The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is preparing to modernize its online sign-in process, ensuring a more secure and user-friendly experience for Veterans and their families. These changes, set to roll out over the next year, will affect all users who access VA services online, including popular platforms like MyHealtheVet, VA.gov, and VA mobile apps.
Starting January 31, 2025, Veterans will no longer be able to log in to VA services using a MyHealtheVet username and password. By September 30, 2025, access via DS Logon credentials will also be phased out. To continue accessing online VA benefits, healthcare, and other services, users will need to create and use either a Login.gov or ID.me account.
Both Login.gov and ID.me are designed with modern security standards in mind, offering multi-factor authentication (MFA) for added protection. These accounts will provide a single sign-on option for Veterans to manage their VA benefits and healthcare, as well as other government services such as Social Security benefits.
Veterans are encouraged to make the transition as soon as possible to avoid any disruption in access. For those unfamiliar, Login.gov is a secure login service managed by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) and can be used for multiple federal programs. ID.me, on the other hand, is a private company that partners with the government to verify users’ identities. Both options protect sensitive information and comply with strict privacy and security protocols.
While the sign-in process is changing, MyHealtheVet, the VA’s trusted health portal, will remain in place. Veterans will still be able to access their medical records, refill prescriptions, and communicate with healthcare providers— now, with the added requirement of using either Login.gov or ID.me credentials.
To learn more about setting up a Login.gov or ID.me account, Veterans can visit the VA’s official guide (www.va.gov/initiatives/prepare-for-vas-secure-sign-in-changes/) or contact the MyVA411 main information line at 800-698- 2411. It’s important to note that your County Veterans Service Officers (CVSO) does not have access to these accounts and may not be able to assist with technical issues. Users should first seek support directly from VA or the account providers if they encounter difficulties.
Login.gov | website: www.login.gov/contact/ | phone 844-875-6446
ID.me | website: help.id.me/hc/| no phone
VA is committed to providing veterans with safe, streamlined access to essential services, and this update is a key step toward that goal.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
