Veterans Benefits Office Washington DC: Complete 2026 Guide
The National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office is at 1722 I St NW, Washington, DC 20006. It is open Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and processes disability compensation, pension, education, insurance, and home loan claims. Appointments are scheduled through VA’s VERA portal. The DC Office of Veterans Affairs at 441 4th Street NW provides free local claims assistance.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Federal Benefits Office | National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office, 1722 I St NW, Washington, DC 20006 |
| Federal Office Phone | 1-800-827-1000 (VA benefits hotline) |
| Federal Office Hours | Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; closed Saturday and Sunday |
| Appointments | Required through VERA (Visitor Engagement Reporting Application) at va.my.site.com/VAVERA |
| State/Local Office | DC Office of Veterans Affairs (OVA), 441 4th Street NW, Suite 707 North, Washington, DC 20001 |
| State/Local Phone | (202) 724-5454; email ova@dc.gov |
| State/Local Hours | Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. |
| VA Medical Center | Washington DC VA Medical Center, 50 Irving Street NW, Washington, DC 20422; phone 202-745-8000 |
| Updated For | 2026 |
National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office
The National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office is the federal VA office that processes disability compensation, pension, education benefits, life insurance, home loans, and Veteran Readiness and Employment claims for veterans in Washington, DC. It is not a walk-in service center for all needs. Visitors seeking assistance from the Public Contact Team are encouraged to schedule a virtual or in-person appointment through the Visitor Engagement Reporting Application (VERA).
Location and Contact
Address: 1722 I St NW, Washington, DC 20006
Phone: 1-800-827-1000 (VA benefits hotline)
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; closed Saturday and Sunday
What to Bring to Your Appointment
Bring a current, unexpired photo ID. Depending on your reason for visiting, you may also need:
A copy of your discharge or separation papers (DD-214)
Copies of relevant medical records
Your Social Security number
Direct deposit information
Information about your dependents (dates of birth, Social Security numbers)
How to Get There
By Metro: The nearest station is Farragut West, serviced by the Blue, Orange, and Silver lines. For accessibility options, contact MetroAccess at 202-962-1100.
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityBy Car: Parking is managed by PMI Parking. Street parking is available but limited in this busy area. Plan your visit using the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority trip planner at wmata.com.
VA Central Office
Washington, DC is also home to the VA Central Office at 810 Vermont Avenue NW. This office oversees all VA operations nationally and is not a service center for individual veterans.
DC Office of Veterans Affairs (OVA)
The DC Office of Veterans Affairs is the District’s local agency for veteran advocacy, claims assistance, and community resources. It assists District veterans and their families in applying for and using federal VA benefits.
Location and Contact
Address: 441 4th Street NW, Suite 707 North, Washington, DC 20001
Phone: (202) 724-5454
Email: ova@dc.gov
Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Website: ova.dc.gov
What the DC OVA Does
The DC Office of Veterans Affairs provides:
Advocacy support for veterans, dependents, and survivors
Information services about federal and District laws affecting benefits
Assistance with VA claims through District Veteran Service Officers
Outreach to DC’s approximately 30,000 veterans
Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs
The Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs (MOVA) works alongside OVA to assist veterans with federal VA claims and benefits. MOVA provides outreach and community resources that support pathways to the middle class.
Contact: One Judiciary Square, 441 4th St NW, Suite #707 North, Washington, DC 20001; phone (202) 724-5454; email ova@dc.gov.
Washington DC VA Medical Center
The Washington DC VA Medical Center provides comprehensive medical, surgical, psychiatric, and specialty care services for veterans in the District. It is affiliated with Georgetown University, George Washington University, and Howard University medical programs.
Location and Contact
Address: 50 Irving Street NW, Washington, DC 20422
Main Phone: 202-745-8000
Toll-Free: 877-328-2621
Services
The medical center offers:
Primary care and specialty care
Mental health services
Surgical services
Emergency care
Community Living Center (long-term care)
How to Enroll in VA Healthcare
Apply online at VA.gov using VA Form 10-10EZ, by phone at 1-877-222-8387, or in person at the medical center. Enrollment decisions are typically made within 7–10 business days.
How to File a VA Disability Claim in Washington DC
File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail to the National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office, or through the DC Office of Veterans Affairs for free assistance.
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Gather your documents. You will need your DD-214, medical records, buddy statements, Social Security number, and direct deposit information.
Step 2: File an Intent to File (VA Form 21-0966). This preserves your effective date for back pay while you gather evidence.
Step 3: Submit VA Form 21-526EZ. File online at VA.gov, by mail, or through the DC OVA.
Step 4: Attend your C&P Exam. VA will schedule a Compensation and Pension examination if needed.
Step 5: Track your claim. Check status at VA.gov or by calling 1-800-827-1000.
