Washington DC VA Office: Complete Veteran Guide 2026

What is the Veterans Affairs office in Washington DC?

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The Veterans Affairs office in Washington DC includes three key locations: the VA Central Office at 810 Vermont Avenue NW (national headquarters), the National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office at 1722 I Street NW (claims and benefits), and the Washington DC VA Medical Center at 50 Irving Street NW (healthcare).

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The DC VA Office of Veterans Affairs at 441 4th Street NW provides local support for District veterans. These offices serve approximately 30,000 veterans living in the District of Columbia.

Quick Facts

ItemDetails
Primary BenefitDisability compensation, pension, education, healthcare, home loans
EligibilityVeterans, service members, families, survivors
ApplicationVA.gov online, in-person, or by mail
Processing Time30-120 days for disability claims
Official AgencyU.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Required FormsVA Form 21-526EZ (disability), VA Form 10-10EZ (healthcare)
Updated For2026 COLA rates, PACT Act expansions

VA Central Office Washington DC

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

The VA Central Office at 810 Vermont Avenue NW is the national headquarters of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. This office oversees all VA operations nationwide and houses the Office of the Secretary, the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) central office, and multiple policy and administrative offices.

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The Central Office does not process individual veteran claims directly. Veterans seeking benefits should visit the National Capital Region Benefit Office at 1722 I Street NW or apply online through VA.gov.

Mailing Address:
810 Vermont Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20420

Key Offices at Central Office:

  • Office of Survivor’s Assistance

  • Office of Regulation and Policy Management

  • Office of Employment Discrimination Complaint Adjudication

  • VBA Central Office

Main VA Phone: 1-800-827-1000 (VA benefits hotline)

National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office

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The National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office is the primary location for DC veterans to file claims and access non-medical VA benefits. This office is located at 1722 I Street NW, Washington, DC 20006.

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Services Offered

The Regional Benefit Office helps with:

  • Disability Compensation — Monthly tax-free payments for service-connected conditions

  • Education Benefits — GI Bill, Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E)

  • Life Insurance — VA life insurance programs

  • Pensions — For wartime veterans with limited income

  • Home Loans — VA-backed mortgage guarantees

Contact Information

ItemDetails
Address1722 I Street NW, Washington, DC 20006
Main Phone1-800-827-1000
VR&E Direct(202) 530-9256
HoursMon–Fri: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Nearest MetroFarragut West (Blue, Orange, Silver lines)
WeekendsClosed

What to Bring to Your Visit

Before visiting the Regional Benefit Office, gather these documents:

  1. DD214 or separation papers

  2. Medical records relevant to your claim

  3. Social Security number

  4. Direct deposit information

  5. Dependent information — dates of birth and SSNs

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Scheduling an Appointment

Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments are strongly recommended. Schedule through the Visitor Engagement Reporting Application (VERA) on VA.gov. You will receive email confirmation of your appointment.

Washington DC VA Medical Center

The Washington DC VA Medical Center at 50 Irving Street NW is the primary healthcare facility for veterans in the District. This facility provides comprehensive medical, surgical, psychiatric, and specialty care.

Healthcare Services Available

The medical center offers:

  • Primary Care — Multiple clinics including Blue, Green, Orange, Purple, Red, Silver, and Yellow

  • Mental Health Care — Suicide prevention, counseling, addiction treatment

  • Women’s Health — Mammograms, gynecology, maternity care, menopause management

  • Specialty Care — Cardiology, dermatology, endocrinology, oncology, pulmonology, rheumatology

  • Surgery — Including bariatric surgery

  • Audiology & Speech Pathology

  • Caregiver Support

  • Palliative & Hospice Care

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Contact Information

ItemDetails
Address50 Irving Street NW, Washington, DC 20422
Main Phone202-745-8000
Toll-Free877-328-2621
Eligibility OfficeExt. 56282
HoursMon–Fri: 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Enrollment in VA Healthcare

You must be enrolled in VA healthcare before making appointments. Apply using VA Form 10-10EZ.

Documents needed for enrollment:

  • DD214 or discharge documents

  • VA disability award letters (if applicable)

  • Income information from previous calendar year

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

DC Office of Veterans Affairs

The District of Columbia Office of Veterans Affairs (OVA) provides local advocacy and support for DC veterans. This is separate from the federal VA system and focuses on District-specific benefits and programs.

Contact Information

ItemDetails
Address441 4th Street NW, Suite 707 North, Washington, DC 20001
Phone(202) 724-5454
Emailova@dc.gov
HoursMon–Fri: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Websiteova.dc.gov
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Services Provided

The DC Office of Veterans Affairs assists with:

  • Applying for federal VA benefits

  • Transition assistance from military to civilian life

  • Information and referral services

  • Advocacy support for veterans and survivors

  • Free transportation options for qualifying veterans

Washington DC Veteran Benefits

Federal VA Benefits

Veterans in Washington DC have access to all federal VA benefits:

