a 7-day supply or the state limit, whichever is less.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.4020). Checked 2026-10-24.

Recent changes

The rules2025 change: no second review of community care decisionsSince May 19, 2025, when you and your VA provider agree on community care, that decision no longer waits for a second VA doctor to review it.

Who qualifies: All veterans asking for community care.
What it costs: None.
How to get it: No action needed. Ask your provider about community care.
Limits: VA said it would use a streamlined best medical interest process; detailed steps were not published on the page.
Source: news.va.gov (Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act (Pub. L. 118-210)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesOld Veterans Choice Program rules removedVA removed the old Veterans Choice Program rules from the regulations effective August 27, 2026. This does not change who can get community care.

Who qualifies: No change for veterans.
What it costs: None.
How to get it: No action needed.
Limits: Choice ended June 6, 2019, when the Veterans Community Care Program replaced it.
Source: federalregister.gov (38 CFR 17.1500 to 17.1540 (removed)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransOne-year approvals for 30 types of careSince August 4, 2025, VA approves 12 months of community care at a time for 30 common types of care, such as cardiology, mental health outpatient, oncology, physical medicine, podiatry, pain management and urology.

Who qualifies: Veterans newly referred to community care for one of the 30 listed types of care.
What it costs: Same as VA copays, if any.
How to get it: No separate step; your referral sets the length. Ask your local VA community care office.
Limits: Only for the 30 listed types of care. Before this, some specialty referrals were reviewed every 90 to 180 days.
Source: news.va.gov (38 CFR 17.4020). Checked 2026-10-24.

Referrals and authorization

The rulesAuthorization letter (what VA approved)After the visit is scheduled, VA sends a letter with an authorization number, the approved provider, the approved care, and how long the approval lasts.

Who qualifies: Veterans with an approved community care referral.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Keep the letter. Track how many visits you have used.
Limits: VA will not pay for services your authorization letter does not include. For more care, you or your provider must ask for a new referral.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.4020). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesHow to get a community care referralYou need a referral before you see a community provider. VA checks your eligibility, calls you to confirm, and prepares the referral, which can take up to 14 days.

Who qualifies: Veterans eligible for community care.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Ask your VA health care team. You can find an in-network provider yourself or ask VA to find one.
Limits: Do not schedule until VA contacts you with the approved referral.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.4020). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesWho makes the appointmentYou can schedule the appointment yourself or ask VA to do it. If you schedule it yourself, tell your VA team within 14 days.

Who qualifies: Veterans with an approved community care referral.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Call the community provider, then tell your VA team the date.
Limits: If you do not schedule within 14 business days, you may need to ask for a new referral (per VA's community care guide).
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.4020). Checked 2026-10-24.

Long-term care and caregivers

Basics

Some veteransDoes VA cover long-term care?VA covers some long-term care, like home care, adult day care, respite and nursing home care, for enrolled veterans with a clinical need. Some services depend on your disability rating and income.

Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care who have a clinical need, where the service is available.
What it costs: Copays may apply after the first 21 days in a 12-month period, based on your rating and finances.
How to get it: If enrolled, ask your VA social worker. If not, apply for VA health care first (VA Form 10-10EZ).
Limits: Getting disability compensation does not enroll you in health care automatically. VA does not pay room and board in assisted living or similar homes.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710; 38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

Costs

The rulesFinancial assessment for long-term care (VA Form 10-10EC)VA uses Form 10-10EC to figure your long-term care copay from your income, and for stays over 180 days, your assets too.

Who qualifies: Veterans asking for VA extended care who are not exempt.
What it costs: Free to file.
How to get it: Your VA social worker or case manager helps you fill it out.
Limits: VA leaves you a $20 per day allowance (and $20 for a spouse at home) and protects assets for a spouse at home up to $162,660 in 2026.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710B; 38 CFR 17.111(d)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesFirst 21 days of long-term care are freeThere is no long-term care copay for the first 21 days of care in any 12-month period. Copays can start on day 22.

Who qualifies: All veterans who owe long-term care copays.
What it costs: $0 for days 1 to 21.
How to get it: Automatic.
Limits: The 12-month period starts the first day VA gives you extended care.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.111). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesLong-term care copay: adult day care or daytime respiteFor adult day health care, daytime respite and outpatient geriatric evaluation, the copay is up to $15 per day in 2026.

Who qualifies: Veterans who are not exempt.
What it costs: Up to $15 per day (2026), after the first 21 days.
How to get it: Complete VA Form 10-10EC.
Limits: Catastrophically disabled veterans are exempt from these daytime copays.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710B; 38 CFR 17.111). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesLong-term care copay: domiciliaryDomiciliary care (live-in rehab) has a copay of up to $5 per day in 2026.

Who qualifies: Veterans who are not exempt.
What it costs: Up to $5 per day (2026).
How to get it: Complete VA Form 10-10EC.
Limits: Domiciliary care itself is covered in another section of this site.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.111). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesLong-term care copay: nursing home or overnight respiteFor VA nursing home care, overnight respite and overnight geriatric evaluation, the copay is up to $97 per day in 2026, based on what you can pay.

Who qualifies: Veterans who are not exempt (see exemptions row).
What it costs: Up to $97 per day (2026), after the first 21 days.
How to get it: Complete VA Form 10-10EC with your VA social worker.
Limits: You owe only to the extent you have available resources after allowances.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710B; 38 CFR 17.111). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesWho pays no long-term care copaySome veterans pay no long-term care copays, including those with a compensable service-connected disability and those with income below the VA pension level.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a compensable service-connected rating; income under the pension limit; care for a 0% service-connected condition; certain exposure groups (Agent Orange, radiation, Gulf War, combat, Camp Lejeune) for related care; military sexual trauma care; Medal of Honor recipients; some others.
What it costs: $0.
How to get it: VA checks this when you fill out VA Form 10-10EC.
Limits: Hospice has no copay for anyone.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 17.111(f)). Checked 2026-10-24.

End of life

CoveredHospice careComfort care for a veteran with a terminal illness and less than 6 months to live who no longer seeks treatment to cure it. Given at home, in a clinic, or in a VA or community setting.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans who meet the clinical need.
What it costs: No copay in any setting.
How to get it: Ask your VA provider or social worker.
Limits: Includes bereavement support for the family.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38; 38 CFR 17.111). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredPalliative care (comfort and symptom care)Care to ease pain and symptoms that can start at diagnosis and be given along with treatment.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans who meet the clinical need.
What it costs: Copays may apply.
How to get it: Ask your primary care provider or a VA social worker.
Limits: Different from hospice: you can keep getting treatment.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

Family caregivers (PCAFC)

CoveredCaregiver trainingCaregivers get training and ongoing support to care for the veteran, including emergency and special needs.

Who qualifies: PCAFC caregivers (required) and general caregivers (PGCSS).
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Ask your Caregiver Support Program team.
Limits: PCAFC requires training and a home visit before approval.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 71.40(a), (b)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransFree legal and financial planning for caregiversPrimary Family Caregivers can get financial planning and legal services through VA contractors.

Who qualifies: Primary Family Caregivers in PCAFC.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Ask your Caregiver Support Program team.
Limits: Only for Primary Family Caregivers.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 71.40(c)(5)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransHealth insurance for the Primary Family Caregiver (CHAMPVA)Primary Family Caregivers with no other health insurance can get CHAMPVA health coverage.

Who qualifies: Primary Family Caregivers with no other coverage, including no TRICARE, Medicare, Medicaid, job-based or individual plan.
What it costs: $50 yearly outpatient deductible, 25% cost share, $3,000 yearly cap. No cost at participating VA facilities (CITI).
How to get it: Contact your Caregiver Support Program team or call 1-855-260-3274.
Limits: Coverage is for the caregiver only, not their family. Ends if the caregiver leaves PCAFC.
Source: caregiver.va.gov (38 CFR 71.40(c)(3); 38 CFR 17.271). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesHow to apply for PCAFCThe veteran and caregiver apply together on VA Form 10-10CG, online, by mail or in person. VA aims to assign caregivers within 90 days.

Who qualifies: Veterans and caregivers who meet PCAFC rules.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Online, or mail to 10-10CG Evidence Intake Center, PO Box 5154, Janesville, WI 53547-5154, or bring to your local Caregiver Support team. Do not send medical records.
Limits: Both must sign. A representative needs legal authority like a power of attorney.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 71.25). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesLegacy caregivers (approved before October 2020)Caregivers approved under the old rules before October 1, 2020 stay in the program through September 30, 2028, while VA reviews them under the new rules. Their stipend will not go down because of a reassessment, with some exceptions.

Who qualifies: Legacy participants, legacy applicants and their Family Caregivers.
What it costs: Legacy stipends use 2019 ratings: 100%, 62.5% or 25% of the monthly rate.
How to get it: No action needed. Questions: Caregiver Support Line 1-855-260-3274.
Limits: Extended by a final rule effective September 30, 2025. VA has paused required annual reassessments.
Source: federalregister.gov (38 CFR 71.20(b)-(c); 38 CFR 71.40(c)(4)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransMental health counseling for caregiversFamily caregivers in PCAFC can get individual and group therapy, counseling and peer support groups.

Who qualifies: Primary and Secondary Family Caregivers in PCAFC.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Ask your Caregiver Support Program team. Short-term counseling is also offered through the Caregiver Support Line.
Limits: Does not include medication, inpatient psychiatric care, or other medical procedures.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 U.S.C. 1720G; 38 CFR 71.50). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransMonthly caregiver stipendThe Primary Family Caregiver gets a monthly payment. It is based on the federal GS-4 step 1 pay rate where the veteran lives. Level 1 pays 62.5% of that monthly rate; Level 2 pays 100%.

Who qualifies: Primary Family Caregivers approved in PCAFC. Level 2 is for veterans VA finds are unable to self-sustain in the community.
What it costs: Paid to the caregiver. Must use direct deposit; paper checks have ended.
How to get it: Set by VA after approval. Stipend questions: Caregiver Stipend Team 1-833-930-0816.
Limits: Amount depends on where the veteran lives (locality pay area). VA's page does not list 2026 dollar amounts.
Source: caregiver.va.gov (38 CFR 71.40(c)(4)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesPCAFC is open to veterans of all service erasSince October 1, 2022, veterans of all service eras can qualify for PCAFC. It used to be only for post-9/11 veterans.

Who qualifies: Eligible veterans of any era.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Apply with VA Form 10-10CG.
Limits: All other PCAFC rules still apply.
Source: news.va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1720G(a)(2)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesPCAFC: who qualifies (caregiver)The caregiver must be at least 18 and be a family member or live full time with the veteran (or be willing to).

Who qualifies: Spouse, child, parent, stepfamily or extended family member age 18 or older, or someone who lives full time with the veteran.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Apply jointly with the veteran on VA Form 10-10CG.
Limits: Caregiver must finish training and a home care assessment before approval.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 71.25). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesPCAFC: who qualifies (veteran)The veteran must have a serious injury or illness from service, a 70% or higher rating, and need in-person personal care for at least 6 months in a row.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a single or combined rating of 70% or more, a serious injury incurred or aggravated in the line of duty, discharged (or with a medical discharge date), enrolled in VA health care, and who need help with daily activities or supervision for 6 months or more.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Apply with VA Form 10-10CG online, by mail, or in person.
Limits: Need is based on being unable to do an activity of daily living, or needing supervision, protection or instruction due to impairment.
Source: caregiver.va.gov (38 CFR 71.20). Checked 2026-10-24.

Separate benefitProgram of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC)PCAFC supports family caregivers of seriously injured veterans with a monthly stipend, health coverage, training, counseling and respite.

