Privacy Policy
Last Updated: February 17, 2026
Our Commitment: We are committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how VA Benefits App ("we," "us," or "our") collects, uses, and safeguards your information when you use our mobile application and services.
1. Information We Collect
1.1 Information You Provide
When you use VA Benefits App, you may provide us with:
- Account Information: Name, email address, and password when you create an account
- Profile Information: Your veteran status, branch of service, service dates, and areas of interest
- Communication Data: Messages you send through our AI chat feature
- Beta Signup Information: First name, last name, email, user type, and current VA disability rating
1.2 Information Collected Automatically
We automatically collect certain information when you use the App:
- Device Information: Device type, operating system, and unique device identifiers
- Usage Data: Features you use, pages you view, and actions you take within the App
- Log Data: IP address, access times, and app crash reports
1.3 Information We Do NOT Collect
- Social Security Numbers
- VA file numbers or claim numbers
- Medical records or health information
- Financial account information
- Precise location data
2. How We Use Your Information
We use the information we collect to:
- Provide, maintain, and improve our services
- Personalize your experience and provide relevant benefit guidance
- Respond to your questions and provide customer support
- Send you important updates about the App and your account
- Analyze usage patterns to improve our AI responses and features
- Protect against fraud and unauthorized access
- Comply with legal obligations
3. Data Storage and Security
Local-First Approach: Most of your data is stored locally on your device. We minimize the data we store on our servers to protect your privacy.
3.1 Data Stored Locally
- Your conversation history with the AI assistant
- Your preferences and settings
- Cached benefit information
3.2 Data Stored on Our Servers
- Account credentials (encrypted)
- Basic profile information for personalization
- Anonymous usage analytics
3.3 Security Measures
We implement industry-standard security measures including:
- Encryption of data in transit (TLS/SSL)
- Encryption of sensitive data at rest
- Regular security audits and updates
- Secure authentication protocols
4. Data Sharing and Disclosure
We do NOT sell, rent, or trade your personal information. We may share information only in these limited circumstances:
- Service Providers: With trusted vendors who help us operate the App (e.g., cloud hosting, analytics)
- Legal Requirements: When required by law, court order, or government request
- Safety: To protect the rights, property, or safety of our users or others
- Business Transfers: In connection with a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets
5. Your Rights and Choices
You have the following rights regarding your data:
- Access: Request a copy of the personal data we hold about you
- Correction: Request correction of inaccurate personal data
- Deletion: Request deletion of your account and associated data
- Opt-Out: Unsubscribe from marketing communications at any time
- Data Portability: Request your data in a portable format
To exercise these rights, contact us at privacy@vabenefitsapp.com.
6. Children's Privacy
VA Benefits App is not intended for use by children under 13 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If we learn that we have collected personal information from a child under 13, we will delete that information promptly.
7. Third-Party Services
Our App may contain links to third-party websites or services, including:
- VA.gov and other government websites
- Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs)
- External resources and references
These third parties have their own privacy policies, and we are not responsible for their practices.
8. Data Retention
We retain your personal information for as long as your account is active or as needed to provide services. After account deletion:
- Personal data is deleted within 30 days
- Anonymized usage data may be retained for analytics
- Data required for legal compliance may be retained longer
9. International Users
VA Benefits App is designed for use within the United States. If you access the App from outside the U.S., please be aware that your information may be transferred to and processed in the United States.
10. California Privacy Rights (CCPA)
California residents have additional rights under the California Consumer Privacy Act:
- Right to know what personal information is collected
- Right to delete personal information
- Right to opt-out of the sale of personal information (we do not sell your data)
- Right to non-discrimination for exercising privacy rights
11. Changes to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any material changes by:
- Posting the new policy in the App
- Updating the "Last Updated" date
- Sending an email notification for significant changes
12. Contact Us
If you have questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us:
- Email: privacy@vabenefitsapp.com
- Website: vabenefitsapp.com
Not Affiliated with VA: VA Benefits App is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. We are an independent application designed to help veterans navigate available benefits.