AccessVA: The Complete 2026 Guide to VA’s Online Services Portal
AccessVA is the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ secure online gateway for accessing VA digital services. It connects veterans, family members, and service members to tools like the Beneficiary Travel Self-Service System, Veteran Health Identification Card self-service, and VA life insurance policy access. Sign-in requires a Login.gov or ID.me account—VA’s approved identity partners.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Portal Name | AccessVA (eauth.va.gov/accessva) |
| Purpose | Single sign-on gateway for VA online services |
| Official Agency | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) |
| Sign-In Partners | Login.gov or ID.me (VA-approved) |
| Who Can Use It | Veterans, family members, service members, VA business partners, VA employees |
| Key Tools | BTSSS travel claims, VHIC self-service, VALife, QuickSubmit, VetBiz, MVP |
| Old Login System | DS Logon and My HealtheVet credentials retired January 31, 2025 |
| Help Desk | 1-800-698-2411 (VA) |
| Updated For | 2026 |
What Is AccessVA?
AccessVA is the VA’s centralized authentication portal that provides a single point of access to dozens of VA online services. It is not a benefits program itself. It is the digital front door to VA tools that veterans and their families use to manage benefits, healthcare, travel claims, and personal information.
The portal is located at eauth.va.gov/accessva. When you visit the site, you select your user category—Veteran, Family Member, Service Member, VA Business Partner, or VA Employee/Authorized Contractor—and then choose the specific application you want to access.
AccessVA uses government-approved Sign-In Partners to verify your identity. These partners are Login.gov and ID.me. Both meet federal security standards, but they work differently:
Login.gov is maintained by the U.S. government and is the recommended option for most veterans.
ID.me is maintained by a non-government partner and is required for veterans who live outside the U.S., don’t have a Social Security number, don’t have a current driver’s license, or whose phone plan is not in their name.
AccessVA replaced the older eBenefits portal, which served as the VA/DoD one-stop shop for benefits and military information. While some eBenefits features have been retired, AccessVA now serves as the gateway to the modern VA digital ecosystem.
Who Can Use AccessVA
AccessVA is available to five user categories. Each category sees a different set of applications based on their role and authorization level.
| User Category | Who Qualifies | Available Tools |
|---|---|---|
| Veteran | Veterans enrolled in VA healthcare or receiving VA benefits | BTSSS travel claims, VHIC self-service, VALife, QuickSubmit, VetBiz, MVP, Veteran Travel Claim Entry |
| Family Member | Spouses, dependents, and caregivers of veterans | AVA, QuickSubmit, VetBiz, Veteran Travel Claim Entry, Fiduciary Accountings Submission Tool |
| Service Member | Active duty, National Guard, and Reserve members | AVA, VetBiz Portal, Veterans Health Venture Studio Platform |
| VA Business Partner | Accredited VSOs, claims agents, attorneys, and vendors | SEP, BIP, CCR&A, EDMS, ROES, QuickSubmit, Prosthetics Vendor Portal |
| VA Employee / Contractor | VA staff and authorized contractors | AVA, BIP, Centralized Mail Portal, FAST, HMIS, iMove, QuickSubmit, SQUARES |
Most veterans will use the “I am a Veteran” category to access travel pay claims, VHIC self-service, and VA life insurance tools.
How to Sign In to AccessVA
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilitySigning in to AccessVA requires a Login.gov or ID.me account. VA retired the old My HealtheVet username and password system on January 31, 2025, and DS Logon is being phased out. All VA websites and mobile apps now use Login.gov or ID.me for authentication.
Step 1: Create a Login.gov or ID.me Account
Go to VA.gov/sign-in.
On your chosen account partner’s sign-in screen, select “Create an account.”
Enter your personal email address and follow the prompts to create a strong password.
Add at least one multifactor authentication (MFA) method, such as a 6-digit code sent by text message. VA recommends adding two MFA methods in case you lose access to one.