Who qualifies: Veterans rated 70% or more who need at least 6 months of in-person personal care, and their family caregivers.
What it costs: Free to the veteran and caregiver.
How to get it: Veteran and caregiver apply together on VA Form 10-10CG.
Limits: One Primary and up to two Secondary Family Caregivers per veteran.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1720G(a); 38 CFR Part 71). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesProposed PCAFC rule changes (not final)VA proposed changes in December 2024 that would widen who counts as seriously injured, make reassessments less frequent, and clarify the 6-month care need. They are not final as of October 2026.

Who qualifies: Would affect future applicants and current participants.
What it costs: Not applicable.
How to get it: No action needed now.
Limits: Proposed only; may change. 842 public comments were received.
Source: caregiver.va.gov (89 FR 97404 (proposed rule, December 6, 2024)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransRespite for PCAFC caregiversPrimary Family Caregivers get at least 30 days of respite care per year, including 24-hour in-home respite.

Who qualifies: Primary Family Caregivers in PCAFC.
What it costs: Not stated as a cost to the caregiver.
How to get it: Ask your Caregiver Support Program team.
Limits: More than 30 days may be given if clinically appropriate.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 71.40(c)(2)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransTravel benefits for caregiversFamily caregivers in PCAFC can get some travel costs paid when going with the veteran to VA care, and for training.

Who qualifies: Primary and Secondary Family Caregivers when the veteran is eligible for beneficiary travel.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Ask your VA facility's beneficiary travel office.
Limits: Follows VA beneficiary travel rules (38 CFR Part 70).
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 71.40(b)(6)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesWellness check-ins (required)VA checks in with PCAFC families at least every 120 days, with one home visit each year. Skipping them can end your participation.

Who qualifies: All PCAFC participants.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: VA schedules these.
Limits: Not taking part can lead to removal from the program.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 71.40(b)(2)). Checked 2026-10-24.

General caregivers

CoveredBuilding Better Caregivers workshopA free six-week online workshop for caregivers.

Who qualifies: PGCSS or PCAFC caregivers.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Ask your Caregiver Support team.
Limits: Online.
Source: caregiver.va.gov (38 CFR 71.40(a)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredCaregiver Support LineA free phone line for caregivers with information, short-term counseling for stress and burnout, and referrals to local VA caregiver teams.

Who qualifies: Anyone caring for a veteran, including people unsure if they are eligible.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Call 1-855-260-3274.
Limits: If the veteran or caregiver is in crisis, call 988 and press 1, or text 838255.
Source: caregiver.va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1720G). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredCaregiver peer mentoring and coachingCaregivers can be paired with a peer mentor or get coaching, such as REACH VA, to cope and solve problems.

Who qualifies: PGCSS or PCAFC caregivers.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Ask your Caregiver Support team.
Limits: Some coaching is only at select sites.
Source: caregiver.va.gov (38 CFR 71.40(a)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredProgram of General Caregiver Support Services (PGCSS)PGCSS supports caregivers of any enrolled veteran with training, coaching, peer mentoring, online programs and respite. No formal application is needed.

Who qualifies: Caregivers who give personal care to an enrolled veteran who needs help with daily activities or supervision. They do not have to be related or live with the veteran.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Contact your facility's Caregiver Support team or ask the veteran's provider for a referral; do an intake; the veteran agrees to list you as caregiver.
Limits: No stipend or CHAMPVA in this program.
Source: caregiver.va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1720G(b); 38 CFR 71.30). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransRespite after PCAFC denial or dischargeThe Elizabeth Dole Act requires at least 30 days of respite through general caregiver support for caregivers who were denied or discharged from PCAFC.

Who qualifies: Caregivers denied or discharged from PCAFC.
What it costs: Not stated.
How to get it: Ask your Caregiver Support team.
Limits: Implementation details not confirmed.
Source: peprec.research.va.gov (Pub. L. 118-210, sec. 124). Checked 2026-10-24.

Geriatrics

Some veteransGeriPACT (geriatric primary care team)Special primary care for older veterans with complex needs like dementia, frailty or many health conditions.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans with complex geriatric needs at sites that offer it (about two-thirds of VA medical centers).
What it costs: Regular VA copays.
How to get it: Ask your VA primary care provider.
Limits: Not for untreated substance use.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredGeriatric evaluation (check-up for older veterans)A VA team looks at problems like falls, memory loss, frailty and depression and makes a care plan.

Who qualifies: All enrolled veterans who need it, as often as needed.
What it costs: 2026: up to $97 per day if overnight, up to $15 per day if outpatient, after 21 free days in 12 months, based on finances.
How to get it: Ask your VA provider. Caregivers can come.
Limits: Can be in person, by video or phone, or by records review.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38; 38 CFR 17.111). Checked 2026-10-24.

Home and community care

Some veteransAdult day health careA daytime program with activities, help with daily tasks, and sometimes nurses and therapists. It also gives family caregivers a break.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans who are eligible for community care, meet clinical criteria, and have a program nearby.
What it costs: Up to $15 per day after the first 21 days in 12 months, based on finances (2026).
How to get it: Ask your VA social worker. Complete VA Form 10-10EC for your copay amount.
Limits: Offered at VA medical centers, State Veterans Homes or community programs. Transportation help may be available.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710(a)(4); 38 CFR 17.111). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransHigher home care spending limit for complex conditionsSince February 2, 2026, VA can spend up to 100% of the cost of VA nursing home care on home and community services for veterans with complex needs (it was 65%).

Who qualifies: Veterans with spinal cord injury, ALS or other complex medical conditions who get home and community based services.
What it costs: Not a cost to the veteran.
How to get it: Ask your VA social worker or care team.
Limits: VA expected about 200 veterans to use the higher cap in FY2026.
Source: news.va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1720C; Pub. L. 118-210, sec. 120). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredHome Based Primary Care (VA team visits your home)A VA team led by a VA doctor gives primary care, nursing, therapy, social work and other help in your home.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans with complex health needs who meet clinical need, where available. You do not have to be homebound.
What it costs: A basic copay per in-home visit may apply, like a clinic visit.
How to get it: Ask your VA primary care provider or social worker.
Limits: Availability varies by location.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredHome telehealth (health monitoring at home)A VA care coordinator checks on your health from a distance using in-home equipment, phone or video.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans, often those who live far from VA.
What it costs: Not stated.
How to get it: Ask your VA care team.
Limits: Availability varies.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransHomemaker and home health aideA trained aide, supervised by a nurse, helps with bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, moving around and errands like groceries.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans who are eligible for community care, meet clinical criteria, and have the service nearby.
What it costs: A copay may apply based on your service-connected status and finances.
How to get it: Ask your VA social worker. Complete VA Form 10-10EC.
Limits: Aides are not nurses. Can be combined with other home services or used as respite.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710(a)(4); 38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredRespite care (a break for the family caregiver)VA pays for someone to care for the veteran so the family caregiver can rest, at home, in adult day care, or in a VA or community nursing home.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans who meet clinical criteria. Community agency, adult day or community nursing home respite also needs community care eligibility.
What it costs: 2026: up to $97 per day for overnight respite, up to $15 per day for daytime respite, after the first 21 days in 12 months.
How to get it: Ask your VA social worker. Complete VA Form 10-10EC. Nursing home respite should be planned ahead.
Limits: VA's copay page refers to respite up to 30 days per year. Family caregivers in PCAFC get at least 30 days per year.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1720B; 38 CFR 17.111). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransSkilled home health care (nurse or therapist at home)A community home health agency under VA contract gives nursing, therapy, wound care, IV antibiotics and similar care at home.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans who are eligible for community care and meet clinical criteria, often homebound or far from VA.
What it costs: A copay may apply. VA Form 10-10EC sets the amount.
How to get it: Ask your VA provider or social worker.
Limits: Often short-term after a hospital or nursing home stay.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransVeteran-Directed Care (hire your own helpers)You get a budget for home care and hire your own workers, which can include family members or neighbors, with help from a counselor.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans of any age who are eligible for community care, meet clinical criteria, and live where the program is offered.
What it costs: Not stated on VA's page.
How to get it: Talk with a VA social worker.
Limits: Not offered everywhere yet. The Elizabeth Dole Act requires VA to expand it to every VA medical center.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1720C; Pub. L. 118-210, sec. 123). Checked 2026-10-24.

Nursing homes

Some veteransCommunity nursing home under VA contractVA contracts with private nursing homes so veterans can get care near family. VA pays only for veterans who meet its rules.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a clinical need who meet VA rules on service-connected status, disability level and income.
What it costs: VA pays only if you meet its criteria. If not, you pay with your own resources, Medicare or Medicaid.
How to get it: Talk with a VA social worker.
Limits: Availability depends on local contracts.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1720; 38 U.S.C. 1710A). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransNursing home care VA must provideVA is required by law to provide needed nursing home care to veterans who need it for a service-connected disability, or who have a service-connected rating of 70% or higher.

Who qualifies: Veterans who need nursing home care for a service-connected condition, or who have a combined service-connected rating of 70% or more.
What it costs: No extended care copay for veterans with a compensable service-connected disability.
How to get it: Ask your VA social worker. You will likely complete VA Form 10-10EC.
Limits: This legal requirement has an end date in law. It was extended to December 11, 2026 by the fall 2026 stopgap funding law and has been extended many times before.
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 U.S.C. 1710A(a), (d)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransNursing home care for other veteransOther enrolled veterans may get VA nursing home care based on clinical need, space, service-connected status and income. It is not guaranteed.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans with a clinical need, when space is available.
What it costs: Up to $97 per day after the first 21 days in a 12-month period, based on your finances (VA Form 10-10EC).
How to get it: Ask your VA social worker or case manager.
Limits: Long stays are rare for veterans outside the required groups. Medicaid, Medicare or private funds may be needed.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710(a)(4); 38 CFR 17.111). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransState Veterans HomeState Veterans Homes are run by states and offer nursing home, domiciliary or adult day health care. VA helps pay for veterans' care through a daily payment to the home.

Who qualifies: Each state sets its own admission rules, based on clinical need and space. Some homes also admit non-veteran spouses and Gold Star parents.
What it costs: Varies by state. VA does not pay for non-veterans.
How to get it: Contact the State Veterans Home or a VA social worker.
Limits: VA recognizes and inspects the homes but does not run them.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1741 to 1745; 38 CFR Part 51). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransState Veterans Home at no cost (70% or service-connected need)VA pays a higher rate to State Homes for veterans who need nursing home care for a service-connected disability, or who are rated 70% or more or unemployable (TDIU). Under a state home care agreement, the home may not charge the veteran for that care.

Who qualifies: Veterans needing nursing home care for a service-connected disability, or with a 70% or higher rating, or a total rating based on individual unemployability.
What it costs: Under a State home care agreement, the home cannot charge you for care VA pays for. The rate includes medicines.
How to get it: Ask the State Home and your VA social worker.
Limits: Homes paid under a contract (instead of an agreement) follow different payment terms.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 U.S.C. 1745; 38 CFR 51.41). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransVA daily payment (per diem) to State HomesFor other eligible veterans, VA pays State Homes a basic daily rate that lowers what the home charges. The FY2026 rates rose 3.2%.

Who qualifies: Veterans in a VA-recognized State Home who meet VA eligibility rules.
What it costs: You may pay the rest of the home's charge. Amount varies by state.
How to get it: The State Home applies to VA for the payment.
Limits: Dollar amounts are posted by VA as an image and PDF; not copied here.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1741; 38 CFR Part 51). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransVA nursing home (Community Living Center)Community Living Centers are VA-run nursing homes, most on or near a VA medical center campus. Most stays are short, often after a hospital stay.

Who qualifies: Enrolled veterans who are medically and psychiatrically stable and meet clinical need, space, service-connected and income rules.
What it costs: Up to $97 per day after the first 21 days in a 12-month period, unless exempt (2026).
How to get it: Your VA social worker or case manager helps you apply, including VA Form 10-10EC.
Limits: Long-term stays are rare. Over 100 locations.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710; 38 CFR 17.111). Checked 2026-10-24.

