Members must be citizens of the United States or a United States National, and at least 16 years old.

Those eligible are:

Husband/Wife
Widower/Widow
Father/Mother
Grandfathers/Grandmothers
Sons/Daughters
Grandsons/Granddaughters
Brothers/Sister

Of persons who were or are eligible for membership in the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States.

Those eligible for membership in the VFW are those that have received a campaign medal for overseas service; have served 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days in Korea; or have ever received hostile fire or imminent danger pay. Click here for more information.

Step- and adopted parents, children, siblings (and half-siblings), grandparents and grandchildren are considered the same as biological parents, children, siblings, grandparents and grandchildren and may join the VFW Auxiliary under their VFW-eligible veteran.

Proof of service is required for eligibility and must be obtained by the applicant.

Information on a veteran’s service record can be obtained by contacting:
National Archives and Records Administration
Phone: 1-866-272-6272

The fundamental difference between our organization and other veterans organizations, and one in which we take great pride, is our eligibility qualifications. VFW welcomes all who meet our eligibility criteria. It's through service to this country that all our membership has earned their elite status.

If you have received a campaign medal for overseas service; have served 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days in Korea; or have ever received hostile fire or imminent danger pay, then you're eligible to join our ranks.