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What is the Veterans Crisis Line?

The short answer

The Veterans Crisis Line is a VA resource for veterans and for people who are worried about a veteran.

Call 988, then press 1. You can also text 838255, or start a chat on the Veterans Crisis Line website. Inaya does not provide crisis support. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

Salleha Chaudhry
Last reviewed October 15, 2026

What you can do

  1. Call 988 and press 1. You can call for your loved one. You do not need their records in front of you.
  2. Text 838255 if a call is not possible.
  3. Use the chat if that is easier to start.
  4. An other than honorable discharge does not stop you from calling. The people on the line can help you reach VA care.

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FAQs

Q: Can a family member call the Veterans Crisis Line?

Yes. Call 988 and press 1, or text 838255. You can call for your loved one. You do not need their records in front of you.

Q: Does an other than honorable discharge block that call?

No. An other than honorable discharge does not stop you from calling. The people on the line can help you reach VA care.