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The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hosts free events like the National Veterans Golden Age Games to encourage older adults in the veteran community to get active for better health and wellness. But veterans are reporting finding websites or pages on social media that charge a fee to register for the games. These are fakes. Whether you’re looking to compete or just want to watch the games, here’s how to cross the finish line without running into a scam.

If you’re planning to compete in the Golden Age Games, know that the VA is the only official host. This means you can only register through VA.gov using your ID.me account. And it’s completely free for you, your caregiver, your coach, and your loved ones to register to compete or watch the games. Registration doesn’t open until January 28, 2026, so anything that says you can “register now” is a sure sign of a scam.

To help you avoid VA imposter scams:

  • Only register through VA.gov. That’s the same website you use for all of your veterans benefits. And make sure your ID.me account is up to date so the VA can confirm it’s really you registering.
  • Never pay for a VA event. If someone says you have to pay to register or to watch a VA-hosted event, that’s a scam. Walk away.
  • Never share your VA credentials. Scammers can use that information to steal your identity or your benefits.

If you have any questions about the games, email GoldenAgeGames@Va.Gov. And if you spot a scam, tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Scams
Avoiding and Reporting Scams
Scams Against Older Adults
Government Impersonators
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