VA Website Navigation Guide
A plain-English map of VA.gov — what each section does and direct links to the pages you actually need.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and may not reflect recent changes. Always verify with the official source linked below. This is not legal, medical, or financial advice.
VA.gov Overview
VA.gov is the central website for the Department of Veterans Affairs. You can file claims, manage healthcare, check benefits status, and more. Most actions require you to log in with Login.gov or ID.me. The site can be overwhelming — this page gives you direct links to the specific pages you need.
Quick Link Directory
| Task | Direct Link | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| File a disability claim | va.gov/disability/file-disability-claim-form-21-526ez | Requires login |
| Check claim status | va.gov/claim-or-appeal-status | Requires login |
| Request DD-214 | va.gov/records/get-military-service-records | May require login |
| Enroll in VA healthcare | va.gov/health-care/apply/application/introduction | Requires login |
| Apply for GI Bill | va.gov/education/apply-for-education-benefits | Requires login |
| Check GI Bill balance | va.gov/education/gi-bill/post-9-11/ch-33-benefit/status | Requires login |
| VA secure messaging | va.gov/my-health/secure-messages | Requires login |
| Order prescriptions | va.gov/my-health/medications | Requires login |
| Update direct deposit | va.gov/change-direct-deposit | Requires login |
| Add/change dependents | va.gov/view-change-dependents | Requires login |
| Get VA medical records | va.gov/health-care/get-medical-records | Requires login |
| Find a VA location | va.gov/find-locations | No login required |
| Veterans Crisis Line | veteranscrisisline.net | No login required |
Setting Up a VA.gov Login
VA.gov now uses two primary login methods. DS Logon is being phased out.
eBenefits vs. VA.gov
eBenefits was the old portal for managing VA benefits. Most of its features have been migrated to VA.gov. If you're still using eBenefits, switch to VA.gov — it has a better interface and all the same functionality.
VA Secure Messaging
Secure messaging lets you communicate with your VA healthcare team. You can ask questions, request prescription renewals, and share health updates. Access it through My HealtheVet on VA.gov after logging in.
Requesting VA Medical Records
You can download your VA medical records (Blue Button report) through VA.gov. Log in, go to My Health, and select Medical Records. You can download your complete health history or specific date ranges.
Adding or Changing a Dependent
You can add or remove dependents through VA.gov. This affects your compensation rate — veterans rated 30% or higher receive additional compensation for dependents. Log in and navigate to "View or change dependents" to manage your dependent status.
Updating Direct Deposit
To change the bank account where your VA payments go, log in to VA.gov and navigate to "Change direct deposit information." You'll need your bank routing number and account number. Changes typically take effect within one payment cycle.
Find Your Nearest VA Facility
The VA operates thousands of facilities across the country. Use the official VA Facility Locator to find the one closest to you — filter by facility type, services offered, and location.
Open VA Facility LocatorTypes of VA Facilities
| Facility Type | Count | What They Offer | Enrollment Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| VA Medical Centers (VAMCs) | 170 | Full-service hospitals — inpatient, surgery, ER, specialty care, mental health, pharmacy | Yes |
| Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) | ~1,193 | Primary care, mental health, lab, pharmacy. No inpatient or ER. | Yes |
| Vet Centers | 300 + 83 mobile | Confidential readjustment counseling, PTSD, MST, family counseling. Separate from VA medical records. | No |
| Regional Offices (VAROs) | 56 | Benefits claims, pension, education, home loans, VR&E. No medical care. | No |
| Community Care Providers | 27,000+ | Private-sector doctors when VA can't meet wait/drive time standards (MISSION Act). | Yes |
| National Cemeteries | 157 | Burial benefits at no cost — gravesite, headstone, flag, perpetual care. | No |
Vet Center Eligibility (No VA Enrollment Needed)
Vet Centers serve combat veterans, MST survivors (any era), drone crew members, mortuary/medical personnel, disaster response personnel, and bereaved families of service members. Records are confidential and kept separate from VA medical records. Walk-ins welcome. Call 1-877-927-8387 (24/7).
Community Care / MISSION Act Standards
You may see a private doctor if VA can't schedule you within 20 days (primary/mental health) or 28 days (specialty), or if the drive exceeds 30 minutes (primary/mental health) or 60 minutes (specialty). Always get VA approval first. Call 1-877-881-7618 for community care questions.
General VA benefits questions: 1-800-827-1000
VA health benefits: 1-877-222-8387
Burial & memorials: 1-800-535-1117