BenefitDescriptionHow to Apply
Disability CompensationTax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditionsVA Form 21-526EZ
VA PensionFor low-income wartime veteransVA Form 21P-527EZ
GI BillEducation and training benefitsVA Form 22-1990
VA Home LoanGuaranteed mortgage loansCertificate of Eligibility
VA HealthcareMedical, mental health, and specialty careVA Form 10-10EZ
Life InsuranceVA-sponsored life insurance programsvaries by program
Survivor BenefitsDIC, survivors pensionVA Form 21P-534EZ
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District of Columbia State Benefits

DC offers additional benefits beyond federal programs:

Property Tax Relief

  • Veterans with 100% permanent and total service-connected disability may qualify for significant property tax relief on their primary residence

  • Surviving spouses of eligible veterans may also qualify

Education Benefits

  • DC Tuition Assistance Grant Program for DC residents

  • Access to Post-9/11 GI Bill at DC-area universities

Vehicle Benefits

Employment Preferences

  • Veterans preference in DC government hiring

  • Employment assistance through DC Department of Employment Services

Housing

How to Apply for VA Benefits in Washington DC

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Most VA benefits require:

  • Honorable or general discharge

  • Minimum service requirements (varies by benefit)

  • Service-connected condition (for disability compensation)

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Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Essential documents:

  • DD214 or separation papers

  • Medical records

  • Dependency records (marriage certificate, birth certificates)

  • Income information (for pension and healthcare)

Step 3: Apply Online or In Person

Online: VA.gov is the fastest method. Create a verified account and apply for benefits directly.

In Person: Visit the National Capital Region Benefit Office at 1722 I Street NW.

By Mail: Send completed forms to:
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444

Step 4: Track Your Claim

After submitting your claim:

  • You will receive a confirmation letter

  • Track status on VA.gov or call 1-800-827-1000

  • Respond promptly to any VA requests for additional information

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Step 5: Complete Required Exams

VA may schedule a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam. Attend all scheduled exams — missing an exam can delay or deny your claim.

VA Disability Compensation Rates 2026

VA disability compensation is a tax-free monthly payment for veterans with service-connected conditions. The 2026 rates include a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment effective December 1, 2025.

2026 Monthly Rates (Single Veteran, No Dependents)

Disability RatingMonthly Payment
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

2026 Rates with Dependents

RatingWith SpouseWith Spouse + 1 ParentWith Spouse + 2 Parents
30%$617.47$669.47$721.47
50%$1,241.90$1,329.90$1,417.90
70%$1,961.45$2,084.45$2,207.45
100%$4,158.17$4,334.41$4,510.65

Source: 2026 VA disability rates with 2.8% COLA

PACT Act and Toxic Exposure Benefits

The PACT Act is the largest healthcare and benefit expansion in VA history. It expands VA healthcare and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances.

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What the PACT Act Does

  • Expands VA healthcare eligibility for toxic-exposed veterans

  • Adds 20+ presumptive conditions for burn pits and Agent Orange

  • Adds more presumptive exposure locations

  • Requires toxic exposure screening for every enrolled veteran

  • Improves research and treatment for toxic exposures

Presumptive Conditions

A presumptive condition means VA automatically assumes your service caused the condition. You do not need to prove service connection — you only need to meet service requirements.

Key presumptive conditions include:

  • Certain cancers (respiratory, gastrointestinal, reproductive)

  • Respiratory conditions (asthma, COPD, rhinitis)

  • Cardiovascular conditions

  • Neurological conditions

Eligibility for PACT Act Healthcare

You may be eligible if you:

  • Served in Vietnam, Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, or other combat zones after 9/11

  • Deployed in support of Global War on Terror

  • Were exposed to toxins during military service

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VA Forms You Need

VA Form 21-526EZ — Disability Compensation

Use this form to apply for VA disability compensation and related benefits. The January 2026 revision is current.

Apply online: VA.gov/disability/file-disability-claim-form-21-526ez

VA Form 10-10EZ — Healthcare Enrollment

Use this form to apply for VA healthcare benefits. Submit online, by phone, by mail, or in person at the Washington DC VA Medical Center.

Other Common Forms

FormPurpose
VA Form 21P-527EZVA Pension
VA Form 22-1990GI Bill Education Benefits
VA Form 21P-534EZSurvivor Benefits (DIC)
VA Form 26-1880VA Home Loan Certificate of Eligibility
VA Form 10-10EZRHealthcare Renewal
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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Missing deadlines for appeals. You have one year from a decision letter to file a Supplemental Claim or Higher-Level Review.

2. Not attending C&P exams. Missing a Compensation & Pension exam can result in denial.

3. Filing incomplete claims. Missing DD214 or medical records delays processing.

4. Ignoring secondary conditions. Conditions caused or worsened by your primary service-connected disability qualify for additional compensation.

5. Not using accredited representatives. Unaccredited claim services may charge illegal fees and provide poor advice.

6. Failing to report changes. Changes in dependents, income, or address affect your benefits.

7. Not appealing denials. Many veterans accept denials without filing appeals. Most appeals succeed with proper evidence.

8. Waiting too long to apply. Back pay is limited to the date you file your intent to file.

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Appeals Process

If VA denies your claim or assigns a rating you disagree with, you have three decision review options:

1. Supplemental Claim

Submit new and relevant evidence with VA Form 20-0995. This reopens your claim with new evidence.

