For direct online access to VA benefits and resources, create an account here.

A military veteran can find out if they’re eligible for VA health care coverage by clicking here. Then, if they find out they qualify to receive benefits, they apply by clicking here.

The application is called a 10-10EZ, and for a more rapid response, the VA suggests filling it out as accurately and in-depth as possible. All one needs is a recent tax return, Social Security numbers, and account numbers for any health insurance you currently have (Medicare, private insurance, insurance from your employer)

It’s estimated to take about 30 minutes to complete. If assistance is needed in the process, there’s a toll-free hotline, (877) 222-8387, open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (EST).

A veteran can expect to hear back about a submitted application in less than a week via a letter in the mail (if someone hasn’t heard back in a week, they can call (855) 574-7286).

For information on what VA health care can cover, click here.