VA Veterans Crisis Line Number Has Changed
Phoenix, AZ (August 05, 2022) – The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recently launched a new Veterans Crisis Line (VCL) number – Dial 988 then Press 1 – to replace the 10-digit VCL number (800-273-8255, Press 1). This new, easy-to-remember, confidential, and secure VCL number will help Veterans, service members, and their loved ones reach crisis support quickly and efficiently.
This change is a result of the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act. Signed into law in 2020, the act authorized 988 as the new three-digit number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. All telephone service providers in the U.S. were to activate the number no later than July 16, 2022.
VCL responders will continue to support Veterans, service members, and their families via 988. Responders are trained in crisis intervention and military culture. When a Veteran calls, chats, or texts, a qualified responder will listen and help. The caller decides how much information to share. Support doesn't end with their conversation as the responders can connect them with the resources they need.
Upon 988 activation, the 10-digit VCL number (800-273-8255, Press 1), will remain manned and active to support Veterans in crisis and as a resource for those who care for Veterans. The VCL also will still be available by chat (VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat) and text (838255).