Content style guide

Word list

For most terms on VA.gov, we use the standard American English spelling in Merriam-Webster Dictionary. The words on this list are exceptions or need clarification.

We may use different capitalization or hyphenation
We may call for using a more plain language version of a word or for adding a definition of a word in body copy
We may call for using a preferred version of a word on VA.gov when different VA agencies use variations for the same word

For terms that are not on this list, refer to the Merriam-Websiter Dictionary. Go to the Merriam-Webster dictionary website.

Jump to: A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

A

accredited representative

Lowercase, and define on first appropriate instance as “a trained professional trusted to help with VA-related claims.” Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

Like this: Get help from an accredited representative, a trained professional trusted to help with VA-related claims.

active duty

Lowercase, and hyphenate when it modifies a noun.

Like this: active-duty service member

advanced

Capitalize only when used as part of the branded term “My HealtheVet Advanced.” Otherwise lowercase.

Agent Orange

Define term on first mention in body copy as “a toxic chemical used to clear trees and plants during the war.” Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

Agent Orange Registry health exam

Lowercase “health exam.”

and/or

Don’t use “and/or” in lists or body copy. Instead, restructure the content to list all options (for example, “your income and/or net worth” should be “your income, your net worth, or both”).

annual

Unless part of a benefit or program name, avoid the use of terms like “annual,” “biannual,” and “biennial.” Opt for plain language alternatives instead.

Instead of annual: “each year” or “once each year”

Instead of bi-annual: “2 times each year” or “twice each year”

Instead of biennial: “every other year”

appeal option

On the Board Appeal form, a Veteran selects a Direct Review, Evidence Submission, or Hearing “appeal option” from the list of Board Appeal options. Avoid use of the word “lane.”

apply

Use this term in the context of non-disability benefits, like this: “apply for the GI Bill and other VA education benefits” or “apply for VA health care.” Use “file” for disability compensation, like this: “file a claim for disability.”

Go to the Claims and applications section for more information

approved program

We use this term to describe an approved program at a school (not “approved school”). The schools themselves aren’t approved, only some programs at schools. It isn’t accurate to say that a school is approved.

Armed Forces

Capitalize. The Armed Forces consist of 6 service branches: the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and Space Force. Also refer to the “uniformed services” entry.

asbestos

Define on first mention in body copy as “toxic fibers, once used in many buildings and products.” Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

attending physician

In the context of life insurance, define on first mention in body copy as “the doctor in charge of your care” (when talking to Veterans) or “the doctor in charge of a Veteran’s care” (when talking to a family caregiver). Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

B

basic: Capitalize only when used as part of the branded term “DS Logon Basic.” Otherwise lowercase.
became ill: Use “got sick” instead.
became worse: Use “got worse” instead.
beneficiary: In the context of life insurance, define on first mention in body copy as “the person you choose to receive your insurance proceeds.” Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.
benefit office: Don’t use “benefit office” or “regional benefit office.” Use “regional office” instead. Go to entry for “VA regional office” for details.
Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program: Note that “Benefits” is plural.; Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance
blind or low-vision: Don’t use “blind or sight-impaired.”
Blue Water: Capitalize.
Board decision: A Veteran receives a “Board decision,” not a “Board Appeal decision.”
Board of Veterans’ Appeals: Capitalize. Can use “Board” on subsequent mentions in body copy. Note that “Veterans” is plural with a plural possessive: Veterans’.
Brown Water: Capitalize.

C

C&P exam

Go to the entry for “claim exam.”

can vs. may

Use “can” when meaning the ability or power to do something; use “may” when meaning the permission to do it.

caregiver

Use “caregiver,” not “caretaker.” Also note that family members don’t necessarily see themselves as “caregivers.” While “family caregiver” may be used as a shorthand term, wherever possible use a more descriptive phrase such as “a family member caring for a Veteran with disabilities.”

Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

Capitalize.

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

certifying official

Use this term to refer to the person at one’s school who needs to approve or submit enrollment information for VA education benefits.

Like this: Your school’s certifying official will submit your enrollment information with a VA Enrollment Certification (VA Form 22-1999).

Character of Discharge review process:

Lowercase “review process.”

character of service (more casually referred to as “type of service”)

This is a “block” or box on the VA Form DD214 that states these statuses: honorable, general/under honorable conditions, under other than honorable conditions, uncharacterized, or bad conduct.

chronic

Define on first mention in body copy as “long-lasting” or when needed, “illness that lasts for a long time.” Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA)

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

claimant

Define the term on the first instance as “person with the claim” or “person applying for this benefit.” When possible, use specific plain language instead, like “Veteran’s spouse” or “Veteran’s child.”

