Veterans
Guidance for Veterans
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If you need immediate VA assistance, please call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255.
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If you need to schedule a VA health appointment, please do not delay.
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You can sign up for the VA’s Annie text messaging service for updates on coronavirus precautions here.
Health Care
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The American Rescue Plan includes more than $14.5 billion for VA to provide health care services and other related supports – including suicide prevention, Women’s health services, telehealth expansion, medical facility improvements – to eligible veterans and allows up to $4 billion in spending for the Veterans Community Care Program.
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Veterans will not have any copays or cost-sharing for preventative treatment or services related to COVID-19 going back to April 2020. If you have already submitted payments for your coronavirus related care during this period, the VA is authorized to reimburse you.
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If you are a VA frontline worker or essential health worker, the American Rescue Plan includes emergency paid sick leave for you for coronavirus related leave.
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Click here for a comprehensive list of Frequently Asked Questions from the VA: What Veterans Need to Know
COVID-19 Testing for Veterans
COVID-19 testing is available for veterans who are enrolled in VA health care. Please make an appointment in one of the following ways:
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Send a secure message to your VA health care provider
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Or call your provider- Find your provider’s phone number
Please do not go to a VA health care center without an appointment.
Small Businesses
Veterans are prioritized for the $28.6 billion Restaurant Revitalization Grants in the Small Business Administration’s Restaurant Revitalization Fund. During the initial 21-day period in which the Small Business Administration (SBA) awards grants under this program, SBA will prioritize awarding grants to eligible entities that are owned and controlled by Veterans. Learn more about the SBA’s Restaurant Revitalization Grant.
Job Retraining
The American Rescue Plan provides nearly $400 million for up to 12 months of retraining assistance for veterans who are unemployed as a result of the pandemic and do not have access to other veteran education benefits. This funding covers the cost of the rapid retraining program as well as a housing allowance for enrolled veterans. Learn more about the Veteran Rapid Retraining Assistance Program.