Quick answer: In 2026, VA health care eligibility is based on your service history, not income alone. Enrolled veterans are placed into priority groups 1–8, and the PACT Act expanded eligibility for toxic-exposed veterans. You apply with VA Form 10-10EZ online at VA.gov, often for free or low-cost care.
Key takeaways
- VA health care eligibility depends on your service history, length of service, and discharge status.
- Enrolled veterans are sorted into priority groups 1 through 8, which affect costs and access.
- The PACT Act expanded eligibility for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxins.
- You apply with VA Form 10-10EZ online, by phone, by mail, or in person.
- Many enrolled veterans pay little or nothing for covered care, prescriptions, and mental health services.
What does VA health care cover?
VA health care provides a wide range of services, including primary and specialty care, hospital stays, mental health treatment, prescriptions, preventive care, and more. For many veterans, this care is free or comes with modest copays. The VA also offers programs for women veterans, mental health, and long-term care.
VA health care can work alongside other coverage such as Medicare. To understand how they fit together, see our Medicare guide, and for the full benefits picture, our Veterans Benefits 2026 Guide.
Who qualifies in 2026?
Most veterans who served on active duty and received a discharge other than dishonorable are eligible to enroll. Generally, you must have served a minimum period (often 24 continuous months or the full period you were called to active duty), though exceptions apply for service-connected disabilities, early discharges, and certain other situations.
The PACT Act broadened eligibility so that veterans who served in specific locations and time periods tied to toxic exposure can enroll, even if they were previously turned away. Veterans with service-connected disabilities and those receiving VA disability compensation usually have the strongest eligibility. See our PACT Act Benefits 2026 and VA Disability Benefits 2026 guides.
VA priority groups 1–8
Once you enroll, the VA assigns you to one of eight priority groups. Priority Group 1 includes veterans with the most severe service-connected disabilities, while Group 8 includes those with higher incomes and no service-connected disabilities. Your group affects your copays and how quickly you can access certain services.
| Priority group | Who it generally includes |
|---|---|
| Group 1 | Veterans with 50%+ service-connected disability or rated unemployable |
| Groups 2–6 | Veterans with lower service-connected ratings, certain exposures, or special status |
| Groups 7–8 | Veterans with no service-connected disability and higher income |
Because the exact criteria and income thresholds change and vary by location, confirm your priority group and any copays at VA.gov.
How to apply for VA health care
You apply using VA Form 10-10EZ. You can submit it online at VA.gov, by phone, by mail, or in person at a VA medical center. Have your DD214, financial information, and any current health insurance details ready. Once enrolled, you can choose a VA facility and schedule your first appointment.
Veterans often combine VA health care with Medicare or other federal benefits. Explore how programs overlap in our Social Security guide, and for filing tips across all VA programs, read How to Apply for VA Benefits.
Key 2026 changes
The PACT Act continues to be the biggest driver of change, with more toxic-exposed veterans becoming eligible to enroll in 2026. If you served near burn pits or other hazards and were previously denied, it is worth re-applying. For survivors who need health-related benefits, see our VA Survivor Benefits 2026 guide.
People Also Ask
Who is eligible for VA health care in 2026?
In 2026, most veterans who served on active duty with a discharge other than dishonorable and met minimum service requirements can enroll. The PACT Act expanded eligibility for toxic-exposed veterans. Veterans with service-connected disabilities have the strongest eligibility. Confirm your status at VA.gov.
How do I apply for VA health care?
You apply with VA Form 10-10EZ online at VA.gov, by phone, by mail, or in person at a VA medical center. Have your DD214 and financial information ready. Once enrolled, the VA assigns you to a priority group and you can schedule your first appointment.
Is VA health care free in 2026?
For many veterans, VA health care is free or low-cost, especially for service-connected conditions. Some veterans in higher priority groups pay modest copays for certain services or prescriptions. Your costs depend on your priority group, income, and the type of care you receive.
Can I have VA health care and Medicare?
Yes. You can have both VA health care and Medicare, and many veterans do. VA care does not replace Medicare, and having both can give you more flexibility in where you get treatment. Each system has its own rules, so review both to coordinate your coverage.
What are VA priority groups?
VA priority groups are eight categories (1 through 8) that determine your access and costs after you enroll in VA health care. Group 1 includes veterans with the most severe service-connected disabilities, while Groups 7–8 include those with higher income and no service-connected disability.
Official sources
- VA health care (VA.gov)
- VA health care eligibility (VA.gov)
- The PACT Act and your VA benefits (VA.gov)
Reviewed by the Guru Gazette Editorial Review Team · Last reviewed June 2026. Figures are verified against official government sources; see our Fact-Checking Policy.
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