2. Higher-Level Review

Request a senior reviewer to examine your case for errors with VA Form 20-0996. No new evidence is considered.

3. Board Appeal

Appeal directly to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals with VA Form 10182. Choose from:

  • Direct review (no new evidence)

  • Evidence submission (submit new evidence)

  • Hearing (testify before a Veterans Law Judge)

Deadline: One year from your decision letter date.

Getting Help with Appeals

VA-accredited representatives can help you file a claim or request a decision review. Protect your benefits and avoid unlawful fees. Get responsible, qualified help from a VA accredited representative.

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Common Questions

What is the main VA office in Washington DC?

The VA Central Office at 810 Vermont Avenue NW is the national headquarters overseeing all VA operations. For claims and benefits, visit the National Capital Region Benefit Office at 1722 I Street NW. For healthcare, the Washington DC VA Medical Center is at 50 Irving Street NW.

How do I contact the Washington DC VA Regional Office?

Call 1-800-827-1000 (VA benefits hotline). The VR&E direct line is (202) 530-9256. Visit in person at 1722 I Street NW, Washington, DC 20006. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

What benefits can I get at the DC VA Regional Office?

The National Capital Region Benefit Office processes disability compensation, pension, education benefits, life insurance, home loans, and Veteran Readiness & Employment. Benefit counselors help you understand eligibility, gather documents, and file paperwork.

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How do I apply for VA healthcare in Washington DC?

Fill out VA Form 10-10EZ (Application for Health Care Benefits). Apply online at VA.gov, by phone, by mail, or in person at the Washington DC VA Medical Center Eligibility Office on the first floor. Bring your DD214 and income information.

What is the PACT Act and am I eligible?

The PACT Act expands VA healthcare and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. You may be eligible if you served in Vietnam, Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, or other combat zones after 9/11, or deployed in support of the Global War on Terror.

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What documents do I need to file a VA disability claim?

Bring your DD214 or separation papers, medical records, Social Security number, direct deposit information, and dependent information (dates of birth, SSNs). For healthcare enrollment, also bring income information and current insurance cards.

How long does a VA disability claim take?

VA disability claims typically take 30 to 120 days to process. Complex claims with multiple conditions or missing evidence may take longer. You can track your claim status on VA.gov or by calling 1-800-827-1000.

What are the 2026 VA disability rates?

The 2026 rates include a 2.8% COLA increase. A single veteran receives $180.42 monthly at 10% disability, $1,132.90 at 50%, and $3,938.58 at 100%. Rates increase with dependents.

Can I get property tax relief in Washington DC as a veteran?

Yes. Veterans with 100% permanent and total service-connected disability may qualify for significant property tax relief on their primary residence. Surviving spouses of eligible veterans may also qualify.

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Does DC have a state veterans home?

DC does not operate a dedicated state veterans home. However, DC veterans have access to the Armed Forces Retirement Home in Washington, DC, as well as veterans homes in neighboring Maryland and Virginia.

What is the DC Office of Veterans Affairs phone number?

Call (202) 724-5454 or email ova@dc.gov. The office is at 441 4th Street NW, Suite 707 North, Washington, DC 20001. Hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m..

How do I appeal a VA decision?

You have three options: Supplemental Claim (VA Form 20-0995), Higher-Level Review (VA Form 20-0996), or Board Appeal (VA Form 10182). You have one year from the decision letter to file. An accredited representative can help.

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What is a C&P exam and do I have to attend?

A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam is a medical examination VA schedules to evaluate your claimed condition. You should attend all scheduled exams. Missing an exam can result in denial or delay of your claim.

Can I get VA benefits if I have a general discharge?

VA benefits require an honorable or general discharge. Other-than-honorable discharges may be eligible for some benefits on a case-by-case basis. Character of discharge determinations can be appealed.

What is the VA benefits hotline?

Call 1-800-827-1000 (1-800-MyVA411). This hotline connects you to information about VA healthcare, pension, disability, home loan, and cemetery services.

Key Takeaways

  • Three main VA locations in DC: VA Central Office (810 Vermont Ave NW), National Capital Region Benefit Office (1722 I Street NW), and Washington DC VA Medical Center (50 Irving Street NW)

  • DC is home to approximately 30,000 veterans and serves as the national headquarters for the VA and major veteran service organizations

  • The National Capital Region Benefit Office processes disability compensation, pension, education, life insurance, and home loan benefits

  • 2026 VA disability rates include a 2.8% COLA: $180.42 monthly at 10%, $1,132.90 at 50%, $3,938.58 at 100% (single veteran)

  • The PACT Act expands healthcare and benefits for toxic-exposed veterans, adding 20+ presumptive conditions

  • Apply online at VA.gov using VA Form 21-526EZ (disability) or VA Form 10-10EZ (healthcare)

  • DC offers state benefits including property tax relief for 100% disabled veterans, education grants, and employment preferences

  • Bring your DD214 and medical records to any in-person visit to the Regional Benefit Office

  • Appeals must be filed within one year of a decision letter using Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or Board Appeal

  • Schedule appointments through VERA on VA.gov or call 1-800-827-1000

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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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