Buffalo VA Medical Center: Services, Contact & Appointment Info

Complete Guide to VA Western New York Healthcare System, Disability Claims, and New York State Benefits

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Veterans in Buffalo receive care through the Buffalo VA Medical Center at 3495 Bailey Avenue, part of the VA Western New York Healthcare System. The system operates 2 medical centers and 9 community-based outpatient clinics across Western New York. Disability claims are filed through VA.gov or with free help from the Erie County Veterans Service Agency at (716) 858-6363. The average VA disability claim decision takes 75.6 days as of September 2026.


Quick Facts

ItemDetails
Primary FacilityBuffalo VA Medical Center, 3495 Bailey Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14215
EligibilityVeterans enrolled in VA health care; combat Veterans have 10-year eligibility post-separation
ApplicationOnline at VA.gov, by phone at 877-222-8387, or in person
Processing TimeVA disability claims average 75.6 days (September 2026)
Official AgencyU.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA); NYS Department of Veterans’ Services
Required FormsVA Form 10-10EZ (healthcare), VA Form 21-526EZ (disability), DD-214
Updated For2026 (PACT Act expansions, 2.8% COLA increase, new NY property tax exemption effective October 1, 2026)
See also
Veterans Affairs Little Rock Arkansas: Complete 2026 Guide

What Is the VA Western New York Healthcare System?

The VA Western New York Healthcare System is the VA network serving Veterans in Buffalo, Batavia, Niagara Falls, and surrounding communities across Western New York. The system operates 11 locations, including two medical centers in Buffalo and Batavia, plus nine community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs) in Buffalo, Dunkirk, Jamestown, Lockport, Niagara Falls, Olean, Springville, and West Seneca.

Veterans Benefits & Resources
Helpful information about VA benefits, disability, healthcare and services for veterans.

The Buffalo VA Medical Center is a 154-bed tertiary care facility with a full range of comprehensive care, including primary care, surgical services, mental health, and long-term care. It is a Joint Commission-accredited, complexity level 1B facility and is affiliated with the University at Buffalo for medical education and research.

VA Western New York Facilities

FacilityAddressType
Buffalo VA Medical Center3495 Bailey Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14215Medical Center
Batavia VA Medical Center222 Richmond Avenue, Batavia, NY 14020Medical Center
Buffalo VA Clinic2963 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14214CBOC
Dunkirk VA Clinic1170 Central Avenue, Suite 130, Dunkirk, NY 14048CBOC
Jamestown VA Clinic321 Hazeltine Avenue, Jamestown, NY 14701CBOC
Lockport VA Clinic5725 South Transit Road, Lockport, NY 14094CBOC
Niagara Falls VA Clinic1300 Pine Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14301CBOC
Olean VA Clinic465 North Union Street, Olean, NY 14760CBOC
Springville VA Clinic231 South Cascade Drive, Unit 107, Springville, NY 14141CBOC
West Seneca VA Clinic968 Union Road, West Seneca, NY 14224CBOC
Buffalo VA Clinic (Main Street)1325 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14209CBOC
See also
Hawaii Veterans Benefits: How to Apply in 2026

Buffalo VA Medical Center Contact Information

  • Address: 3495 Bailey Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14215-1129

  • Main Phone: 716-834-9200

  • Toll-Free: 800-532-8387

  • TTY: 711

  • Mental Health Care: 716-862-3117

Veterans can schedule appointments by calling the main number or through My HealtheVet online.

Jack B. Wisby Center for Excellence

The Batavia VA Medical Center is home to the Jack B. Wisby Center for Excellence for Military Sexual Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. This specialized center provides evidence-based treatment for Veterans dealing with MST and PTSD, offering residential and outpatient programs.


Services Available at Buffalo VA Medical Center

The Buffalo VA Medical Center provides a comprehensive range of medical, surgical, mental health, and specialty services.

Primary Care Services

Primary care is the foundation of VA healthcare in Western New York. Services include:

  • Routine medical exams and health screenings

  • Preventive care including immunizations and cancer screenings

  • Chronic disease management (diabetes, hypertension, heart disease)

  • Women’s health services

  • Geriatric care

  • Telehealth appointments through VA Video Connect

Mental Health Services

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Mental health care is a major focus at Buffalo VA. Services include:

  • Individual and group therapy

  • PTSD treatment including specialty programs at the Jack B. Wisby Center

  • Depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder treatment

  • Military sexual trauma (MST) counseling

  • Substance use disorder treatment with medication-assisted treatment

  • Suicide prevention programs

See also
How Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Support Veterans in Accessing Benefits

Mental health group appointments have 0-day wait times for new patients. Individual mental health appointments average 6 days for new patients and 21 days for established patients.

The Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7 by calling 988, Press 1, texting 838255, or chatting online at VeteransCrisisLine.net.

Specialty Care Services

Specialty services available at Buffalo VA Medical Center include:

ServiceNew Patient WaitEstablished Patient Wait
Audiology3 days14 days
Cardiology5 days38 days
Dental4 days21 days
Dermatology4 days24 days
Endocrinology15 days97 days
Gastroenterology4 days48 days
Mental Health (Group)0 daysN/A
Mental Health (Individual)6 days21 days
Neurology8 days73 days
OB/GYN5 days23 days
Oncology2 days25 days
Ophthalmology6 days22 days
Optometry2 days11 days
Orthopedics5 days62 days

Source: VA Access to Care data, 2026

Emergency and Urgent Care

The Buffalo VA Medical Center provides 24/7 emergency room care. Veterans experiencing a medical emergency should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. VA covers emergency care at non-VA facilities under certain conditions, including if the Veteran is enrolled in VA health care and the VA facility was not reasonably available.

For urgent but non-emergency needs, VA offers urgent care in the community through participating providers.

Patient Satisfaction and Trust

Veterans report high satisfaction with the Buffalo VA Medical Center. 94.1% of outpatient respondents agree or strongly agree that they trust the facility for their health care needs. 94% of Veterans report being able to get routine primary care appointments as soon as needed, and 91% report the same for routine specialty care.

See also
Understanding VA Program Suspensions During Government Shutdowns

PACT Act Investment in Buffalo

The PACT Act included more than $11 million for a new Buffalo VA Medical Research Facility. The new facility provides state-of-the-art space for Buffalo VA research programs and allows the VA to use the modern building it once occupied to expand support services and bolster surgical and ICU capabilities. This expansion is expected to reduce wait times and enable improvements to the medical facility.


VA Healthcare Eligibility and Enrollment

VA healthcare enrollment is separate from VA disability compensation. Veterans can qualify for VA health care even without a service-connected disability.

Who Qualifies for VA Health Care

You may qualify for VA health care if you:

  1. Served in the active military, naval, or air service and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable

  2. Served at least 24 months of continuous active duty (or the full period for which you were called to active duty)

  3. Meet income and net worth thresholds for non-service-connected care

Under the PACT Act, combat Veterans now have 10 years of healthcare eligibility following their separation from service, extended from the previous 5-year window. Veterans who missed their original enrollment window may qualify for a one-year open enrollment period.

VA Health Care Priority Groups

When you enroll, you are assigned to one of 8 priority groups that determine enrollment timing and copay obligations.

Priority GroupEligibility RequirementsCopays
Priority 1Service-connected disabilities rated 50% or more; unemployable due to service-connected conditions; Medal of Honor recipientsNone
Priority 2Service-connected disabilities rated 30% or 40%None
Priority 3Service-connected disabilities rated 10% or 20%; former POWs; Purple Heart recipientsNone
Priority 4Veterans receiving Aid and Attendance or Housebound benefits; catastrophically disabledNone
Priority 5Non-service-connected Veterans who are low-incomeNone
Priority 6Veterans who served in a combat theater after 9/11; those exposed to toxic substancesYes
Priority 7Veterans who agree to pay copaysYes
Priority 8Veterans with income above VA means test thresholdsYes
See also
VA Sleep Apnea Rating Change 2026: 50% CPAP Cut Explained

Priority Groups 1–5 have no copayments for medical care. Priority Groups 6 and 7 have copayments for care and medications.

