Is the VA Closed on Veterans Day?
Veterans Day, November 11th, is a special day to honor and commemorate the sacrifices of American servicemen and women who served in the United States Armed Forces. But what happens to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities and services on this special day? Are they open or closed?
Understanding Veterans Day
Before diving into the question, let’s take a moment to understand the significance of Veterans Day. It was previously known as Armistice Day, commemorating the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. After World War II, it was renamed Veterans Day to honor all American veterans who have served in the U.S. military. [1]
VA Policies on Veterans Day
General Information
The VA does not have a fixed policy regarding closures on Veterans Day. However, according to the VA’s Veterans Day webpage, VA facilities and services may vary by location. Here are some general guidelines to expect:
- Hospital and Clinics: Some VA hospitals and clinics may provide reduced hours or services, but this varies depending on the specific location.
- Pension and Compensation: While VA offices may be closed, benefits can still be processed remotely, and checks will still be sent as scheduled.
- Greeting Cards and Mail: If you plan to send greetings or cards to fellow veterans, the United States Postal Service (USPS) will still collect and deliver mail as usual.
Table 1: VA Services during Veterans Day
| Services | Availability |
|---|---|
| Medical Services | Varies by location |
| Pension and Compensation | Processed remotely |
| Greeting Cards and Mail | Collected and delivered as usual |
Regional Office and Cemeteries
- Regional Offices: most Regional Offices will be closed, but some may operate on a reduced schedule with limited staff.
- National Cemeteries: most National Cemeteries will be open on Veterans Day, but cemetery staff may be limited during peak visitation hours. Reservations for ceremony honors may be affected due to reduced staff.
- State and County Veterans Cemeteries: Hours and availability vary for state and county veterans’ cemeteries; check with the individual cemetery for specific information.
Veterans Call Centers
- Hotlines: some veteran support hotlines, including the Veterans Crisis Line and the VA’s Suicide Prevention Lifeline, will remain open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, available to assist veterans in times of crisis.
- 800-827-1000: The VA’s Customer Service Call Center will also operate on a regular schedule, with extended hours for Veterans Day.
Community-Based Services
Community-based services, such as homeless shelters, food banks, and other social support programs, may also observe special hours or be open with reduced staff. It’s essential to call ahead to confirm hours of operation for these services.
Conclusion
Is the VA closed on Veterans Day? The answer varies by location and service type. While some VA facilities and services may operate with reduced hours or staff, many services remain available, including pension and compensation processing, and hotlines for crisis support. If you’re a veteran or a family member requiring VA services, it’s recommended to check the specific VA facility or website for their hours of operation and availability. As always, the VA dedicates this special day to honoring the sacrifices of those who have served our great nation.
References:
[1] American Battle Monuments Commission, "Veterans Day Origins."