VA Roanoke-Lynchburg VA: 2026 Facilities & Benefits Guide

Veterans Administration Roanoke-Lynchburg VA: Complete 2026 Guide to VA Facilities, Claims, and Virginia Benefits

The Veterans Administration in the Roanoke-Lynchburg region is anchored by the Salem VA Medical Center at 1970 Roanoke Boulevard, Salem, VA 24153, a 242-bed teaching hospital serving more than 78,000 veterans across 26 counties. The Roanoke VA Regional Benefit Office at 210 Franklin Road SW, Roanoke, VA 24011 processes disability, pension, survivor, and education claims. The Lynchburg clinic is the Private First Class Desmond T. Doss VA Clinic at 1600 Lakeside Drive.

Quick Facts

What the Veterans Administration Operates in the Roanoke-Lynchburg Region

The Veterans Administration operates two connected systems in southwestern Virginia: a health care delivery system run by the Veterans Health Administration and a benefits processing system run by the Veterans Benefits Administration. The health care system is the VA Salem Health Care System, which provides medical care at the Salem VA Medical Center and five community-based outpatient clinics in Danville, Lynchburg, Staunton, Tazewell, and Wytheville. The benefits system is the Roanoke VA Regional Benefit Office, which adjudicates claims for disability compensation, pension, education, and survivor benefits for veterans across Virginia.

The Salem VA Medical Center is a 242-bed teaching hospital that provides health care services to more than 78,000 eligible veterans in an area covering 26 counties, 13 independent cities, and 8,800 square miles in southwestern Virginia. It is an acute care Veterans Administration hospital with 24/7 emergency services, and it operates within Veterans Integrated Service Network 6 (VISN 6), which includes medical centers in North Carolina and Virginia. The medical center has three active medical school affiliations—the University of Virginia School of Medicine, the Edward Via Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine, and the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine—and more than 80 affiliations with colleges and universities. It has earned a five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for three consecutive years.

The Roanoke VA Regional Benefit Office is the Veterans Benefits Administration hub for the region. It is located in the Poff Federal Building at 210 Franklin Road SW, Roanoke, VA 24011 . The office handles disability compensation, education benefits, life insurance, pensions, and home loans. Veterans can schedule virtual or in-person appointments through the Visitor Engagement Reporting Application (VERA) .

VA Health Care in the Roanoke-Lynchburg Region: Locations and Services

VA Salem health care provides services at six locations: the Salem VA Medical Center and five community-based outpatient clinics. The system offers primary care, mental health care, women’s health services, specialty care, surgery, emergency care, and telehealth services.

Major VA Facilities in the Region

The Salem VA Medical Center emergency department is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The medical center conducts research in areas including PTSD, traumatic brain injury (TBI), diabetes, COPD, dementia, and substance abuse.

Lynchburg: Private First Class Desmond T. Doss VA Clinic

The Lynchburg community-based outpatient clinic was congressionally designated as the Private First Class Desmond T. Doss VA Clinic. Desmond Doss was a U.S. Army combat medic who received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Okinawa in World War II, and his story was depicted in the film Hacksaw Ridge. The clinic is located at 1600 Lakeside Drive, Lynchburg, VA 24501, with a main number of (434) 316-5000. It serves veterans in the Lynchburg area with primary care, mental health, and specialty referrals. Recent access data show that 84% of veterans at the clinic reported being able to get a routine appointment as soon as needed, and primary care wait times averaged 9 days for new patients and 49 days for established patients.

Roanoke Vet Center

The Roanoke Vet Center provides confidential readjustment counseling at no cost in a non-medical setting. Services include counseling for depression, PTSD, and the psychological effects of military sexual trauma (MST), as well as couples and family counseling. The center is located at 1401 Franklin Road SW, Suite 200, Roanoke, VA 24016. The main phone number is (540) 342-9726 . The Vet Center call center is available 24/7 at 877-927-8387 . Veterans do not need to be enrolled in VA health care or have a service-connected rating to use Vet Center services. The center also operates a satellite location in Lynchburg at American Legion Post 16, 1301 Greenview Drive.

VA Health Care Eligibility and Priority Groups

VA health care eligibility in the Roanoke-Lynchburg region follows federal rules. Veterans who served in the active military, naval, or air service and were separated under conditions other than dishonorable may qualify. Most veterans who enlisted after September 7, 1980, must have served 24 continuous months or the full period for which they were called to active duty, unless discharged earlier for a service-connected disability.

Enrollment is not automatic. Veterans must apply using VA Form 10-10EZ and be assigned to one of eight priority groups. The priority group determines access to care and copay responsibility.

