If you’ve ever asked yourself what is veterans affairs, you’re not alone. For many U.S. veterans and their families, understanding how to access benefits and support through the United States Department of Veterans Affairs can feel overwhelming.
That’s why we’ve put together this clear and comprehensive guide, to help you navigate the system and make the most of the resources available to you.
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to maximize your benefits, this article breaks down what you need to know.
What Is the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)?
Overview of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is a federal agency created to support those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Its mission is to care for veterans and their families through a variety of services, including healthcare, education, housing assistance, and financial benefits.
With programs and offices throughout the country, the Department of Veterans Affairs is one of the largest government agencies in the United States, serving millions of veterans annually.
When Was the Department of Veterans Affairs Created?
The Department of Veterans Affairs was officially established in 1930, but its roots go back even further. In 1989, it was elevated to a Cabinet-level position under President George H. W. Bush.
Since then, the US Department of Veterans Affairs has expanded significantly to include a wide range of services tailored to the unique needs of veterans.
Mission and Purpose of the VA
The core mission of the VA Veterans Affairs system is simple: to serve and honor the men and women who are America’s veterans. This includes providing timely, high-quality services through veterans affairs hospitals, benefit programs, and community-based support.
What Does the Department of Veterans Affairs Do?
- Health Services Through Veterans Affairs Medical Centers: The Veterans Affairs Medical Center system provides healthcare across the U.S., from major hospitals to community clinics.
- Veterans Affairs Hospitals and Clinics Nationwide: There are hundreds of veterans affairs hospitals and veterans affairs clinics providing specialized care for service-connected injuries, routine checkups, mental health, rehabilitation, and more.
- Specialized Care at Veterans Affairs Medical Centers: These centers offer tailored programs for physical therapy, spinal cord injuries, PTSD, and other service-related conditions.
- Veterans Affairs Benefits and Support Services: In addition to healthcare, the veterans affairs benefits system supports veterans through several key programs:
- Disability Compensation and Pensions: Monthly tax-free payments are available for veterans with service-connected disabilities or low income.
- GI Bill and Education Benefits: The department of veterans affairs helps cover the cost of college, trade school, or vocational training through the GI Bill.
- Housing and Home Loans: Veterans can access VA-backed home loans with lower interest rates and no down payment in many cases.
- Mental Health and Rehabilitation Programs: Mental health support is a major focus of the veterans affairs medical center system, with resources for addiction recovery, counseling, and crisis response.
Key VA Facilities and Services
What Is a Veterans Affairs Clinic?
A veterans affairs clinic is a smaller, community-based outpatient facility where veterans can receive primary care, mental health support, and follow-up services.
How to Locate a Veterans Affairs Medical Center Near You
You can find your nearest veterans affairs medical center by searching online or using the official veterans affairs phone number (1-800-827-1000) to get assistance.
Understanding the Role of Veterans Affairs Hospitals
Veterans affairs hospitals handle more complex and specialized care, such as surgeries, long-term rehabilitation, and emergency services.
How to Contact the VA and Get Help
Veterans Affairs Phone Number and Online Support
To speak with a representative, call the veterans affairs phone number at 1-800-827-1000. For online resources, visit the official VA.gov website, where you can check your benefits, apply for services, and more.
How to Find Your Nearest VA Office or Hospital
Use the VA’s online locator tools or call for help finding your local veterans affairs hospital or clinic.
How to Apply for Veterans Affairs Benefits
Applications for veterans affairs benefits can be submitted online, by mail, or in person. You’ll typically need your DD214 form and other service records.
VA Programs and Initiatives Every Veteran Should Know
VA Healthcare Enrollment
If you’re eligible, you can apply to be enrolled in the VA’s healthcare system, gaining access to your local veterans affairs medical center and associated veterans affairs clinics for a wide range of services.
For veterans living or traveling abroad, you may also qualify for the Foreign Medical Program (FMP), which allows you to receive care for your service-connected conditions outside the U.S.
The FMP plays a critical role in connecting veterans in the Dominican Republic, Mexico, and other countries.
VA Disability and Pension Services
The department of veterans affairs provides evaluations to determine disability ratings and pension eligibility.
Veteran Crisis Line and Emergency Mental Health Access
The VA operates a 24/7 Veteran Crisis Line at 988, then press 1 — a vital resource for those struggling with mental health or in crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions About the VA
Generally, anyone who served in active duty and was discharged under conditions other than dishonorable is eligible for veterans affairs benefits. Spouses and dependents may also qualify for some services.
No. The US Department of Veterans Affairs is separate from the Department of Defense. The DoD manages active-duty service members, while the VA serves veterans.
Log into your VA.gov account or call the veterans affairs phone number to check your application or benefit status.
Why the Department of Veterans Affairs Matters
Supporting Those Who Served
The United States Department of Veterans Affairs exists to honor service with real-world support: from education to housing, health, and beyond.
Accessing the Right VA Resources for You
Understanding what is veterans affairs is the first step to accessing everything you’ve earned through your service. Whether you’re seeking care at a veterans affairs clinic, applying for benefits, or looking for mental health support, help is available.