Paying for care

Separate benefitAid and Attendance (extra pension money)Aid and Attendance is extra money added to a VA pension for veterans and survivors who need help with daily activities, are bedbound, live in a nursing home due to disability, or have very low vision.

Who qualifies: Veterans and survivors who already get VA pension and need help with daily activities, are in bed most of the day, are in a nursing home due to lost abilities, or have vision of 5/200 or less in both eyes.
What it costs: No cost. It is a monthly payment.
How to get it: Apply online or mail VA Form 21-2680 (with an exam section by a doctor) to the Pension Intake Center, PO Box 5365, Janesville, WI 53547-5365. Nursing home residents also send VA Form 21-0779.
Limits: You cannot get Aid and Attendance and Housebound at the same time. You must qualify for VA pension (income and asset limits).
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1521(d); 38 CFR 3.351). Checked 2026-10-24.

Separate benefitHousebound allowanceHousebound is extra pension money for veterans and survivors who spend most of their time at home because of a permanent disability.

Who qualifies: Veterans and survivors who get VA pension and are mostly confined to home by a permanent disability.
What it costs: No cost. It is a monthly payment.
How to get it: Apply with VA Form 21-2680 or online.
Limits: Cannot be paid at the same time as Aid and Attendance.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1521(e); 38 CFR 3.351). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredLong-term care VA does not pay forLong-term care that is not part of VA health care benefits, such as room and board in private homes, must be paid by you, Medicaid, Medicare or private insurance.

Who qualifies: Applies to all veterans.
What it costs: Varies.
How to get it: Ask a VA social worker about other ways to pay.
Limits: VA must bill private insurance (not Medicare) for non-service-connected care; insurance payments can lower your copay.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

Residential settings

Not coveredAdult family home or community residential careThese are private homes where veterans rent a room. VA may inspect and approve them, but you pay rent and room and board.

Who qualifies: Any veteran can choose this; it is private pay.
What it costs: Private pay.
How to get it: Ask your VA social worker for approved homes.
Limits: VA does not pay room and board. You can still get VA home and community services while living there.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1730). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredAssisted livingVA health care does not pay rent or room and board at an assisted living facility. VA may pay for some extra services you need there, like visits from VA providers.

Who qualifies: Not covered for room and board for any group under VA health care.
What it costs: Private pay, Medicaid (in some states), long-term care insurance, or VA pension with Aid and Attendance.
How to get it: Ask your VA social worker about services you can get while living there.
Limits: Aid and Attendance pension is a separate VA cash benefit that some veterans use to help pay for assisted living.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.38). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransAssisted living pilot (Elizabeth Dole Act)The Elizabeth Dole Act set up a small pilot for VA to pay for assisted living for some veterans in two VA regions, running through September 30, 2028.

Who qualifies: Up to 120 veterans (60 per region) in two VA regions chosen by VA, at least one serving rural veterans.
What it costs: Not stated.
How to get it: Not open to general applications; ask your VA social worker if your region is in the pilot.
Limits: Very limited. Must begin by January 2, 2027.
Source: peprec.research.va.gov (Pub. L. 118-210, sec. 127). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredMedical foster homeA medical foster home is a private home where a trained caregiver looks after a few people around the clock. VA inspects and approves the homes, but VA does not pay the home.

Who qualifies: Veterans who need nursing home level care, are enrolled in Home Based Primary Care, and have a home available nearby.
What it costs: About $1,500 to $3,000 per month, paid by the veteran, based on income and care needs.
How to get it: Ask your VA social worker or Home Based Primary Care team.
Limits: VA does not provide or pay for the home itself; VA health care (Home Based Primary Care) still visits.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1730). Checked 2026-10-24.

Family and survivors

After a death

Separate benefitMoney VA owed the veteran when they died (accrued benefits) and continuing their claim (substitution)If a veteran was owed VA payments when they died, or had a claim or appeal pending, a survivor can get that money or take over the claim.

Who qualifies: In order: surviving spouse, then children, then dependent parents. Anyone else can get only enough to repay last illness and burial costs they paid.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: File within 1 year of the death. A DIC or survivors pension claim (VA Form 21P-534EZ) counts as an accrued claim. To continue a pending claim, ask to be a substitute within 1 year.
Limits: VA uses only evidence it had on the date of death for accrued benefits. A substitute can add new evidence.
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 U.S.C. 5121, 5121A; 38 CFR 3.1000). Checked 2026-10-24.

Basics

Not coveredDoes VA health care cover my spouse or kids?VA health care is for the veteran. VA does not normally provide care for family members, but some families can get CHAMPVA or other VA family programs.

Who qualifies: Not covered for family in general. See CHAMPVA, Camp Lejeune and spina bifida rows.
What it costs: Not applicable.
How to get it: Check CHAMPVA eligibility.
Limits: Do not drop private insurance that covers your family just because you have VA care.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710). Checked 2026-10-24.

CHAMPVA

The rulesCHAMPVA after age 65 (CHAMPVA for Life)If you are eligible for Medicare, you must have Medicare Parts A and B (or Medicare Advantage) to keep CHAMPVA. Medicare pays first and CHAMPVA pays second. This was first called CHAMPVA for Life.

Who qualifies: CHAMPVA beneficiaries who are 65 or older, or under 65 with Medicare due to disability, kidney failure or ALS.
What it costs: Medicare Part B premium is yours to pay; CHAMPVA does not pay it.
How to get it: Enroll in Medicare 90 days before age 65, then send your Medicare card and VA Form 10-7959c to CHAMPVA. If not Medicare-eligible, send a Social Security notice of disallowance.
Limits: Dropping Part B ends CHAMPVA the same day. Part D is not required.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 U.S.C. 1781(d); 38 CFR 17.271(b)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransCHAMPVA care at a VA facility (CITI)Some VA medical centers treat CHAMPVA patients with no deductible or cost share.

Who qualifies: CHAMPVA beneficiaries using a participating VA facility.
What it costs: $0.
How to get it: Ask your local VA medical center if it takes part in CITI.
Limits: Not all VA facilities participate.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.272). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesCHAMPVA cost shareAfter the deductible, you usually pay 25% of the CHAMPVA allowed amount and CHAMPVA pays 75%. If you have other insurance, you often pay nothing.

Who qualifies: CHAMPVA beneficiaries.
What it costs: 25% of the allowable amount when CHAMPVA pays first.
How to get it: Automatic.
Limits: Inpatient cost share is the lowest of a per-day amount, 25% of billed charges, or the base DRG rate.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.274). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesCHAMPVA deductibleEach calendar year you pay the first $50 per person, or $100 per family, of outpatient care and urgent prescriptions.

Who qualifies: CHAMPVA beneficiaries.
What it costs: $50 per person, $100 per family per year.
How to get it: Automatic; CHAMPVA credits it on your first claims.
Limits: Does not apply to inpatient care, hospice, or care at participating VA facilities (CITI).
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.274). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredCHAMPVA dental careRoutine dental care, dentures and braces are not covered. Dental care is covered only when tied to a covered medical condition, with pre-approval.

Who qualifies: Limited medical dental cases only.
What it costs: Not covered for routine care.
How to get it: Pre-authorization: 833-930-0816.
Limits: Optional dental insurance may be available for CHAMPVA beneficiaries (VA Dental Insurance Program).
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.272). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesCHAMPVA for a surviving spouse who remarriesA surviving spouse who remarries after age 55 can keep CHAMPVA. If a remarriage before 55 ends by death or divorce, eligibility can come back.

Who qualifies: Surviving spouses who were CHAMPVA-eligible.
What it costs: Not applicable.
How to get it: Tell CHAMPVA about marriage changes: 800-733-8387.
Limits: A divorce from a living veteran ends spouse eligibility at midnight on the date it is final.
Source: law.cornell.edu (38 U.S.C. 103(d)(2)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesCHAMPVA for children: age limitsChildren usually lose CHAMPVA at 18, or at 23 if a full-time student. Children who became unable to support themselves before 18 (helpless children) may keep it.

Who qualifies: Children of eligible sponsors.
What it costs: Same as other CHAMPVA beneficiaries.
How to get it: Students 18 to 23 must send a school letter within 1 month of the first term and at least yearly.
Limits: Marriage, TRICARE eligibility, or a stepchild leaving the household also ends coverage.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1781(c); 38 CFR 17.271). Checked 2026-10-24.

Separate benefitCHAMPVA health coverage for familyCHAMPVA is a health program that shares the cost of care for certain spouses, children and survivors of veterans with permanent and total service-connected disability.

Who qualifies: Spouse or child of a veteran rated permanently and totally disabled from service-connected disability; surviving spouse or child of a veteran who died from a service-connected disability or was rated permanent and total at death; survivors of service members who died in the line of duty; some Primary Family Caregivers. Must not be eligible for TRICARE.
What it costs: 2026: $50 per person or $100 per family deductible; 25% cost share; $3,000 yearly cap per household.
How to get it: Apply online or mail VA Form 10-10d to VHA Office of Community Care, CHAMPVA Eligibility, PO Box 137, Spring City, PA 19475.
Limits: Permanent and total means rated 100% and not expected to improve. ID card may take up to 6 weeks.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1781; 38 CFR 17.271). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredCHAMPVA hospiceCHAMPVA covers hospice for people with six months or less to live, with no deductible and no cost share.

Who qualifies: CHAMPVA beneficiaries with a terminal illness.
What it costs: $0.
How to get it: Your doctor arranges it.
Limits: Inpatient respite under hospice is up to 5 days.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.272). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesCHAMPVA if eligible for TRICAREIf you are eligible for TRICARE, you cannot get CHAMPVA. Families of military retirees usually use TRICARE instead.

Who qualifies: Applies to all CHAMPVA applicants.
What it costs: Not applicable.
How to get it: Check TRICARE eligibility at tricare.mil first.
Limits: Being eligible, not just enrolled, for TRICARE blocks CHAMPVA.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.271(a)). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredCHAMPVA maternity careCHAMPVA covers prenatal care, delivery, and care after birth, including complications.

Who qualifies: CHAMPVA beneficiaries.
What it costs: Normal deductible and cost share.
How to get it: Use a provider who accepts CHAMPVA.
Limits: IVF and reversal of sterilization are not covered. The baby needs its own CHAMPVA eligibility for its care.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.272). Checked 2026-10-24.

CoveredCHAMPVA prescriptions (Meds by Mail and pharmacies)Meds by Mail sends regular medicines to your home at no cost. Retail network pharmacies cost 25% after the deductible if CHAMPVA is your only coverage.

Who qualifies: CHAMPVA beneficiaries. Meds by Mail only if you have no other drug coverage, including Medicare Part D.
What it costs: Meds by Mail $0. Network pharmacy 25% after deductible (no cost share if CHAMPVA is secondary).
How to get it: Meds by Mail refills: 888-370-1699. Out-of-network pharmacy: pay and file VA Form 10-7959a.
Limits: GLP-1 drugs for weight loss are not covered.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.272). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesCHAMPVA with other health insuranceIf you have other health insurance, it pays first and CHAMPVA pays second. CHAMPVA pays first only over Medicaid, state crime victim programs, Indian Health Service and CHAMPVA supplement plans.

Who qualifies: CHAMPVA beneficiaries with other coverage.
What it costs: Often $0 out of pocket when CHAMPVA is second payer.
How to get it: Report other insurance on VA Form 10-7959c.
Limits: Report changes quickly to avoid claim delays or having to pay money back.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.272). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesCHAMPVA yearly out-of-pocket capYour cost share is capped at $3,000 per household each calendar year. After that, CHAMPVA pays 100% of allowed costs for covered care.

