988 Lifeline
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Press 1 for Veterans)
Free confidential support 24/7 — dial 988 then press 1, text 838255, or chat online. No enrollment or paperwork required.
- Service area
- Nationwide by phone, text, and chat
- Hours
- 24/7/365
- Who qualifies
- Anyone in distress — no enrollment, no paperwork
- Cost
- Free and confidential
How to start
- 1
Dial 988, then press 1 for the veterans line.
- 2
Prefer text? Send a message to 838255.
- 3
Ask to be connected to local follow-up support before you hang up.
Related resources
Housing
National Coalition for Homeless Veterans
All 50 states through a member-provider network
Housing
U.S.VETS Housing Programs
Residences in California, Hawaii, Arizona, Texas, and Florida
Housing
Veterans Community Project Villages
Villages and outreach centers in Kansas City, Longmont, Sioux Falls, St. Louis, and Milwaukee
These are independent nonprofit, community, and public crisis resources. Hours and eligibility change — confirm details with the organization before you travel.