How to Enroll in VA Health Care

Option 1: Online (Fastest)

  1. Go to VA.gov/health-care/apply

  2. Complete VA Form 10-10EZ electronically

  3. Upload supporting documents

  4. Receive confirmation and priority group assignment

Option 2: By Phone

  1. Call 877-222-8387

  2. A representative will complete the application over the phone

Option 3: In Person

  1. Visit the Buffalo VA Medical Center at 3495 Bailey Avenue

  2. Bring your DD-214, photo ID, and income information

  3. Complete VA Form 10-10EZ with staff assistance

Required Documents for Enrollment

  • DD-214 (or separation papers)

  • Photo ID (driver’s license or passport)

  • Income information from the previous calendar year (for non-service-connected Veterans)

  • Current insurance cards (Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare, or private insurance)

  • VA disability award letters (if applicable)


PACT Act: Expanded Benefits for Buffalo Veterans

The Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022 is the largest expansion of VA health care and benefits in decades. It covers Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances.

See also
New York VA Disability Lawyers: Costs, Accreditation, and Appeals

Who Qualifies Under the PACT Act

The PACT Act covers Veterans who served in:

  • Vietnam War (Agent Orange exposure)

  • Gulf War (burn pits, chemical exposure)

  • Iraq and Afghanistan (burn pits, particulate matter)

  • Global War on Terror (any combat zone after 9/11)

  • Other locations with toxic exposure as designated by VA

PACT Act Impact in Buffalo

Since the PACT Act was signed into law, there have been 185,931 new Veterans Health Administration enrollees nationwide, making it more critical than ever to maintain appropriate VA funding levels. In Buffalo, PACT Act benefits are available to Veterans who served in qualifying eras and may be eligible for VA disability benefits without a nexus letter under PACT Act 2022 (burn-pit, Agent Orange, Camp Lejeune, Gulf War, radiation).

The Buffalo VA has hosted PACT Act and Claims Clinic events where Veterans can learn about benefits, the claims process, and how to complete their claims.

What the PACT Act Adds

The PACT Act makes more than 20 burn pit and toxic-exposure-related conditions presumptively service-connected. This means Veterans do not need to prove a direct medical nexus — if they served in a qualifying location and have a qualifying condition, VA presumes service connection.

Under the PACT Act, Veterans exposed to toxic substances can access:

  • Free hearing aids and eyeglasses

  • Affordable health care options with medication copayments starting at $8 and capped at $33

  • Expanded eligibility for VA health care enrollment

  • Toxic exposure screening during VA health care visits

See also
The Transition to Secure Online Access for U.S. War Veterans

What Buffalo Veterans Should Do Next

  1. Visit VA.gov/PACT to check eligibility

  2. Contact the Erie County Veterans Service Agency at (716) 858-6363 for free claim assistance

  3. Call 800-698-2411 with questions about PACT Act eligibility

  4. Enroll in VA health care even if you have not filed a disability claim


VA Disability Compensation: Eligibility and Rates

VA disability compensation is a tax-free monthly payment for Veterans who have physical or mental health conditions caused or worsened by military service. The amount depends on your disability rating, which ranges from 0% to 100% in increments of 10%.

Who Qualifies for VA Disability Compensation

To qualify, you must meet all of these requirements:

  1. Active military, naval, or air service with an honorable discharge (or other than dishonorable)

  2. A current diagnosed condition (physical or mental)

  3. An event, injury, or illness during service that caused or worsened the condition

  4. A medical nexus connecting the current condition to service

Veterans can also file for secondary conditions — new disabilities caused or aggravated by an already service-connected condition.

2026 VA Disability Compensation Rates

Rates are effective December 1, 2025, through November 30, 2026. The 2026 COLA increase was 2.8%.

Disability RatingVeteran Alone (Monthly)Veteran with Spouse (Monthly)
10%$180.42$180.42
20%$356.66$356.66
30%$552.47$617.47
40%$795.84$883.84
50%$1,132.90$1,241.90
60%$1,436.79$1,564.79
70%$1,810.09$1,957.09
80%$2,103.80$2,269.80
90%$2,364.83$2,550.83
100%$3,291.06$3,502.06
See also
Understanding Survivor Benefits for Spouses of 100% Disabled Veterans

Veterans with a 30% or higher rating can claim additional compensation for dependents, including a spouse, children under 18, and children in school between 18 and 23. Use VA Form 21-686c to add dependents to an existing award.

