Eligibility for most veterans health care benefits is based solely on active military service in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard (or Merchant Marines during WW II), and discharged under other than dishonorable conditions.
Reservists and National Guard members who were called to active duty by a Federal Executive Order may qualify for VA health care benefits.
Returning service members, including Reservists and National Guard members who served on active duty in a theater of combat operations have special eligibility for hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care for two years following discharge from active duty.
Dishonorable and bad conduct discharges issued by general courts-martial may bar VA benefits.
Veterans in prison and parolees must contact a VA regional office to determine eligibility.
VA benefits will not be provided to any veteran or dependent wanted for an outstanding felony warrant.