Go to the Claims and applications section for more information

claim exam

This is a term VA is working to rebrand. For now, on first mention on a page, use “VA claim exam (also known as a compensation and pension, or C&P, exam).” After first mention, use “VA claim exam” or “claim exam.”

click

Avoid using “click” and “click here.” Instead, follow these formats:

Link the entire call to action where relevant, like this: Find an accredited representative to help you

Use “select” to point someone to a specific place in the UI, like this: In your account dashboard, select Profile

Learn more in the Neutral language section of the style guide

compensation

“Disability compensation” is the preferred term, but “VA disability pay” has greater SEO value and is more plain language. Use “VA disability compensation (pay)” on first mention, and try to work in both terms. Also include explanation of “monthly payments.”

competent

Define on first mention in body copy as “of legal age and sound mind.” Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers

The proper program name is Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers. Don’t make the name into an acronym.

condition vs. disability

In the context of service connection, we use “condition” to describe an illness or injury that affects your mind or body. We call a condition a “disability” after a Veteran has received a disability rating.

Like this: If you have a condition connected to your service, you may be eligible for compensation.

Like this: If your service-connected disability has gotten worse, find out how to file a claim to increase your disability rating.

For non-Veterans, like beneficiaries and dependents, we use “disability” (or “disabled” depending on the context) to describe an illness or injury that affects your mind or body. Default to people-first language in general content that describes individuals with a disability. For example, “Was this trust created for a Veteran’s child who was seriously disabled before age 18?”

Learn more in the Health content section

conditions

Define on first mention as “illnesses or injuries (also known as conditions).” For all other mentions, “condition” or “conditions” is OK.

contamination

Define on first mention in body copy as “water that was found to have toxic chemicals in it.” Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

Exception: On the Camp Lejeune page, don’t define this term.

contention

Use “condition” or an alternate word or phrase instead, depending on context. Internally, “contention” refers to an issue connected with a claim. Typically this is a medical condition, but in some cases it could be for other things like claiming a dependent.

continuous

When used in the context of eligibility, define this term as “all at once, without a break in service.”

Like this: Served for at least 30 continuous days (all at once, without a break in service).

convalescence

Use “rehab care” instead. If used in the context of a specific benefit, can include as a parenthetical: “(also known as convalescence).”

copay (or copayment, or health care copay)

We use this term to describe the amount some Veterans pay for certain health care services and prescriptions. On first mention, include a plain language definition. For example, “You may need to pay a copay for outpatient care for conditions not related to your military service. A copay is a fixed amount you owe for the service.”

Note: Use “health care copay” on first mention in general content where the context of health care is necessary and then “copay” on subsequent mentions.

copay bill (or patient statement, or billing statement)

We use these terms to describe the bill or statement that a Veteran receives for their health care copay. On first mention, include a plain language definition. For example, “You may get a copay bill (or “statement”) for the amount you owe for health care services that aren’t exempt from copays.”

court-appointed guardian

Define on first mention in body content as “a person the court decides is in charge of caring for another person who can’t take care of him or herself.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

court-martial

Lowercase, as in “general court-martial,” “special court-martial,” and “summary court-martial.”

cover the costs/cover expenses

We use this term when we’re explaining that education benefits pay for more than tuition and fees.

D

death benefits

Define on first mention in body copy as “money from a Veteran’s life insurance policy when that Veteran dies.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

debt

We use this term as the overarching term for any money the Veteran owes to VA. “Debt” encompasses money owed for overpayments as well as copays. If the debt is because of an overpayment or a copay, we should use those terms to explain why the Veteran owes money. Debt can be a sensitive topic. Refer to our Payments and debts section in the style guide for more information about how to write about debt.

Go to the Payments and debts section

deceased

This is the preferred term on VA.gov over “decedent,” which is chiefly a legal term.

decision notice

A “decision notice” is the same as a “decision letter.” The usage, or preferred term, varies across business lines. We send this notice to Veterans after we make a decision on their claim.

decision review form

A Veteran fills out a decision review “form,” not an “application.”

Defense Department (DOD)

For most cases, use “Defense Department (DOD)” on the first instance. After the first instance, use “DOD.” Capitalize the O.

Go to the DOD brand guide for more information

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

delete

For file uploads, use “delete” instead of “remove.” For example, “Delete file.” We can use “remove” for other actions within a form, like “Remove dependents.”

Learn more in the Files pattern

demolish

Use “knock down” or, when used as a noun in the context of a job of building demolition, “demolition (knocking down old buildings).”

dentistry

Use “dental care” instead.

Department of Defense

Go to the entry for Defense Department.

Department of Veterans Affairs

“Veterans” doesn’t take an apostrophe. On VA.gov, because we show the complete U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) logo in the global header, we use VA or use the first-person “we.”

Go to the Use conversational language section for examples

Don’t use “DVA,” “Dept of VA,” or other non-standard shortened versions. For more, go to the entries for “VA” and “VA.gov.”

Exception: When using the full, official federal agency name, spell out in its entirety on the first instance. After the first instance, shorten to Veterans Affairs or VA.

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)

Capitalize.

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

dependent child

We use “dependent child” but not “dependent spouse.” Use this construction if you’re referring to both spouse and child: “spouse and dependent child” (not “dependent spouse and child”).

Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program

Refer to this as “Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program.” Include “also called Chapter 35” on first mention. Can be shortened to “DEA program” after first mention.

deprivation

Define on first mention in body copy as “a lack of things such as sleep that people need for their physical and mental well-being.” Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

disability rating

This rating is for Veterans. Define as “a rating that measures how severe a disability is” or similar language.

Like this: We may use a disability rating that measures how bad your disability is. This rating helps us decide your level of benefits.

Like this: We assign you a disability rating based on the severity of your disability.

disease

Use “illness” unless it’s part of a proper name of a specific disease.

District of Columbia

Refer to entry for “Washington, DC.”

dividend

Define on first mention in body copy as “cash payments made to policyholders when the company makes a profit” OR as “when life insurance companies make money, they sometimes make cash payments (called dividends) to people who have policies with them.” Include the definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy

Capitalize with no quotation marks. Lowercase “policy.”

E

Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship

Spell out the full title on first mention: The Edith Nourse Rogers Science Technology Engineering Math (STEM) Scholarship. After the first mention, use Rogers STEM Scholarship. Don’t use the phrase “extends Post-9/11 GI Bill or Fry Scholarship benefits” to describe the program. Use language like this instead: “The Rogers STEM Scholarship allows eligible Veterans using the Post-9/11 GI Bill or dependents using the Fry Scholarship to get added benefits.”

education

In general, on VA.gov we use “education” as a noun, and sometimes as part of a compound noun or attributive noun to modify another noun.

Like this: education benefits OR education and training opportunities

Not this: educational benefits OR educational and training opportunities

education benefit

Use “education benefit” rather than “education program.” This helps avoid confusion with “school programs.”

We sometimes use “program” when talking about the name of an education benefit, like the Yellow Ribbon Program. But we’d then in subsequent/surrounding content say, “this education benefit.”

educational

Because businesses within VA apply different usage styles for “education” and “educational,” we’ve listed instances here, where we use “educational” in specific phrases rather than “education.” (Go to the entry for “education.”)

Like this: educational assistance, educational institution, educational plan, educational program

educational and career counseling

We use this style of phrasing to be consistent with VR&E Chapter 36: Educational and Career Counseling.

educational assistance

We use this style of phrasing to be consistent with Chapter 35, DEA, REAP, and VEAP.

educational counseling

We use this style of phrasing to be consistent with VR&E Chapter 36: Educational and Vocational Counseling.

eligible

We use both “qualify” and “eligible” when referring to benefits someone may be able to get.

email

No hyphen (not “e-mail”).

employment handicap

Add a definition or note to help explain this term.

Like this: Having an employment handicap means your service-connected disability limits your ability to prepare for, get, and maintain suitable employment. Suitable employment means a job that doesn’t make your disability worse, is stable, and matches your abilities, aptitudes, and interests.

entitlement

This term refers to how much of a benefit you have available to use. It’s often talked about as “remaining entitlement.” We don’t say “draw down your entitlement.” Instead, we’d say, “charge your entitlement.” For education benefits, it’s measured in months and days.

environmental hazards

Define on first mention in body copy as “harmful toxins in the air, water, or land such as those that get released from burn pits.” Include definition as another sentence, a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

equivalent

Use an alternative word or phrase—such as “equal to,” “same as,” “as in,” etc.—depending on context.

Like this: Apply for VA health care online (equal to VA Form 10-10EZ).

Not this: Apply for VA health care online (equivalent to VA Form 10-10EZ).

Like this: We’ll review your discharge papers (DD214 or other separation documents).

Not this: We’ll review your discharge papers (DD214 or equivalent).

era

Capitalize in Vietnam Era (this is a VA term). If you need to talk about the Vietnam War, which has different dates associated with it than Vietnam Era, style it with “era,” lowercase: Vietnam War era.

evidence

Define as “supporting documents” and add, “like a doctor’s report or medical test results,” as needed.

Go to the Claims and applications section for more information

Exception

Used to call special attention to something. It should be bolded and never in all caps. Use a colon following “Exception.”

excluding

Use “not counting” or “not including” instead.

expedite/expedited

Use plain language words like “faster,” “quicker,” or “speed up,” depending on context.

Like this: Use the Fully Developed Claims program to get a faster decision on your disability benefits claim. This may help speed up the claim decision process, so you can get your benefits sooner.

Not this: Use the Fully Developed Claims program to get an expedited decision on your disability benefits claim. This may help expedite the claim decision process.

explosive ordinance

Define on first mention in body copy as “high-explosive devices, and chemical and nuclear weapons.” Include definition as another sentence, a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

exposure

Define in the context of body copy as “had contact with” or “come into contact with.”

