The clock is ticking….less than two weeks away when you will no longer be able to log into the VA healthcare system using MyHealtheVet. I mentioned in my Dec. 12 article that this was going to happen and that there will be only two ways you will be able to log into MyHealtheVet, one going through Login.gov and the other through Id.me. There will be some frustrated veterans who use MyHealtheVet! As of last Saturday, 7,785 veterans of the 27,000 veterans in Maine who use MyHealtheVet have not “enrolled.” Actually, I did make an error in that article that was brought to my attention by a reader from the Penta Group in Washington D.C.  I had no idea my readership stretched that far! Apparently ID.me is a client of the Penta Group so when I typed “ID.me.gov” they were quick to contact me to point out there isn’t a “gov” to ID.me.  So, just to be sure everyone knows who Id.me is, copying from their website: “ID.me is the next-generation digital identity network that simplifies how individuals securely prove their identity online. Consumers can verify their identity with ID.me once and seamlessly log in across websites without having to create a new login or verify their identity again. 130 million members experience streamlined login and identity verification with ID.me at 16 federal agencies, 30 states, and 56 healthcare organizations. More than 600 consumer brands use ID.me to verify communities and user segments to honor service and build more authentic relationships.”  I encourage you to go to their website www.id.me to learn more amount them.   

So, what is Log.gov?  From their government website: Login.gov is a safe way to sign in to many U.S. government websites using just one account. It helps protect your information by asking you to take extra steps to make sure it’s really you when you log in.”  

 In making the decision which way to go, the VA has provided the following information: 

1. Login.gov: Start this process by going to www.Login.gov.  If you need help, call 844-875-6446 available 24/7. When the recording starts, push “1.” 

2. ID.me: Start the process by going to www.ID.me.  If you have technical issues, ID.me is available Monday-Friday, 10:30 to 8PM EST.  Their number is 1-877-327-0222, go to option 1 for log in issues and option 2 for technical support.   There is an option with ID.me where you can ZOOM with a technician for help.

In both cases, you will need to be able to upload a government issued ID card with pictures. 

If you are like me, you might want to meet with the VA expert and have them help you set up your account. You can make an appointment at Togus by calling 623-8411 and ask for MyHealtheVet coordinator or call Mike Labbe directly at 512-6983. Mike is coming to the Legion in February to sign folks up who need help. Contact the hall 633-4487 if you want an appointment with Mike.