Veterans Resources in Norfolk VA: VA Offices, Halls & Benefits Near You
Norfolk, Virginia is home to a dense network of veterans resources including the Virginia Department of Veterans Services Norfolk Benefits Office, the Norfolk Vet Center, multiple Veterans Service Organizations, and the Hampton VA Medical Center system. Veterans can access free claims assistance, health care, state tax exemptions, education benefits, and employment services. Most services are free and eligibility begins with an honorable discharge.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary State Agency | Virginia Department of Veterans Services (DVS) |
| Norfolk DVS Office | 6350 Center Dr., Bldg. 5, Suite 100, Norfolk, VA 23502 |
| Phone | (757) 455-0814 |
| Hours | Mon–Fri, 8:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (walk-ins 8:30–10:30 a.m.) |
| VA Health Care System | Hampton VA Medical Center (serves Norfolk) |
| Vet Center | 1711 Church St, Norfolk, VA 23504 |
| Disability Claim Form | VA Form 21-526EZ |
| 2026 COLA Increase | 2.8% |
| State Property Tax Exemption | 100% P&T veterans on primary residence |
| Education Benefit | Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program |
| Updated For | September 2026 |
Virginia Department of Veterans Services – Norfolk Office
The Virginia Department of Veterans Services (DVS) operates a full-service benefits office in Norfolk that provides free assistance with VA disability claims, benefits counseling, and appeals help. The Norfolk office is located at 6350 Center Drive, Building 5, Suite 100, Norfolk, VA 23502, and can be reached at (757) 455-0814. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Veterans are seen from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., while customer appointments are accommodated between 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. and may be scheduled at vvn.dvs.virginia.gov. Appointments are highly recommended.
The Norfolk DVS office serves the counties of Southampton, Sussex, and Isle of Wight, as well as the cities of Chesapeake, Franklin, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, and Virginia Beach. All services are provided free of charge.
What the Norfolk DVS Office Does
DVS Veterans Service Representatives help veterans and their families obtain state, federal, and local benefits they are entitled to. Specific services include:
VA disability compensation claims (initial, increased rating, and secondary conditions)
VA pension applications
Appeals assistance (Supplemental Claims, Higher-Level Review, Board Appeals)
Benefits counseling and eligibility screening
Referrals to health care, housing, and employment programs
State benefit applications including property tax exemptions
Eligibility for DVS Services
Eligibility for most federal and state benefits is based on discharge from active military service under other than dishonorable conditions. You do not need to be a Virginia resident to receive claims assistance, though state-specific benefits may have residency requirements.
How to Prepare for Your Visit
Bring the following documents to your appointment:
DD-214Â (discharge document)
Military medical records related to your claimed conditions
Current VA rating decision (if you have one)
Government-issued photo ID
Any private medical records supporting your claim
Dependency documents (marriage certificate, birth certificates) if claiming dependents
Walk-ins are accepted but limited to morning hours. Scheduling an appointment in advance ensures you receive dedicated time with a Veterans Service Representative.
VA Health Care for Norfolk Veterans
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityNorfolk veterans receive health care through the Hampton VA Medical Center system, which operates multiple clinics throughout the Hampton Roads region. The Hampton VA Medical Center is located at 100 Emancipation Drive, Hampton, VA 23667, and serves the cities of Chesapeake, Franklin, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Virginia Beach. The main phone number is (757) 722-9961.
VA Clinics Near Norfolk
| Facility | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Hampton VA Medical Center | 100 Emancipation Dr, Hampton, VA 23667 | (757) 722-9961 |
| Chesapeake VA Clinic | 987 S. Military Hwy, Chesapeake, VA 23320 | (757) 722-9961 |
| Portsmouth VA Clinic | 600 Crawford St, Portsmouth, VA 23704 | (757) 722-9961 |
| Virginia Beach VA Clinic | 244 Clearfield Ave, Virginia Beach, VA | (757) 722-9961 |
Norfolk Vet Center
The Norfolk Vet Center provides readjustment counseling, mental health services, and community outreach for combat veterans, veterans who experienced military sexual trauma, and their families. The Vet Center is located at 1711 Church Street, Norfolk, VA 23504, and can be reached at (757) 623-7584.