Who qualifies: CHAMPVA beneficiaries.
What it costs: Maximum $3,000 per household per year.
How to get it: Automatic.
Limits: Only counts covered services.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.274). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredWhat CHAMPVA does not coverCHAMPVA does not cover routine eye exams and glasses, hearing aids that are not implanted, chiropractic, acupuncture, cosmetic surgery, custodial care, experimental care, most over-the-counter drugs and vitamins, or weight loss programs.

Who qualifies: Applies to all CHAMPVA beneficiaries.
What it costs: You pay the full cost.
How to get it: Check the CHAMPVA Guidebook before getting care.
Limits: Also excludes exercise equipment, hot tubs, workers' compensation injuries and marriage counseling.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.272(b)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Education for family

Some veteransFry Scholarship (children and spouses of service members who died in the line of duty)Pays school costs like the Post-9/11 GI Bill for children and surviving spouses of service members who died in the line of duty on or after Sept 11, 2001.

Who qualifies: Children (18+ or high school graduates) and surviving spouses of members who died in the line of duty on active duty, died from a service-connected disability within 120 days of discharge, or died in the line of duty or from service-connected disability in the Selected Reserve, on or after Sept 11, 2001.
What it costs: No cost. Up to 36 months of tuition and fees, housing, books, and more. Fry Scholars can also use the Yellow Ribbon Program.
How to get it: VA Form 22-5490 online or by mail.
Limits: No time limit for deaths on or after Jan 1, 2013. Children must give up DIC while using Fry; spouses keep DIC and keep eligibility if they remarry. Spouses choose Fry or DEA once.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 3311(b)(9), (f)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransSurvivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA, Chapter 35)Monthly education and training payments for spouses and children of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled from service, or who died from service, or who are missing or captured.

Who qualifies: Spouse or child of a veteran or service member who is P&T disabled from a service-connected condition, died from a service-connected condition or in the line of duty, is MIA or captured more than 90 days, or is hospitalized for a P&T condition and likely to be discharged for it.
What it costs: No cost. $1,621 a month for full-time school (Oct 1, 2026 to Sept 30, 2027).
How to get it: VA Form 22-5490 online or by mail. Tell your school's certifying official. Verify enrollment each month.
Limits: Up to 36 months (for training started on or after Aug 1, 2018). Children usually use it ages 18 to 26; no time limit for qualifying events on or after Aug 1, 2023. Children must stop DIC while using DEA; spouses can keep DIC. Spouses must choose DEA or Fry, and cannot switch.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. chapter 35). Checked 2026-10-24.

Housing for survivors

Some veteransVA home loan for surviving spousesSome surviving spouses can use the VA home loan benefit, usually with no down payment.

Who qualifies: Surviving spouses of veterans who died in service or from a service-connected disability, who were MIA or POW, or who were totally disabled and died (in certain cases). If the death was service connected, you must not have remarried, unless you remarried at 57 or older, or before Dec 16, 2003.
What it costs: Surviving spouses who get DIC do not pay the VA funding fee. Normal closing costs and interest apply.
How to get it: If you get DIC: give VA Form 26-1817 to your lender. If not: first file VA Form 21P-534EZ with the DD214, marriage license, and death certificate.
Limits: Lender still checks credit and income.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 3701(b)(2)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Special family programs

Separate benefitCamp Lejeune Family Member ProgramVA can pay back family members for care of 15 health conditions linked to Camp Lejeune water, after other insurance pays.

Who qualifies: Spouses, children (including in utero) and other dependents who lived at Camp Lejeune or MCAS New River for 30 days or more between August 1, 1953 and December 31, 1987.
What it costs: VA pays last, after other insurance.
How to get it: Mail VA Form 10-10068 to VA Financial Services Center, PO Box 149200, Austin, TX 78714-9200, plus Form 10-10068a for each claim. Help: 866-372-1144.
Limits: Covers only the listed conditions (bladder, breast, esophageal, kidney and lung cancer, leukemia, multiple myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, female infertility, miscarriage, hepatic steatosis, neurobehavioral effects, renal toxicity, scleroderma, and Parkinson's disease).
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1787; 38 CFR 17.410). Checked 2026-10-24.

Separate benefitSpina bifida program for children of certain veteransBirth children with spina bifida whose parent served in Vietnam, Thailand or near the Korean DMZ during set dates can get health care, monthly payments and job training.

Who qualifies: Children with spina bifida (not spina bifida occulta) conceived after a parent served in Vietnam or Thailand from January 9, 1962 to May 7, 1975, or near the Korean DMZ from September 1, 1967 to August 31, 1971.
What it costs: No cost share listed for health care.
How to get it: Apply with VA Form 21-0304. Health care eligibility questions: 888-820-1756.
Limits: Health care covers spina bifida related care. Some services need pre-approval.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1802 to 1805, 1821; 38 CFR 17.900 to 17.905). Checked 2026-10-24.

Survivor payments

Some veteransDIC for children with no surviving spouseIf there is no eligible surviving spouse, the veteran's children can get DIC directly.

Who qualifies: Unmarried children under 18, or under 23 in school, or who became permanently unable to support themselves before 18.
What it costs: No cost. Dec 1, 2025: 1 child $717.50 a month; 2 children $1,032.18 total; 3 children $1,346.92 total. A helpless child over 18 gets $421 more.
How to get it: VA Form 21P-534EZ.
Limits: Children who use Fry Scholarship or DEA must give up DIC while in school.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1313, 1314). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransDIC for parents of a veteran or service memberLow-income parents of a service member who died in service or a veteran who died from a service-connected condition can get DIC.

Who qualifies: Biological, adoptive, or foster parents with income under VA's limit, when the death was in service or service connected.
What it costs: No cost. Amount depends on income; see VA parent rate tables.
How to get it: VA Form 21P-535.
Limits: The 'totally disabled for 10 years' path does not apply to parents.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1315). Checked 2026-10-24.

Separate benefitDependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) for surviving spousesA tax-free monthly payment to the surviving spouse of a service member who died in service, or a veteran who died from a service-connected condition or who was rated totally disabled for a long enough time.

Who qualifies: Surviving spouses who lived with the veteran until death (or were separated not by their fault) and married within 15 years of service, were married at least 1 year, or had a child together. The death must be in service, service connected, or the veteran was rated totally disabled for 10 years before death, since discharge and at least 5 years before death, or 1 year (former POW who died after Sept 30, 1999).
What it costs: No cost. Basic rate $1,699.36 a month (Dec 1, 2025). Add $360.85 if the veteran was totally disabled 8 years before death and you were married those 8 years; $421.00 per child under 18; $421.00 for Aid and Attendance; $197.22 if housebound; $359.00 transitional benefit for the first 2 years if you have children under 18.
How to get it: VA Form 21P-534EZ online, by mail to the Pension Intake Center (PO Box 5365, Janesville, WI 53547-5365), at a regional office, or with an accredited representative. Survivors of active-duty deaths use VA Form 21P-534a with a casualty assistance officer.
Limits: Remarriage ends DIC unless you remarried at age 57 or older on or after Dec 16, 2003, or at age 55 or older on or after Jan 5, 2021. The SBP-DIC offset ended Jan 1, 2023, so you can get both in full.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1310, 1311, 1318). Checked 2026-10-24.

Separate benefitSurvivors Pension for low-income surviving spouses and childrenA monthly payment for low-income surviving spouses and unmarried children of wartime veterans. It does not require a service-connected death.

Who qualifies: Surviving spouses who have not remarried and lived with the veteran until death, and unmarried children (under 18, under 23 in school, or disabled before 18), of a veteran with wartime service who was not dishonorably discharged. Income and net worth must be under the limits.
What it costs: No cost. Maximum yearly amounts (Dec 1, 2025): spouse alone $11,699; with 1 child $15,311; housebound $14,298 / $17,902; Aid and Attendance $18,697 / $22,304; add $2,984 per extra child. Net worth limit $163,699.
How to get it: VA Form 21P-534EZ online, by mail to the Pension Intake Center, at a regional office, or with an accredited representative.
Limits: Remarriage ends eligibility. Countable income lowers the payment.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1541, 1542). Checked 2026-10-24.

Survivors

Some veteransGrief counseling for families (bereavement counseling)Vet Centers give free grief counseling to families of service members who died on duty and some veterans who died.

Who qualifies: Surviving spouses, children and parents of service members who died while serving, Guard or Reserve members who died on active duty, veterans who were getting Vet Center care when they died, and veterans or service members who died by suicide.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Contact your nearest Vet Center, in person or by phone or video.
Limits: Not for all families of veterans who die; hospice families get bereavement support through hospice.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1783). Checked 2026-10-24.

TRICARE and VA

The rulesTRICARE for Life and Medicare at 65Military retirees with TRICARE need Medicare Parts A and B at 65 to keep TRICARE, and then TRICARE for Life starts. You can keep VA health care too.

Who qualifies: TRICARE beneficiaries turning 65.
What it costs: Medicare Part B premium.
How to get it: Sign up for Medicare from 3 months before to 3 months after your 65th birthday.
Limits: Late Part B sign-up can mean a lifelong penalty. VA does not bill Medicare or TRICARE for Life for VA facility care.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1710). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesTRICARE vs VA health careTRICARE is the military's health plan for service members, retirees and their families. VA health care is for veterans. A military retiree can have both.

Who qualifies: Military retirees and their families may have TRICARE; veterans may also enroll in VA health care.
What it costs: Different costs for each.
How to get it: VA: apply for VA health care. TRICARE: see tricare.mil.
Limits: Families eligible for TRICARE cannot use CHAMPVA. VA does not bill TRICARE for Life for care at a VA facility.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 17.271). Checked 2026-10-24.

Disability pay and pension

Appeals

The rulesBoard appeal to a Veterans Law JudgeYou can appeal to the Board of Veterans' Appeals, where a judge reviews your case. You choose direct review, adding evidence, or a hearing.

Who qualifies: Anyone who disagrees with an initial claim, Supplemental Claim, or Higher-Level Review decision.
What it costs: Free to file. You pay your own travel for an in-person hearing in Washington, DC.
How to get it: VA Form 10182 online, by mail, in person, or by fax.
Limits: File within 1 year (60 days for contested claims). Board goals: direct review 365 days; evidence 550 days (evidence within 90 days); hearing 730 days. If you lose, you can appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims within 120 days.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 7105; 38 CFR 20.202). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesHigher-Level Review (no new evidence)A more senior VA reviewer looks at your claim again to find mistakes. You cannot add new evidence.

Who qualifies: Anyone who disagrees with an initial claim or Supplemental Claim decision.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: VA Form 20-0996 online or by mail. You can ask for one informal phone conference.
Limits: File within 1 year of the decision date. Goal is 125 days on average. No new evidence allowed.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 5104B; 38 CFR 3.2601). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesSupplemental Claim (new evidence)If VA denied your claim, you can ask again with new and relevant evidence VA did not have before.

Who qualifies: Anyone who disagrees with a VA decision and has new and relevant evidence.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: VA Form 20-0995 online, by mail, in person, or with an accredited representative.
Limits: File within 1 year of the decision to keep your original start date; you can file later, but the start date may be later. VA's goal is 125 days on average; average in Sept 2026 was 58.3 days for compensation and pension.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 5104C, 5108; 38 CFR 3.2501). Checked 2026-10-24.

