Question:
Jim,
On a recent visit to the local VA clinic, I applied for my travel pay for the month. I apply one a month because of the deductable I usually end up with nothing but I try. The person at the counter asked if I wanted to see if the deductable could be waivered. I said it would be a waste of time because I receive SSD and VA disability, which was calculated to be equal to $28,104 with non-VA medical expenses of $1,160 and I forgot about my educational expenses of 4K. The threshold for me is $28,429.
Anyways, she fills out the form, Beneficiary Travel Waiver of Deductibles Worksheet, on the computer and yes, I am eligible for the waiver. Was I ever shocked because a VA employee took the time to help me with something I did not know about and that I qualified for the waiver.
Please pass this one as I am know there are many Vets worst off then me who could use the money.
Now what ticks me off is I should have had the waiver when I was only receiving a NSCP and or for the 30% and then 40% before then. I should be 50% of better soon.
Beneficiary Travel Benefits
Benefit Description
If you meet the criteria below, you may be eligible for mileage reimbursement or special mode transport in association with obtaining VA health care services.
You Qualify If:
1. you have a service-connected (SC) rating of 30 percent or more, or
2. you are traveling for treatment of a SC condition, or
3. you receive a VA pension, or
4. your income does not exceed the maximum annual VA pension rate, or
5. you are traveling for a scheduled compensation or pension examination
Waiver of Deductible
A waiver of the deductible will be provided if you are eligible for travel and you:
1. are in receipt of a VA pension or;
2. are a NSC veteran and your previous year’s income does not exceed, or your projected current calendar year’s income, in the year of application will not exceed the applicable VA pension rate, or
3. are a SC veteran and your previous year’s income does not exceed, or your projected current calendar year’s income, in the year of application will not exceed the applicable national means test income threshold or,
4. are traveling for a scheduled compensation and pension exam
Note: For detailed information visit the following links for National Means Test (MT) income thresholds: http://www.va.gov/healtheligibility/library/pubs/VAIncomeThresholds/ and Pension income thresholds: http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/rates/pen01.htm.
and more ... Jim,
I forgot to add that 'education expenses' and 'Funeral and Burial Expenses' can be deducted from the gross. I have $8,400 education expense for this year that I did not include as a deduction. All family income has to be included such as spouse and children, under a certain age, if they live in the household. I live with my daughter who is 32 and I did not have to include her income. I wish the form was available on line so you could view it. There is no number on the form but the name of the form is 'Beneficiary Travel Waiver of Deductibles Worksheet'
The lady who did the worksheet for me said it is something fairly new.
Thanks for you dedicated work for the Veterans,
Answer:
Wow. Great stuff. The best of what I publish, like this, comes in from readers.
Jim Strickland's Mailbag: Volume #68 for 2008
NOTE: Letters in my mailbag are reprinted just as they come to me. Spelling and grammar are left as is and only small corrections are made to improve readability, ensure anonymity or delete expletives that may offend some readers. This is not legal advice. You should always seek the advice of an attorney who is qualified in Veterans' law before you make any decisions about your own benefits.
11.04.08
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That is all.