DC Claim Processing Times
Claims filed in the District of Columbia process through the National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office. Typical processing times are:
| Claim Type | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Non-presumptive initial claim | 130–150 days |
| PACT Act presumptive claim | 90–110 days |
| Supplemental Claim | ~5.7 months |
| Higher-Level Review | ~4.2 months |
| Board Appeal | 12–18+ months |
VA Disability Compensation Rates 2026
The 2.8% COLA increase took effect December 1, 2025. These rates apply to all DC veterans receiving VA disability compensation.
| Disability Rating | 2026 Monthly (Single, No Dependents) |
|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 |
| 20% | $356.66 |
| 30% | $552.47 |
| 40% | $795.84 |
| 50% | $1,132.90 |
| 60% | $1,435.02 |
| 70% | $1,808.45 |
| 80% | $2,102.15 |
| 90% | $2,362.30 |
| 100% | $3,938.58 |
Veterans with dependents receive additional compensation at ratings of 30% and above.
Washington DC Veterans Benefits
Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans
The District of Columbia offers property tax relief for disabled veterans. Under current law, certain disabled veterans who own property in DC may be eligible for a homestead tax deduction of up to $445,000.
District resident
50% or more ownership of the property
Total and permanent disability as a result of military service (or deemed unemployable by VA)
Pending 2025-2026 Legislation: The “Disabled Veterans Complete Property Tax Exemption Amendment Act of 2025” has been introduced in the DC Council. If passed, it would:
Eliminate the current household income limit of $159,750
Replace the $445,000 limited deduction with a 100% property tax exemption
Expand eligibility to surviving spouses of eligible disabled veterans and veterans who died in the line of duty
DC Tuition Assistance Grant (DCTAG)
The DC Tuition Assistance Grant helps DC residents pay the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition at public colleges and universities, private colleges in DC, and private HBCUs nationwide. The maximum award is $10,000 per year. The 2026 application period opens February 2, 2026, and closes August 21, 2026.
How to apply: Apply through the DC OneApp at dconeapp.dc.gov or by calling the Office of the State Superintendent of Education.
Veterans Appreciation Scholarship Fund
The Veterans Appreciation Scholarship Fund provides reimbursement of tuition, fees, books, and other materials for undergraduate and graduate courses at the University of the District of Columbia for eligible veterans who served on or after September 11, 2001, and are DC residents. The benefit is available for four years after return from active duty.
Veteran Hiring Preference
The District of Columbia provides hiring preference for veterans in DC government employment. Eligible veterans receive 5 preference points; disabled veterans receive 10 points.
Who qualifies:
Veterans who served on active duty for more than 180 consecutive days
Disabled veterans with a 30% or greater service-connected disability
Vietnam veterans
Certain spouses and surviving spouses
DC Department of Employment Services Veterans Program
The DC Department of Employment Services (DOES) gives priority of service to veterans and eligible spouses. Veterans receive a 24-hour “Veterans Only” hold on all new job orders.
Contact: Veterans Program Coordinator at 202-698-5819.
Disabled Veteran License Plates
The DC DMV issues disabled American veteran (DAV) license plates to qualifying veterans. Purple Heart specialty license plates are also available to recipients and their surviving spouses for a one-time fee of $10.
Armed Forces Retirement Home
DC is home to the Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH) at 140 Rock Creek Church Road NW. It is the nation’s premier life community for retired and former members of the armed forces and their spouses.
Contact: 800-422-9988
Common Mistakes DC Veterans Make
Mistake 1: Showing up without an appointment. The National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office strongly encourages appointments through VERA. Walk-ins may face long waits or be turned away.
Mistake 2: Going to the VA Central Office for claims help. The VA Central Office at 810 Vermont Avenue NW oversees national operations. It is not a service center for individual veterans.
Mistake 3: Not using the DC Office of Veterans Affairs. The OVA provides free, local claims assistance through District Veteran Service Officers. Many veterans do not know this resource exists.
Mistake 4: Missing the DCTAG application deadline. The DC Tuition Assistance Grant application window is February 2 to August 21, 2026. Missing it means waiting another year for up to $10,000 in education funding.
Mistake 5: Not claiming the disabled veterans homestead deduction. Many qualifying disabled veterans in DC do not apply for the $445,000 homestead deduction. Check your eligibility and apply through the DC Office of Tax and Revenue.
Mistake 6: Overlooking the Veterans Appreciation Scholarship Fund. DC residents who served after September 11, 2001, may qualify for tuition, fees, and book reimbursement at the University of the District of Columbia.
Mistake 7: Not filing an Intent to File. Without an Intent to File (VA Form 21-0966), your effective date for back pay is the day VA receives your completed application. Filing an Intent to File first preserves your effective date.
Common Questions
Where is the VA benefits office in Washington DC?
The National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office is at 1722 I St NW, Washington, DC 20006. The phone number is 1-800-827-1000. Office hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Do I need an appointment to visit the VA Regional Office in DC?
Yes, appointments are strongly encouraged. Schedule through VERA (Visitor Engagement Reporting Application) at va.my.site.com/VAVERA. Bring a current photo ID, your DD-214, medical records, and dependent information.