Disability compensation

Some veteransExtra pay for a spouse, children, or parentsIf your combined rating is 30% or higher, VA adds money to your monthly payment for a spouse, children, and dependent parents.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a combined rating of 30% or more who have a spouse, unmarried children (under 18, 18 to 23 in school full time, or disabled before 18), or parents they support whose income is below a limit.
What it costs: No cost. Example at 100% (Dec 1, 2025 rates): veteran with spouse $4,158.17 a month; each extra child under 18 adds $109.11; each child 18 to 23 in school adds $352.45; a spouse who needs aid and attendance adds $201.41.
How to get it: Add dependents online, or use VA Form 21-686c (spouse, child). Add VA Form 21-674 for a child 18 to 23 in school. Use VA Form 21P-509 for a dependent parent.
Limits: No added dependent pay below 30%. Tell VA when a dependent leaves (divorce, child ages out) or you may be overpaid.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1115; 38 CFR 3.4(b)(2)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Separate benefitMonthly disability pay (disability compensation)VA pays a tax-free monthly payment to veterans who got sick or hurt during service, or whose service made a condition worse. The amount depends on your disability rating, from 10% to 100%.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a current condition linked to active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training. An other than honorable, bad conduct, or dishonorable discharge may block it unless VA finds your service qualifies.
What it costs: Free to apply. Monthly pay for a veteran alone (rates effective Dec 1, 2025): 10% $180.42; 20% $356.66; 30% $552.47; 40% $795.84; 50% $1,132.90; 60% $1,435.02; 70% $1,808.45; 80% $2,102.15; 90% $2,362.30; 100% $3,938.58.
How to get it: File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, in person at a VA regional office, or with an accredited representative. An intent to file first can protect your start date.
Limits: A 0% rating pays nothing but still counts as service connected. Rates rise each Dec 1 with the Social Security cost-of-living increase.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1110, 1131; 38 CFR 3.303). Checked 2026-10-24.

Discharge and eligibility

The rulesBenefits with an other than honorable discharge (character of discharge review)If your discharge is other than honorable or bad conduct (from a special court-martial), VA decides for itself whether your service counts for VA benefits. A 2024 rule made it easier to qualify.

Who qualifies: Former service members with OTH or bad conduct discharges. VA weighs length and quality of service and reasons for misconduct, including PTSD, depression, TBI, substance use, sexual assault, combat hardship, and family needs.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Just apply for the benefit you want. VA will do the character of discharge review. Those denied before may reapply.
Limits: Bars that still apply: general court-martial sentence, desertion, conscientious objector refusing duty, officer resignation for good of the service, AWOL 180+ days (unless compelling circumstances), discharge in lieu of general court-martial, mutiny or spying. Insanity at the time can lift a bar. VA's decision does not change your military discharge.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 U.S.C. 5303; 38 CFR 3.12). Checked 2026-10-24.

Separate benefitDischarge upgrade through a Discharge Review BoardEach military branch has a Discharge Review Board that can upgrade your discharge if it was wrong or unfair.

Who qualifies: Former members (or survivors) within 15 years of discharge. Discharges from a general court-martial cannot be reviewed here.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Apply to your branch's Discharge Review Board using DD Form 293.
Limits: 15-year limit. Boards must give liberal consideration when PTSD or TBI from combat or military sexual trauma may have played a part, and must include a medical expert in mental health cases.
Source: law.cornell.edu (10 U.S.C. 1553). Checked 2026-10-24.

Separate benefitFixing your military record (Board for Correction of Military or Naval Records)Each branch has a board that can correct errors or injustices in your record, including discharges over 15 years old or from a general court-martial (for clemency).

Who qualifies: Former and current members. Use this when the DRB 15-year window has passed or for other record errors.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Apply to your branch's BCMR or BCNR using DD Form 149.
Limits: Filing is due within 3 years of finding the error, but boards often waive this in the interest of justice. Liberal consideration applies for PTSD or TBI tied to combat or military sexual trauma.
Source: law.cornell.edu (10 U.S.C. 1552). Checked 2026-10-24.

Filing a claim

The rulesFiling before you leave the military (Benefits Delivery at Discharge)Service members can file a disability claim 180 to 90 days before separation so a decision comes faster after discharge.

Who qualifies: Full-time active duty members (including Guard, Reserve, Coast Guard) with a known separation date 180 to 90 days away who can attend VA exams within 45 days.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: File online or with an accredited representative. Include the Separation Health Assessment Part A self-assessment.
Limits: Not for those needing serious-injury case management, terminally ill, awaiting a character of discharge decision, or unable to make exams. Under 90 days left: file a regular claim before you separate.
Source: va.gov. Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesFully developed claim (faster decision)If you send all your evidence with your claim and certify there is nothing more, VA can decide faster.

Who qualifies: Any veteran filing a disability claim on VA Form 21-526EZ.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Submit VA Form 21-526EZ with all records you have, certify there is no more evidence, and go to any VA exam.
Limits: If VA finds it needs more records, it moves the claim to the standard process.
Source: va.gov. Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesIntent to file (save your start date)An intent to file tells VA you plan to file. It can set your start date so you may get back pay from that date if you are approved.

Who qualifies: Anyone planning to file for disability compensation, pension, or DIC.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Online at VA.gov, by phone, or with VA Form 21-0966 by mail. Starting an online claim while signed in to a verified account counts automatically (not for DIC).
Limits: You have 1 year to file the full claim. Each benefit type needs its own intent to file. Only one active at a time per benefit.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 3.155(b)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Getting help

The rulesFree help filing a claim (VSOs, accredited attorneys and agents)Only people accredited by VA may help you prepare and present a VA claim. Veterans Service Organization (VSO) help is always free. Attorneys and claims agents may charge only after VA decides your first claim.

Who qualifies: Any veteran, family member, or survivor.
What it costs: VSOs: free. Attorneys and agents: no fee for the initial claim; after a first decision, fees must be in a signed agreement filed with VA. Up to 20% of past-due benefits is presumed reasonable; over 33 1/3% is presumed unreasonable. When VA pays the representative directly, the fee is capped at 20%.
How to get it: Use VA's 'Find a VA-accredited representative' tool. Appoint a VSO with VA Form 21-22 or an attorney or agent with VA Form 21-22a.
Limits: Watch out for unaccredited 'claim consultants' who charge to file. You can report them to VA's Office of General Counsel. You can fire a representative at any time.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 5904; 38 CFR 14.629, 14.636). Checked 2026-10-24.

Military retirement and VA pay

Some veteransCombat-Related Special Compensation (CRSC)A tax-free payment from your military branch to military retirees with combat-related disabilities, to make up for the VA offset.

Who qualifies: Military retirees with a VA-rated disability tied to a Purple Heart injury, armed conflict, hazardous duty, training that simulates war, or an instrumentality of war. Medical retirees with under 20 years can qualify, with a cap.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: Apply to your military branch (not VA).
Limits: Cannot get both CRSC and CRDP. Pays only for combat-related conditions.
Source: law.cornell.edu (10 U.S.C. 1413a). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesDisability severance pay taken back from VA payIf the military paid you disability severance pay, VA holds back VA pay for the same condition until the severance is repaid. This does not apply if the disability came from combat.

Who qualifies: Veterans who got military disability severance pay and later get VA compensation for the same condition.
What it costs: VA withholds payments until the severance amount is recovered.
How to get it: No application. Tell VA if your injury happened in a combat zone or combat-related operation so it does not withhold.
Limits: No withholding for disabilities incurred in line of duty in a combat zone or during combat-related operations. No withholding from death benefits paid to survivors.
Source: law.cornell.edu (10 U.S.C. 1212(d); 38 CFR 3.700(a)(3)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransGetting both retirement pay and VA pay (CRDP)Military retirees usually have retired pay cut by the amount of VA pay. CRDP restores that cut for retirees rated 50% or higher.

Who qualifies: Military retirees entitled to retired pay (usually 20+ years, or reserve retirement) with a combined VA rating of 50% or more. Medical (Chapter 61) retirees with 20+ years qualify in part.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: Usually automatic through the military pay center (DFAS) once VA rates you.
Limits: Does not apply to Chapter 61 medical retirees with under 20 years. You can get CRDP or CRSC, not both, but you can switch each year during open season.
Source: law.cornell.edu (10 U.S.C. 1414). Checked 2026-10-24.

Pension

Some veteransAid and Attendance with pensionVeterans on pension who need help with daily activities, are mostly in bed, live in a nursing home due to disability, or have very limited vision can get a higher pension amount.

Who qualifies: Veterans who get or qualify for Veterans Pension and need regular help from another person, stay in bed much of the day, are in a nursing home for a disability, or have severely limited eyesight.
What it costs: No cost. Maximum yearly pension with Aid and Attendance (Dec 1, 2025): $29,093 veteran alone; $34,488 with one dependent.
How to get it: Send VA Form 21-2680 (a doctor completes the exam part). If in a nursing home, add VA Form 21-0779. Mail to the Pension Intake Center, apply online, or go to a regional office.
Limits: You cannot get Aid and Attendance and Housebound at the same time. Unreimbursed care costs can count as medical expenses.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1521(d); 38 CFR 3.351, 3.352). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransHousebound benefit with pensionVeterans on pension who spend most of their time at home because of a permanent disability can get a higher pension amount.

Who qualifies: Veterans who get Veterans Pension and are mostly confined to home by a permanent disability.
What it costs: No cost. Maximum yearly pension with Housebound (Dec 1, 2025): $21,313 veteran alone; $26,710 with one dependent.
How to get it: Send VA Form 21-2680 with a doctor's exam.
Limits: Cannot be combined with Aid and Attendance.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1521(e); 38 CFR 3.351). Checked 2026-10-24.

Separate benefitVeterans Pension for low-income wartime veteransA monthly payment for wartime veterans with limited income and assets who are 65 or older or have a disability. VA pays the difference between your countable income and a set yearly amount.

Who qualifies: Wartime veterans who were not dishonorably discharged and who meet service rules: before Sept 8, 1980, 90 days of active duty with at least 1 day in wartime; enlisted after Sept 7, 1980, generally 24 months (or the full call-up) with 1 wartime day; officers after Oct 16, 1981 similar. Plus one of: age 65+, permanent and total disability, in a nursing home for a disability, or getting SSDI or SSI.
What it costs: No cost. Maximum yearly amounts (Dec 1, 2025 to Nov 30, 2026): veteran alone $17,441; with one dependent $22,839; add $2,984 per extra dependent. Net worth limit $163,699.
How to get it: Apply online, with VA Form 21P-527EZ by mail to the Pension Intake Center, in person, or with an accredited representative.
Limits: Net worth counts assets plus yearly income; your home, car, and most furnishings do not count. Medical costs above 5% of the maximum amount ($872 for a veteran alone) can lower countable income. VA checks for assets given away in the 3 years before applying and can stop pay for up to 5 years.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1521; 38 CFR 3.3, 3.274, 3.276). Checked 2026-10-24.

Presumptive conditions

Some veteransALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)VA presumes ALS is linked to service whenever it appears after discharge, if you served long enough.

Who qualifies: Veterans with at least 90 days of continuous active service who are diagnosed with ALS at any time after discharge.
What it costs: No cost. ALS is rated at 100%.
How to get it: File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, in person at a VA regional office, or with an accredited representative. An intent to file first can protect your start date.
Limits: Does not apply if there is clear evidence ALS was not caused by service or was due to willful misconduct, or if service was under 90 continuous days.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 3.318). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransAgent Orange exposure (Vietnam and other places)VA presumes that certain veterans were exposed to Agent Orange and that certain cancers and illnesses came from it. The PACT Act added new places and two new conditions.

