Veterans Resources in DC: Claims, Health Care & Tax Relief

Veterans Resources in Washington, D.C.: Complete 2026 Guide

Veterans in Washington, D.C. have access to a wide range of federal and local resources, including the Washington DC VA Medical Center, the National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office, the Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs, and a disabled veteran homestead deduction of up to $445,000. These resources provide health care, claims assistance, employment services, housing support, and tax relief.

Quick Facts

Washington DC VA Medical Center: Health Care for Veterans

The Washington DC VA Medical Center (DC VAMC) is the primary VA health care facility serving veterans in the nation’s capital. Located at 50 Irving Street NW, the hospital provides primary care and specialty health services around the clock.

Services Offered at DC VAMC

The medical center offers a comprehensive range of health services, including:

• Primary care and specialty care

• Bariatric surgery

• Mental health care and suicide prevention

• Palliative and hospice care

• Women’s health care

• Gastroenterology

• Audiology

• Cardiology

• Dental services

• Occupational therapy

• Anesthesia services

• Caregiver support

Hours and Contact Information

The DC VAMC operates 24/7 for emergency services. Facility hours may vary for different services.

Getting to the DC VAMC

The medical center is accessible by Metro and offers several transportation options:

• Valet Service: Available at the main entrance for veterans with appointments, 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday

• Satellite Parking Shuttle: Runs Monday through Friday from the Armed Forces Retirement Home satellite parking lot and Columbia Heights/Brookland Metro stations

• DAV Vans: Transportation for veterans and authorized caregivers to scheduled medical appointments

• Beneficiary Travel: Round-trip transportation, mileage reimbursement, or special mode transport for qualifying veterans

Mental Health and Crisis Resources at DC VAMC

Walk-in mental health care is available at the Washington VA Medical Center in Room 1D107. Veterans can call 202-745-8267 for mental health appointments or 202-745-8577 for drug or alcohol evaluation and treatment.

Crisis Resources:

• Call 988 (Press 1 for Veterans)

• Text 838255 to connect with the Veterans Crisis Line

• Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for immediate medical assistance

Women Veterans Health Care

The Women’s Health Clinic is located on the first floor of the DC VAMC in suite 1E-500. Services include:

• Primary and preventive care

• Mammography and cervical screenings (Pap tests)

• Contraceptives and menopause support

• Reproductive health care including maternity care and fertility services

• Mental health evaluation

• Sexual trauma counseling for male and female veterans

Contact the Women’s Health Clinic at 202-745-8582 or call/text 855-VA-WOMEN (855-829-6636).

National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office

The National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office is the VA facility that processes disability compensation, pension, education, and other non-medical VA benefits for veterans in Washington, D.C.

Services Provided

The regional office helps veterans, service members, and their families access:

• Disability compensation

• Education benefits (GI Bill)

• Life insurance

• Pensions

• Home loans

• Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)

Location and Contact

Scheduling an Appointment

Visitors seeking assistance from the Public Contact Team are encouraged to schedule an appointment using the Visitor Engagement Reporting Application (VERA). This self-service portal allows visitors to schedule, reschedule, and cancel appointments online.

Documents to Bring

When visiting the regional office, bring:

• A copy of your DD-214 or separation papers

• Copies of relevant medical records

• Your Social Security number

• Direct deposit information

• Information about your dependents (dates of birth, SSNs)

VA Accredited Representatives

VA-accredited representatives can help you file a claim or request a decision review. The VA advises veterans to protect their benefits and avoid unlawful fees by working only with accredited representatives.

DC Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs (MOVA)

The DC Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs (MOVA) is the District’s local agency for veteran support. MOVA assists District veterans, their dependents, and survivors in applying for and using federal VA benefits.

MOVA Services

MOVA provides:

• Claims assistance: District Veteran Service Officers (DVSOs) help veterans file VA disability compensation claims, healthcare enrollment, non-service-connected pension claims, and burial/death benefit claims

• VA appeals process guidance: MOVA advises veterans on the VA appeals process and can track claims in real-time through the Veterans Benefits Management System (VBMS)

• Transition assistance: Support for veterans recently released from active duty transitioning to civilian life

• Advocacy: Representation and information services concerning federal and District laws affecting veterans

MOVA Contact Information

District Veteran Service Officer

MOVA’s District Veteran Service Officer is Robert Pearson. Contact him at Robert.Pearson@dc.gov or 202-724-7116 for claims assistance.