Vet Centers offer:
Individual and group counseling for PTSD and readjustment issues
Military sexual trauma counseling
Family counseling
Bereavement counseling
Substance abuse assessment and referral
All Vet Center services are free and do not require a VA health care enrollment or a service-connected disability rating.
How to Enroll in VA Health Care
Veterans can apply for VA health care online at VA.gov, by phone at 1-877-222-8387, or in person at any VA medical facility. Required documents include your DD-214 and financial information if you are applying based on income eligibility.
Veterans Service Organizations in Norfolk
Norfolk has an active network of Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) that provide free claims representation, camaraderie, and community support. These organizations are chartered by Congress and have accredited representatives who can file claims on your behalf at no cost.
Major VSOs Serving Norfolk
| Organization | Location | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| American Legion Tidewater Post 327 | 705 Lesner Ave, Norfolk, VA 23518 | Contact via Virginia American Legion |
| VFW Post 3160 Ocean View | Norfolk, VA 23503 | Contact via VFW Department of Virginia |
| AMVETS Post | 9621 Chesapeake Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23503 | Contact via AMVETS Department of Virginia |
| Team RWB – Norfolk/Virginia Beach | 150 W Main St, Norfolk, VA 23510 | (813) 868-8792 |
| Liberty Organization for Veterans and Emergency Responders | 608 New Hampshire Ave, Norfolk, VA 23508 | (910) 581-1258 |
Why Use a VSO?
VSO representatives are trained in VA law and claims procedures. They can:
File initial disability claims
Submit appeals and supplemental claims
Request VA medical records
Represent you at Board of Veterans’ Appeals hearings
Monitor claim status and follow up with VA
VSO services are always free. No organization should charge you for filing a VA claim.
Other Veterans Organizations in the Area
Norfolk is also home to the Armed Services YMCA, USO of Hampton Roads, and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) chapter. The DAV works with the Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority and the Hampton VA campus to assist homeless veterans with access to benefits and housing through the VA Supportive Housing (VASH) program.
VA Disability Compensation in 2026
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 amount depends on your combined disability rating, not on income or employment status.
2026 VA Disability Compensation Rates
The 2026 rates took effect December 1, 2025, and reflect a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) applied by Public Law 119-42, the Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2025.
| VA Rating | Veteran Alone | With Spouse | With 1 Child |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 | $180.42 | $180.42 |
| 20% | $356.66 | $356.66 | $356.66 |
| 30% | $552.47 | $617.47 | $596.47 |
| 40% | $795.84 | $882.84 | $853.84 |
| 50% | $1,132.90 | $1,241.90 | $1,205.90 |
| 60% | $1,645.75 | $1,783.75 | $1,737.75 |
| 70% | $2,144.94 | $2,317.94 | $2,258.94 |
| 80% | $2,630.28 | $2,846.28 | $2,773.28 |
| 90% | $3,291.06 | $3,548.06 | $3,461.06 |
| 100% | $4,085.43 | $4,385.43 | $4,285.43 |
A veteran rated 100% permanent and total (P&T) without dependents saw an increase of roughly $107 per month compared to 2025 rates.
VA Disability vs. VA Pension
These are two different programs that are often confused:
| Feature | VA Disability Compensation | VA Pension |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Service-connected condition | Wartime service + low income |
| Income limits | None | Yes |
| Age requirement | None | 65+ or permanently disabled |
| Service connection needed | Yes | No |
| Taxable | No | No |
You cannot receive both compensation and pension for the same period. VA pays only the greater benefit.
How to Apply for VA Disability Compensation
Form:Â VA Form 21-526EZ, Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits
Online: Apply through VA.gov or eBenefits
By mail:Â Submit to the VA Regional Office handling your claim
In person:Â A Veterans Service Representative at the Norfolk DVS office or a VSO can file on your behalf
Required documents:
DD-214 or equivalent discharge documentation
Medical evidence of current diagnosis
Evidence of in-service event, injury, or exposure
Nexus statement connecting current condition to service (if available)
Dependency documents if claiming a spouse or children
Processing time: Initial claims generally take 90–120 days. Supplemental claims average around 60 days, with a 125-day goal for decisions.
Virginia State Benefits for Norfolk Veterans
Virginia offers several state-level benefits that supplement federal VA programs. These benefits are administered by the Virginia Department of Veterans Services and local governments.