What Buffalo Veterans Should Do Next

  1. Gather your DD-214 and all relevant medical records

  2. File an Intent to File (ITF) on VA.gov to lock in your effective date

  3. Contact the Erie County Veterans Service Agency at (716) 858-6363 for free assistance

  4. Submit VA Form 21-526EZ (Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits)

  5. Attend your C&P exam if scheduled — this is critical to your claim


How to Apply for VA Disability Benefits in Buffalo

There are three ways to file a VA disability claim from Buffalo.

Option 1: Online Application (Fastest)

  1. Go to VA.gov and sign in with a DS Logon, ID.me, or Login.gov account

  2. Complete VA Form 21-526EZ electronically

  3. Upload supporting documents (DD-214, medical records, buddy statements)

  4. Submit and receive a confirmation number

Option 2: Free Help from Erie County Veterans Service Agency

  1. Contact the Erie County Veterans Service Agency at (716) 858-6363 or email veterans@erie.gov

  2. Visit the office at Rath Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, Suite 800, Buffalo, NY 14202-3919

  3. A Veterans Service Officer will file an Intent to File to preserve your effective date

  4. The officer will help gather evidence and submit your claim to VA at no cost

  5. The ECVSA can represent you throughout the process, including appeals

See also
Understanding the 2026 GI Bill Benefits: A Comprehensive Calculator Guide for Norfolk Residents

The Erie County Veterans Service Agency’s services are free of charge. They help with gathering information necessary to support a claim, filing the claim, and tracking the claim through the VA system. They also assist with filing appeals for denied claims.

The ECVSA Director and staff are VA-authorized representatives who can present claims, institute appeals from VA decisions, and follow through to final disposition with representation in Washington.

Option 3: By Mail

  1. Download VA Form 21-526EZ from VA.gov

  2. Complete the form and attach copies of all supporting documents

  3. Mail to: Department of Veterans Affairs, Claims Intake Center, PO Box 4444, Janesville, WI 53547-4444

Required Documents for a VA Disability Claim

DocumentPurpose
DD-214 (or separation papers)Proves military service and discharge characterization
Medical recordsShows current diagnosis and treatment history
Service treatment recordsLinks condition to military service
Buddy statementsSupports your claim with lay evidence
VA Form 21-526EZOfficial application for disability compensation
VA Form 21-4142Authorization to release medical records
Marriage certificateRequired if claiming dependents
Children’s birth certificatesRequired if claiming dependents

Buffalo VA Regional Benefit Office

The Buffalo VA Regional Benefit Office is located at 130 South Elmwood Ave, Suite 601, Buffalo, NY 14202 inside the Niagara Center. Hours are Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The office helps Veterans, service members, and their families access VA benefits and services including disability compensation, education benefits, life insurance, pensions, and home loans.

See also
California VA Disability Rates 2026: 2.8% Increase & State Benefits

When you visit, bring a current, unexpired photo ID, your DD-214, Social Security number, direct deposit information, and dependent information (dates of birth and SSNs).


VA Claims Processing Times (2026)

VA has dramatically reduced disability claim processing times. The average time to complete a decision was 75.6 days in September 2026, compared to 141.5 days on January 20, 2025 — a 47% decrease.

Claim TypeAverage Processing Time (2026)Prior Processing Time
Disability Compensation75.6–80.7 days141.5 days
DIC Claims85 days174 days
Veterans Pension57 days170 days
Survivors Pension73 days172 days
Burial Claims31 days70 days

Source: VA news releases and congressional testimony, 2026

VA completed 3 million disability benefits claims in fiscal year 2026, and also reduced its backlog of claims older than 125 days. Claims processing accuracy is currently high, and VA grants more than 60% of claims submitted.


VA Pension and Survivor Benefits

VA Pension (Wartime Veterans)

VA pension is a needs-based monthly benefit for wartime Veterans with limited income. Unlike disability compensation, pension does not require a service-connected condition.

Eligibility requires:

For 2026, the net worth limit to be eligible for Survivors Pension benefits is $163,699.

See also
Understanding 100% VA Disability Pay vs. Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU)

Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits provide additional monthly payments for Veterans who need help with daily activities or are confined to their home.

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)

DIC is a tax-free monthly benefit for surviving spouses, children, and parents of Veterans who died from service-connected causes. For 2026, the standard monthly payment for a surviving spouse increased from $1,653.07 in 2025 to **$1,699.36**.