F

family member: Use this term instead of “beneficiary” whenever possible.
Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI): This is the program name. Note that the word Servicemembers’ is plural with a plural possessive apostrophe. Because this is a proper noun, we follow the “Servicemember” spelling here, instead of our house style, “service member.”; Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance
FAQs: Use in all instances for “frequently asked questions.”
federal: Lowercase “federal” for generic usage such as “federal agency.”
fibromyalgia: Define on first mention in body copy as “a sickness that causes tiredness, pain in different areas of your body, and sleep, memory, and mood problems.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.
file a claim for disability compensation: Use “file a claim” instead of “apply for benefits” when referring to disability compensation.; Go to the Claims and applications section for more information
final status: Use “in final status” instead of “in a final status.”
financial hardship: Define on first mention in body copy as “having trouble paying for basic needs, like food and housing.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.
Fourth Mission: Capitalize.

G

gender diverse: No hyphen.
get paid back: We try to use this plain language phrase instead of “get reimbursed,” but we do have some instances of “reimbursed.”
GI: No periods (not G.I.).
GI Bill®: Include the trademark symbol in the first prominent mention on the website (currently on Education and Training hub page).
GI Bill Comparison Tool: Capitalize “Comparison Tool.” Treat as a proper noun when mentioning it by the complete name. Lowercase “tool” when simply referencing it, not by name.; Like this: The GI Bill Comparison Tool can help you compare benefits by school. Fill out the tool to get started.
gravesite: Style this as 1 word. (Merriam-Webster doesn’t address whether this should be 1 or 2 words, but the Gravesite Locator and Arlington National Cemetery both style it as 1 word. In addition, the following related words do appear in Merriam-Webster as 1 word: graveside and gravestone.)
guarantee: Use as either a noun or a verb. For our purposes, especially within the Home Loans section, when used in a legal context, we use “guarantee” as a verb and “guaranty” as a noun. Example: We guarantee a portion of the loan.
guaranty: Use only as a noun. Example: Because of our partial guaranty, lenders may offer better loan terms for Veterans.
Guard member: Use the gender-neutral term, “Guard member,” instead of Guardsman/Guardsmen on VA.gov. Capitalize “Guard.”
Gulf War Illness: Capitalize “Illness.” Per NIH, this is also sometimes called “chronic multisymptom illness.”; Note: “Gulf War Syndrome” is the former name, and is no longer used. When needed for clarity or SEO, include the former term on first mention.; Like this: Gulf War Illness (known in the past as Gulf War Syndrome)

H

hazardous

Define in the context of body copy as “harmful” or “toxic.”

hazardous exposure

Define in the context of body copy as “contact with harmful chemicals or other hazardous materials.”

health care

Two words, never hyphenated as a compound adjective (for example, “health care system”). Lowercase unless it’s part of the official name of a VA medical center.

Exception: Defer to the VA medical center’s official name, which may have health care as 1 word versus 2 words.

Higher-Level Review decision

Lowercase “decision.”

Note: A Veteran “requests” a Higher-Level Review, a Board Appeal, or a decision review. We don’t say “apply” or “file” for a Higher-Level Review, a Board Appeal or a decision review.

home loan

Don’t use a hyphen even when used as an adjective.

Like this: home loan benefits

Not this: home-loan benefits

homeless

Homeless is OK as an adjective to describe people without fixed housing. Or use “at risk of becoming homeless.”

hospitalization

Use “hospital care” instead.

House confinement

Phrase as “being unable to leave your house (known as house confinement).”

Housebound allowance

Lowercase “allowance.”

I

illegal

Avoid using the term “illegal.” Instead, our preferred term is “not allowed by law.” Don’t use “illegal” to describe a person.

illness

Use “illness” to refer to diseases.

increased claim

Define on first mention in body copy as “a claim for more compensation for a disability that we’ve already determined to be service connected and that has gotten worse.”

independent living services

Don’t use hyphen for the compound adjective.

Individual Unemployability

Include a description that makes clear that this benefit is for Veterans who can’t work due to a service-connected disability. This is a VA term and should be capitalized.

individually unemployable

Lowercase. Define as “unable to work due to a service-connected disability.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

input

Use “record” instead.

intent to file

Lowercase in almost all cases unless referencing the full form name. Don’t use “ITF” or the phrase “file your intent to file.”

Like this: Fill out your intent to file form.

Like this: Submit your intent to file.

internet

Lowercase, per AP Style.

J

Job Bank: Neither word is plural. Go to entry for “Veterans Job Bank.”

K

Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ): Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

L

lewisite

Define on first mention in body copy as “a natural compound that contains the poison arsenic.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

LGBTQ+

Use in all instances. “LGBTQ+” refers to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer identities. The “+” sign captures identities beyond LGBTQ, including but not limited to questioning, pansexual, asexual, agender, gender diverse, nonbinary, and gender-neutral identities.

life insurance

Don’t hyphenate in the form of a compound adjective: “life insurance coverage.”

loan guaranty agent

Lowercase. Capitalize only when used as someone’s title. The preferred style is to recast the sentence so that it adheres to AP Style on professional titles.

Like this: Charles Lee, our loan guaranty agent, may ask you to provide more financial information.

Not this: Loan Guaranty Agent Charles Lee may ask you to provide more financial information.

loan technician

Lowercase. Capitalize only when used as someone’s title. The preferred style is to recast the sentence so that it adheres to AP Style on professional titles.

