Myths Busted: Registering With Wounded Warrior Project
The needs of post-9/11 service members and veterans are great and growing. Consequently, Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) has seen a growing number of people registering with the organization. In 2023, over 70 warriors and family support members registered with WWP each day.
Have you ever wondered if you or a loved one is eligible to register for WWP's free programs and services? Or have you ever been confused about the registration process? It’s time we address these misunderstandings and refute the myths and misconceptions.
Who can register with WWP?
The WWP Resource Center can answer questions about programs and assist with registration when you're ready.
There are two eligibility requirements for registration with WWP™. First, you must have served in any branch or component (including National Guard and Reserves) of the U.S. armed forces on or after Sept. 11, 2001. Second, you must have a diagnosed visible or invisible injury, illness, or wound connected to your service.
WWP also knows warriors aren’t the only ones who face challenges during and after service. We understand the importance of strong support systems, and we’re here to serve and support veterans’ families and caregivers, too.
How do I know if I have a service-connected injury, illness, or condition?
If you have an injury, illness, or condition that occurred during your timeframe of service or that is connected to your timeframe of service, and you’re still feeling the effects of it, you likely have a service-connected condition.
I’m active duty right now. Can I still register?
Yes! You do not need to be discharged or have a VA rating.
- There is no requirement that you have already received a VA rating. Any injury, illness, or condition that will qualify for a VA rating after service meets eligibility requirements for WWP registration.
- Combat service is not a requirement.
Will my requests for resources or participation in WWP programs be private?
WWP does NOT report to the Department of Defense or the Department of Veterans Affairs, or to any command, duty station, etc. This means anything you disclose to WWP, such as any programs you participate in, or resources you engage with will not be shared with any external entity, including your leadership if you are active-duty.
What if I didn’t have an honorable discharge?
WWP reviews every registration individually and recognizes that each situation is unique. If you have a general under honorable or other than honorable discharge, you may still be eligible to register.
After registering with WWP, you’re not a member – you’re an alumnus, a valued part of a community that’s been where you’ve been and understands what you need.
What do I need to register?
You need to provide WWP with official military documents as proof of service and proof of injury, illness, and/or wound. You can obtain these documents through resources such as MilConnect, National Archives, or from your last duty station.
How do I register?
Visit woundedwarriorproject.org and click “Join.” Or register by phone by calling 888.WWP.ALUM
When registering online, you’ll complete a form to begin the registration process and provide contact information.
WWP will contact you about your registration within seven to 10 days of submitting your form.
I’m working on my registration, but I still have questions.
You can use the “Live Chat” button on the bottom right of your screen to talk to a live WWP teammate. Teammates are available to answer your questions Monday to Friday, 9 am – 7 pm, EST.
You can also call the WWP Resource Center at 888.WWP.ALUM (997.2586) between 9 am and 9 pm EST, or email registration@woundedwarriorproject.org
Tips for registering:
- Necessary documentation includes (but are not limited to):
- DD214, DD256, or NGB22 (showing final discharge orders/status)
- VA benefits summary letter
- Current unit orders to a Warrior Transition Unit/Battalion
- Medical Evaluation Board (MEB)/Physical Evaluation Board (PEB) Narrative Summary
- Do NOT mail original documents to WWP. For security reasons, we do not mail documents back.
- Please exclude your social security number.
- Use a civilian email (rather than a .mil or .gov email).
Contact: Kaitlyn McCue, Public Relations, kmccue@woundedwarriorproject.org, 904.870.1964
About Wounded Warrior Project
Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers — helping them achieve their highest ambition. Learn more about how the organization supports veterans.