In crisis or worried about a veteran? Help is free, confidential and available 24/7.
You don’t have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to connect, according to the Veterans Crisis Line. In immediate danger, call 911.
Last updated: October 28, 2026. Checked against official sources; reviewed when they change.
Start here: this hub links Peter’s World guides to the main federal benefits for veterans and their families, each built from official VA, Labor Department, National Archives or state pages. If you need someone now, use the crisis line above. For benefit questions, VA’s main line is 800-827-1000.
Veterans help guides
Free help with a claim
VA says the services an accredited Veterans Service Organization representative provides on a VA claim are always free. Check that anyone helping you is accredited by VA before you share records.
Official phone numbers
| Need | Number | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Crisis support | 988, then press 1 (text 838255) | 24/7 |
| VA benefits | 800-827-1000 | Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–9 p.m. ET |
| VA health care enrollment | 877-222-8387 | Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–8 p.m. ET |
| GI Bill | 888-442-4551 | Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–7 p.m. ET |
| VA home loans | 877-827-3702 | Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. ET |
| Homeless veterans | 877-424-3838 | 24/7 |
| Military records (NPRC) | 314-801-0800 | Weekdays, about 8 a.m.–4 p.m. CT |
| Massachusetts EOVS | 617-210-5480 | Weekdays, business hours |
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Frequently asked questions
How do I reach the Veterans Crisis Line?
Dial 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net. It is free, confidential and available 24/7, and you do not need to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care.
What is the main VA phone number?
VA’s benefits hotline is 800-827-1000, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern time.
Who can help me file a VA claim for free?
Accredited Veterans Service Organization representatives help with VA claims at no cost. VA also accredits attorneys and claims agents, who may charge fees after an initial decision.
Is Peter’s World part of VA?
No. Peter’s World is an independent site and is not affiliated with VA or any government agency. Always confirm your own eligibility with VA or an accredited representative.
Related on Peter’s World
Sources
Additional sources
Not affiliated with VA or any government agency. Peter’s World is an independent information site. This page is general information, not legal, medical or financial advice. Benefits depend on your own records, so confirm details with VA, your state veterans office or an accredited representative such as a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representative, attorney or claims agent.
By Peter. Prepared with AI assistance and checked against the official sources listed above.
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