Step 2: Verify Your Identity
Both Login.gov and ID.me offer multiple identity verification options.
| Verification Method | Login.gov | ID.me |
|---|---|---|
| Self-service online | Upload driver’s license or state ID; requires U.S. phone in your name | Upload driver’s license, state ID, or passport; requires U.S. phone in your name |
| Video call | Not available | Upload ID documents; show documents and answer questions on a video call |
| In person | Participating U.S. post office | Participating UPS store |
Login.gov in-person verification requires entering ID information, Social Security number, and phone number online, then bringing a QR code and ID documents to the post office. ID.me in-person verification at a UPS store requires booking an appointment online and bringing a QR code and ID documents; verification confirms within 24 hours.
Step 3: Connect to AccessVA
Once your account is verified, go to eauth.va.gov/accessva. Select your user category (most veterans select “I am a Veteran”), then choose the application you want to use. You will be prompted to sign in with Login.gov or ID.me, and then you will be redirected to the selected tool.
Troubleshooting Sign-In Issues
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Forgot password | Use “Forgot password” on Login.gov or ID.me |
| Identity verification failed | Try in-person verification at a post office (Login.gov) or UPS store (ID.me) |
| Old My HealtheVet login not working | Create a Login.gov or ID.me account — old credentials retired January 31, 2025 |
| Account locked | Wait 30 minutes or contact the VA Help Desk at 1-800-698-2411 |
| Phone not in your name | Choose ID.me, which offers a video call verification option |
AccessVA Tools and Services
AccessVA is the gateway to a wide range of VA applications. Here are the most commonly used tools by veterans and their families.
Beneficiary Travel Self-Service System (BTSSS)
What it is: BTSSS is VA’s online system for filing travel reimbursement claims for mileage, public transportation, and other approved travel expenses to VA health care appointments. The system is accessible 24/7 and provides direct deposit payments.
Who qualifies: Veterans eligible for VA travel pay, including those with service-connected disabilities rated 30% or higher, veterans receiving VA pension, and those who meet income thresholds. Other eligible groups include veterans traveling for scheduled VA care, veterans with a VA-approved disability rating, and those who have a VA service-connected disability.
Why it matters: BTSSS replaces the paper claim process, reduces processing time, and allows veterans to track claims online. Claims submitted through BTSSS can be paid faster than paper claims.
What veterans should do next: Sign in to AccessVA, select “I am a Veteran,” click “Veteran Travel Claim Entry,” and verify your identity using Login.gov or ID.me. You can file a claim within 30 days of your appointment.
Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) Self-Service
What it is: The VHIC is the official identification card for veterans enrolled in VA health care. It is used for check-in at VA medical facilities and to verify eligibility for VA health care services.
Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care. Enrollment must be verified before a VHIC can be issued.
Why it matters: The VHIC is required for access to VA medical facilities, appointment check-in, and verifying eligibility for VA health care. It also serves as proof of veteran status for community care referrals.
What veterans should do next: Sign in to AccessVA and select “VHIC Self-Service” to request a new card or a replacement. Online or self-service requests are processed within 24–48 hours, excluding weekends and holidays. You can also apply in person at your local VA medical center or by calling 1-877-222-8387.
VA Life Insurance (VALife)
What it is: VALife is VA’s guaranteed acceptance whole life insurance program for veterans with service-connected disabilities. It replaced the Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance (S-DVI) program.
Who qualifies: Veterans with a service-connected disability who are under age 81 and are not already enrolled in VALife or S-DVI.
Why it matters: VALife provides lifetime coverage with no medical exam required, and premiums never increase. Coverage builds cash value over time. Veterans can apply online through AccessVA.
What veterans should do next: Sign in to AccessVA, select “Logon to VA Life Insurance (VALife),” and complete the application. Coverage begins the first day of the month after enrollment.
QuickSubmit
What it is: QuickSubmit is a tool that allows veterans and family members to upload documents directly to VA. It is commonly used for submitting evidence in support of VA claims, such as medical records, DD-214s, and supporting statements.
