How to Apply for Veterans Health Insurance

By Cat Carson

Veterans health insurance is available for qualifying military vets through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The majority of military veterans are eligible for some type of health insurance plan, and their family members might also be eligible to receive medical benefits. If you are a military vet, it is probably worth applying for veterans health insurance. The application process is fairly simple, and can be completed via the Internet.

Determine your eligibility. Visit the VA website to determine whether you qualify to receive veterans health insurance (see Resources). If you don't qualify for free veterans health insurance, you might be able to purchase discounted health insurance through the VA.

Gather all relevant paperwork. You will need to submit your Military Service Record (DD Form 214), which states the years you served in the military and your discharge status. You should also have your personal, medical and financial information at hand before you begin the application process.

Fill out the online veterans health insurance application. You must complete the VA Form 10-10EZ (see Resources section) to be considered for any type of medical benefits. Most public libraries offer free Internet access if you don't have a computer at home.

Get assistance filling out the application. If you need help completing the veterans health insurance form, call the VA helpline at (877) 222-VETS (8387). You can also contact an enrollment coordinator at your local VA health care facility (see Resources section).

Submit your veterans health insurance application. You can either submit the form online or mail your application to your local VA health care facility (see Resources). If you mail in your application, the form must be signed by you or your power of attorney.

Wait for a response. Once your veterans health insurance form is processed, the VA will mail you a letter letting you know if your application was approved. If you're approved, the letter will also state your insurance policy information.

Update your financial information when necessary. Although a majority of veterans enrolled in the health insurance program won't need to reapply for 15 years, some vets must update their financial information every year. The VA will contact you if you are required to update.

Application approval times vary widely. Be sure to start the veterans health insurance application process as soon as you are discharged from the military.

Make sure your application information is accurate. Entering false information is illegal.

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