Veterans are now eligible for a comprehensive health care package that is completely portable across the entire VA health care system. To receive health care, most veterans must be enrolled first.
In 2009 federal regulations were changed to enable VA to enroll certain Priority Group 8 veterans who applied for enrollment and who may have been previously denied enrollment in the VA health care system because their income exceeded VA's income thresholds. These Veterans may now qualify if their household income does not exceed the current VA income thresholds by more than 10%. To see if you are eligible and to access a calculator to see how you stand against the income thresholds, visit www.va.gov/healtheligibility/Library/AnnualThresholds.asp. If you have any enrollment or eligibility questions, you may call 1-877-222-VETS (8387).
Application Process
To apply for VA health care benefits, including enrollment you must fill out an application for enrollment, VA Form 10-10EZ. You may obtain this form by one of the following means:
- Online - Complete VA Form 10-10EZ, Application for Health Benefits.
- By Telephone - Call toll-free number at 877-222-VETS (8387)
- In Person - Complete the "Application for Health Benefits" at your local VA. Find a VA medical center.
The VA uses the 10-10EZ application to determine if you have qualifying service as a veteran and your status so you can be placed into one of the Enrollment Priority Groups.
Once enrolled you will remain enrolled without having to reapply for benefit annually. However, some veterans will need to update their financial information yearly to keep their enrollment priority current. VA will contact you when or if it is necessary to update their financial information.
The VA has a quick two-question form to help you determine your if you qualify for VA health care. Visit the VA Health Care Page to get started.