Who qualifies: Veterans, family members, and authorized representatives.
Why it matters: QuickSubmit eliminates the need to mail or fax documents. Uploads are received immediately and attached to your VA record.
What veterans should do next: Sign in to AccessVA, select “Logon to QuickSubmit,” and follow the prompts to upload your documents. Accepted file types include PDF, JPG, PNG, and other common formats.
Million Veteran Program (MVP)
What it is: MVP is a national research program that studies how genes, lifestyle, military experiences, and exposures affect veterans’ health. Participation involves completing surveys and providing a blood sample for genetic research.
Who qualifies: Any veteran can join MVP online or at participating VA facilities.
Why it matters: MVP research has led to discoveries about PTSD, chronic pain, and other conditions affecting veterans. The program aims to improve health care for veterans and their families.
What veterans should do next: Sign in to AccessVA through Login.gov or ID.me. Complete the consent process, provide a blood sample (at-home kit or VA facility), and complete surveys.
VetBiz Portal
What it is: VetBiz is VA’s verification system for Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSBs) and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs). It is used to verify eligibility for federal contracting preferences.
Who qualifies: Veteran-owned and service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses seeking federal contracts.
Why it matters: Verified VOSBs and SDVOSBs are eligible for set-aside contracts and other federal procurement advantages.
What veterans should do next: Sign in to AccessVA, select “Logon to VetBiz Portal (VetBiz),” and complete the verification application.
Other AccessVA Tools
| Tool | Purpose | Who Uses It |
|---|---|---|
| AVA (Access Virtual Assistant) | Virtual assistant for VA service information | Veterans, family members, service members |
| Fiduciary Accountings Submission Tool (FAST) | Submit fiduciary accountings | Family members, VA business partners |
| Stakeholder Enterprise Portal (SEP) | Submit claims on behalf of veterans | Accredited VSOs, claims agents, attorneys |
| Community Care Referrals and Authorization (CCR&A) | Manage community care referrals | VA business partners |
| Prosthetics Vendor Portal | Submit prosthetics orders and invoices | VA business partners |
| Veteran Re-entry Search Service (VRSS) | Job search for veterans transitioning from incarceration | VA employees, business partners |
What Benefits Can You Access Through AccessVA?
AccessVA is the front door to VA benefits and services. While not every benefit is accessed directly through AccessVA, many of the most commonly used tools are available there.
| Benefit | How It Is Accessed | AccessVA Tool |
|---|---|---|
| VA Disability Compensation | VA.gov (VA Form 21-526EZ) | Not directly through AccessVA |
| VA Healthcare Enrollment | VA.gov (VA Form 10-10EZ) | Not directly through AccessVA |
| Travel Pay Reimbursement | AccessVA | BTSSS / Veteran Travel Claim Entry |
| Veteran Health ID Card | AccessVA | VHIC Self-Service |
| VA Life Insurance | AccessVA | VALife |
| GI Bill Benefits | VA.gov (VA Form 22-1990) | Not directly through AccessVA |
| VA Home Loan COE | VA.gov (VA Form 26-1880) | Not directly through AccessVA |
| VA Pension | VA.gov (VA Form 21P-527EZ) | Not directly through AccessVA |
| MVP Research Program | AccessVA | MVP Dashboard |
| Document Submission | AccessVA | QuickSubmit |
Applying for VA Disability Compensation
VA disability compensation is a monthly tax-free payment to veterans who became sick or injured during military service, or whose service made an existing condition worse. The 2026 rates, effective December 1, 2025, include a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment. A veteran with no dependents receives $180.42/month at 10% and $3,938.58/month at 100%.
To apply, file VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office. You will need your DD-214, service treatment records, and private medical records. A C&P Exam may be scheduled as part of the process.