Like this: Your loan technician, Jane Smith, may ask you to provide more information.

Not this: Loan Technician Jane Smith may ask you to provide more information.

log in/log out (verb), login ID (noun or adj.)

Use sign in/sign out or username and password, as needed.

Like this: Sign in with your username and password.

Not this: Enter your login ID.

Loss of range of motion

Use “problems moving your body” instead.

M

manufacturing: Use “making” instead.
may: Go to entry for “can.”
Military Occupation Code (MOC): Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance
Million Veteran Program (MVP): Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance
MISSION Act: Use the official short title, VA MISSION Act, instead of the abbreviated or full name. (The full name of the bill is the “John S. McCain III, Daniel K. Akaka, and Samuel R. Johnson VA Maintaining Internal Systems and Strengthening Integrated Outside Networks Act of 2018.”)
mobile phone: Use mobile phone when referencing a device for talking and texting, with or without internet connectivity. Don’t use cell phone or cellular phone. You can also use “mobile device” to reference tablets or mobile phones more generally. For related information, go to the entry for “smartphone.”
Montgomery GI Bill: We shouldn’t use a shortened “Montgomery GI Bill” to indicate both Active Duty and Selected Reserve. Instead write out the full name of both benefits.
Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty (MGIB-AD): Include “MGIB-AD” and “Chapter 30” on first mention. For example, “Montgomery GI Bill Active Duty (MGIB-AD), or Chapter 30.” It’s OK to use “MGIB-AD” for any following instances. We usually advise that we can use an acronym by itself after the first mention of the full name. But we should balance that guidance with how often we use an acronym on a single page to be sure we don’t overuse it. Try to find a balance between using the full name and the acronym.; Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance
Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR): Include “MGIB-SR” and “Chapter 1606” on first mention. For example, “Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve (MGIB-SR), or Chapter 1606.” It’s OK to use “MGIB-SR” for any following instances. We usually advise that we can use an acronym by itself after the first mention of the full name. But we should balance that guidance with how often we use an acronym on a single page to be sure we don’t overuse it. Try to find a balance between using the full name and the acronym.; Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance
multifactor authentication (MFA): Use this term instead of “2-factor authentication.” Multifactor is 1 word. No hyphen.
My HealtheVet: “My HealtheVet” is 2 words. Don’t italicize the “e” between “Health” and “Vet” in body copy, headlines, and user interface elements such as links, buttons, and navigation. The “e” is italicized only in the logo.

N

National Cemetery Administration (NCA): Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance
National Guard: Can also use “Guard.”
national tests: We use “national tests” rather than “national exams” because we know from SEO data that Veterans are searching for “tests” much more often than “exams.”; Note: VA.gov content differs from the PDF form that uses “national exams.”
Native American direct loan (NADL): Lowercase “direct loan.”; Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance
new claim: Define on first mention in body copy as “a claim for added benefits or other benefit requests related to an existing service-connected disability.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.
non-qualifying period of service: We use this term (and variations of it) to explain when a Veteran’s period of service doesn’t count toward their GI Bill eligibility requirements.
non-traditional: Hyphenate when preceding and modifying a noun.
nonpay: No hyphen.
Note: Used to call special attention to something. It should be bolded and never in all caps. Use a colon following “Note.”
Notice of Disagreement (NOD): Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance
number: Spell out this word. Don’t abbreviate to “No.” or “#.”

O

original claim: Define on first mention in body copy as “your first claim for disability compensation.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.
overpayment or overpayment debt: We use this term to refer to a debt that’s because of an overpayment. In some cases, we can go with “overpayments” (and not add “overpayment debts”). Debt can be a sensitive topic. Refer to our Payments and debts section of the style guide for more information about how to write about debt.; Go to the Payments and debts section

