The Veterans Crisis Line's new number—988 then Press 1—helps make it easier to remember and share the number to access help in times of need.
Signed into law in 2020, the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act authorized 988 as the new three-digit number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. As part of the law, all telephone service providers in the U.S. had to activate the number no later than July 16, 2022.
Veterans can use this new option by dialing 988 and pressing 1 to contact the Veterans Crisis Line. Veterans may still reach the Veterans Crisis Line with the previous phone number—1-800-273-8255 and Press 1—by text (838255), and through chat (VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat).
The 988 expansion directly addressed the need for ease of access and clarity in times of crisis, both for Veterans and non-Veterans alike.
Veterans Crisis Line responders are continuing to support Veterans, service members, and their families via 988. Responders are trained in crisis intervention and military culture.
To reach the Veterans Crisis Line, Veterans need to Press 1 after dialing 988. Veterans and service members who Press 1 are routed to the same trained Veterans Crisis Line responders, 24/7. The Veterans Crisis Line is also available by chat (VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat) and text (838255). The Veterans Crisis Line’s 800 number remains operational for anyone utilizing the 10-digit number option.
The Veterans Crisis Line is evaluating a new text option for Veterans and their supporters to reach caring, qualified responders 24/7. Upon activation, Veterans will still be able to text via 838255.
The Veterans Crisis Line’s 800 number is partnered with SAMHSA’s Lifeline network and is, therefore, a Continental United States (CONUS)-based toll-free number that remains active. As such, some international calls may incur a charge, depending upon the caller’s location and network provider. Nonetheless, a Veteran overseas may contact the Veterans Crisis Line via the chat modality at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat. If the Veteran prefers a phone call, they can request this within the chat venue. A Veterans Crisis Line responder will call them at the number they provide at no charge to the Veteran.
For active-duty personnel (VeteransCrisisLine.net/ActiveDuty.aspx), the Veterans Crisis Line is available:
Your call to the Veterans Crisis Line is free and confidential, and you decide how much information to share. Support doesn't end with your conversation. Our responders can connect you with the resources you need.
The Veterans Crisis Line is a confidential, secure resource. You choose whether to share personal information.