Applying for VA Healthcare
VA healthcare enrollment is free and open to most veterans who served active duty. The PACT Act of 2022 expanded eligibility for veterans exposed to toxic substances, including burn pits and Agent Orange. More than 2.36 million veterans have enrolled under PACT Act authorities.
To apply, file VA Form 10-10EZ online at VA.gov, by phone at 1-877-222-8387, or in person at a VA medical center. Required documents include your DD-214, Social Security number, and financial information.
Applying for VA Pension
VA pension is a needs-based benefit for wartime veterans with limited income. The 2026 maximum annual pension rate for a veteran with no spouse or dependent child is $17,441 per year.
To apply, file VA Form 21P-527EZ online at VA.gov or by mail to the Pension Management Center. You can upload your completed form using QuickSubmit through AccessVA.
Applying for GI Bill Benefits
The GI Bill provides education and training benefits for veterans and their families. To apply, file VA Form 22-1990 online at VA.gov. After processing, you will receive a Certificate of Eligibility (COE).
Requesting a VA Home Loan COE
A Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is required to obtain a VA-backed home loan. You can request a COE online at VA.gov, by mail using VA Form 26-1880, or through your lender’s Web LGY system. VA loans offer $0 down payment potential, no PMI, and competitive interest rates.
AccessVA Sign-In Changes: What You Need to Know
VA made significant changes to its sign-in process in 2025. The old My HealtheVet username and password system was retired on January 31, 2025. DS Logon is being phased out as well. All VA websites and mobile apps now use Login.gov or ID.me.
What Changed
| Before 2025 | After 2025 |
|---|---|
| My HealtheVet username and password | Login.gov or ID.me |
| DS Logon (Level 1 and Level 2) | Login.gov or ID.me |
| Separate credentials for different VA sites | Single sign-on for all VA sites |
| eBenefits portal | AccessVA portal |
Why It Changed
VA consolidated its sign-in process to improve security and simplify access. Login.gov and ID.me meet the latest federal security standards, including multifactor authentication. A single account now works across VA.gov, VA mobile apps, and AccessVA-linked services.
What Veterans Should Do
If you have not already created a Login.gov or ID.me account, do so now. If you had a My HealtheVet Premium account, your health records and secure messages are still available—you just need to sign in with your new account. If you need help, contact the VA Help Desk at 1-800-698-2411.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using AccessVA
Using old My HealtheVet or DS Logon credentials. These no longer work. You must use Login.gov or ID.me.
Assuming you need a Premium account. Premium status is required for some tools like My HealtheVet Secure Messaging, but AccessVA itself only requires a verified Login.gov or ID.me account.
Not setting up multifactor authentication. MFA is required. Add at least two MFA methods to avoid being locked out.
Selecting the wrong user category. Choose “I am a Veteran” if you are a veteran. Family members should select “I am a Family Member.”
Not verifying your identity completely. Some tools require full identity verification. If you skip this step, you may be denied access.
Trying to access all VA benefits through AccessVA. Some benefits, like disability compensation and healthcare enrollment, are accessed through VA.gov, not AccessVA.
Not updating your contact information. Ensure your email address and phone number are current in Login.gov or ID.me to receive security codes.
Using a shared email address. Use a personal email address for your Login.gov or ID.me account to maintain security.
Key Takeaways
AccessVA is the VA’s secure online gateway for accessing VA digital services at eauth.va.gov/accessva.
Login.gov or ID.me is required to sign in. Old My HealtheVet and DS Logon credentials were retired in January 2025.
BTSSS allows veterans to file travel pay claims online, 24/7, with direct deposit and claim tracking.
VHIC Self-Service lets veterans request a new or replacement Veteran Health Identification Card online.
VALife provides guaranteed acceptance whole life insurance for veterans with service-connected disabilities.
QuickSubmit allows veterans to upload documents directly to VA for claims and evidence submission.
MVP is a national research program that veterans can join through AccessVA.
Five user categories — Veteran, Family Member, Service Member, VA Business Partner, and VA Employee/Contractor — each see different tools.