MOVA Impact

MOVA has assisted and filed claims for over 95 DC veterans, helping them access VA disability compensation, healthcare, pension, and burial benefits.

DC Disabled Veteran Property Tax Exemption

Washington, D.C. offers a significant property tax benefit for disabled veterans through the Disabled Veteran Homestead Deduction. As of 2026, the District is considering legislation to expand this to a full property tax exemption.

Current Benefit (Tax Year 2026)

The current Disabled Veteran Homestead Deduction reduces the assessed value of a qualifying veteran’s primary residence by up to $445,000.

Proposed Expansion (2026 Legislation)

The Disabled Veterans Complete Property Tax Exemption Amendment Act of 2025 (Bill B26-0476) would:

• Eliminate the current household income limit of $159,750

• Replace the $445,000 deduction with a 100% property tax exemption

• Align D.C. with Maryland and Virginia, which already offer full exemptions

• Expand eligibility to surviving spouses of eligible disabled veterans and veterans who died in the line of duty

How to Apply for the Disabled Veteran Homestead Deduction

Step 1: Verify your VA disability rating is classified as total and permanent or 100% TDIU.

Step 2: Confirm your total household federal adjusted gross income is below $163,500 for tax year 2026.

Step 3: Complete the homestead deduction application through the DC Office of Tax and Revenue.

Step 4: Submit required documentation, including VA disability rating letter, proof of residency, and proof of ownership.

Step 5: Await approval and receive the reduced property tax assessment.

Comparison: DC vs. Neighboring States

VA Claims Assistance in Washington, D.C.

Veterans in Washington, D.C. have multiple options for free VA claims assistance. No veteran should pay for claims help.

Where to Get Free Claims Assistance

Veterans Disability Claims Clinic at DC VAMC

The DC VAMC hosts a weekly Veterans Disability Claims Clinic where veterans receive one-on-one assistance with VA claims. The clinic is held in the Main Building – Transition and Care Management Center at 50 Irving Street NW. The service is free.

Note: As of early 2026, the weekly VBA Disability Claims Clinics are temporarily cancelled and will resume when government funding has been restored.

The Veterans Consortium Legal Advice and Referral Clinic

The Veterans Consortium Pro Bono Program operates free legal advice and referral clinics for veterans in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. In-person clinics are held at the DC VA Medical Center and are walk-in only.

Clinic Services:

• VA benefits and appeals assistance

• Consumer law

• Employment law

• Eviction defense

• DD-214 upgrade assistance

Contact: Call (202) 733-3317 for questions about the clinic or appointments.

Common Mistakes Veterans Make with VA Claims

• Filing without complete evidence: Claims without medical documentation are frequently denied

• Missing appeal deadlines: You have one year from a VA decision to file an appeal

• Not claiming secondary conditions: Conditions caused by your primary disability may qualify for additional compensation

• Paying unaccredited “claim sharks”: Free assistance is available through MOVA, the VA, and accredited VSOs

• Giving up after denial: Free appeals representation is available through the Veterans Consortium and VSOs

Homeless Veteran Resources in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. offers multiple resources for veterans experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness.

Emergency Contacts

VA Community Resource and Referral Center

The VA Community Resource and Referral Center is located at 1500 Franklin Street, NE, Washington, DC. The center provides:

• Immediate food and shelter

• Transitional and permanent housing assistance

• Job training and life skills development

• Financial support to prevent homelessness

• Treatment for addiction and depression

• Health and dental care

Winterhaven Homeless Veterans Stand Down

The DC VAMC hosts an annual Winterhaven Homeless Veterans Stand Down, providing health care, benefits assistance, and community resources to unsheltered and at-risk veterans. Services include legal aid, free tax preparation, substance abuse programs, mental health services, and psychosocial support.

Veterans on The Rise

Veterans on The Rise (VOTR) provides Community Based Emergency Residential Services (CERS) placement to homeless veterans referred by the DC VA Medical Center. VOTR operates 24 beds (20 for men and 4 for women) for emergency transitional housing for up to 60 days.

Friendship Place Veterans First Program

Friendship Place’s Veterans First program provides rapid rehousing and homeless prevention services for veterans and their families in the Washington, D.C. area. Services include employment services, job placement, benefit services, and assistance with locating and moving into permanent housing.

Veteran Employment Services in Washington, D.C.

Veterans in Washington, D.C. receive priority employment services through the DC Department of Employment Services (DOES) and other programs.

