I want to do everything I can to keep our promises to our veterans. My staff and I can assist you with questions you may have regarding the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), including your claims for VA pensions, disability benefits, and questions about care in VA hospitals, burial benefits, and military records. Below are a few of the most commonly asked questions concerning the Department of Veterans Affairs. If you have questions that have not been addressed here or would like help with a VA matter, please print out my Authorization Form and contact my district office.
Also, please see the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section of the VA website in addition to the information below.
What is the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Nationwide Toll-free Number?
Address:
Department of Veterans Affairs
810 Vermont Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20420
Telephone: 800-827-1000
TTY: 800-829-4833
How do I get assistance from the Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA)?
The Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) is the federal agency that oversees the federal laws and regulations regarding veterans of the U.S. Armed Services, which includes oversight of veterans' hospitals, administration of veterans' medical and financial benefits, and maintenance of veterans' cemeteries.
For information regarding veterans' issues, you may visit the VA website located at www.va.gov. You may also speak to a VA representative by contacting the VA's toll-free nationwide assistance line at 800-827-1000. Further contact information for VA facilities may be found on the VA website. The website contains a search engine where you can locate VA-related information, such as court rulings and documents.
How do I contact the Secretary of Veterans Affairs?
Address: Secretary James B. Peake, M.D.
Department of Veterans Affairs
Executive Office of the President
810 Vermont Avenue, NW, Room 1000
Washington, D.C. 20420
Telephone: 202-273-5400
Fax: 202-273-4877
Email: consumeraffairs@mail.va.gov
How can I find a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Regional Office?
Clicking on the map at the VA Regional Office Locator will take you to a list of all VA Offices within a certain state: http://www1.va.gov/directory/guide/home.asp?isFlash=1
What health/medical benefits are available for veterans?
In recognition of their service, American Veterans are entitled to medical assistance through the Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) Health Administration. For more information on health benefits, application processes, and forms, please visit the VA website located at www.va.gov/health_benefits. For information about visiting or contacting a VA Medical Facility, please contact the VA's Health Benefits Service Center.
What educational benefits are available for Veterans?
In recognition of their service, American Veterans are entitled to educational assistance through the Department of Veteran's Affairs (VA) Montgomery GI Bill. You will need to contact the VA for further information and assistance.
For general information about the GI bill and application procedures, you may visit the VA's GI Bill website located at http://www.gibill.va.gov/. You may speak to a VA representative by contacting the VA's Nationwide Toll-Free Education Information Hotline. You may also speak to a VA representative by contacting, 1-888-GIBILL-1 (1-888-442-4551).
Who can help me with a claim for veterans’ benefits that have been denied?
If you are not satisfied with a Veterans’ Affairs (VA) decision, most can be appealed. Start by contacting your nearest VA office.
Appeals are first made to the office that made the decision. A hearing officer or decision review officer usually handles these cases. If the case is still in dispute it is then sent to the Board of Veterans Appeals (BVA). If it is not resolved there, it can be appealed outside the Department of Veterans Affairs to the Court of Appeals for Veteran Claims (CAVC). VA does not handle CAVC appeals. You must contact CAVC within 120 days from your BVA decision.
