Accessing VA documents and records is essential, especially when applying for VA benefits or services. Veterans do not need to visit VA offices to access them as these resources are now available online. Below are some important VA records and documents veterans may access online.

Veteran ID cards

There are different types of VA ID cards that veterans can use to prove veteran status. The most common ones include:

• Department of Defense Identification Card. Eligible veterans can acquire this card online by first downloading and filling in DD Form 1172-2 from the VA. After filling in the form, applicants are required to submit it to a Real-Time Automated Personnel Identification System office for processing.
• Veteran Health Identification Card. This type of ID is usually received after enrolling in VA health care. Veterans can apply for VA health care online through the VA website. After the application is successful, it is important to contact the local VA Medical Centre to arrange for the VHIC picture.
• Veteran ID card. The VIC card application is readily available online through the VA website.

Military records

Veterans can access military records such as DD214, DD215, awards and decorations, qualifications, and security clearance via the milConnect website. Qualified users must first register with milConnect to obtain records. Veterans must also have a Premium DS Logon account to get full access to the website. The milConnect website does not recognize other veterans’ online accounts, like My HealtheVet or ID.Me.

VA benefits letters

Veterans can download VA eligibility letters or award letters on DS Logon, My HealtheVet, or ID.Me account. Registering for these accounts can be done online by visiting their respective sites. For any questions or technical problems downloading the letters, contact MyVA4411 at 800-698-2411 for assistance. 

VA payment history

Veterans can sign in with their DS Logon, My HealtheVet, or ID.me online accounts to view their VA payment history. The payment information available includes disability compensation, pension benefits, education benefits, survivors’ pension benefits, and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC).

Application for a discharge upgrade

By upgrading discharge status, veterans can become eligible for the benefits earned during their military service. Online applications are available for the discharge upgrade. 

Application for a VA home loan Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

The COE confirms to the lender that a veteran is eligible for the VA-backed home loan or Native American Direct Loan. Qualified veterans can apply for COE online through the eBenefits website or the VA LGY system.

Ensuring access to all necessary documents and IDs is an important process for any veteran. These documents will support benefits claims and other vital resources available to former service members.