Property Tax Exemption
Veterans rated 100% permanently and totally disabled by VA are eligible for a full exemption from local real estate tax on their primary residence and up to one acre of land. Surviving spouses of eligible veterans who do not remarry are also eligible for the property tax exemption.
How to apply:Â Contact the Norfolk Commissioner of the Revenue. You will need your VA rating decision letter showing 100% P&T status and proof of residency.
Vehicle Tax Exemption
Veterans with specially adapted vehicles to accommodate their disabilities are exempt from paying vehicle taxes. This exemption applies to one motor vehicle owned and regularly used by a disabled veteran.
State Income Tax
Virginia does not tax VA disability compensation. Military retirement income is tax-free for veterans aged 55 and older. Additionally, legislation effective January 1, 2026, removes the current cap of $40,000 on military benefits that may be subtracted from Virginia taxable income, allowing the total amount of military benefits to be subtracted.
Education Benefits
In-State Tuition:Â Veterans and their dependents are eligible for in-state tuition rates at Virginia public colleges and universities.
Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP): This program waives tuition at Virginia’s public colleges for the families of certain veterans. Eligible dependents may also receive a stipend for books and fees.
Virginia Veterans Care Centers
The state operates four veterans care centers providing long-term care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation services. These centers are located in Richmond, Roanoke, Virginia Beach, and Warrenton. To qualify, veterans must have been honorably discharged, be a Virginia resident at the time of admission, and need skilled nursing care as determined by a physician.
Employment Resources for Norfolk Veterans
Virginia offers multiple employment programs specifically for veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses.
Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program
The V3 program certifies employers who commit to hiring veterans and provides resources to help veterans find meaningful employment. The program has partnered with American Corporate Partners (ACP) to deliver career coaching, mentorship, and entrepreneurship assistance.
Virginia Works Veterans Services
Veterans from all periods of military service are eligible for job referral, job training, and job placement assistance through Virginia Works. Veterans can access services through a statewide network of Virginia Works offices or contact veterans.services@virginiaworks.gov for more information.
VirginiaHasJobs.com/Veterans
This career-focused resource connects Virginia’s veterans and military spouses with employment opportunities across the Commonwealth. It provides access to job listings, career tools, and employer connections specifically for the veteran community.
Military Education and Workforce Initiative (MEWI)
MEWI assists veterans and service members with their transition from active duty to the workforce by providing a pathway to education and employment. The program includes SkillBridge opportunities and partnerships with Virginia employers.
Housing and Homeless Veteran Resources in Norfolk
Norfolk has resources available for veterans experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
VA Supportive Housing (VASH)
The HUD-VASH program combines rental assistance from the Department of Housing and Urban Development with case management and clinical services from VA. In Norfolk, the Disabled American Veterans, Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority, and staff from the Hampton VA campus work together to assist homeless veterans with access to VASH.
National Call Center for Homeless Veterans
Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness can call (877) 4AID-VET (877-424-3838) for immediate assistance. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Local Housing Resources
The City of Norfolk allocates funding to address veteran homelessness through emergency shelter operations and transitional housing programs. The Norfolk Public Library system also provides referrals to shelters and support services.
Transportation Resources for Norfolk Veterans
Transportation can be a barrier to accessing VA appointments and other essential services. Several resources are available:
Hampton Roads Transit (HRT)
HRT operates bus routes throughout Norfolk and the Hampton Roads region, including the Base Express, which connects service members, veterans, and government employees with major destinations in and around Naval Station Norfolk. The Gold Route operates seven days a week, providing last-mile service from outside the gate.
Mercy Medical Angels
Mercy Medical Angels provides air and ground medical transportation to help veterans access long-distance specialized medical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment. Services include commercial and private flights, bus and train tickets, and gas cards. The organization is located at 101 West Main Street, Suite 1000, Norfolk, VA 23510.
VA Transportation Benefits
Veterans may be eligible for VA travel reimbursement for travel to and from VA-approved health care appointments. Eligibility depends on disability rating, income level, and whether travel is for a service-connected condition. Contact the Hampton VA Medical Center Beneficiary Travel Office for details.
Mental Health and Crisis Resources
Norfolk veterans have access to multiple mental health resources, both through the VA system and through community organizations.