Survivors may qualify for DIC if:

  • The Veteran died from a service-connected condition

  • The Veteran was permanently and totally disabled from a service-connected condition at time of death

  • The Veteran died while receiving VA compensation for a service-connected condition

Surviving spouses may be able to file for benefits of presumptive conditions under the PACT Act, even if the veteran never filed a claim, making them eligible for DIC.

Survivors Pension

Survivors Pension is a needs-based benefit for surviving spouses and children of wartime Veterans who meet income and net worth limits. The Erie County Veterans Service Agency and NYS DVS can assist with filing survivor death benefits and DIC claims.


New York State Veterans Benefits

Beyond federal VA benefits, New York State offers its own package of benefits for Veterans and their families.

New York Property Tax Exemption (Effective October 1, 2026)

New York State has enacted a new property tax exemption for Veterans rated 100% permanently and totally disabled by the VA due to military service. This exemption applies to assessment rolls based on taxable status dates occurring on or after October 1, 2026.

See also
Burned Military Records? VA Streamlined Process Explained

There are three property tax exemptions available to New York Veterans:

ExemptionEligibilityDetails
New 100% Disability ExemptionVA-rated 100% permanent and total disabilityFull exemption on primary residence; effective October 1, 2026
Alternative Veterans ExemptionWartime service or expeditionary medal15% of assessed value plus additional percentages for combat/disabled status
Cold War Veterans ExemptionService during Cold War period (Sept. 2, 1945–Dec. 26, 1991)10%–15% of assessed value; local option

Important: You can only receive one of the three exemptions. Obtaining a veterans exemption is not automatic — you must submit the initial exemption application form to your assessor. The deadline in most communities is March 1.

New York State Education Benefits

New York offers several education benefit programs for Veterans and their families:

  • Veterans Tuition Award (VTA) — Provides eligible veterans with awards up to the full cost of SUNY undergraduate tuition at approved colleges, universities, and vocational training programs across New York State.

  • Military Enhanced Recognition Incentive and Tribute (MERIT) Scholarship — Provides scholarships for tuition and fees for children of severely disabled or deceased Veterans.

  • Regents Awards for Children of Deceased and Disabled Veterans — Financial aid for dependents.

  • Veterans Education (Vet Ed) — Supports approved education and training programs for GI Bill use, ensuring eligible beneficiaries can maximize their federal education benefits.

Veterans can maximize federal financial aid and GI Bill benefits alongside state support, as state grants are not reduced by Montgomery GI Bill or Pell Grants.

See also
JobFairX Virtual Veterans Fair Sept 7: Free Registration

New York State Employment Benefits

  • Hire a Veteran Credit — Employers can claim a tax credit of 20% of total wages (up to $20,000) for hiring disabled Veterans, or **15%** (up to $15,000) for hiring non-disabled Veterans during their first twelve months of employment.

  • Veterans’ Preference in state hiring

  • NYSDOL Veterans’ Program — Specialized staff dedicated to helping veterans gain a competitive edge in the labor market, providing priority of service through Career Centers.

New York State Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS)

The NYS Department of Veterans’ Services connects Veterans, service members, and their families to the full range of economic, medical, and social benefits and services earned through military service. DVS has Veterans’ Benefit Advisors located in all state regions to allow veterans better access to services.

Contact DVS:

  • Toll-Free: 1-888-838-7697

  • Website: veterans.ny.gov

  • Schedule a phone or video consultation online

New York State Benefits for Classified Mission Veterans

New York State passed legislation in 2026 to expand property tax exemptions for Veterans who served on classified missions or aboard submarines during periods of war. The bill provides a 10 percent property tax reduction to Veterans whose service locations may remain classified or otherwise difficult to document.

New York State Parks and Recreation

New York State offers free or reduced admission to state parks for Veterans, as well as hunting and fishing license benefits.


VA Home Loans in Buffalo

Buffalo-area Veterans can use the federal VA home loan guaranty for zero-down mortgages with no private mortgage insurance (PMI). In 2024, Buffalo’s 51 lenders originated 725 VA loans. Buffalo’s average VA mortgage closing costs are $5,903, and the average VA mortgage rate was 6.27% in January 2026.

See also
Understanding the Benefits for VA Caregiver Program Legacy Participants

VA loans are available to Veterans, active-duty personnel, reservists, National Guard members, and some surviving spouses. A VA funding fee applies.