Who qualifies: Veterans who served in Vietnam (including inland waterways and ships within 12 nautical miles of the coast) Jan 9, 1962 to May 7, 1975; Korean DMZ Sept 1, 1967 to Aug 31, 1971; Thailand bases Jan 9, 1962 to June 30, 1976; Laos Dec 1, 1965 to Sept 30, 1969; Mimot or Krek, Cambodia Apr 16 to 30, 1969; Guam or American Samoa Jan 9, 1962 to July 31, 1980; Johnston Atoll (or a ship that called there) Jan 1, 1972 to Sept 30, 1977; certain C-123 aircraft crews; and people who handled Agent Orange.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, in person at a VA regional office, or with an accredited representative. An intent to file first can protect your start date.
Limits: Covered: bladder cancer, chronic B-cell leukemia, Hodgkin's, multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, prostate cancer, respiratory cancers, some soft tissue sarcomas, AL amyloidosis, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, hypothyroidism, ischemic heart disease, MGUS, Parkinsonism, Parkinson's disease. Chloracne, early-onset peripheral neuropathy, and porphyria cutanea tarda must reach 10% within 1 year of exposure. Not covered as presumptive: osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, Kaposi's sarcoma, mesothelioma.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1116; 38 CFR 3.307(a)(6), 3.309(e)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransBurn pits and toxic exposure (PACT Act)The PACT Act (signed Aug 10, 2022) added more than 20 conditions VA presumes are caused by burn pits and other airborne hazards. If you served in a listed place and have one of these conditions, you do not have to prove the link.

Who qualifies: Veterans who served on or after Aug 2, 1990 in Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, UAE (and nearby waters and the Iraq-Saudi neutral zone), or on or after Sept 11, 2001 in Afghanistan, Djibouti, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Uzbekistan, or Yemen, including the airspace above these places.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, in person at a VA regional office, or with an accredited representative. An intent to file first can protect your start date. If you were denied before, file a Supplemental Claim. If your claim is pending, you do not need to do anything.
Limits: Cancers: brain (including glioblastoma), gastrointestinal, genitourinary, head, neck, blood and lymph cancers, lymphoma, melanoma, pancreatic, reproductive, respiratory. Illnesses: asthma diagnosed after service, chronic bronchitis, COPD, chronic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, constrictive or obliterative bronchiolitis, emphysema, granulomatous disease, interstitial lung disease, pleuritis, pulmonary fibrosis, sarcoidosis.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1120; Pub. L. 117-168 (PACT Act)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransCamp Lejeune contaminated waterVA presumes eight diseases are linked to service at Camp Lejeune or MCAS New River when the water was contaminated.

Who qualifies: Veterans who served at Camp Lejeune or MCAS New River, NC for at least 30 days total between Aug 1, 1953 and Dec 31, 1987, without a dishonorable discharge.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, in person at a VA regional office, or with an accredited representative. An intent to file first can protect your start date.
Limits: Presumed conditions: adult leukemia, aplastic anemia and other myelodysplastic syndromes, bladder cancer, kidney cancer, liver cancer, multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Parkinson's disease. A lawsuit under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act is separate and does not affect VA benefits.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 3.307(a)(7), 3.309(f)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransChronic diseases that show up within 1 year of dischargeSome long-term diseases are presumed service connected if they become at least 10% disabling within 1 year after you leave active service.

Who qualifies: Veterans with 90 days or more of service whose listed chronic disease appears within the time limit (usually 1 year).
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, in person at a VA regional office, or with an accredited representative. An intent to file first can protect your start date.
Limits: Examples: arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure and heart and kidney disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis (7 years), psychoses, cancers (malignant tumors), active tuberculosis (3 years), Hansen's disease (3 years), lupus, scleroderma, cirrhosis. Some diseases have longer windows set in 38 CFR 3.307.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 U.S.C. 1112(a); 38 CFR 3.307(a)(3), 3.309(a)). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesConditions VA assumes were caused by service (presumptive conditions)For some illnesses, VA assumes your service caused them. You do not have to prove the link. You only need the diagnosis and the right service.

Who qualifies: Three main groups: chronic illnesses that show up within 1 year after discharge, illnesses from toxic exposures (burn pits, Agent Orange, radiation, Gulf War, Camp Lejeune), and illnesses linked to being a prisoner of war.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, in person at a VA regional office, or with an accredited representative. An intent to file first can protect your start date.
Limits: You still need a current diagnosis and qualifying service. A dishonorable discharge blocks benefits.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1112, 1116, 1117, 1120; 38 CFR 3.307, 3.309). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransFormer prisoners of war (POW)VA presumes a list of conditions are linked to service for former POWs, if they reach at least 10% disabling.

Who qualifies: Former POWs. Some conditions apply after any length of captivity; others need at least 30 days of captivity.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, in person at a VA regional office, or with an accredited representative. An intent to file first can protect your start date.
Limits: Any length of captivity: psychosis, anxiety states, dysthymic disorder, frostbite residuals, post-traumatic osteoarthritis, heart disease or hypertensive vascular disease, stroke, osteoporosis (if PTSD). 30 days or more: nutritional deficiencies (including beriberi, pellagra, malnutrition), chronic dysentery, helminthiasis, irritable bowel syndrome, peptic ulcer disease, peripheral neuropathy, cirrhosis, osteoporosis.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 U.S.C. 1112(b); 38 CFR 3.309(c)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransGulf War illness and Southwest Asia serviceVA presumes some unexplained illnesses and certain infectious diseases are linked to service in Southwest Asia or Afghanistan on or after Aug 2, 1990.

Who qualifies: Veterans who served on or after Aug 2, 1990 in places such as Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, UAE, nearby waters, and (for undiagnosed illness) Afghanistan, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Syria, and Turkey.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, in person at a VA regional office, or with an accredited representative. An intent to file first can protect your start date.
Limits: Undiagnosed illnesses (chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, functional GI disorders, other unexplained multisymptom illness) must last at least 6 months. Most listed infectious diseases (brucellosis, campylobacter, Q fever, malaria, nontyphoid salmonella, shigella, West Nile) must show up within 1 year of separation; tuberculosis and visceral leishmaniasis can show up any time.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1117, 1118; 38 CFR 3.317). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransMustard gas, asbestos, Project 112/SHADVeterans exposed to mustard gas or lewisite, asbestos, or Project 112 and SHAD chemical and biological testing can file for disability pay. VA presumes mustard gas exposure for full-body exposure at listed World War II test sites.

Who qualifies: Veterans whose records show the exposure, or who served at listed mustard gas test sites (Dec 7, 1941 to Dec 31, 1946) and describe full-body exposure. Project 112/SHAD participants (1962 to 1974). Asbestos: certain military jobs.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, in person at a VA regional office, or with an accredited representative. An intent to file first can protect your start date. Mustard gas questions: mustardgas@vba.va.gov.
Limits: VA's mustard gas page does not list the presumed conditions. Asbestos claims are decided case by case.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 3.316). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransRadiation exposure (atomic veterans)VA presumes certain cancers are linked to service for veterans who took part in radiation-risk activities.

Who qualifies: Veterans who were in atmospheric nuclear testing, the occupation of Hiroshima or Nagasaki, POW in Japan, Amchitka Island underground testing, certain gaseous diffusion plants (Paducah KY, Portsmouth OH, Oak Ridge K-25), and PACT Act additions: Enewetak Atoll cleanup (Jan 1, 1977 to Dec 31, 1980), Palomares, Spain cleanup (Jan 17, 1966 to Mar 31, 1967), and Thule, Greenland B-52 response (Jan 21 to Sept 25, 1968).
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, in person at a VA regional office, or with an accredited representative. An intent to file first can protect your start date.
Limits: Presumed cancers: leukemia (not chronic lymphocytic), cancers of the thyroid, breast, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, pancreas, bile ducts, gallbladder, salivary gland, urinary tract, bone, brain, colon, lung, ovary; primary liver cancer (unless cirrhosis or hepatitis B); bronchiolo-alveolar carcinoma; multiple myeloma; lymphomas other than Hodgkin's. Other radiation illnesses can be claimed case by case.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1112(c); 38 CFR 3.309(d), 3.311). Checked 2026-10-24.

Special allowances

Some veteransAdaptive equipment for your vehicle (hand controls, lifts)VA can pay for equipment that helps you drive or get in and out of a vehicle, such as power steering, power brakes, special seats, and lifts.

Who qualifies: Veterans who qualify for the automobile allowance, plus veterans with service-connected ankylosis (stiff joint) of one or both knees or hips (equipment only).
What it costs: No cost for approved equipment. VA may pay you or the seller.
How to get it: Take VA Form 10-1394 to the prosthetic representative at your VA medical center. Get approval before you buy.
Limits: You must have the approval before purchase, and the seller must send VA the form and an itemized invoice.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 3902; 38 CFR 17.156). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransClothing allowanceA yearly payment if a device or skin medicine you use for a service-connected condition wears out or stains your clothes.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a service-connected condition who use a prosthetic or orthopedic device, or a skin medicine, that damages clothing. More than one device or medicine, or damage to more than one type of clothing, can mean an extra payment.
What it costs: No cost. $1,053.19 per year (rate effective Dec 1, 2025).
How to get it: Apply online or with VA Form 10-8678. Mail to VA Claims Intake Center, PO Box 4444, Janesville, WI 53547-4444, or give it to the prosthetic representative at your VA medical center.
Limits: You must qualify by Aug 1. VA pays between Sept 1 and Oct 31. If you were paid in 2022 or 2023, you do not need to reapply each year.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1162; 38 CFR 3.810). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransMedal of Honor pensionMedal of Honor recipients get a special monthly pension on top of other VA benefits.

Who qualifies: Veterans awarded the Medal of Honor.
What it costs: No cost. $5,780 a month (effective Dec 1, 2025).
How to get it: Ask the service branch or VA. Not covered in detail on the page.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1562). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransMoney to buy a car (automobile allowance)A one-time payment toward a car or other vehicle if a service-connected disability affects your hands, feet, vision, or causes severe burns or ALS.

Who qualifies: Veterans with service-connected loss or permanent loss of use of one or both hands or feet, permanent decreased vision in both eyes, severe burns, or ALS.
What it costs: No cost. Up to $27,908.90, effective Oct 1, 2026. VA pays the seller.
How to get it: Apply with VA Form 21-4502 online or by mail. Get approval before you buy.
Limits: Usually once in a lifetime. A second allowance is possible if the first vehicle was bought 30 or more years ago, or a natural disaster destroyed it and insurance did not pay.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 3902; 38 CFR 3.808). Checked 2026-10-24.

Special monthly compensation

Some veteransSpecial monthly compensation (SMC) for severe disabilitiesSMC is extra pay above the regular rate for very serious disabilities, such as loss or loss of use of limbs, blindness, being housebound, or needing daily help from another person.

Who qualifies: SMC-K: an added amount (up to 3 awards) for things like loss of use of a hand, foot, or creative organ. SMC-L: loss of use of both feet, blindness in both eyes, permanently bedridden, or needing daily help. SMC-M, N, O/P: more severe combinations of limb loss, blindness, deafness, or paralysis. SMC-R: needs daily help with dressing, eating, bathing (higher level for skilled care). SMC-S: rated 100% and housebound or has another 60% condition.
What it costs: No cost. Veteran alone (Dec 1, 2025 rates): K adds $139.87; L $4,900.83; M $5,408.55; N $6,152.64; O/P $6,877.12; R.1 $9,826.88; R.2/T $11,271.67; S $4,408.53.
How to get it: VA often decides SMC with your disability claim. You can also ask for it, or for aid and attendance, with VA Form 21-2680.
Limits: Exact rules are detailed. A veteran alone with SMC-L and K gets $5,040.70.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1114(k) to (t); 38 CFR 3.350, 3.352). Checked 2026-10-24.

Temporary 100% ratings

Some veteransTemporary 100% while in the hospital for a service-connected conditionIf you are in a VA or approved hospital for more than 21 days for a service-connected condition, VA pays the 100% rate for that time.

Who qualifies: Veterans hospitalized (or under VA hospital observation) more than 21 days for a service-connected condition.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: Ask VA for a temporary total rating and send hospital records. A VA hospital stay is often caught automatically, but ask to be sure.
Limits: Starts on the first day of the hospital stay. Ends the last day of the month you leave. Long absences during the first 21 days can break the count.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 4.29). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransTemporary 100% while recovering from surgery (convalescence)After surgery or casting for a service-connected condition, VA can pay the 100% rate while you recover.

