For the last several years, VA has been working to make it easier for Veterans to access their benefits and health care information online. At the same time, we have been ensuring that this accessibility does not come at the cost of security; our top priority is to keep your information safe.
Veterans have several no-cost options to choose from when logging in or creating an online account for VA.gov. Regardless of the option you choose, take a moment to ensure you’re accessing your account securely.
To do so, make sure you are on an official government website or an approved affiliate. Malicious parties will often use “phishing” to lure users to lookalike websites and encourage them to enter login or other sensitive information. Before entering any information, be sure the website is trustworthy and legitimate. Most government websites will end in “.gov” (for example, VA.gov)—this is a great way to tell a website is legitimate. An approved affiliate website like ID.me is one exception.
We also encourage you to set up an extra layer of security, called multi- or two-factor authentication, on your account. You’ll use multi-factor authentication to verify you’re you each time you sign into a VA website or app. This helps to make sure that only you can access your account—even if someone else gets your password.
Below are some tips and resources to assist you with your login.
New users: You should create a Login.gov account
Login.gov
Soon all VA websites will follow a new sign-in process through VA.gov with Login.gov as the recommended account.
Login.gov is an account created, maintained and secured by the U.S. government. It encrypts your stored information at two levels. Encryption translates your data into code that only you can access as the account holder. This means only you can access and change your information.
Login.gov provides full access to all digital VA services, health care and benefits information, including information traditionally found on My HealtheVet.
Other federal agencies use this as well so you can log into other government accounts with just one username and password.
ID.me
A privately-owned affiliate login service, ID.me uses bank-grade encryption to keep your personal information safe. It gives you control over which services can share your information.
It provides full access to all digital VA services, health care and benefits information, including information traditionally found on My HealtheVet.
Other federal agencies use this as well, so you can log into other government accounts with just one username and password.
Existing Users
DS Logon or My HealtheVet
If you use DS Logon or My HealtheVet, you can continue to use these services. However, we recommend creating a Login.gov account for continued support and security.
Resources to help you create and maintain a secure VA.gov online account
Create An Account For VA.gov and Verify Your Identity On VA.gov (visit these pages for guidance and answers to common questions)
Protect your information by enabling multi- or two-factor authentication
ID.me Help Center (if you still use ID.me)
Sign in on your mobile device (optional for anytime, anywhere access)
Using your mobile phone, visit the Apple App Store or Google App Store—or wherever you usually get your mobile apps.
Search “VA: Health and Benefits.”
Follow the directions to install the app on your mobile device and sign in as you normally do, or create an account using Login.gov.
You can also learn more about the VA Health and Benefits mobile app.
Once you download and initially set up the VA Health and Benefits mobile app, you can then always use your mobile device’s biometric face recognition or thumb login capability to access your account securely and quickly.
Remember to remain vigilant against fraudulent activity to protect your VA benefits.
If you don’t receive a VA benefit payment, see a discrepancy in payments or find suspicious activity with a direct deposit account, call VA promptly at 1-800-827-1000.
Report suspected fraudulent activity also by contacting VA’s Office of Inspector General website or calling 1-800-488-8244.
Learn more
Questions you may have when verifying your identity
Sign-in resources and frequently asked questions
Creating an ID.me account in 4 Steps
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