VA Life Insurance

Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance (S-DVI) closed to new applicants after December 31, 2022. The Veterans Affairs Life Insurance (VALife) program replaced S-DVI and provides guaranteed acceptance whole life coverage of up to $40,000 for Veterans with service-connected disabilities rated at zero percent or higher.

VALife does not require proof of good health. There is no time limit to apply for veterans age 80 and under.


The VA Claims Process: Step-by-Step

Step 1: File an Intent to File (ITF)

An ITF establishes your effective date — the date from which VA will calculate back pay if your claim is approved. You have one year from filing an ITF to submit your complete claim. The Erie County VSA can file an ITF for you during your first appointment.

Step 2: Gather Evidence

Strong evidence makes claims faster and more likely to succeed:

  • Service treatment records (request from the National Personnel Records Center)

  • Private medical records (VA Form 21-4142 authorizes release)

  • Buddy statements from fellow service members

  • Personal statement describing symptoms and impact on daily life

  • Nexus letter from a medical provider linking condition to service

Step 3: Submit VA Form 21-526EZ

Submit your complete application online at VA.gov, by mail, or through the Erie County VSA. Include all supporting documents with your submission.

See also
Understanding the Disability Rating Requirement for VA Funding Fee Waiver

Step 4: Attend C&P Exam

The Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam is a medical examination requested by VA to evaluate your claimed conditions. Do not miss this exam — failure to attend can result in claim denial.

Step 5: Receive Decision

VA will review your claim and issue a decision letter. The average processing time for disability claims is currently 75.6 days as of September 2026.

Step 6: If Approved, Receive Back Pay

Back pay is calculated from your effective date to the date of your decision. The effective date is generally the date VA received your claim or the date entitlement arose, whichever is later.


Common Mistakes That Delay VA Claims

  1. Not listing all conditions — Each disability must be explicitly listed on VA Form 21-526EZ

  2. Failing to submit medical evidence — Provide strong evidence yourself; do not rely on VA alone

  3. Missing partial dates — VA forms require complete dates

  4. Ignoring secondary conditions — Conditions caused by a service-connected disability must be claimed separately

  5. Not signing the form — Missing signatures can result in claim cancellation

  6. Not responding to VA requests — Respond within the deadline or your claim may be denied

  7. Skipping the C&P exam — Missing the exam almost always leads to denial

  8. Filing without an ITF — Without an ITF, your effective date is the date you file the full claim

  9. Not keeping a copy — Always keep a complete copy of everything you submit to VA

  10. Waiting too long to appeal — You have one year from the decision date to preserve your effective date

See also
VA Disability Florida 2026: Complete Guide & State Benefits

VA Decision Reviews and Appeals

If you disagree with a VA decision, you have three options for review.

Review OptionBest ForFormTime Limit
Supplemental ClaimAdding new and relevant evidenceVA Form 20-09951 year from decision
Higher-Level ReviewNo new evidence; senior reviewer catches errorsVA Form 20-09961 year from decision
Board AppealVeterans Law Judge reviewVA Form 101821 year from decision

If more than one year has passed since the decision, your only option is to file a Supplemental Claim.

The Erie County Veterans Service Agency provides free representation for appeals. The Director and staff are VA-authorized representatives who can institute appeals from VA decisions and follow through to final disposition with representation in Washington.


Buffalo Vet Center

The Buffalo Vet Center at 2929 Union Rd, Cheektowaga, NY 14227 provides readjustment counseling for combat Veterans, those who served in direct support of combat operations, and Veterans who experienced military sexual trauma. Services include individual and group counseling, family counseling, and bereavement counseling.


Common Questions

How do I contact the Buffalo VA Medical Center?

Call 716-834-9200 or 800-532-8387. The hospital is at 3495 Bailey Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14215-1129. It is open 24/7 for emergency care. Mental health care is available at 716-862-3117.

See also
Vital VA Forms Required by Veterans in Connecticut

Where is the Buffalo VA Regional Benefit Office?

The Buffalo VA Regional Benefit Office is at 130 South Elmwood Ave, Suite 601, Buffalo, NY 14202 in the Niagara Center. Hours are Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Bring a current photo ID and your DD-214.

How long does a VA disability claim take in 2026?

