How to Change Your Address with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

If you’re a veteran or dependent and need to change your address with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the process is fairly straightforward. It’s important to keep your information up-to-date to ensure you continue receiving benefits and communications. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to change your address with the VA, including links to the appropriate resources.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Information

Before you begin, make sure you have the following details ready:

• Your VA File Number or Social Security Number: This is necessary to identify your VA record.
• Your current address: Including ZIP code, so the VA knows which address you are changing from.
• Your new address: Including ZIP code.

Step 2: Determine How You Want to Change Your Address

There are multiple ways to update your address with the VA. You can choose the method that is most convenient for you:

1. Online via VA.gov
2. By Phone
3. By Mail
4. In-Person at a VA Office

Option 1: Change Your Address Online

The easiest and quickest way to change your address is online through your VA.gov account. Follow these steps:

1. Log in to VA.gov:

• If you don’t already have an account, you’ll need to create one. You can sign in using ID.me, DS Logon, or My HealtheVet.
• Sign in to VA.gov

1. Navigate to the Address Change Page:

• Once logged in, go to the “Profile” section on your dashboard.
• Click on “Contact Information” and find the “Update Address” button.

1. Enter Your New Address:

• Enter your updated information and double-check for accuracy.
• Select whether you want this address change to apply to health care benefits, compensation, pension, or all services.

1. Confirm and Submit:

• After entering your new address, review the information and submit your change.

Option 2: Change Your Address by Phone

You can also call the VA to update your address. To do this:

1. Dial 1-800-827-1000: This is the toll-free number for the VA’s benefits hotline.
2. Speak with a Representative: Follow the prompts to speak with a customer service representative.
3. Provide Your New Address: Give them your VA file number, the current address on record, and the new address.

This option is ideal if you prefer to speak to someone or need to clarify questions about your benefits.

Option 3: Change Your Address by Mail

If you prefer, you can also update your address by sending a letter to the VA. Here’s how:

1. Write a Letter: Include the following information in your letter:

• Your full name
• VA file number or Social Security Number
• Old address
• New address
• A statement indicating that you are requesting an address change

-OR-

1. Fill Out VA Form 20-572

-Then-

• Mail to the VA:

• Send your letter to the appropriate office:
  • Department of Veterans Affairs
  • Claims Intake Center
  • P.O. Box 4444
  • Janesville, WI 53547-4444

Make sure your letter is complete and legible to avoid any delays in processing.

Option 4: Change Your Address In-Person

You can visit a local VA Regional Office to update your address in person. To find the nearest office:

1. Use the VA Facility Locator to find a regional office near you.
2. Bring along your VA ID or any other identification required.
3. Request an address change with a VA representative.

Step 3: Verify the Change

Once you’ve submitted your address change request, it’s a good idea to verify that the change has been made:

• Online: Log in to your VA.gov account after a few days and check the address listed in your profile.
• By Phone: Call 1-800-827-1000 and confirm with a representative.
• Via Mail: If you sent a letter, allow a few weeks for processing and follow up with a call if needed.

Special Considerations

• Health Care Benefits: If you are receiving VA health care benefits, you will also want to update your information with your local VA medical center.
• Education and Housing Benefits: If you are using education benefits (e.g., the GI Bill) or housing benefits, updating your address is essential to ensure you receive important communications and payments.
• Other Services: Be sure to specify whether your address change applies to just medical benefits, compensation, pension, or all services the VA provides.

Conclusion

Keeping your address up-to-date with the VA is crucial for uninterrupted access to your benefits. Whether you choose to update your information online, by phone, by mail, or in person, following the steps outlined in this guide will help you make the change quickly and easily.

If you encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to contact the VA directly or visit their help page for further assistance.