P

PACT Act: PACT Act alone is OK for all instances. The full title of the law is The Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act.
patient: Use “person living with,” as in “person living with diabetes,” instead of “diabetes patient.”
pension management center: Capitalize only if part of the formal name of a center. For example: “Get more information about the Philadelphia VA Pension Management Center” and “Find the VA pension management center that serves the state you live in.”
percent: Use the symbol % rather than spelling it out, for scannability.
period of honorable service: Not honorable period of service.
permanent disability, permanent and total disability: Define a “permanent disability” as “a disability that’s not expected to improve” and define “permanent and total disability” as “a disability that we’ve rated as 100% disabling and that’s not expected to improve.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.
Persian Gulf War era: Lowercase “era.”
Personalized Career Planning and Guidance (PCPG): Include “Chapter 36” on first mention. For example, “Personalized Career Planning and Guidance (PCPG), or Chapter 36.”; Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance
Philippines: Use “Philippines” (without “the”) in a list. Use “the Philippines” in the context of a paragraph (like “If you served in the Philippines”).
please: We’re moving away from using “please” in most cases. Avoid using “please” as a default and only if needed in a specific situation. This is a change that we’re working to address across our current components.
PO Box: Don’t use periods.
post-9/11: Hyphenate. We use the slash rather than the hyphen for 9/11 (not 9-11).; Example: Post-9/11 GI Bill. In cases when “post-9/11” stands alone rather than as part of a program name, it should be lowercase.
Post-9/11 GI Bill (PGIB): Include “PGIB” and “Chapter 33” on first mention. For example, “Post-9/11 GI Bill (PGIB), or Chapter 33.” It’s OK to use “PGIB” for any following instances. We usually advise that we can use an acronym by itself after the first mention of the full name. But we should balance that guidance with how often we use an acronym on a single page to be sure we don’t overuse it. Try to find a balance between using the full name and the acronym.; Note: PGIB is a new acronym (as of 2024) and we are working to include it site-wide.; Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance
postservice: No hyphen.
posttraumatic stress disorder: No hyphen, per the National Center for PTSD. Go to entry for “PTSD.”
power of attorney (POA): “POA” is capitalized. Contact the subject matter experts or legal before using this term to make sure we’re using it correctly.
pre-discharge: Use a hyphen.
preparatory courses or prep courses: Use “preparatory courses” on the first mention. The shorter “prep courses” is OK for any following mentions. Preparatory courses help Veterans prepare for licensing and certification tests.
preseparation: No hyphen.
preservice: No hyphen.
prestabilization: No hyphen.
presume: Use “conclude,” as in “we will conclude your condition is linked to service.”
presumptive disability: Use “health problem” and reference when needed for clarity.; Like this: A health problem (called presumptive disability) that we’ve concluded is likely caused by…
Primary Family Caregiver: This role is capitalized since it’s considered a proper noun. “Caregiver” by itself is lowercase.
prisoner of war (POW): Lowercase per the Defense Department (DOD) military dictionary.; Like this: You may be eligible for benefits as a former prisoner of war (POW).; Learn more in the DOD military dictionary
process (a claim): When using as a verb, use “review” instead.; Like this: We’ll review your disability claim.

Project 112/SHAD

prove

Avoid the word “prove” when speaking about evidence that a Veteran needs to provide for a claim. Instead, use more empathetic language such as “show,” “provide,” or “to support your claim.”

Like this: You’ll need to provide evidence that shows your illness was likely caused by your service.

Not this: You’ll need to prove that your illness was likely caused by your service.

PTSD

posttraumatic stress disorder (no hyphen), per the National Center for PTSD. In body copy, we reference the full spelling with “(PTSD)” after it. On subsequent mentions in body copy, we use PTSD by itself.

First instance in body copy: posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

After first instance in body copy: PTSD

Exception for page titles: If the spelled-out term is too long in a page title (H1) or meta title tag, it’s OK to use PTSD by itself, and then use the full spelling with the acronym in the first instance of body copy

Q

qualify: We use both “qualify” and “eligible” when referring to benefits someone may be able to get.

R

regional office: Use instead of “regional benefit office.” Go to entry for “VA regional office” for details.
relinquish your benefits: Include the plain language definition (“give up your right to use your benefits”) on first mention. For example, “Even if you gave up your right to use MGIB-AD benefits in the past (we call this “relinquishing” your benefits), you may now qualify to use some of that entitlement.”; Note: This is not evergreen content as it’s connected to the Rudisill Supreme Court decision.
required by law and not allowed by law: These are our preferred terms to describe a legal requirement or something that is against the law.
Reserve: Capitalize when used to refer to members of the military.
Reservist: Capitalize.
respiratory disease: Use “breathing problems” or “lung disease.”
resume: Don’t use accent marks when referring to the noun, as in a job resume.
retroactive: Provide contextual information to help define, as relevant in the specific situation.; Example: Can I get retroactive TSGLI for a past injury? You may be able to get retroactive TSGLI that takes effect starting from the date of your injury.
review option: A Veteran selects from one of the available review options when they request a decision review. The 3 review options are Supplemental Claim, Board Appeal, and Higher-Level Review.
reviewer: Lowercase. Person who reviews Supplemental Claims. (As opposed to a senior reviewer, who reviews Higher-Level Reviews.)

S

Secondary Family Caregiver

This role is capitalized since it’s considered a proper noun. “Caregiver” by itself is lowercase.

secondary service-connected claim

Define on first mention in body copy as “a claim for a new disability that’s linked to a service-connected disability you already have.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

Selected Reserve

Generally used in the context of the Montgomery GI Bill Selected Reserve.

senior reviewer

Lowercase. Person who reviews Higher-Level Reviews. (As opposed to a reviewer, who reviews Supplemental Claims.)

service connected

Use a hyphen when modifying a noun. Otherwise, no hyphen.

Like this (modifying a noun): A Veteran with a service-connected disability may be eligible for additional health care benefits.