VA disability compensation, healthcare enrollment, GI Bill, and home loan COE are accessed through VA.gov, not AccessVA directly.
The VA Help Desk at 1-800-698-2411 can assist with sign-in issues.
Common Questions
What is AccessVA?
AccessVA is the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ secure online portal for accessing VA digital services. It provides a single sign-on gateway to tools like BTSSS travel claims, VHIC self-service, VALife, QuickSubmit, and the Million Veteran Program. It is located at eauth.va.gov/accessva.
How do I sign in to AccessVA?
Go to eauth.va.gov/accessva, select your user category (e.g., “I am a Veteran”), choose the application you want to use, and sign in with your Login.gov or ID.me account. You must have a verified account to access any tools.
What happened to my old My HealtheVet login?
VA retired the old My HealtheVet username and password system on January 31, 2025. You must now use a Login.gov or ID.me account to sign in to My HealtheVet, AccessVA, and all other VA websites and apps.
What is the difference between Login.gov and ID.me?
Login.gov is maintained by the U.S. government. ID.me is maintained by a non-government partner. Both meet federal security standards. You must choose ID.me if you live outside the U.S., don’t have a Social Security number, don’t have a current driver’s license, or your phone plan is not in your name.
What is BTSSS and how do I use it?
BTSSS is the Beneficiary Travel Self-Service System. It allows eligible veterans to file travel reimbursement claims online for mileage and other approved travel expenses to VA health care appointments. Sign in to AccessVA, select “Veteran Travel Claim Entry,” and follow the prompts.
What is the VHIC Self-Service tool?
VHIC Self-Service allows veterans enrolled in VA health care to request a new or replacement Veteran Health Identification Card online. Requests are processed within 24–48 hours, excluding weekends and holidays. You can also apply in person at a VA medical center.
What is VALife?
VALife is VA’s guaranteed acceptance whole life insurance program for veterans with service-connected disabilities. It replaced the S-DVI program. Veterans under age 81 can apply online through AccessVA. No medical exam is required, and premiums never increase.
Can I file a VA disability claim through AccessVA?
No. VA disability compensation claims are filed through VA.gov using VA Form 21-526EZ. AccessVA provides tools like QuickSubmit for uploading supporting documents, but the claim itself is submitted through VA.gov.
What is QuickSubmit?
QuickSubmit is a tool on AccessVA that allows veterans and family members to upload documents directly to VA. It is commonly used for submitting evidence in support of VA claims, such as medical records and DD-214s. Uploads are received immediately.
Who can use AccessVA?
AccessVA is available to five categories: Veterans, Family Members, Service Members, VA Business Partners, and VA Employees/Authorized Contractors. Each category sees a different set of applications based on their role.
What should I do if I can’t sign in to AccessVA?
If you can’t sign in, first check that you are using Login.gov or ID.me (not old credentials). If you forgot your password, use the reset option on your sign-in partner’s site. If you are locked out, wait 30 minutes or contact the VA Help Desk at 1-800-698-2411.
Is AccessVA the same as VA.gov?
No. VA.gov is the main VA website where you apply for benefits, enroll in healthcare, and manage your VA account. AccessVA is a gateway to specific VA online services that require authentication, such as BTSSS and VHIC self-service. Both use Login.gov or ID.me for sign-in.
Official Resources
AccessVA Portal — eauth.va.gov/accessva — Secure gateway to VA online services
Login.gov — login.gov — Government-maintained sign-in account
VA Health Benefits — 1-877-222-8387 — Healthcare enrollment and eligibility
VA Help Desk — 1-800-698-2411 — Sign-in and account assistance
My HealtheVet — myhealth.va.gov — Secure messaging and health records
Veterans Crisis Line — 988 (press 1) — 24/7 crisis support
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📌 Information provided as of June 2026. Always verify current eligibility and rules with official .gov sources.
This site is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency. All information is for educational purposes only. Please visit VA.gov for official information.