Who qualifies: Veterans whose surgery for a service-connected condition needs at least 1 month of recovery, leaves severe effects (open wounds, new amputation, body cast, house bound, no weight bearing), or who have a major joint in a cast.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: Ask VA for a temporary total rating under 38 CFR 4.30 and send the hospital or surgeon's discharge report.
Limits: First award is 1, 2, or 3 months. It can be extended 1 to 3 more months, and in some cases up to 6 more months with manager approval.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 4.30). Checked 2026-10-24.

Total disability

The rules100% permanent and total (P&T) statusP&T means VA rates you 100% (or pays 100% through TDIU) and expects the condition to last for life. It opens extra benefits for your family.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a total rating for a disability that is reasonably certain to continue for life, such as loss of both hands or feet, both eyes, or being permanently bedridden, or long-standing disabilities unlikely to improve.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: There is no separate form. VA decides permanence when it rates you. Your decision letter says if you are P&T.
Limits: Opens: Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA) for spouse and children; CHAMPVA health coverage for spouse and children who can't get TRICARE; and, after death, possible DIC if the veteran was totally disabled for 10 years (or other time rules). Many states add property tax and other benefits.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 3.340). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransPaid at 100% because you can't work (TDIU or Individual Unemployability)If service-connected conditions keep you from holding a steady job that supports you, VA can pay you at the 100% rate even if your rating is lower.

Who qualifies: Veterans who can't keep steady gainful work due to service-connected conditions and have one condition rated 60% or more, or two or more with one at 40% or more and a combined 70% or more. VA can consider lower ratings in special cases.
What it costs: No cost. Pays the 100% rate ($3,938.58 a month for a veteran alone, Dec 1, 2025 rate).
How to get it: File VA Form 21-8940 and VA Form 21-4192 online or by mail. You must already have a service-connected rating, or file for one first.
Limits: Odd jobs with small income (marginal employment) do not disqualify you. VA may ask you to confirm you are not working (VA Form 21-4140). Your rating number does not change.
Source: va.gov (38 CFR 4.16). Checked 2026-10-24.

Ways to connect a condition

The rulesA condition caused by another service-connected condition (secondary service connection)If a service-connected condition causes a new problem, or makes another condition worse, the new problem can be service connected too. Example: knee injury that leads to a hip problem.

Who qualifies: Veterans who already have a service-connected condition and a medical link to the new or worsened condition.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, in person at a VA regional office, or with an accredited representative. An intent to file first can protect your start date. Name the condition and say what caused it.
Limits: For a non-service-connected condition made worse, VA pays only for the worsening beyond its normal course and needs medical proof of how bad it was before. Some conditions are presumed secondary to service-connected TBI or certain leg amputations.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 CFR 3.310). Checked 2026-10-24.

The rulesA condition you had before service that got worse in service (aggravation)If you had a condition before you joined and service made it worse, VA can pay for the part service made worse.

Who qualifies: Veterans with a pre-service condition that got worse during service, beyond its natural progress.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, in person at a VA regional office, or with an accredited representative. An intent to file first can protect your start date.
Limits: VA rates only the added worsening, not the original condition.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1153; 38 CFR 3.306). Checked 2026-10-24.

School and work

GI Bill

Some veteransMontgomery GI Bill Active Duty (MGIB-AD, Chapter 30)A monthly education payment for veterans who paid into the Montgomery GI Bill while on active duty.

Who qualifies: Honorably discharged veterans with a high school diploma or GED (or 12 college credits) who had $100 a month withheld for 12 months (or paid $1,200) and served the required time. Other categories cover some older or involuntarily separated veterans.
What it costs: You paid in $1,200 during service. Full-time payment (Oct 1, 2026 to Sept 30, 2027): $2,601 a month for 3+ years of service; $2,110 a month for 2 to 3 years.
How to get it: Apply online at VA.gov.
Limits: Usually 36 months, and usually 10 years to use it. If you gave up MGIB-AD for Post-9/11, the Rudisill decision may let you use some MGIB-AD, or get up to $1,200 refunded.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. chapter 30). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransMontgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR, Chapter 1606)Education payments for members of the Selected Reserve and National Guard.

Who qualifies: Members with a 6-year Selected Reserve obligation who finished initial active duty training, have a high school diploma or GED, and stay in good standing in a drilling unit.
What it costs: No cost. $508 a month full time (Oct 1, 2026 to Sept 30, 2027).
How to get it: Get the Notice of Basic Eligibility (DD Form 2384-1) from your unit, then apply with VA Form 22-1990.
Limits: Up to 36 months. Usually ends the day you leave the Selected Reserve. Exceptions (up to 14 years) for disability or some involuntary separations; mobilization extends eligibility.
Source: va.gov (10 U.S.C. chapter 1606). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransPost-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)Pays tuition and fees, a monthly housing allowance, and books for college, trade school, and training for people who served after Sept 10, 2001.

Who qualifies: At least 90 days of active duty on or after Sept 11, 2001; or a Purple Heart on or after that date with honorable discharge; or 30 continuous days and discharge for a service-connected disability. Benefit level is 50% (90 to 179 days) up to 100% (36 months or more, Purple Heart, or disability discharge).
What it costs: No cost. At 100% (Aug 1, 2026 to July 31, 2027): full in-state tuition at public schools; up to $30,908.34 a year at private or foreign schools; up to $1,000 a year for books; housing allowance based on school ZIP code (online-only up to $1,198 a month).
How to get it: Apply online at VA.gov (education benefits application).
Limits: Generally 36 months. Housing allowance only if you attend more than half time. If your service ended before Jan 1, 2013, benefits end 15 years after separation; no time limit if it ended on or after Jan 1, 2013 (Forever GI Bill).
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. chapter 33). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransTransferring the Post-9/11 GI Bill to a spouse or childService members can share some or all of their Post-9/11 GI Bill months with a spouse or children.

Who qualifies: Members on active duty or in the Selected Reserve with at least 6 years of service who agree to serve 4 more years. Dependents must be in DEERS. Purple Heart recipients do not need the service time but must request while on active duty.
What it costs: No cost. If you leave early for a non-qualifying reason, you may have to repay what VA paid.
How to get it: Request a Transfer of Education Benefits through DoD milConnect while still serving. Your dependent then applies to VA (VA Form 22-1990e for a child under 18).
Limits: Must be done while serving; veterans who already separated cannot start a transfer. Up to 36 months total. Children can use it after you reach 10 years of service and before age 26.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 3319). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransVET TEC 2.0 (high-tech training)VET TEC 2.0 pays for short training in tech fields like coding and IT, plus a housing allowance. It replaced the original VET TEC pilot, which ended in April 2025.

Who qualifies: Veterans not dishonorably discharged, or service members within 180 days of separation, with at least 36 months of active duty, under age 62 when approved.
What it costs: No cost. Tuition paid to the provider (private providers up to $30,908.34). Monthly housing allowance based on E-5 with dependents rates (Aug 1, 2026 to July 31, 2027).
How to get it: Apply online at VA.gov using the new VET TEC 2.0 application.
Limits: Limited to 4,000 paid participants per fiscal year. Uses 1 month of GI Bill or DEA entitlement per month of full-time training if you have some left; you can join with no entitlement left.
Source: va.gov. Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransYellow Ribbon Program (extra help at private or out-of-state schools)If your private, foreign, or out-of-state public school costs more than the GI Bill pays, participating schools can cover part of the gap and VA matches it.

Who qualifies: People at the 100% Post-9/11 GI Bill level: veterans with 36+ months of active duty, Purple Heart recipients, disability discharge after 30 days, active-duty members with 36+ months, some spouses and children using transferred benefits, and Fry Scholars.
What it costs: No cost to you for the covered amount. Amounts vary by school.
How to get it: Get your Certificate of Eligibility, then ask your school's certifying official to apply for Yellow Ribbon.
Limits: First come, first served. Each school limits how many students and how much it pays.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 3317). Checked 2026-10-24.

Veteran Readiness and Employment

Some veteransIndependent Living servicesFor veterans who cannot work right now, VR&E can help with daily living and independence, including evaluation for home changes like ramps and wider doors.

Who qualifies: VR&E-eligible veterans with a serious employment handicap whose disabilities keep them from working and who need help to live independently.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: Apply for VR&E with VA Form 28-1900; your counselor decides if this track fits.
Limits: Usually up to 24 months, sometimes longer.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 3120). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransJob training and career help (Veteran Readiness and Employment, Chapter 31)VR&E helps veterans with service-connected disabilities get and keep suitable jobs, start a business, or live more independently. It can pay for school and training.

Who qualifies: Veterans not dishonorably discharged with a VA rating of at least 10%. Service members with a 20% or higher pre-discharge rating, or awaiting discharge for a serious illness or injury.
What it costs: No cost. Approved training, books, and supplies are paid. You get a monthly subsistence allowance, or you can choose the usually higher Post-9/11 GI Bill housing rate if you have at least 1 day of GI Bill left.
How to get it: Apply online with VA Form 28-1900. A counselor will meet with you to decide entitlement and build a plan.
Limits: If discharged before Jan 1, 2013, you generally have 12 years from discharge or first rating (extendable for a serious employment handicap). No time limit if discharged on or after Jan 1, 2013.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. chapter 31; 38 CFR 21.40). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransThe five VR&E tracksVR&E has five paths: Reemployment (back to a past employer), Rapid Access to Employment (job now with skills you have), Self-Employment (start a business), Long-Term Services (school or training for a new career), and Independent Living.

Who qualifies: Veterans found entitled to VR&E. Your counselor helps pick the track.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: Through your Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor after applying with VA Form 28-1900.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. chapter 31). Checked 2026-10-24.

Housing and home

Adaptive housing grants

Some veteransSpecial Housing Adaptation (SHA) grantA smaller grant to change a home for veterans with certain service-connected disabilities.

Who qualifies: Veterans and service members (the home can be owned by you or a family member) with service-connected loss or loss of use of both hands, certain severe burns, or certain breathing injuries.
What it costs: No cost. Up to $25,350 (fiscal year 2026).
How to get it: Apply online with VA Form 26-4555.
Limits: Use up to 6 times, up to the maximum.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 2101(b); 38 CFR 3.809a). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransSpecially Adapted Housing (SAH) grantA grant to build, buy, or change a home to meet the needs of veterans with severe service-connected disabilities, such as loss of limbs or blindness.

Who qualifies: Veterans and service members who own or will own the home and have service-connected loss or loss of use of more than one limb, a lower leg with certain residuals, blindness in both eyes (20/200 or less), certain severe burns, or loss of use of one leg after Sept 11, 2001 that requires braces, crutches, canes, or a wheelchair.
What it costs: No cost. Up to $126,526 (fiscal year 2026, Oct 1, 2025 to Sept 30, 2026).
How to get it: Apply online with VA Form 26-4555, by mail, or in person.
Limits: Use up to 6 times, up to the maximum. Only 120 grants per year for the single-leg-after-9/11 group. The maximum changes each Oct 1.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 2101(a); 38 CFR 3.809). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransTemporary Residence Adaptation (TRA) grantMoney to adapt a family member's home where you are living for now.

Who qualifies: Veterans who qualify for SAH or SHA and are living temporarily in a family member's home. You do not need to own it.
What it costs: No cost. Up to $50,961 if you qualify for SAH; up to $9,100 if you qualify for SHA (fiscal year 2026).
How to get it: Apply online with VA Form 26-4555.
Limits: Money used counts toward your SAH or SHA total.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 2102A). Checked 2026-10-24.

Home loans

The rulesVA funding fee and who does not pay itMost VA home loans have a one-time funding fee. Veterans who get VA disability pay, and some others, do not pay it.

