Programs & services

Listed on the organization's official site (benefits.va.gov), checked Aug 26, 2026. Always confirm availability with the organization.

• VA hospital, nursing home, and outpatient treatmentFPOWs with a service-connected disability are eligible for VA hospital, nursing home, and outpatient treatment.
• VA hospital and nursing home careFPOWs without a service-connected disability are eligible for VA hospital and nursing home care without regard to their ability to pay.
• Outpatient care on a priority basisFPOWs without a service-connected disability are eligible for outpatient care on a priority basis, second only to Veterans with service-connected disabilities.
• Needed medicines, glasses, hearing aids or prosthesesFPOWs receiving treatment in an approved outpatient treatment program are eligible for needed medicines, glasses, hearing aids or prostheses.
• All needed dental careFPOWs receiving treatment in an approved outpatient treatment program are eligible for all needed dental care.
• Dependency and Indemnity CompensationIt is payable to the surviving spouse, and in some cases the FPOW's children and parents, when the FPOW meets the page's death-related conditions.
• FPOW Veterans Outreach CoordinatorAny FPOW who needs special assistance should ask to speak to the FPOW coordinator at a VA Regional Office.

Eligibility

You are considered a Former Prisoners of War (FPOW) if during wartime active service, you were forcibly detained or interned (put in prison) in the line of duty by an enemy government, its agents or a hostile force. You are considered a FPOW if you were forcibly detained or interned by a foreign government or its agents or a hostile force during peacetime active service, if the circumstances of the internment were comparable to wartime internment. You are generally entitled to a presumption of service-connection for eight diseases (or groups related conditions), if manifested to at least a minimally compensable degree of 10 percent or more after discharge or release from active military.

How to apply

Summarized from the program's official site (benefits.va.gov), checked Aug 26, 2026. Always confirm details with the program.

1. 1Choose a VA application method: apply online using VA.gov, work with an accredited representative or agent, apply in person at the nearest VA medical center or clinic, call 800-698-2411, or visit a VA regional office.
2. 2Ask to speak to the FPOW Veterans Outreach Coordinator at a VA Regional Office if you need special assistance.
3. 3File your claim using VA Form 21-526EZ, Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits.
4. 4If mailing the form, print VA Form 21-526EZ, fill it out, and send it to the Department of Veteran Affairs Claims Intake Center in Janesville, Wisconsin.

Contact

• Call (800) 799-4889
• Visit www.benefits.va.gov/persona/veteran-pow.asp
• Serves all of Vermont