The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is set to implement significant changes to its online sign-in process in 2025. Veterans and beneficiaries will need to transition to using either Login.gov or ID.me accounts to access VA online services, enhancing security and simplifying the user experience.
Key Takeaways
- Transition Date:
My HealtheVet sign-ins will be disabled after January 31, 2025, and
DS Logon sign-ins will be disabled after September 30, 2025. - New Sign-In Options: Veterans will need to use Login.gov or ID.me accounts.
- Security Enhancements: Both new sign-in options require multifactor authentication to protect user data.
- Support Available: VA will provide information and support throughout the transition.
Why the Change?
The VA is making this transition in response to feedback from Veterans who have expressed a desire for fewer, more secure sign-in options. The new system aims to reduce confusion and enhance the security of personal information.
- Simplified Experience: Veterans have long requested fewer account options to manage their benefits and care. The new system will allow them to use a single account for all VA services.
- Enhanced Security: Identity theft and medical identity theft are serious issues. In 2023, the Federal Trade Commission received over 1 million reports of identity theft, with Veterans and military retirees reporting $350 million in losses to fraud. The new sign-in options meet modern security standards to protect against these threats.
- Federal Compliance: The transition aligns with federal policies requiring modern, secure sign-in accounts.
How to Prepare
Veterans and beneficiaries are encouraged to create their Login.gov or ID.me accounts as soon as possible to ensure a smooth transition. The process is straightforward and takes about 10 minutes.
- Create an Account: Visit the VA website to learn how to create a Login.gov or ID.me account.
- Set Up Multifactor Authentication: Both Login.gov and ID.me require multifactor authentication, adding an extra layer of security.
- Verify Your Identity: This one-time process ensures that only you can create and use your sign-in account.
What If You Don’t Transition?
If you do not create a Login.gov or ID.me account before the deadlines, you will not be able to access your VA information or manage your benefits and care online. However, you can still manage your benefits and health care by phone, mail, or in person.
Additional Information
- No Data Loss: You will not lose any stored information during this transition.
- Offline Options: VA will continue to offer phone, mail, and in-person services for those who prefer not to use online accounts.
- Support: VA is committed to providing the necessary support to help Veterans transition to the new system.
Veterans are encouraged to stay updated on the latest information regarding these changes by visiting the VA website.
Sources
- Prepare For VA’s Secure Sign-In Changes | Veterans Affairs, VA.gov Home | Veterans Affairs.
- Prepare for VA’s Secure Sign-in changes – VA News, VA News (.gov).