VA Health Care Priority Groups (Summary)

Veterans with a compensable service-connected rating generally qualify for enrollment regardless of income. Veterans with a 0% rating or nonservice-connected status must provide income information from the previous calendar year when applying.

How to Apply for VA Health Care in the Roanoke-Lynchburg Region

The application for VA health care enrollment is VA Form 10-10EZ, Application for Health Benefits. Veterans can apply online at VA.gov, in person at the Salem VA Medical Center or any community clinic (including the Lynchburg clinic), or by mail.

Required Documents

• DD-214 or other discharge documents.

• VA disability award letters, if applicable.

• Income information from the previous calendar year (for veterans without a compensable service-connected rating).

After submission, VA reviews eligibility and assigns a priority group. Veterans can check enrollment status by calling 800-827-1000 or through their VA.gov account. Enrollment is required before scheduling appointments at VA Salem facilities.

PACT Act Enrollment

Since March 5, 2024, veterans who were exposed to toxins and other hazards during service—at home or abroad—can enroll directly in VA health care without first applying for VA benefits. This includes Vietnam, Gulf War, Iraq, and Afghanistan veterans, as well as those exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances.

The Roanoke VA Regional Benefit Office

The Roanoke VA Regional Benefit Office is the Veterans Benefits Administration hub for southwestern Virginia. It is located at 210 Franklin Road SW, Roanoke, VA 24011, inside the Poff Federal Building.

Hours and Services

Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday; the office is closed Saturday and Sunday. The regional office handles:

• Disability compensation claims (VA Form 21-526EZ).

• Veterans Pension claims (VA Form 21P-527EZ).

• Survivors Pension and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) claims.

• Education benefits, including GI Bill certification and Vocational Rehabilitation.

• Life insurance and home loan guaranty programs.

• Decision reviews and appeals.

Veterans are encouraged to schedule virtual or in-person appointments through VERA to reduce wait times. Visitors should bring a current, unexpired photo ID, a copy of their DD-214, relevant medical records, Social Security number, direct deposit information, and dependent information. Paid parking is available at Premier Parking, 515 Second Street SW, for $10 per day. VA-accredited representatives, including Veterans Service Organizations, are available at the Roanoke office to help veterans file claims and request decision reviews at no charge.

Virginia Department of Veterans Services Benefits Offices

The Virginia Department of Veterans Services (DVS) operates 23 benefit services offices across the state, providing free assistance with federal and state benefit claims, including disability compensation, VA pensions, survivor benefits, and appeals. Key offices serving the Roanoke-Lynchburg region include:

• Roanoke Benefits Office: 210 Franklin Road, Suite 810, Roanoke, VA 24011; phone (540) 982-2463 ext. 6547 .

• Lynchburg Benefits Office: 519 Leesville Road, Suite A, Lynchburg, VA 24502; phone (434) 582-5102 .

DVS services are provided free of charge, and the agency also operates the Virginia Veterans Care Center in Roanoke, a 240-bed facility providing skilled nursing, Alzheimer’s care, rehabilitation, and domiciliary care.

VA Disability Compensation for Roanoke-Lynchburg Veterans

VA disability compensation is a tax-free monthly payment from the VA to veterans with a service-connected disability. Virginia does not tax VA disability compensation. Roanoke-Lynchburg veterans receive the same nationwide rates as veterans in every other state.

2026 VA Disability Compensation Rates (Veteran Alone, No Dependents)

The 2026 rates reflect a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment effective December 1, 2025.

These figures are for a veteran alone with no dependents. Veterans with a 30% or higher rating receive additional amounts for a dependent spouse, children, or parents.

How to File a VA Disability Claim in the Roanoke-Lynchburg Region

The steps are the same for southwestern Virginia veterans as for veterans nationwide:

1. Obtain your DD-214 and service treatment records.

2. Gather medical evidence linking your current condition to service—private treatment records, nexus letters from a physician, and buddy statements from fellow service members.

3. Complete VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, or in person at the Roanoke Regional Office or a DVS benefits office.

4. File the claim and track its status through VA.gov or by calling 800-827-1000.

5. Attend any required C&P exam scheduled by VA.

A medical nexus letter is often the deciding factor. It must state that the veteran’s condition is “at least as likely as not” caused by military service. Claims without a nexus or with incomplete service records are more likely to be denied or rated lower than the condition warrants.

VA Claim Processing Times in 2026

VA disability claim processing times have improved substantially. The average time to complete a disability claim fell to 75.6 days in September 2026, compared to 141.5 days in January 2025—a reduction of nearly half. As of May 2026, the average was 78.6 days.