Veterans Crisis Line
The Veterans Crisis Line provides free, confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat at veteranscrisisline.net.
Norfolk Vet Center
The Norfolk Vet Center provides readjustment counseling and mental health services for combat veterans, veterans who experienced military sexual trauma, and their families. Services are free and do not require VA enrollment.
VA Mental Health Services
Enrolled veterans can access mental health services through the Hampton VA Medical Center system, including outpatient counseling, psychiatry, and substance use treatment. Contact the Hampton VA at (757) 722-9961 to schedule an appointment.
Liberty Organization for Veterans and Emergency Responders
This Norfolk-based nonprofit provides mental health services and support for active duty and veteran military, emergency responders, and their families when injured in the line of duty.
Appeals and Claims Assistance
If VA denied your disability claim or assigned a rating that does not reflect your condition, you have options. The appeals process changed significantly in 2019, and there are now three decision review pathways.
Three Appeal Options
| Pathway | Best For | Form | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supplemental Claim | New and relevant evidence | VA Form 20-0995 | ~60 days average |
| Higher-Level Review | No new evidence; arguing the decision was wrong | VA Form 20-0996 | ~125 days |
| Board Appeal | Want a Veterans Law Judge to review | VA Form 10182 | Months to years |
Supplemental Claim
A Supplemental Claim is the best option when you have new and relevant evidence that VA did not consider the first time. New evidence means evidence VA has never seen. Relevant evidence means it tends to prove or disprove your claim. Examples include updated treatment records, a new diagnosis, or a nexus letter from a doctor.
Form:Â VA Form 20-0995, Decision Review Request: Supplemental Claim
Where to file: Submit to VA by mail, fax, or through VA.gov.
Higher-Level Review
A Higher-Level Review asks a more experienced VA reviewer to look at your case without submitting new evidence. This option is best when you believe the original decision was incorrect based on the evidence already in your file.
Form:Â VA Form 20-0996, Decision Review Request: Higher-Level Review
Board Appeal
A Board Appeal sends your case to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, where a Veterans Law Judge reviews your decision. You can request a hearing, submit new evidence, or both.
Form:Â VA Form 10182, Decision Review Request: Board Appeal (Notice of Disagreement)
Getting Help with Appeals
The Norfolk DVS office and accredited VSOs can help you file an appeal at no cost. VSO representatives are trained in the appeals process and can advise you on which pathway is best for your situation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Filing without a complete claim. Missing documents delay decisions. Use the VA’s Fully Developed Claim process to submit everything at once.
Mistake 2: Missing the intent to file deadline. Filing an Intent to File preserves your effective date for up to one year while you gather evidence. The effective date determines back pay.
Mistake 3: Not appealing a denial. Many veterans accept a denial without appealing. If you have new evidence or believe VA made an error, you have options.
Mistake 4: Assuming you don’t qualify. Eligibility rules change, and conditions that were previously denied may now be presumptive under the PACT Act.
Mistake 5: Paying for claims help. Accredited VSOs and the Norfolk DVS office provide claims assistance free of charge. Never pay for basic claim filing.
Mistake 6: Ignoring secondary conditions. Conditions that develop because of an already service-connected condition can also be claimed. For example, knee problems caused by a service-connected back injury may qualify.
Mistake 7: Not updating dependency information. If you get married or have a child, update your VA records. You may be eligible for higher compensation.
Common Questions
How do I contact the Norfolk VA benefits office?
The Virginia Department of Veterans Services Norfolk office is at 6350 Center Dr., Bldg. 5, Suite 100, Norfolk, VA 23502. Call (757) 455-0814. Walk-ins are welcome Monday–Friday, 8:30–10:30 a.m. Appointments are available 12:00–3:00 p.m. at vvn.dvs.virginia.gov.
Do I need an appointment at the Norfolk DVS office?
Walk-ins are accepted from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. daily, but appointments are highly recommended to ensure you receive dedicated time with a Veterans Service Representative. Schedule online at vvn.dvs.virginia.gov.
What documents should I bring to my VA claims appointment?
Bring your DD-214, military medical records, current VA rating decision (if applicable), government-issued photo ID, private medical records, and dependency documents such as marriage and birth certificates.
