Veteran Disaster Relief: A guide to navigating VA resources during natural disasters

By Team Mighty

Posted 7 Hours Ago

Reviewed By Tessa Robinson

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Evacuees and victims of the Eaton Fire meet with FEMA and SBA officials for disaster assistance on January 21, 2025, at the Pasadena Convention Center where evacuees have been taking shelter. FEMA has received more than 91,000 applications for assistance from both Los Angeles City and County, and has delivered more than $32 million to wildfire survivors so far. The deadline to register for FEMA and SBA asisstance is March 10, 2025. (Photo by Frederic J. BROWN / AFP) (Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images)
Evacuees and victims of the Eaton Fire meet with FEMA and SBA officials for disaster assistance on January 21, 2025, at the Pasadena Convention Center where evacuees have been taking shelter. FEMA has received more than 91,000 applications for assistance from both Los Angeles City and County, and has delivered more than $32 million to wildfire survivors so far. The deadline to register for FEMA and SBA asisstance is March 10, 2025. (Photo by Frederic J. BROWN / AFP) FREDERIC J. BROWN

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As the wildfires in California continue to burn, and other natural disasters like tornadoes and floods affect millions of Americans, veterans and their families must understand what help is available. Navigating these crises can be overwhelming, but the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and related organizations have developed a wide range of resources specifically tailored to veterans’ unique needs during emergencies. Whether it’s housing assistance, healthcare access, or financial aid, this guide will walk you through the essential services and how to access them.

Immediate Assistance in an Emergency

The first step in any emergency is ensuring the safety and well-being of yourself and your loved ones. For any life-threatening emergencies, always dial 911.

For updates, visit the VA’s Disaster Help website, where the latest information on VA services and disaster relief will be posted.

Veterans Crisis Line: Emotional and Psychological Support

Natural disasters can exacerbate feelings of stress, anxiety, and isolation, particularly for veterans already dealing with conditions like PTSD. Free, confidential support is available 24/7 through the Veterans Crisis Line. If you or a veteran you know needs immediate assistance, you can dial 988, then press 1, text 838255, or chat online. For support for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, dial 1-800-799-4889.

Housing assistance: shelter and recovery support

Natural disasters often leave families without shelter, making housing assistance critical for recovery. If you or a veteran you know is in immediate need of housing assistance, contact the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1-877-4AID VETS (1-877-424-3838). This service operates 24/7 and can help you connect with case managers to secure shelter, temporary housing, or permanent solutions.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) often sets up disaster recovery centers, and the VA frequently deploys teams to assist veterans in those centers. For more information on locating these centers, visit the FEMA website.

If your home was damaged and you have a VA loan, visit the Home Loan Guaranty website to learn about your options for assistance.

VA Contact Information: where to go for help

Veterans can reach out for support with any VA-related questions or concerns through the MyVA411 main information line, available 24/7 at 1-800-698-2411. For more specialized inquiries, use Ask VA.

Healthcare services during a disaster

If you’re already enrolled in VA health care and have been impacted by a disaster, the VA may reach out to ensure your care is not interrupted. However, if you haven’t been contacted and need assistance, you can call your nearest VA medical center.

Use the Find VA Locations Tool to find the closest facility to you.

During large-scale disasters, the VA may also deploy emergency pharmacy services through mobile clinics. These services can help you obtain medications, refill prescriptions, and secure necessary medical equipment, such as oxygen tanks. In addition, mobile clinics and community care providers are on standby to help veterans during disasters.

The VA Health Benefits Hotline operates Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET at 1-877-222-8387.

For non-urgent medical needs, you can also access the VA’s My HealtheVet portal, where you can securely message your care team, request prescription refills, and view your medical records.

Support for caregivers

The VA offers dedicated resources for those caring for veterans. If you are a caregiver and need assistance during a disaster, contact the Caregiver’s Support Line at 1-855-260-3274. You can also access a disaster planning toolkit for caregivers.

Financial assistance and compensation

March Field Fire Emergency Services from March Air Reserve Base stationed in Moreno Valley, Calif., assisted in fire suppression efforts against the Eaton Fire in the Altadena Neighborhood of Los Angeles, Calif., on Jan. 13, 2025. Firefighters Ruben Anaya, Dakota Christensen, Brandon Dubouis, Michael Goodman, and Jack Cools were assigned to Strike Team 6050A, Division N, performing overhaul duties to locate and extinguish residual fires and hot spots, preventing potential reignition.
March Field Fire Emergency Services from March Air Reserve Base stationed in Moreno Valley, Calif., assisted in fire suppression efforts against the Eaton Fire in the Altadena Neighborhood of Los Angeles, Calif., on Jan. 13, 2025. Firefighters Ruben Anaya, Dakota Christensen, Brandon Dubouis, Michael Goodman, and Jack Cools were assigned to Strike Team 6050A, Division N, performing overhaul duties to locate and extinguish residual fires and hot spots, preventing potential reignition. U.S. Army photo.

If a disaster has disrupted your VA benefit payments, or if you’re facing financial hardship, the VA provides several options to ensure that your needs are met. Contact the VA National Call Center at 1-800-827-1000 to request a special one-time payment.

For those with VA home loans, the VA encourages mortgage servicers to offer a 90-day pause on foreclosures and waive late fees after a disaster. For more information, visit the VA Home Loans webpage.

If you’re a veteran receiving employment services, you may also qualify for an additional two months of Employee Adjustment Allowance (EAA).

Veterans with disabilities who have previously received assistance through the Specially Adapted Housing Program may be eligible for additional support in making home repairs after a disaster. You can reach them at 1-877-827-3702.

Life insurance and fraud protection

Natural disasters can also impact insurance policies. The Office of Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (OSGLI) provides same-day processing for policy loans, withdrawals from dividend accounts, and life insurance claims in the event of a natural disaster. You can contact OSGLI at 1-800-419-1473 or by email at osgli.osgli@prudential.com.

Additionally, be aware of potential fraud targeting veterans during times of crisis. If you suspect you’re a victim of fraud, call the VA at 833-388-7233.

VA’s ongoing commitment to veterans

The VA’s Office of Emergency Management ensures continuity of health care and benefits for veterans during times of crisis. While immediate disaster relief is essential, VA also provides long-term recovery resources, from housing to employment services.

Veterans and their families are encouraged to stay connected with their local VA facilities and teams to fully access the resources available. For a full list of resources, visit the VA’s disaster assistance page.

Stay prepared: leverage the VA’s resources

In times of natural disasters, veterans and their families must have the information and resources needed to stay safe and rebuild. The VA’s extensive support services—from housing and healthcare to financial assistance—are here to help you weather the storm.