DC Department of Employment Services (DOES)

Veterans are entitled to priority service through DOES, including:

• A 24-hour “Veterans Only” hold on all new job orders received by the DOES Workforce System

• Placement of qualified veterans’ résumés before non-veterans’ résumés on job order screens

• Assistance from Veterans Specialists dedicated to providing priority employment and training

• One-on-one case management services

• Assessment of individual interests, skills, and abilities

• Follow-up services

Jobs for Veterans State Grant (JVSG)

The District of Columbia’s Jobs for Veterans State Grant program is funded by a $491,963 grant from the U.S. Department of Labor. The program provides dedicated employment services to veterans with significant barriers to employment.

Contact for Veteran Employment Services

Contact the Veterans Program Coordinator at 202-698-5819 for additional information.

Other Employment Resources

• Easterseals DC MD VA: Employment services for veterans and active duty military personnel. Located at 1420 Spring Street, 3rd Floor, Silver Spring, MD 20910

• Paralyzed Veterans of America: Employment support through the Veterans Career Program. Located at 801 18th Street NW, Washington, DC. Phone: 202-416-6475

• CareerOneStop: Employment network finder for DC

Military Treatment Facilities in Washington, D.C.

Active-duty service members and eligible beneficiaries have access to military treatment facilities (MTFs) in the Washington, D.C. area.

Andrew Rader U.S. Army Health Clinic

Located at Fort McNair, the Andrew Rader U.S. Army Health Clinic provides vision, hearing, and lab services to active-duty service members on a walk-in basis.

316th Medical Group

The 316th Medical Group is located at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling and delivers preventive, acute, and chronic medical and dental care.

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC) in Bethesda, Maryland, is the nation’s premier military medical facility. It serves as a referral center for complex injuries and conditions, including limb loss.

Services: WRNMMC’s Military Advanced Training Center (MATC) has treated approximately 2,000 patients with limb loss, with more than 500 remaining on active duty and more than 70 service members with significant amputations returning to the battlefield.

How to Apply for Veterans Resources in Washington, D.C.

Applying for veterans resources in Washington, D.C. follows a straightforward process. Start with the resource that matches your immediate need.

Decision Tree: Which Resource Do You Need?

Step-by-Step: Getting Started

Step 1: Identify your primary need using the decision tree above.

Step 2: Gather required documents:

• DD-214

• Photo ID

• Proof of DC residency

• Medical records (if applicable)

• VA rating decision letter (if applicable)

Step 3: Contact the appropriate office:

• Call ahead to schedule appointments where required

• For claims assistance, MOVA accepts walk-ins but appointments are recommended

Step 4: Complete applications and submit documentation.

Step 5: Follow up on your claim or application. Keep copies of everything you submit.

Common Questions

What VA hospital serves Washington, D.C.?

The Washington DC VA Medical Center at 50 Irving Street NW serves veterans in the nation’s capital. It provides primary care, specialty health services, mental health care, women’s health care, and emergency services 24/7. Call 202-745-8000 for general information.

How do I file a VA claim in Washington, D.C.?

Contact the DC Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs at (202) 724-5454 or the National Capital Region Benefit Office at 1722 I St NW. Both offer free claims assistance. MOVA’s District Veteran Service Officer can file claims and track them in real-time.

Does Washington, D.C. offer property tax relief for disabled veterans?

Yes. The Disabled Veteran Homestead Deduction reduces assessed value by up to $445,000 for qualifying veterans with total and permanent disability or 100% TDIU. The income limit for tax year 2026 is $163,500. Proposed legislation would expand this to a 100% exemption.

What is the income limit for the DC disabled veteran homestead deduction?

The total household federal adjusted gross income cannot exceed $163,500 for tax year 2026. This is the same limit applicable to the Senior/Disabled Tax Relief program.

How do I get emergency shelter as a veteran in DC?

Call the DC 24-Hour Emergency Shelter Hotline at 800-535-7252 or the VA Homeless Veterans Hotline at 877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838). The VA Community Resource and Referral Center at 1500 Franklin Street NE also provides immediate assistance.

Does DC have free legal help for veterans?

Yes. The Veterans Consortium Pro Bono Program operates free legal advice and referral clinics at the DC VA Medical Center. Clinics are walk-in only. Call (202) 733-3317 for questions. Services include VA appeals, consumer law, employment law, and eviction defense.

What employment services are available for veterans in DC?

The DC Department of Employment Services (DOES) provides priority employment services for veterans, including a 24-hour “Veterans Only” hold on job orders. Contact the Veterans Program Coordinator at 202-698-5819.