Like this (not modifying a noun): The disability is considered service connected.

service-connected condition

Define in body copy as an “illness or injury caused—or made worse by—active-duty service.” Can define in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas. For example: “A service-connected condition is an illness or injury caused—or made worse by—your active-duty service.”

service-connected disability

In most cases, add the definition separately as another sentence or a note below a bulleted list. For example: “Having a service-connected disability means we’ve concluded that you’re disabled because of an illness or injury caused—or made worse—by your active-duty service.”

service-connected disability rating

In most cases, use “disability rating” instead for simplicity. Although using the full phrase is not wrong.

Service-Disabled Veterans Insurance (S-DVI)

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

service member

Two words, lowercase. This follows the Defense Department style guide as well as guidance from the VA Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs (OPIA).

Exception: When it appears as part of a branded product or program name, like Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI).

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI)

Note that the word Servicemembers’ is plural with a plural possessive apostrophe. Because this is a proper noun, we follow the “Servicemember” spelling here, instead of our house style, “service member.”

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Disability Extension (SGLI-DE)

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection (TSGLI)

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

sign in, sign out

Don’t use log in/log out, login ID, or sign on.

Like this: Sign in to make an appointment.

Not this: Sign on to make an appointment.

smartphone

Use smartphone when specifically referencing a mobile phone that connects to the internet. Like this: “At some VA health care facilities, you can now check in for appointments with your smartphone.” For related information, go to the entry for “mobile phone.”

Social Security number

Lowercase “number.” Avoid using the “SSN” acronym.

special claim

Define on first mention in body copy as “a claim for special needs linked to your service-connected disability.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

sponsor

We use this word in forms and other content to refer to the Veteran who earned the benefits that a family member may be using. It’s OK to use the word sponsor but lead with the plain language definition.

Example: the Veteran you’re connected to (called your “sponsor”).

Go to the Claims and applications section for more information

spouse

We use “surviving spouse” if the Veteran has died. We use “spouse” if the Veteran is living (we don’t use “dependent spouse”). Use this construction if you’re referring to both spouse and child: “spouse and dependent child” (not “dependent spouse and child”).

Statement of Service

Capitalize.

Statement of the Case

Capitalize.

substantially gainful employment

Provide a definition or note when using this term.

Like this: You can’t hold down a steady job that supports you financially (known as substantially gainful employment) because of your service-connected disability. Odd jobs (marginal employment) don’t count.

suicide

When posing as a question for the Veteran, phrase as “Are you thinking of hurting yourself or others?” Don’t use “Are you having thoughts of suicide?”

Supplemental Claim

Define on first mention in body copy as “providing new evidence to support a disability claim that was denied.”

Note: A Veteran “files” a Supplemental Claim, not “requests” a Supplemental Claim.

Supplemental Claim decision

Lowercase “decision.”

Supplemental Statement of the Case

Capitalize.

Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program

Include “also called Chapter 35” on first mention. Can be shortened to “DEA program” after first mention.

Survivors Pension

Capitalize. There’s no apostrophe in “Survivors.”

T

terminal illness: When this term is used as part of eligibility information for a benefit such as hospice care or life insurance, include a plain language definition of the term.; Example: “terminal illness (a condition that can’t be treated).”
total disability, permanent and total disability: Define a “total disability” as “a disability that we’ve rated as 100% disabling,” and define “permanent and total disability” as “a disability that we’ve rated as 100% disabling and that’s not expected to improve.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.
trauma: Define on first mention in body copy as “an injury or deeply disturbing experience.” Include definition in another sentence, as a parenthetical, or set off with commas.

U

uniformed services: Uniformed services refers to the Armed Forces plus these 2 branches: the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Public Health Service. Also refer to the “Armed Forces” entry.
upload: For file uploads, use “upload” instead of “add.” For example, “Upload file” and “Upload another file.” We can use “add” for other actions within a form, like “Add dependents.”; Learn more in the Files pattern
U.S.: Use periods.
user: We should avoid the term “user” or “users” and instead use “Veterans” or “people” (when referring to a more general audience). “Users” can have a negative connotation and focuses only on how people are using our products. This is a change that we’re working to address across our current content.

V

VA

Don’t use “the” before VA when it’s used as a noun. However, when VA serves as an adjective, use the article where appropriate. Go to entry for “Department of Veterans Affairs” for full guidance.

As a noun: VA announced today that…

As a noun phrase (“VA facilities”): Some VA facilities in Texas are affected by Hurricane Florida.

As an adjective (modifying “task force”): The VA task force announced today…

VA decision

This is a general, umbrella term for a claim decision made by VA.

VA.gov

Treat it as a brand name and always capitalize “VA.” Don’t use “www.va.gov” as the name.

Like this: Preview the new VA.gov.

Not this: Va.gov has benefits information for Veterans.

VA health care facility

No hyphen in “health care” in this phrase.

VA medical center

Don’t shorten to VA center. “Medical Center” should be capitalized only when it’s part of an official medical center name (for example, Washington VA Medical Center).

VA national cemetery

“national cemetery” is lowercase except when part of the full name of a cemetery.

VA regional office

Use “VA regional office” instead of “VA regional benefits office.” “Regional Office” should be capitalized only if a specific name is included in the title.