Is there a VA hospital in Norfolk?
Norfolk does not have a full VA medical center. Veterans in Norfolk receive care through the Hampton VA Medical Center at 100 Emancipation Dr., Hampton, VA 23667. Clinics are also available in Chesapeake, Portsmouth, and Virginia Beach.
What is the Norfolk Vet Center and who can use it?
The Norfolk Vet Center at 1711 Church St. provides free readjustment counseling, mental health services, and family counseling. Combat veterans, veterans who experienced military sexual trauma, and their families can use Vet Center services without needing a VA disability rating or health care enrollment.
What is the 2026 VA disability rate for 100%?
A veteran rated 100% disabled without dependents receives $4,085.43 per month in 2026. With a spouse, the rate is $4,385.43. With a spouse and one child, it is $4,285.43.
Does Virginia tax military retirement pay?
Virginia does not tax VA disability compensation. Military retirement income is tax-free for veterans aged 55 and older. Starting January 1, 2026, the $40,000 cap on military benefits that can be subtracted from Virginia taxable income is removed.
How do I apply for the Virginia property tax exemption?
Contact the Norfolk Commissioner of the Revenue. You will need your VA rating decision showing 100% permanent and total disability and proof of residency. Surviving spouses who do not remarry are also eligible.
What is VA Form 21-526EZ used for?
VA Form 21-526EZ is the Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits. Use it to file an initial claim, request an increased rating, or apply for benefits before discharge.
How long does a VA disability claim take?
Initial claims generally take 90–120 days. Supplemental claims average around 60 days, with a 125-day goal for decisions. Appeals to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals can take months to years.
Can I get help filing a VA claim for free?
Yes. The Norfolk DVS office and accredited Veterans Service Organizations like the American Legion, VFW, and DAV provide free claims assistance. Never pay for basic claim filing.
What is the PACT Act and how does it affect Norfolk veterans?
The PACT Act expanded VA health care and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. Veterans who previously filed claims for conditions now presumptive under the PACT Act may be eligible to file a Supplemental Claim.
Key Takeaways
Norfolk DVS Office: 6350 Center Dr., Bldg. 5, Suite 100, Norfolk, VA 23502. Phone (757) 455-0814. Walk-ins 8:30–10:30 a.m., appointments 12:00–3:00 p.m.
VA Health Care:Â Hampton VA Medical Center serves Norfolk. Clinics in Chesapeake, Portsmouth, and Virginia Beach. Vet Center at 1711 Church St. offers free counseling.
2026 Disability Rates:Â 100% P&T veteran alone receives $4,085.43/month. 2.8% COLA applied December 2025.
Claim Form:Â VA Form 21-526EZ is the standard application for disability compensation.
Appeals: Three pathways — Supplemental Claim (new evidence), Higher-Level Review (no new evidence), Board Appeal (judge review).
State Benefits:Â 100% P&T veterans get full property tax exemption on primary residence. Military retirement income tax-free for veterans 55+.
Education:Â VMSDEP waives tuition at Virginia public colleges for qualifying dependents.
Employment: V3 program, Virginia Works, and VirginiaHasJobs.com/Veterans connect veterans with jobs.
Homeless Veterans:Â Call (877) 4AID-VET for immediate assistance. VASH program provides housing support.
Crisis Line:Â 988, press 1. Text 838255. Available 24/7.
Official Resources
VA.gov: https://www.va.gov – Disability claims, health care enrollment, benefits information
Virginia Department of Veterans Services: https://www.dvs.virginia.gov – State benefits, claims assistance, care centers
Hampton VA Medical Center: https://www.hampton.va.gov – Health care appointments, clinic locations
Norfolk Vet Center: https://www.vetcenter.va.gov – Readjustment counseling
Virginia Works Veterans Services: https://virginiaworks.gov/im-a-job-seeker/veterans/ – Employment assistance
VirginiaHasJobs.com/Veterans: https://virginiahasjobs.com/veterans – Job listings for veterans
Social Security Administration: https://www.ssa.gov – Disability benefits
Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net – 24/7 crisis support
National Call Center for Homeless Veterans: https://www.va.gov/homeless – (877) 424-3838
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Forms: https://www.va.gov/vaforms – All official VA forms
🇺🇸 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.
