Getting Started

---

Many service members eligible for VA benefits don't know where to start, and that was my experience as well. Friends, family, and fellow veterans often told me I should apply for VA benefits, emphasizing that I deserved them, but they never really explained how to start, where to begin, or who to contact. Care Factor Hero is here to help. We will guide you through the entire process, from connecting with the right people and enrolling in the VA system to navigating the bureaucracy and overcoming any hurdles, so you can receive the benefits you deserve. 

Contacting your local Veteran Service Officer (VSO) is likely the easiest part of the process, though challenges may arise after initial contact. It's not necessary to contact a VSO before starting the process of enrolling for VA benefits. To find your local VSO, simply perform a Google search for "contact my local veteran service officer," and you should find their name and phone number. If you have trouble finding this information, let us know, and we'll assist you in getting connected. 

Most of the information on CareFactorHero.org can be found on the VA website: https://www.va.gov/my-va/. Additional insights are drawn from personal experience, which I will try to highlight when discussing specific processes. These highlights may be subtle, as I do not wish to offend or criticize anyone who, with the best intentions, is trying to help.

Step 1 (or possibly Step 2 if you contact your VSO first) is to create an online account with the VA. Before doing this, you'll need to set up an account with ID.me or Login.gov (https://www.id.me/individuals/government or https://secure.login.gov/). This account will be used to verify your identity, allowing you to access the VA website and other government websites and services.

If you are a combat veteran, you are entitled to VA medical benefits at no cost, which become available immediately upon enrollment. To enroll, contact the VA directly via their toll-free hotline at 877-222-8387. This is the fastest method, and their representatives are available Monday through Friday, 0800 – 2000 ET. When you call, inform the representative that you wish to enroll for VA health care benefits, and they will assist you with the process. Once your enrollment is complete, your benefits will be effective immediately.

Next, visit a VA medical center near you to obtain your VA medical ID card, which will include your photo. Although your information should be in their system, we advise bringing your DD214 and a valid photo ID. We also recommend calling the VA medical center ahead of your visit to confirm that they can issue your ID card, as some centers may not have this capability. Your VA medical ID card will typically arrive in the mail within two weeks, so ensure that the VA has your correct mailing address.

Do not rely on your VSO to enroll you for these benefits. If you do and you're told it may take 6 - 8 weeks for these benefits to get processed, call the VA directly at the number above. VA medical benefits are available immediately to combat veterans.

You don’t need your VA medical ID card to sign up with your local VA hospital or clinic and meet your new Primary Care Provider (PCP). In fact, don’t wait for your ID card. Instead, find the closest VA hospital or clinic, walk in, and request an appointment to meet your new PCP. Schedule this appointment as soon as possible, as it may take a couple of months to secure a slot (based on personal experience). 

...