Average Processing Times by Claim Type (2026)

VA’s claims-processing accuracy is currently 94.02%, the highest rate in two years, and the backlog of claims older than 125 days fell below 100,000 for the first time since 2020. More than 60% of claims submitted by veterans are granted.

VA Pension for Roanoke-Lynchburg Wartime Veterans

VA pension is a needs-based monthly benefit for wartime veterans with limited income and net worth. It is separate from disability compensation. A veteran can receive pension only if they do not qualify for compensation, or if compensation is lower than the pension amount (in which case VA pays the difference).

2026 VA Pension Income and Net Worth Limits

The Maximum Annual Pension Rate (MAPR) for a veteran with no dependents is approximately $17,441 per year**. Veterans who need help with daily activities may qualify for **Aid and Attendance (A&A)** , which increases the MAPR to **$29,093 per year. VA pays the difference between the veteran’s countable income and the MAPR.

How to Apply for VA Pension

The application form is VA Form 21P-527EZ. Veterans must report all income and assets. VA applies a three-year look-back period for asset transfers; transferring assets for less than fair market value during that period can affect eligibility. Pension claims can be filed online, by mail to the Roanoke Regional Office, or with a DVS benefits representative.

Virginia State Benefits for Roanoke-Lynchburg Veterans

Virginia offers state-level benefits that supplement federal VA programs. The most significant are the 100% disabled veterans property tax exemption, the VMSDEP tuition waiver for dependents, and a military retirement income tax subtraction.

Virginia 100% Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption

Virginia exempts from taxation the real property, including the joint real property of married individuals, of any veteran rated by the VA as having a 100% service-connected, permanent and total disability. The exemption covers the primary residence and up to one acre of land it occupies. There are no income or net worth requirements for this exemption. The surviving spouse of a qualifying veteran may also be eligible if the veteran died after December 31 of the year the exemption was initially granted.

To apply, veterans should submit a statement from the VA confirming the 100% service-connected, permanent and total disability rating to their local real estate assessor’s office. A VA Form 21-4138 can be used to request the disability statement from VA. The exemption’s statewide cost has grown from $8 million in 2011 to an estimated $416 million in 2026, reflecting both expanded eligibility and rising property values.

Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP)

The Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP) waives tuition and mandatory fees at Virginia public colleges and universities for qualifying spouses and children of military veterans and service members who were killed, missing, captured, or permanently and totally disabled (rated 90% or more by the VA) as a result of military service. The program is administered by the Virginia Department of Veterans Services and the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) .

Eligibility requirements include:

• The sponsor must be a qualifying veteran or service member with a 90% or higher VA disability rating, or who died, is missing, or was captured.

• The applicant must be the spouse or child (ages 16–29) of the qualifying sponsor.

• The student must be admitted to a Virginia public college or university.

• The student must meet residency and dependency requirements.

The program covers tuition and mandatory fees at public institutions. It was restored to its prior statutory framework after 2024 reforms, with approximately $120 million in state funding over the 2024–2026 biennium to offset institutional costs. Applications and eligibility determinations are handled through the VMSDEP team at DVS and the financial aid office at the Virginia public institution.

Virginia Military Retirement Income Tax Subtraction

Virginia offers a state income tax subtraction for military retired pay. The subtraction has been phasing in and reached its full $40,000** level on 2025 returns; it **remains at $40,000 for 2026 with no age requirement. This means eligible veterans receiving military retired pay can subtract up to $40,000 from Virginia taxable income. Military retired pay received by Medal of Honor recipients is not taxed at all in Virginia. VA disability compensation is never taxable by Virginia.

Additional Virginia State Benefits

• Free hunting and fishing license for veterans with a 100% disability rating.

• Tuition waiver for dependents under VMSDEP.

• Virginia Veterans Care Centers in Roanoke and Richmond, providing skilled nursing, memory care, and rehabilitation.

• State veterans cemeteries in Amelia, Dublin, and Suffolk.

PACT Act and Toxic Exposure Claims in the Roanoke-Lynchburg Region

The PACT Act expanded VA health care and disability compensation for veterans exposed to toxic substances, including burn pits, Agent Orange, and radiation. The law added more than 20 presumptive conditions, expanded presumptive-exposure locations, and requires VA to provide a toxic exposure screening to every veteran enrolled in VA health care.

Since March 5, 2024, veterans exposed to toxins and other hazards during service can enroll directly in VA health care without first applying for VA benefits. This includes veterans who served in Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, or any other combat zone after 9/11, as well as those exposed to burn pits, sand and dust, particulates, oil well or sulfur fires, chemicals, radiation, warfare agents, depleted uranium, herbicides, and other occupational hazards.

