Where to get help
Every organization on this page helps veterans at no cost. Start with the one that matches what you need today. If you are not sure, call 211 or your state veterans department and they will point you to the right door.
Right now
24 hours a day, every day. Call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat online. You do not need to be enrolled in VA health care.
988Local help with food, rent, utilities, transportation and more, in every state. Call 211 or search online.
211If you are homeless or about to lose your housing. Connects you to VA housing programs and local shelters.
877-424-3838Talk to the VA
One number for each part of the VA. Have your Social Security number or VA file number ready.
Disability compensation, pension, survivor benefits, and the status of any claim. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.
800-827-1000Applying for VA health care, priority groups, copays and the Health Eligibility Center. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET.
877-222-8387Post-9/11 GI Bill, Chapter 35, VR&E and payment questions. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET.
888-442-4551Certificates of eligibility, funding fee questions, and help if you are behind on a VA-backed mortgage.
877-827-3702For family caregivers of veterans: the Program of Comprehensive Assistance, respite, training and counseling.
855-260-3274Women veterans can call or text for help finding VA services and benefits.
855-829-6636In person
Community counseling for combat veterans, their families, and survivors of military sexual trauma. Separate from VA medical centers, and confidential. About 300 locations plus mobile units.
877-927-8387Find the nearest VA health facility, its hours and the services it offers.
Every state runs its own veterans department with benefits that VA does not offer: property tax relief, state education aid, veterans homes, and county service officers who help with claims for free.
Help with a VA claim, free
Federal law says who may help with a VA claim and what they may charge. These options charge nothing.
The American Legion, VFW, DAV, AMVETS and others have accredited service officers who prepare and file claims at no cost. Most county veterans offices are staffed by one.
VA's own search for accredited VSO officers, claims agents and attorneys near you. Only accredited people may represent you before VA.
Free civil legal help with discharge upgrades, benefits appeals, housing and consumer problems, by state.
Work, school and housing
The Department of Labor's veteran employment specialists offer priority service, job placement and training in every state.
VA calls every veteran three times in the first year after separation to walk through benefits and health care. If you missed the call, you can request one.
Grants to local nonprofits that help low-income veteran families keep or find housing, including help with deposits and back rent.
Federal protections for reemployment after service and help with employer disputes under USERRA.