The short answer
If you're in an acute suicidal crisis, VA covers emergency care at any VA or non-VA emergency room at no cost, even if you aren't enrolled. That includes up to 30 days of inpatient or crisis residential care, or up to 90 days of outpatient care, plus ambulance. If you need help now, call 988 and press 1.
Need help right now?
Call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat at the Veterans Crisis Line. You can also call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room, VA or non-VA. You don't need VA's approval, and you don't need to be enrolled.
What does this benefit cover?
Under the COMPACT Act, VA provides or pays for emergency suicide crisis care at no cost to you. The rules are in 38 CFR 17.1200 through 17.1230. Starting from the day a crisis is identified, VA covers, as long as the care stays clinically necessary:
- Inpatient or crisis residential care for up to 30 days; or
- Outpatient care for up to 90 days, if inpatient or residential care isn't available or isn't right for you. Outpatient includes telehealth.
VA can extend either period if you still need care for the effects of the crisis, under 38 CFR 17.1215.
It also covers emergency transportation, including ambulance and air ambulance, to a VA or non-VA facility, under 38 CFR 17.1230. VA's provider guidance says follow-on care can include prescriptions.
What counts as an acute suicidal crisis?
Under 38 CFR 17.1205, it means a trained crisis responder or a health care provider has decided you're at imminent risk of self-harm. The care can start on a Veterans Crisis Line recommendation or when you arrive at a VA or non-VA facility in crisis.
Who is eligible?
Under 38 CFR 17.1210, Veterans, plus certain former service members. VA's benefit page lists people who:
- were discharged after more than 24 months of active duty;
- served more than 100 days in a combat zone or in support of a contingency operation, as an active or reserve member, and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable; or
- were the victim of a physical sexual assault, sexual battery, or sexual harassment while serving.
Enrollment in VA health care isn't required. VA can start care before it confirms your eligibility.
Do I pay anything?
No. 38 CFR 17.1225 says VA won't charge you for this care. At a VA facility, there's no copay. At a non-VA facility, VA pays the provider or reimburses you. When VA pays a provider, you're no longer responsible for that bill.
If VA can't confirm you're eligible, it may bill you for the care. VA can also bill your other health insurance, except for care related to a service-connected disability.
How do I use it at a non-VA hospital?
- Go to the nearest emergency room, or call 911.
- Tell staff you're a Veteran or former service member, and whether you're enrolled in VA health care. If you're not enrolled, say so. VA can still cover the care.
- The hospital doesn't need an agreement with VA.
- Ask the hospital to notify VA. VA's emergency notification line is 844-724-7842.
What if I already paid or got a bill?
You can ask VA to reimburse you. Under 38 CFR 17.1225 and 17.1230, you have 180 days from the date you paid to submit a claim. Providers have 180 days from the date of service. If you get a bill, call VA's Community Care contact center at 877-881-7618 before paying.
What happens after the crisis period?
VA works with you on ongoing care. That can be VA mental health care, or Community Care if you qualify. See Community Care Access Rules for Mental Health.
If you're supporting someone in crisis, you can call the Veterans Crisis Line too.