Veterans who were previously denied a toxic exposure claim, or who have a newly presumptive condition, should consider filing a Supplemental Claim. The Roanoke Regional Office, DVS benefits offices, and VA Salem Health Care System can assist with PACT Act claims. Nationwide, 2.4 million PACT Act claims have been approved, with a 72.8% approval rate.

Appeals and Decision Reviews

Veterans who disagree with a VA decision have three decision review options: a Supplemental Claim, a Higher-Level Review, or a Board Appeal.

A veteran generally has one year from the date of a decision to file a decision review for most VA benefits. VA-accredited representatives at the Roanoke Regional Office and DVS benefits offices can help determine which lane is most likely to succeed.

Common Mistakes That Delay Roanoke-Lynchburg Veterans Benefits

The most common mistake is filing a VA claim without a medical nexus. A disability rating requires evidence linking the current condition to service. Buddy statements and private medical opinions can strengthen a claim, but they must specifically address the in-service event or exposure.

Other frequent errors:

• Missing the one-year appeal deadline. For most VA benefits, a veteran has one year from the date of a decision to file a Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or Board Appeal.

• Assuming the Virginia property tax exemption is automatic. The 100% disabled veterans exemption requires an application with the local real estate assessor, including a VA statement confirming the permanent and total disability rating.

• Not using DVS benefits offices. The Virginia Department of Veterans Services provides free claims assistance at offices in Roanoke and Lynchburg, but many veterans do not know the service exists.

• Ignoring the PACT Act. Veterans who served in toxic-exposure locations may qualify for new presumptive conditions. A previously denied claim may now be grantable.

• Confusing VA pension with disability compensation. Veterans cannot receive both at full value; VA pays the difference if pension is higher than compensation.

• Filing for VMSDEP without confirming sponsor eligibility. The program requires a sponsor rated 90% or more by the VA, or who died, is missing, or was captured. Families should confirm eligibility with DVS before applying.

Common Questions

Where is the VA medical center for Roanoke and Lynchburg?

The primary facility is the Salem VA Medical Center at 1970 Roanoke Boulevard, Salem, VA 24153. The main phone number is (540) 982-2463. It is a 242-bed teaching hospital with a 24/7 emergency department and serves more than 78,000 veterans across 26 counties.

Where is the VA clinic in Lynchburg?

The Lynchburg clinic is the Private First Class Desmond T. Doss VA Clinic at 1600 Lakeside Drive, Lynchburg, VA 24501. The main number is (434) 316-5000 . It provides primary care, mental health, and specialty referrals as part of the VA Salem Health Care System.

Where is the VA regional benefit office in Roanoke?

The Roanoke VA Regional Benefit Office is at 210 Franklin Road SW, Roanoke, VA 24011, in the Poff Federal Building. Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Appointments can be scheduled through VERA, and the national benefits hotline is 800-827-1000 .

How long does a VA disability claim take in 2026?

The VA’s national average for disability claims in 2026 is 75.6 to 80.7 days. Pension claims average about 57 days, and DIC claims about 73–85 days. Complex claims involving toxic exposure reviews or multiple conditions can take longer.

What is the VA disability rate for 100% in 2026?

A veteran alone with a 100% disability rating receives $3,938.58 per month** in 2026. The 10% rate is **$180.42 per month. The 2026 rates reflect a 2.8% COLA effective December 1, 2025.

What is the net worth limit for VA pension in 2026?

The net worth limit for Veterans Pension is $163,699** from December 1, 2025, through November 30, 2026. The annual income limit for a veteran alone is **$19,836, and the MAPR is approximately $17,441 per year.

Does Virginia offer a property tax exemption for 100% disabled veterans?

Yes. Virginia exempts the real property of any veteran rated by the VA as having a 100% service-connected, permanent and total disability, covering the primary residence and up to one acre of land. There are no income or net worth limits. Veterans should apply with their local real estate assessor and provide a VA statement confirming the rating.

What is the VMSDEP program?

The Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP) waives tuition and mandatory fees at Virginia public colleges and universities for spouses and children of veterans rated 90% or more disabled, or who died, are missing, or were captured. The program is administered by DVS and the student’s institution.

Does Virginia tax military retirement pay?

Virginia offers a $40,000 income tax subtraction for military retired pay in 2026, with no age requirement. Medal of Honor recipients’ retired pay is not taxed at all. VA disability compensation is never taxed by Virginia.

What if my VA claim is denied?

You have three options: a Supplemental Claim with new evidence, a Higher-Level Review by a senior adjudicator, or a Board Appeal before a Veterans Law Judge. For most benefits, you have one year from the decision to choose a review lane. A VA-accredited representative at the Roanoke Regional Office or a DVS benefits office can help.