What is the DC Office of Veterans Affairs?
The DC Office of Veterans Affairs is the District’s local agency for veteran advocacy and claims assistance. It is located at 441 4th Street NW, Suite 707 North. Phone: (202) 724-5454. Services are free.
How do I file a VA disability claim in Washington DC?
File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail to the National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office, or through the DC Office of Veterans Affairs. The OVA provides free assistance with claim development and filing.
What is the VA medical center in Washington DC?
The Washington DC VA Medical Center is at 50 Irving Street NW, Washington, DC 20422. The main phone number is 202-745-8000. It provides primary care, specialty care, mental health services, and emergency care.
Does DC offer property tax relief for disabled veterans?
Yes. DC offers a homestead tax deduction of up to $445,000 for qualifying disabled veterans. Pending legislation would expand this to a 100% property tax exemption and eliminate the income limit.
What education benefits are available to DC veterans?
The DC Tuition Assistance Grant (DCTAG) provides up to $10,000 per year for DC residents attending colleges and universities. The Veterans Appreciation Scholarship Fund reimburses tuition and fees at the University of the District of Columbia.
Does DC offer veterans employment preference?
Yes. DC government provides 5 preference points for eligible veterans and 10 points for disabled veterans. The DC Department of Employment Services also gives priority of service to veterans and eligible spouses.
What is the Armed Forces Retirement Home?
The Armed Forces Retirement Home at 140 Rock Creek Church Road NW is a retirement community for retired and former enlisted military personnel and their spouses. For information, call 800-422-9988.
How long does a VA claim take in Washington DC?
Non-presumptive initial claims average 130–150 days. PACT Act presumptive claims average 90–110 days. Supplemental Claims and Higher-Level Reviews average approximately 4–6 months. Board Appeals take 12–18 months or longer.
Can I get free help with my VA claim in DC?
Yes. The DC Office of Veterans Affairs provides free claims assistance through District Veteran Service Officers. Call (202) 724-5454 or email ova@dc.gov. Veterans Service Organizations like DAV, VFW, and American Legion also provide free help.
What is the PACT Act and how does it help DC veterans?
The PACT Act expanded VA healthcare and disability benefits for veterans exposed to toxic substances, including burn pits and Agent Orange. All veterans who served in Vietnam, Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, or any combat zone after 9/11 are eligible for VA healthcare regardless of income.
Key Takeaways
The National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office is at 1722 I St NW, Washington, DC 20006, open Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Appointments are scheduled through VERA at va.my.site.com/VAVERA. Bring a photo ID, DD-214, medical records, and dependent information.
The DC Office of Veterans Affairs at 441 4th Street NW provides free local claims assistance. Phone: (202) 724-5454.
The Washington DC VA Medical Center at 50 Irving Street NW is the primary VA healthcare facility for DC veterans.
DC offers a $445,000 homestead tax deduction for disabled veterans; pending legislation would expand this to a 100% property tax exemption.
The DC Tuition Assistance Grant provides up to $10,000 per year for DC residents; the 2026 application window is February 2–August 21.
DC government provides 5 preference points for veterans and 10 points for disabled veterans in hiring.
The Armed Forces Retirement Home at 140 Rock Creek Church Road NW is a retirement community for former enlisted personnel and their spouses.
The 2.8% COLA increased VA disability rates effective December 1, 2025. A 100% disabled veteran receives $3,938.58 per month.
The PACT Act expanded healthcare eligibility for toxic-exposed veterans regardless of income.
Official Resources
| Resource | Website | Services |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs | VA.gov | Disability claims, pension, healthcare, education, home loans |
| National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office | va.gov/national-capital-region-va-regional-benefit-office | Federal claims processing for DC |
| VERA Appointment Scheduling | va.my.site.com/VAVERA | Schedule in-person or virtual appointments |
| DC Office of Veterans Affairs | ova.dc.gov | Local claims assistance, advocacy, benefits counseling |
| Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs | communityaffairs.dc.gov/mova | Outreach, community resources, claims assistance |
| Washington DC VA Medical Center | va.gov/washington-dc-health-care | VA healthcare services |
| DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education | osse.dc.gov | DC Tuition Assistance Grant (DCTAG) |
| DC Department of Employment Services | does.dc.gov | Veterans employment program |
| DC DMV | dmv.dc.gov | Disabled veteran and Purple Heart license plates |
| Armed Forces Retirement Home | afrh.gov | Retirement community for former enlisted personnel |
| Social Security Administration | SSA.gov | COLA information |
🇺🇸 IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER – Veterans Benefits Information
This site provides general information about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits for educational and informational purposes only.
- Not Official: We are NOT affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), or any other government agency.
- No Legal/Financial Advice: The content on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or medical advice. VA benefits rules change frequently – always consult with an accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or a qualified professional for your specific situation.
- Official Sources: For official, binding information and to apply for benefits, always visit official .gov websites: VA.gov, Benefits.VA.gov, or SSA.gov.
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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.
