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How Do You Create a VA.gov Account?

Learn how to create a VA.gov account, whether to use ID.me or Login.gov, and what identity-verification steps you need before managing VA benefits online.

Direct answer

To create a VA.gov account for full online access, create or use a supported sign-in provider account such as Login.gov or ID.me, then complete identity verification when VA asks for it. You do not create a separate VA-only username for modern VA.gov benefit and records management.

VA.gov sign-in setup

New VA.gov access

Create Login.gov or ID.me

Use the same provider consistently

Existing provider account

Verification may still be required

Manage benefits

Complete identity verification

Needed for sensitive records and payments

Older DS Logon habits

Move to supported providers

Legacy paths may not be the long-term option

Health portal access

Check My HealtheVet separately

Not every health task is the same account surface

Need	Best path	Important caveat
New VA.gov access	Create Login.gov or ID.me	Use the same provider consistently
Existing provider account	Sign in with it on VA.gov	Verification may still be required
Manage benefits	Complete identity verification	Needed for sensitive records and payments
Older DS Logon habits	Move to supported providers	Legacy paths may not be the long-term option
Health portal access	Check My HealtheVet separately	Not every health task is the same account surface

Identity verification unlocks sensitive tasks

A basic sign-in provider account is not always enough. VA may ask you to verify identity before you can manage benefits, view records, change payment details, or download official documents.

Create access

1Choose Login.gov or ID.me from the VA.gov sign-in page.
2Create the provider account with your email, password, and security method.
3Return to VA.gov and sign in with that provider.
4Complete identity verification when prompted.
5Confirm you can reach the VA.gov profile, benefits, records, or claims tool you need.

FAQ

Do I need Login.gov or ID.me for VA.gov?

Yes for modern VA.gov access. VA says users sign in with Login.gov or ID.me for managing benefits and records online.

Can I still create a separate VA-only username?

No. For full VA.gov access, create or use a supported sign-in provider account and complete identity verification when required.

Is a VA.gov account the same as My HealtheVet?

No. VA.gov sign-in gives access to many VA services, while My HealtheVet is a health portal. VA has been moving users toward supported sign-in providers.

Sources & method

We reviewed these references while writing this answer. Figures are estimates — confirm safety-critical work with a professional. Last updated June 7, 2026.