The average VA disability claim processing time is 75.6 days as of September 2026, down from 141.5 days in January 2025. VA completed 3 million disability claims in record time in fiscal year 2026.

Can I get VA health care without a disability rating?

Yes. VA health care eligibility is separate from disability compensation. Under the PACT Act expansion, many Veterans can enroll directly in VA health care without first applying for disability benefits. Apply at VA.gov/health-care/apply or visit the Buffalo VA Medical Center.

What is the PACT Act and does it apply to Buffalo Veterans?

The PACT Act expands VA benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxins. It covers Veterans who served in Vietnam, Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, and post-9/11 combat zones. Combat Veterans now have 10 years of healthcare eligibility following separation from service.

How do I add my spouse or children to my VA disability benefits?

File VA Form 21-686c (Application Request to Add or Remove Dependents) if you have a 30% or higher disability rating. You can file online at VA.gov or get help from the Erie County VSA.

What New York State benefits are available to Buffalo Veterans?

New York offers a 100% property tax exemption for Veterans rated 100% permanently and totally disabled (effective October 1, 2026), the Alternative Veterans Exemption, Cold War Veterans Exemption, Veterans Tuition Award, Hire a Veteran Credit, and the Joseph P. Dwyer Vet2Vet Peer Services Program.

See also
Washington DC VA Regional Office: Phone & Hours

How do I contact the Erie County Veterans Service Agency?

Call (716) 858-6363 or email veterans@erie.gov. Visit the office at Rath Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, Suite 800, Buffalo, NY 14202-3919. Services are free and include VA claims assistance, benefits counseling, and appeals representation.

What should I bring to my first VA appointment?

Bring your DD-214, photo ID, insurance cards (Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare, or private), list of current medications, and any medical records from non-VA providers. If you are enrolling, also bring income information from the previous calendar year.

Does the Buffalo VA Medical Center have emergency services?

Yes. The Buffalo VA Medical Center provides 24/7 emergency room care. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. VA covers emergency care at non-VA facilities under certain conditions.

What mental health services are available at Buffalo VA?

The hospital provides individual and group therapy, PTSD treatment, depression and anxiety care, military sexual trauma counseling, and substance use disorder treatment. Mental health group appointments have 0-day wait times. The Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7 at 988, Press 1.

What is the Jack B. Wisby Center for Excellence?

The Jack B. Wisby Center for Excellence at the Batavia VA Medical Center provides specialized treatment for Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It offers residential and outpatient programs using evidence-based therapies.

See also
How to Get 100% VA Disability: 2026 Complete Guide to Schedular and TDIU

What is the CalVet College Fee Waiver and who qualifies?

The CalVet College Fee Waiver (California) provides tuition-free education at California public colleges and universities for children, spouses, and unmarried surviving spouses of qualifying Veterans. For New York residents, the Veterans Tuition Award provides similar support for SUNY programs.


Key Takeaways

  • The Buffalo VA Medical Center at 3495 Bailey Avenue is the primary VA hospital for Western New York — call 716-834-9200.

  • The VA Western New York Healthcare System operates 11 locations across the region, including medical centers in Buffalo and Batavia, plus 9 community-based outpatient clinics.

  • Average VA disability claim processing time is 75.6 days as of September 2026, a 47% decrease from January 2025.

  • VA Form 21-526EZ is the standard application for disability compensation. File online at VA.gov for the fastest processing.

  • The PACT Act expands benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits and toxins, and included $11 million for a new Buffalo VA Medical Research Facility.

  • New York’s new 100% property tax exemption for Veterans rated 100% permanently and totally disabled takes effect October 1, 2026.

  • 2026 VA disability rates range from $180.42/month** (10%) to **$3,291.06/month (100% veteran alone).

  • Erie County Veterans Service Agency at (716) 858-6363 provides free VA claims assistance, including appeals representation.

  • Mental health group appointments at Buffalo VA have 0-day wait times for new patients.

  • Three decision review options exist: Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, and Board Appeal.

  • Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7 by calling 988, Press 1, texting 838255, or chatting online.

  • The Jack B. Wisby Center for Excellence at Batavia VA provides specialized MST and PTSD treatment.

See also
Hawaii Veterans Benefits: How to Apply in 2026

Official Resources

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This site provides general information about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits for educational and informational purposes only.

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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.

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