Does the PACT Act apply to Roanoke-Lynchburg veterans?

Yes. The PACT Act applies nationwide. Veterans with toxic exposure histories and qualifying conditions can file claims through the Roanoke Regional Office, DVS benefits offices, or VA Salem. Since March 5, 2024, toxic-exposed veterans can enroll directly in VA health care without first applying for benefits.

Can surviving spouses get VA benefits in the Roanoke-Lynchburg region?

Yes. Surviving spouses may qualify for DIC, Survivors Pension, Chapter 35 education benefits, CHAMPVA health care, and VA home loan guaranty. The Virginia 100% disabled veterans property tax exemption may also extend to surviving spouses under certain conditions, and VMSDEP provides tuition benefits for qualifying surviving spouses and children. The Roanoke Regional Office and DVS benefits offices can assist with survivor claims.

Key Takeaways

• VA Salem Health Care System operates 6 locations: the Salem VA Medical Center and clinics in Danville, Lynchburg, Staunton, Tazewell, and Wytheville.

• Salem VA Medical Center at 1970 Roanoke Boulevard is a 242-bed teaching hospital with a 24/7 emergency department, serving more than 78,000 veterans across 26 counties.

• The Lynchburg clinic is the Private First Class Desmond T. Doss VA Clinic at 1600 Lakeside Drive; phone (434) 316-5000.

• The Roanoke VA Regional Benefit Office is at 210 Franklin Road SW, Roanoke, VA 24011; hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday–Friday. The benefits hotline is 800-827-1000.

• VA disability compensation in 2026 starts at $180.42 per month for a 10% rating** and rises to **$3,938.58 for a 100% veteran alone. The 2026 COLA is 2.8%.

• VA pension is needs-based. The 2026 net worth limit is $163,699**, the annual income limit for a veteran alone is **$19,836, and the MAPR is approximately $17,441 per year.

• Virginia exempts the primary residence and up to one acre from property tax for veterans rated 100% service-connected, permanent and total disabled, with no income limit.

• The VMSDEP program waives tuition and mandatory fees at Virginia public colleges for spouses and children of veterans rated 90% or more disabled or who died, are missing, or were captured.

• Virginia offers a $40,000 military retirement income tax subtraction for 2026, and VA disability compensation is never taxed.

• The PACT Act is open—toxic-exposed veterans can enroll directly in VA health care, and the VA provides toxic exposure screenings to enrolled veterans.

Official Resources

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): https://www.va.gov — disability compensation, pension, health care, GI Bill, claim status, decision reviews.

• VA Salem Health Care System: https://www.va.gov/salem-health-care/ — locations, services, enrollment, appointments.

• VA Salem About Us: https://www.va.gov/salem-health-care/about-us/ — system overview, research, affiliations, fast facts.

• Private First Class Desmond T. Doss VA Clinic: https://www.va.gov/salem-health-care/locations/private-first-class-desmond-t-doss-va-clinic/ — Lynchburg clinic services and contact information.

• Roanoke VA Regional Benefit Office: https://www.va.gov/roanoke-va-regional-benefit-office/ — benefits claims, VERA appointments, office hours, visitor information.

• Roanoke Vet Center: https://www.va.gov/roanoke-vet-center/ — readjustment counseling, address, hours, eligibility.

• VA Form 21-526EZ (Disability Compensation): https://www.va.gov/forms/21-526ez/ — online application and downloadable PDF.

• VA Health Care Enrollment (10-10EZ): https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ — online enrollment and form instructions.

• VA Pension Rates: https://www.va.gov/pension/veterans-pension-rates/ — current MAPR tables and net worth limits.

• VA Decision Reviews and Appeals: https://www.va.gov/decision-reviews/ — Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, Board Appeal.

• The PACT Act and Your VA Benefits: https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/ — presumptive conditions, exposure locations, eligibility.

• Virginia Department of Veterans Services (DVS): https://www.dvs.virginia.gov — state benefits, benefits offices, claims assistance, VMSDEP, veterans care centers.

• Virginia Military Survivors and Dependents Education Program (VMSDEP): https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/education-employment/vmsdep — eligibility and application information.

• Virginia Code § 58.1-3219.5 – Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption: https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title58.1/chapter32/section58.1-3219.5/ — statutory text and eligibility.

• Social Security Administration: https://www.ssa.gov — coordination of VA benefits with Social Security disability and retirement.

• Medicare.gov: https://www.medicare.gov — coordination of VA health care with Medicare for veterans age 65 and older.