Copayment Debt Relief Options Available to Vets

Veterans’ resources for debt relief options are just a click of a mouse or phone call away.

The VA is taking the time to remind veterans about accessible debt relief options available to vets. The notice from the VA comes at a time that might be particularly hard for veterans dealing with copayment collections and statements for medical care and pharmacy services. While it can be overwhelming, it’s important to know that there might be some relief that you can access from the VA.

After a year and a half delay on copayment collections due to the American Rescue Plan, collections resumed on October 1st, 2021. Though copayments for services received during the pandemic were canceled, and in some cases refunded, many veterans who received service before April 6th, 2020, and after September 30th, 2021, will be receiving collection notices.

Susan Reed, Executive Director of the VHA Office of Revenue Operations, has ensured that resources for debt relief options available to vets are just a click of a mouse or phone call away. “Our team is standing by to assist if statements appear confusing or clarification is needed,” she said.

Typically, under the Debt Collection Improvement Act, after 90 days of delinquency, you could be subject to a reduction in benefits to make up for the lost payments. After 120 days, the case transfers to the U.S. Department of the Treasury for collection action. If this is a concern for any veteran, they should apply for debt relief as soon as possible.

The VA claims to have completed refunds for all care provided between April 6th, 2020 and September 30th, 2021. Collection notices should only be currently issued for medical care and pharmacy services outside of the date range. Canceled copayments might appear on patient statements.

If you are in need of potential debt relief, please find additional resources here – www.va.gov/COMMUNITYCARE/revenue_ops/Financial_Hardship.asp

When you are coping with your own serious health issues or with the health concerns of a loved one, the last thing you need is to try to navigate a complicated bureaucracy and hope you can successfully convince the VA to give you the benefits you need. Our team will be proud to assist you. Call us at 855-208-9438 or complete an online intake form to schedule a free initial consultation. We serve the following New York locations: Long Island, Brooklyn, Queens, and more.