World War II veterans eligible for no-cost VA health care

In a recent press release, the Department of Veterans Affairs is reminding all World War II veterans that they are eligible for no-cost inpatient and outpatient health care.

This expansion is made possible through The American Legion-supported legislation, Joseph Maxwell Cleland and Robert Joseph Dole Memorial Veterans Benefits and Health Care Improvement Act of 2022 (Cleland-Dole Act), which was signed into law December 2022.

World War II veterans who served between Dec. 7, 1941, and Dec. 31, 1946, are eligible under this expansion, regardless of their length of service or financial status. These veterans will not have to pay copays, enrollment fees or monthly premiums.

All World War II veterans are encouraged to enroll in VA health care. For veterans no currently enrolled, the VA is reaching out by phone and mail to encourage World War II veterans to apply today. Veterans who enroll may also keep their private providers, Medicare and most other insurance to meet their health care needs.

To apply for VA health care, visit VA’s health care enrollment website, call 1-800-MyVA411 (800-698-2411), or visit your nearest VA medical center or clinic.

Veterans who were not approved for VA health care in the past due to income limits should apply again; income levels no longer apply due to this expansion. VA cannot automatically enroll World War II veterans in health care; they must apply for VA health care if they are not currently enrolled.

“These members of the Greatest Generation answered the call to serve when our nation – and the world – needed them most. Now, it’s our job to serve them in every way that we can,” said VA Under Secretary for Health, Dr. Shereef Elnahal. “We are proud to provide world-class, no-cost health care to these heroes at VA, and we encourage all of them to enroll today.”