Like this: The Buffalo Regional Office (RO) is 1 of 4 regional processing centers nationwide that process education claims.

verify and verification

We only use the terms “identity verification” and “verify your identity” to describe the initial, one-time process of verifying your identity through ID.me or Login.gov. We don’t use “verify your identity” to describe signing in to VA.gov (using multifactor authentication or the “LOROTA” sign-in process for check-in and pre-check-in) with an account a person has already verified. Avoid using the terms “verify” or “verification” outside of identity verification. When asking someone to check the information they’ve provided in a form (ex. mailing address, email address, etc.), use “confirm” or “confirmation.”

Go to the Sign in and identity verification section for more guidance

vesicant agents

Use “vesicant (blistering) agents.”

Vet Center

Capitalize “Center.”

VET TEC 2.0

“VET TEC” is 2 words, all capitalized. This is a 2-year pilot program that eligible Veterans and active-duty service members will be able to start applying for in 2026. If a Veteran or service member wants to develop their skills to start or advance a career in a high-tech industry, this program will match them with a leading training provider.

Veteran

On VA.gov, capitalize even when used as a common noun. When possible, recast sentences into a more conversational tone. Use the second person point of view to speak directly with Veterans, rather than referring to them in the third person.

OK: Learn about services and benefits that we offer to Veterans and their families.

Better: Learn about VA services and benefits that you and your family may be eligible for.

Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

Note that “Veteran” is singular.

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

Veteran ID Card (VIC)

Capitalize when referring to the ID card that allows Veterans discounts at many businesses. Note that “Veteran” is singular.

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

Veteran-owned small business (VSOB)

Lowercase all words except “Veteran” when the term is spelled out.

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)

Capitalize as the full name of the program. Include both the acronym and “Chapter 31” on first mention. For example, “Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E), or Chapter 31.” VA used to call this program Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, and we have places where we reference the former name and say, “formerly known as Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment.” We do this for certain terms that have changed to help Veterans recognize the program name from potentially outdated materials or signage in facilities. We also reference the shortened version of the former name: “voc rehab.”

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

Veterans Affairs

“Veterans” doesn’t take an apostrophe. Go to the entries “VA” and “Department of Veterans Affairs.”

Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA)

“Benefits” is plural.

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

Veterans cemetery

“Veterans” doesn’t take an apostrophe, and “cemetery” is lowercase except when part of the official name of a cemetery.

Like this: Family members may be eligible if they’re buried in a Veterans cemetery.

Or when used in a proper noun: The Hawaii State Veterans Cemetery is located in Kaneohe, Hawaii.

Veterans Crisis Line (VCL)

“Veterans” doesn’t take an apostrophe.

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

Veterans’ Educational Assistance Program (VEAP)

“Veterans’” takes a plural possessive apostrophe.

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

Veterans Employment Center™ (VEC)

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI)

“Veterans’” takes a plural possessive apostrophe.

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

Veterans Health Administration (VHA)

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

Veterans Job Bank

“Veterans” is plural.

Veterans Law Judge

Capitalize. Can use lowercase “judge” on subsequent mentions in body copy instead of the full formal term.

Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI)

“Veterans’” takes a plural possessive apostrophe.

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

Veterans Pension

“Veterans” doesn’t take an apostrophe. Lowercase “pension” when writing “VA pension.”

Veterans Service Organization (VSO)

“Veterans” is plural and doesn’t take an apostrophe. Don’t use “VSO” to reference a Veterans Service Officer. Instead use Veterans Service Organization representative. Or VSO representatitve.

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

Vietnam Era

Capitalize Era in Vietnam Era. But lowercase “era” when you include “War” in the term (“Vietnam War era”). Go to entry for “era” for additional explanation.

Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC)

Go to the Abbreviations and acronyms section for more guidance

W

waiver (debt forgiveness)

Include “(debt forgiveness)” on first mention. We use this term to describe a debt repayment or relief option in which a Veteran asks us to forgive (or “waive”) part or all of a debt.

Note: Waivers are a debt repayment or relief option for both overpayment and copay debt. Other options include compromise offers, monthly offsets (overpayment debt only), monthly repayment plans, waivers, and write-offs (copay debt only). Debt can be a sensitive topic. Refer to our Payments and debts section of the style guide for more information about how to write about debt.

Go to the Payments and debts section

Washington, DC

Default to Washington, DC when referring to the location, the VAMC, or a regional office. In some cases, especially government contexts, “District of Columbia” is also fine (“the government of the District of Columbia”).

website

One word, lowercase.

work study

Two words, not hyphenated as a noun; hyphenate when using as an adjective preceding a noun.

Like this (modifying a noun): Find out if you can earn money while you go to school through our work-study program.

Like this (as a noun): How much does work study pay?

X

Y

Yellow Ribbon Scholarship (Yellow Ribbon Program): Capitalize “Program.”

Z

zip code: Lowercase, 2 words, per Merriam-Webster.

Last updated: Jan 12, 2026