VA Initiates Campaign to Replace Old ID Cards

All VA health care facilities have begun an aggressive campaign to replace old veteran ID cards (VIC) with the new VIC for all enrolled veterans. The new VIC does not include sensitive information (social security number and date of birth) on the front of the card. The new card reduces veterans’ vulnerability to identity theft and demonstrates VA's commitment to securing the confidential personal information of all enrolled veterans.

Additionally, in recognition of the sacrifices made by former Prisoners of War (POW), Purple Heart (PH) Medal recipients and veterans with service-connected (SC) disabilities, “POW, PH and/or SC” indicators will be printed on the card for veterans with those verified eligibilities. The addition of these eligibility identifiers to the card will enhance identification of former POWs, Purple Heart Medal recipients and service-connected veterans when applying for special benefits.

Visit your local VA medical facility to have your picture taken and a new VIC will be mailed to you. If your eligibility for VA health care is already verified, your VIC will be mailed to you within 5-7 days. It may take longer to receive the card if your eligibility has not been verified or if you are not currently enrolled in the VA health care system. Be sure to bring with you any documents to verify your military service such as your DD214, Certificate of Discharge, and any additional proof to verify any special eligibility, such as proof of receipt of PH medal.

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For questions about Health Care Eligibility, please visit the VA inquiry website.