Who qualifies: Exempt: veterans getting VA disability compensation (or eligible but getting retirement or active-duty pay instead), surviving spouses getting DIC, service members with a pre-discharge rating before closing, and active-duty Purple Heart recipients.
What it costs: Purchase (since Apr 7, 2023): under 5% down 2.15% first use, 3.3% after; 5% down 1.5%; 10% down 1.25%. Cash-out refinance 2.15% first use, 3.3% after. IRRRL 0.5%. The fee can be rolled into the loan.
How to get it: Your lender figures the fee. Your Certificate of Eligibility shows if you are exempt.
Limits: If VA later grants compensation with a start date before your closing, you may get a refund.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 3729). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransVA home loan guaranty (buy a home with no down payment)VA backs home loans from private lenders so many veterans can buy with no down payment. Most VA loans are made with no down payment.

Who qualifies: Veterans who meet service rules (for service since Aug 2, 1990: usually 24 continuous months or the full call-up, at least 90 days), service members after 90 days, Guard and Reserve with 90 days of non-training active duty or 6 creditable years, and some surviving spouses.
What it costs: A one-time funding fee (see funding fee row), closing costs, and interest. No down payment needed in most cases.
How to get it: Get a Certificate of Eligibility (VA Form 26-1880) online or through your lender, then apply with a VA-approved lender.
Limits: Lender sets credit and income rules. With full entitlement there is no VA loan limit, but the lender decides how much you can borrow. Loan types: purchase, cash-out refinance, Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL), and the Native American Direct Loan.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. chapter 37). Checked 2026-10-24.

Homelessness

Some veteransHUD-VASH housing vouchersA HUD rent voucher plus a VA case manager to help veterans who are homeless find and keep a home.

Who qualifies: Veterans experiencing homelessness who need ongoing case management.
What it costs: Rent help through a Housing Choice Voucher. Your share of rent depends on income.
How to get it: Call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838 (free, 24/7).
Limits: The unit must meet HUD rules and the landlord must take the voucher. Vouchers are limited by area.
Source: department.va.gov (42 U.S.C. 1437f(o)(19)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Separate benefitHelp line if you are homeless or about to lose housingVA's National Call Center for Homeless Veterans connects you to your nearest VA for housing help.

Who qualifies: Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, and people calling for them.
What it costs: Free and confidential.
How to get it: Call 877-424-3838, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Source: department.va.gov. Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransSupportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)Community nonprofits funded by VA help very low-income veteran families avoid losing housing or quickly get rehoused, including short-term money help.

Who qualifies: Veteran families (a veteran is head of household or spouse) with income at or below 50% of area median income who are homeless or at risk. Excludes only dishonorable discharges and general court-martial discharges.
What it costs: No cost.
How to get it: Call 877-424-3838 or contact a local SSVF grantee.
Limits: Help is short term. Grantees must verify eligibility.
Source: ecfr.gov (38 U.S.C. 2044; 38 CFR part 62). Checked 2026-10-24.

Insurance and burial

Burial allowance

Some veteransBurial allowance for a non-service-connected deathVA can help pay burial costs for veterans who died of other causes if they were getting VA pay, died in VA care, or met other rules.

Who qualifies: Veterans not dishonorably discharged who, for example, died in VA care or a VA-contracted nursing home, or were getting (or had a claim pending for) VA compensation or pension.
What it costs: Up to $1,032 for deaths on or after Oct 1, 2026 ($1,002 for deaths Oct 1, 2025 to Sept 30, 2026). Possible transportation costs.
How to get it: VA Form 21P-530EZ online or by mail.
Limits: Usually must apply within 2 years after burial (no limit if the veteran died in VA care, or for plot or transportation claims). Not payable for deaths on active duty or in federal prison.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 2302, 2303). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransBurial allowance for a service-connected deathVA helps pay burial and funeral costs when a veteran dies from a service-connected condition.

Who qualifies: The person who paid the costs and was not repaid: spouse, partner, child, parent, executor, other family or friend, or a funeral home.
What it costs: VA pays up to $2,000 if the death was on or after Sept 11, 2001 ($1,500 before). If buried in a VA national cemetery, VA may also pay to move the remains.
How to get it: Apply online or mail VA Form 21P-530EZ to the Pension Intake Center, PO Box 5365, Janesville, WI 53547-5365. Spouses on VA's records may be paid automatically.
Limits: No time limit to apply for a service-connected death.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 2307). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransPlot or interment allowanceMoney toward a burial plot or interment costs when the veteran is not buried in a national cemetery.

Who qualifies: Same people who can apply for the burial allowance.
What it costs: Up to $1,032 for deaths on or after Oct 1, 2026 ($1,002 for deaths Oct 1, 2025 to Sept 30, 2026).
How to get it: VA Form 21P-530EZ.
Limits: No time limit to claim plot or interment costs.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 2303(b)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Burial and memorials

Some veteransBronze medallion for a private headstoneInstead of a government headstone, VA can provide a bronze medallion to attach to a privately bought headstone in a private cemetery.

Who qualifies: Veterans with honorable or general discharge buried in a private cemetery with a privately bought headstone, who meet service rules (similar to headstones).
What it costs: Free medallion.
How to get it: VA Form 40-1330M online through QuickSubmit, by mail, or by fax. A cemetery official must sign.
Limits: Three sizes; cemetery must approve the size. Medal of Honor medallion requires proof of the medal.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 2306(d)(4)). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransBurial flagVA provides a U.S. flag to drape the casket or go with the urn of an eligible veteran.

Who qualifies: Next of kin or a close friend of a veteran who served in wartime, died on active duty after May 27, 1941, served after Jan 31, 1955, or meets other service rules.
What it costs: No fee stated by VA.
How to get it: Bring VA Form 27-2008 to your funeral director, a VA regional office, or a U.S. post office.
Limits: VA cannot replace a lost, stolen, or destroyed flag.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 2301). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransBurial in a VA national cemeteryEligible veterans, service members, and some family members can be buried in a VA national cemetery at no cost to the family.

Who qualifies: Veterans not dishonorably discharged, service members who died on duty, spouses and surviving spouses (even if remarried), minor children, and some adult disabled dependent children. Some Guard and Reserve members.
What it costs: No cost for the gravesite, opening and closing, burial liner, headstone or marker, and perpetual care. Funeral home costs are not covered by this benefit (see burial allowance).
How to get it: At time of need, call the National Cemetery Scheduling Office at 800-535-1117. Your funeral director can send the DD214.
Limits: Former spouses who are not veterans are not eligible. Certain capital or sex-offense convictions bar burial. Space depends on the cemetery.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 2402; 38 CFR 38.620). Checked 2026-10-24.

Separate benefitFind out now if you can be buried in a national cemetery (pre-need eligibility)You can ask VA ahead of time whether you qualify for burial in a VA national cemetery, so your family has less to do later.

Who qualifies: Veterans, spouses, and eligible family members while living. Someone can apply for you if you cannot, with proof they can act for you.
What it costs: Free.
How to get it: Apply online or with VA Form 40-10007 to the NCA Evidence Intake Center, PO Box 5237, Janesville, WI 53547.
Limits: Does not reserve a gravesite or guarantee a specific cemetery. Not for Arlington or state and tribal veterans cemeteries.
Source: va.gov. Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransGovernment headstone or markerVA provides a headstone or marker for an eligible veteran's grave anywhere in the world, including private cemeteries.

Who qualifies: Veterans not dishonorably discharged (enlisted after Sept 7, 1980 and officers after Oct 16, 1981 generally need 24 months of service or died on duty). Some Guard and Reserve. Spouses and children only in national, state, tribal, or military cemeteries.
What it costs: Free headstone or marker. Private cemetery setting fees are not covered by this item.
How to get it: VA Form 40-1330 online through QuickSubmit or by mail to NCA FP Evidence Intake Center, PO Box 5237, Janesville, WI 53547, with the DD214. Questions: 800-697-6947.
Limits: In private cemeteries, spouses and children cannot get their own; they may be added to the veteran's marker. Memorial markers are possible when remains are not recovered, scattered, or donated.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 2306). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransMilitary funeral honorsEligible veterans can have military funeral honors, including the playing of Taps and two uniformed service members presenting the flag. The Department of Defense provides the honors.

Who qualifies: Eligible veterans and reservists.
What it costs: No cost to the family.
How to get it: Ask your funeral director, a Veterans Service Organization, or VA national cemetery staff to arrange honors.
Limits: Minimum honors are 2 uniformed members, flag folding and presentation, and Taps.
Source: va.gov (10 U.S.C. 1491). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransPresidential Memorial CertificateA certificate signed by the current president honoring the veteran's service.

Who qualifies: Next of kin, family, close friends, or authorized representatives of a veteran or reservist who is eligible for burial in a national cemetery.
What it costs: No fee stated by VA.
How to get it: Given automatically at a national cemetery burial. Otherwise use VA Form 40-0247 by mail, upload, or fax. Multiple copies can be requested.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 112). Checked 2026-10-24.

Life insurance

Some veteransKeeping your SGLI after service (VGLI)Veterans' Group Life Insurance lets you keep group life coverage after leaving the military.

Who qualifies: Those who had SGLI and are within 1 year and 120 days of leaving active duty, the Ready Reserve, or Guard, or of going on the Temporary Disability Retirement List or IRR.
What it costs: Premiums by age and coverage amount. Example: $25.00 a month for $250,000 at ages 35 to 39 (July 1, 2025 rates).
How to get it: Apply online within 1 year and 120 days of separation.
Limits: Apply within 240 days and no health questions. After 240 days you must show good health. Coverage $10,000 to $500,000, no more than your SGLI. You can add $25,000 one year after and every 5 years until 60.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1977). Checked 2026-10-24.

Not coveredService-Disabled Veterans Life Insurance (S-DVI)S-DVI closed to new applicants after Dec 31, 2022. People who have it can keep it.

Who qualifies: Only existing policyholders.
What it costs: Existing premiums continue. Basic premiums can be waived for totally disabled veterans who qualify; supplemental S-DVI premiums cannot be waived.
How to get it: No new applications. Use VALife instead.
Limits: If you apply for VALife on or after Jan 1, 2026, your S-DVI ends the day VALife is approved, and you will not have full coverage during VALife's 2-year wait.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1922). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransVeterans Affairs Life Insurance (VALife)Whole life insurance for veterans with any service-connected rating, even 0%. No health questions.

Who qualifies: Veterans 80 or younger with any service-connected rating (no deadline after the rating). Age 81+: only if you applied for compensation before 81, were rated after 81, and apply within 2 years of the rating.
What it costs: Premiums based on age when you apply and coverage amount. Rate does not go up. No premium waivers.
How to get it: Apply online at VA.gov. First premium is due when you apply.
Limits: Up to $40,000 in $10,000 steps. Full coverage starts after a 2-year wait; if you die during the wait, beneficiaries get premiums paid plus interest (4.23% for 2026 deaths). No loans.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 1922B). Checked 2026-10-24.

Some veteransVeterans' Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI)Mortgage life insurance that pays off up to $200,000 of your home loan if you die. It pays your lender, not a beneficiary.

Who qualifies: Veterans and service members with severe service-connected disabilities who got an SAH grant, hold title to the home, have a mortgage, and are under 70.
What it costs: Premium based on age, mortgage balance, and payments left.
How to get it: Apply for an SAH grant; your loan guaranty agent will help you complete VA Form 29-8636.
Limits: Up to $200,000, never more than the loan balance. Must apply before age 70.
Source: va.gov (38 U.S.C. 2106). Checked 2026-10-24.

This guide explains the rules. It does not decide your case. A free veterans service officer can tell you what you qualify for and file for you. Find one near you. Last checked October 24, 2026.