What Is Travel Reimbursement
Travel reimbursement is a VA benefit that reimburses veterans for mileage costs incurred when traveling to VA medical appointments, C&P exams, or other VA-authorized healthcare visits. The VA pays either mileage reimbursement or actual travel expenses, depending on your situation and the distance involved.
Eligibility and Reimbursement Rates
You're eligible for travel reimbursement if you're receiving VA Healthcare and traveling to a VA facility for a covered appointment. This includes appointments at any VA Medical Center, VA clinic, or contracted provider authorized by the VA.
The current mileage reimbursement rate is 41.5 cents per mile (as of 2024). If you travel more than 40 miles one way, you may qualify for lodging reimbursement as well. The VA typically reimburses you at the end of each calendar month based on claims you submit through the VA telehealth or in-person registration system.
Veterans with a 30% or higher disability rating receive an enhanced travel benefit that waives certain copayments and expands reimbursement eligibility. Those using VA-authorized transportation services (such as non-emergency medical transport) may have travel costs covered directly rather than reimbursed.
Connection to Your Disability Claim
Travel reimbursement becomes relevant during the C&P exam process. When you're scheduled for a Compensation and Pension exam to support your disability rating claim, all mileage to that exam is reimbursable. If your VSO or representative arranges transportation or accompanies you to the exam, coordinate reimbursement claims carefully to avoid duplication.
Nexus letters and medical evidence needed for your claim often require follow-up appointments at a VA Medical Center. Those travel costs are covered under this benefit, reducing out-of-pocket expenses while building your claim record.
How to File for Reimbursement
- Submit travel reimbursement claims through the VA's online portal, by mail using VA Form 20-842, or in person at your local VA facility within one year of the appointment date.
- Include the date of appointment, facility name, round-trip mileage, and your vehicle information.
- The VA processes claims within 30 days under normal circumstances, though complex cases may take longer.
- If your claim is denied, you can appeal through the VA appeals process, especially if the appointment was VA-authorized but the facility disputes reimbursement eligibility.
Common Questions
- Can I claim reimbursement if someone else drove me? Yes, if the trip was VA-authorized and you paid for the mileage yourself or have a written agreement with the driver. However, the VA reimburses based on actual mileage, not passenger costs.
- Does travel reimbursement count as income for federal tax purposes? No. VA travel reimbursement is a non-taxable benefit and should not be reported as income on your tax return.
- What if I miss an appointment but already incurred travel costs? Travel reimbursement only covers expenses for completed VA-authorized appointments. Cancellations typically disqualify reimbursement, though exceptions may apply if the VA cancelled the appointment.