VA Form 10-0137A: Advance Directives Guide for Veterans – As a U.S. veteran receiving care through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), planning for your future health care is an important right. VA Form 10-0137A, titled “What You Should Know About Advance Directives,” provides essential information to help you make informed decisions. This informational guide explains your rights to accept or refuse treatment and how to document your wishes if you become unable to speak for yourself.
Advance directives ensure your preferences are honored, giving peace of mind to you and your loved ones. Download the official form here: Download VA Form 10-0137A PDF.
What Is an Advance Directive?
An advance directive is a legal document that allows you to outline your health care preferences in advance. It becomes active if you are too sick or unable to make decisions for yourself. VA recognizes your right to accept or decline any recommended medical treatment. Advance directives help your doctors and family understand your wishes regarding medical, mental health, and long-term care.
Types of Advance Directives: Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care and Living Will
There are two main types covered in VA resources:
- Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care: Allows you to name a specific person (your Health Care Agent or surrogate) to make health care decisions on your behalf.
- Living Will: Lets you specify which treatments you would or would not want if you cannot communicate your wishes.
You can complete one, both, or neither — completing them does not affect your access to VA health care services.
VA Form 10-0137: The Official VA Advance Directive
VA Form 10-0137 is the primary form veterans use to create an advance directive. It combines both the Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care and Living Will sections. This form is valid in VA facilities and recognized alongside state and DoD directives. You can download related informational resources like VA Form 10-0137A for guidance.
Learn more about VA Form 10-0137
Who Should You Choose as Your Health Care Agent?
Select someone you trust deeply, such as a spouse, adult child, or close friend, who understands your values and is willing to advocate for your wishes. Discuss your preferences with them in advance. If you do not name an agent, VA follows a priority list (legal guardian, spouse, adult child, etc.) to identify a surrogate.
Does Your Surrogate Have to Follow Your Living Will?
Yes, in most cases. Your health care team and surrogate must make reasonable efforts to honor your documented wishes. However, they may need to interpret them in unforeseen situations, and they cannot follow instructions that conflict with law or professional standards.
How to Complete VA Form 10-0137A and Related Advance Directives?
You can fill out the forms independently or with help from your VA health care team, including social workers, doctors, or mental health professionals. Discuss options with your spiritual advisor or attorney if needed. VA provides the forms free of charge, and there is no discrimination based on whether you complete one.
After completing:
- Provide copies to your VA health care facility and your designated Health Care Agent.
- Review and update as your situation or wishes change.
Can You Change or Cancel Your Advance Directive?
Absolutely. You can revise or revoke your advance directive at any time. Be sure to distribute updated copies to your VA facility and agent to ensure your current wishes are followed.
Why Veterans Should Complete Advance Directives
Advance care planning empowers you to maintain control over your medical decisions. It reduces stress on family members during difficult times and ensures care aligns with your personal values. VA encourages open conversations with loved ones and your care team about what matters most to you.
Additional Resources for VA Advance Directives
For the most current information:
- Official VA Form 10-0137A Page
- VA Form 10-0137 Page
- National Center for Ethics in Health Care resources on VA Ethics
Contact your local VA health care team for personalized assistance with advance care planning.
This article is for informational purposes only and is based on official VA resources. Always consult with your VA provider or legal professional for advice specific to your situation. Information current as of 2026.