How do I schedule an appointment at the National Capital Region Benefit Office?

Use the Visitor Engagement Reporting Application (VERA) at va.my.site.com/VAVERA to schedule, reschedule, or cancel appointments. Walk-ins may be accommodated but appointments are recommended.

What women’s health services are available at the DC VA Medical Center?

The Women’s Health Clinic at DC VAMC offers primary and preventive care, mammography, Pap tests, contraceptives, menopause support, reproductive health care, mental health evaluation, and sexual trauma counseling. Call 202-745-8582.

Does MOVA help with VA appeals?

Yes. MOVA’s District Veteran Service Officer advises veterans on the VA appeals process and can track claims in real-time through the Veterans Benefits Management System (VBMS).

What is the Veterans Disability Claims Clinic at DC VAMC?

The clinic provides one-on-one assistance with VA claims at the DC VA Medical Center’s Transition and Care Management Center. It is free. As of early 2026, the weekly clinics are temporarily cancelled and will resume when government funding is restored.

How do I contact the DC Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs?

MOVA is located at 441 4th Street NW, Suite 707 North, Washington, DC 20001. Phone: (202) 724-5454. Email: ova@dc.gov. Hours: Monday–Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

What military treatment facilities are near Washington, D.C.?

Andrew Rader U.S. Army Health Clinic at Fort McNair, 316th Medical Group at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. These facilities serve active-duty service members and eligible beneficiaries.

Does DC provide transition assistance for recently separated veterans?

Yes. MOVA supports veterans recently released from active-duty service with transition assistance from military life to civilian life. Contact MOVA at (202) 724-5454.

What should I bring to my VA claims appointment?

Bring your DD-214, photo ID, Social Security number, direct deposit information, dependent information, and copies of relevant medical records. The National Capital Region Benefit Office can help you find out what documents to bring.

Key Takeaways

• The Washington DC VA Medical Center at 50 Irving Street NW provides comprehensive health care, including primary care, mental health, women’s health, and 24/7 emergency services.

• The National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office at 1722 I St NW processes disability compensation, education, pension, and home loan benefits for DC veterans.

• The DC Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs (MOVA) provides free claims assistance through District Veteran Service Officers who can file claims and track them in VBMS.

• **The Disabled Veteran Homestead Deduction reduces assessed property value by up to $445,000** for qualifying veterans, with an income limit of $163,500 for TY 2026. Proposed legislation would create a 100% exemption.

• Free legal help is available through the Veterans Consortium Pro Bono Program’s walk-in clinics at the DC VA Medical Center.

• Homeless veterans can access emergency shelter by calling 800-535-7252 or 877-4AID-VET. The VA Community Resource and Referral Center provides immediate assistance.

• Veterans receive priority employment services through the DC Department of Employment Services, including a 24-hour “Veterans Only” hold on job orders.

• Women veterans have dedicated health services at the DC VAMC Women’s Health Clinic, including mammography, menopause support, and sexual trauma counseling.

• Multiple military treatment facilities serve the DC area, including Fort McNair, Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

• All claims assistance is free. Never pay for help filing VA claims. Contact MOVA, the VA, or an accredited Veterans Service Organization.

Official Resources

VA Resources

• Washington DC VA Medical Center: https://www.va.gov/washington-dc-health-care

• National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office: https://www.va.gov/national-capital-region-va-regional-benefit-office

• VA Disability Compensation: https://www.va.gov/disability

• VA Health Care: https://www.va.gov/health

• VA Benefits Forms: https://www.va.gov/find-forms

• VA Homeless Veterans: https://www.va.gov/homeless

• Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 (Press 1)

DC Government Resources

• DC Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs: https://ova.dc.gov

• DC Office of Tax and Revenue: https://otr.cfo.dc.gov

• DC Department of Employment Services: https://does.dc.gov

• DC Office of Veterans Affairs Phone: (202) 724-5454

• DC OVA Email: ova@dc.gov

Legal and Advocacy Resources

• Veterans Consortium Pro Bono Program: https://www.vetsprobono.org

• Veterans Consortium Phone: (202) 733-3317

• VFW: https://www.vfw.org

• American Legion: https://www.legion.org

• Disabled American Veterans: https://www.dav.org

Federal Resources

• Social Security Administration: https://www.ssa.gov

• Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov

• Medicaid: https://www.medicaid.gov

• USA.gov Veterans Services: https://www.usa.gov/veterans

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