The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has initiated a transition to a modernized online sign-in system for veterans accessing benefits and healthcare services, implementing changes that will streamline the authentication process while enhancing security measures. The transition follows the VA’s broader digital transformation efforts and builds upon the recent enhancement of Login.gov with facial recognition capabilities.
The new system consolidates sign-in options, allowing veterans to access VA.gov, VA mobile applications, and other online services through either Login.gov or ID.me accounts. The changes support President Biden’s Executive Order on Improving the Nation’s Cybersecurity, which mandates enhanced identity verification and multifactor authentication standards. ID.me, which has been a key partner in government identity verification, previously made headlines when it worked with the IRS to provide both biometric and non-biometric verification options for taxpayers.
As part of the transition, the VA will phase out existing sign-in methods according to a specified timeline. My HealtheVet usernames and passwords will cease to function after January 31, 2025, while DS Logon credentials will remain operational until September 30, 2025. Veterans who have not transitioned by these deadlines will retain access to their data once they establish new accounts through the approved platforms. The consolidation to Login.gov and ID.me represents a significant upgrade in security, as both platforms incorporate advanced identity verification methods and strong authentication protocols.
“Modern accounts like Login.gov or ID.me enhance the existing security and safety of online interactions, offering a robust defense against unauthorized access and identity theft,” said Kurt DelBene, Assistant Secretary for Information and Technology and Chief Information Officer.
“This is a critical step forward in our mission to safeguard Veterans’ data while offering them a seamless and secure way to manage their health and benefits,” said VA Secretary Denis McDonough.
The VA is implementing comprehensive support measures to facilitate the transition, including in-person events at facilities such as the Lake Nona VA Medical Center. These events, scheduled for December 11, 2024, and January 15, 2025, will provide hands-on assistance to veterans setting up their new accounts. The support initiative reflects lessons learned from previous large-scale authentication implementations, including Login.gov’s partnership with identity verification specialists to improve user experience and security.
The initiative also includes specialized training and resources for veterans who use assistive devices and screen readers, ensuring accessibility remains a priority in the new system. The VA reports that the updated authentication system will reduce downtime and provide more reliable access to online services, building on the technical infrastructure improvements made to both Login.gov and ID.me platforms over recent years.
Sources: VA News, AAFMAA, VA Orlando Health Care, Soldier For Life, VA Eastern Kansas Health Care
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