The short answer
Form 1095-B is a tax form showing you had health coverage, and CHAMPVA counts. You don't need to file it with your federal tax return, but some states ask for proof of coverage. VA stopped mailing it automatically in 2026. To get one, call CHAMPVA at 800-733-8387 and ask for a paper copy.
What is Form 1095-B?
It's a statement that you had health coverage during the year. The IRS calls that "minimum essential coverage," and its instructions for Forms 1094-B and 1095-B list CHAMPVA as a program that counts.
It isn't a bill, and it isn't your ID card. It's just a record of coverage.
Do you need it for your taxes?
Federal taxes: No. VA's CHAMPVA care page says you don't need to file it with your federal return.
State taxes: Maybe. A few states require proof of health coverage. Check your state's tax instructions or ask your tax preparer.
Your records: Some people just like to keep one on file. That's fine too.
How do you get a copy?
VA stopped mailing Form 1095-B automatically starting in 2026. CHAMPVA family members currently request a paper copy by phone:
- Call CHAMPVA at 800-733-8387 (TTY: 711).
- Call Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Eastern.
- Say: "I'm a CHAMPVA beneficiary and I need my IRS Form 1095-B for [year]."
- Confirm your mailing address before you hang up.
If you need one for each family member, ask for all of them on the same call.
Can you download it online?
Not yet for CHAMPVA family members. VA announced plans to let family members get it through a VA.gov account by January 2027. Until VA updates its instructions, use the phone.
Veterans who use VA health care have a separate process and can already get theirs online. That doesn't apply to CHAMPVA.
Did the 2026 change affect your coverage?
No. VA says the change is only about how you get the form, not your CHAMPVA coverage or benefits.
What about Forms 1095-A and 1095-C?
They're different forms:
- 1095-A comes from the Health Insurance Marketplace.
- 1095-B comes from programs like CHAMPVA.
- 1095-C comes from some employers.
If you also had Marketplace or job-based coverage during the year, you may get those forms from those plans. If a tax preparer asks for "your 1095," ask which one.
A provider is asking for proof of coverage
They usually want your CHAMPVA ID card or payer information, not a tax form. More here: CHAMPVA ID card and payer information.