The short answer
You apply for CHAMPVA online with the electronic version of VA Form 10-10d on VA.gov. Gather the Veteran's and applicant's information, any insurance or Medicare cards, and relationship documents first, then upload them as you go. After you submit, VA contacts you only if it needs more. If you're approved, VA mails a welcome letter and ID card.
Where do you apply online?
On VA.gov, using the online CHAMPVA application. It's the online version of VA Form 10-10d, and VA's Form 10-10d page says you can use it instead of mailing the paper form.
One application can include more than one family member.
Who shouldn't use this application?
Two groups follow a different path:
- Primary Family Caregivers. If VA approves you as a caregiver under its caregiver program and you qualify, VA enrolls you in CHAMPVA automatically. You don't apply separately.
- Newborns, at first. Get the baby a Social Security number and add them as the Veteran's dependent before applying for CHAMPVA. More here: CHAMPVA for children under 18.
If you're not sure the person qualifies at all, start here: Who qualifies for CHAMPVA?
What should you have ready?
The form asks for basic information about each applicant and the Veteran, often called the sponsor. Then, depending on your situation, VA's CHAMPVA page asks for these documents:
| If the applicant... | Have ready |
|---|---|
| Has other health insurance or Medicare | Front and back of each card, including a Part D card if they have one |
| Is 65 or older and not entitled to Medicare Part A | A Social Security letter showing that, usually a Notice of Disallowance |
| Is a spouse | Marriage certificate, civil union certificate, or common-law marriage affidavit (optional, but it speeds things up) |
| Is a surviving spouse whose remarriage before 55 ended | Divorce decree, annulment decree, or death certificate |
| Is a child | Birth certificate (optional, but helpful) |
| Is an adopted child | Adoption papers |
| Is a stepchild | Proof of marriage between the Veteran and the child's parent |
| Is a student 18 to 23 | School certification letter |
| Became permanently disabled before 18 | VA rating letter for the child, if you have it |
For a printable list, see the CHAMPVA application checklist.
How do you fill it out?
- Open the online application and sign in if asked.
- Answer each question for each applicant. Be accurate about relationships, other insurance, and Medicare. Don't guess to get through the form.
- Upload documents as the application asks. Use clear copies, and include both sides of insurance cards.
- Review everything before you submit. Names, dates, and Social Security numbers that don't match other records are a common reason for delays.
- Save your confirmation and a copy of what you sent.
What happens after you submit?
VA's after-you-apply page says you usually don't need to do anything unless VA sends a letter asking for more information.
- If VA asks for documents, add them to your existing application. Don't start over.
- If your address, insurance, or school status changes while you wait, update the existing application.
- Send a new application only when you're adding a dependent, or you were turned down before and your situation has changed.
- If you're approved, VA mails a welcome letter and a CHAMPVA ID card.
More here: What happens after you apply for CHAMPVA.