If you’re traveling to the doctor for VA care, even if it’s just a few miles, you’re likely entitled to reimbursement through the VA’s travel pay program. In an era of rising prices, this benefit keeps healthcare accessible by covering mileage, tolls, parking, flights, meals, and more for eligible Veterans and caregivers.

Whether you’re navigating the VA’s travel reimbursement system for the first time or just need a 2025 update on the rules, this guide breaks down what’s changed, what hasn’t, and how to file travel claims without getting denied.

What Is VA Travel Pay?

VA travel pay, officially called Beneficiary Travel, reimburses Veterans and eligible caregivers for approved travel to and from VA healthcare appointments or VA-authorized community care visits.

Approved costs may include:

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• Mileage in a personal vehicle
• Parking, tolls, or public transit
• Taxi or rideshare fees
• Ambulance, ground transport, or flights (if medically required)
• Meals and lodging (if medically justified or pre-approved)

This benefit exists to ensure Veterans don’t go into debt to attend medical appointments.

Eligibility for VA Travel Pay in 2025

You must be traveling for VA-approved care and meet one of the following:

• You have a VA disability rating of 30% or higher
• You’re traveling for a service-connected disability, even if rated below 30%
• You receive a VA pension
• Your income is below the maximum VA pension rate
• You can’t afford the cost of travel without hardship
• You’re traveling for VA-approved transplant care, a scheduled C&P exam, or to receive a service dog

Caregivers may also qualify if they are:

• An approved family caregiver under the VA Caregiver Support Program, traveling for required training
• A medically necessary attendant supporting the Veteran’s care
• A donor or designated support person traveling under VA-approved transplant care

2025 Mileage Rates, Deductibles, and Limits

Here’s what the VA pays in 2025:

• Mileage rate: $0.415 per mile (41.5 cents)
• Deductible: $3 for one-way travel, $6 for round-trip
• Monthly cap: $18 per Veteran, after which approved trips are fully reimbursed
• Calculation method: Door-to-door mileage based on the shortest route (VA systems use Bing Maps)

The VA may waive your deductible if you cannot afford it. You can request this through your VA beneficiary travel office.

How to File a VA Travel Reimbursement Claim

1. Set up direct deposit: You must complete VA Form 10091 to receive travel reimbursements. Submit it online or in person at your local VA.
2. Log in to the VA travel claim system: Use the Beneficiary Travel Self Service System (BTSSS) or VA.gov. Sign in with Login.gov, ID.me, My HealtheVet, or DS Logon.
3. File your claim: Must be submitted within 30 days of the appointment.
   1. Upload all itemized receipts (tolls, lodging, airfare, etc.)
   2. Track and enter mileage, round-trip, per vehicle odometer, or mapped route
4. Track your payment: Once approved, funds are delivered by direct deposit. You can check the status in BTSSS.

Common Issues With VA Travel Reimbursement

• Filing late: claims submitted after 30 days are typically denied
• Missing receipts: especially for parking, transit, or airfare
• Logging incorrect mileage: must match closest route per VA guidelines
• Portal glitches: call 855-574-7292 or visit your VA facility if BTSSS errors block filing
• Not confirming eligibility category: be ready to confirm pension, rating, or claim-related travel

What’s New or Changing for 2025

• Community Care Claims Update: Starting February 24, 2025, VA is updating the process for filing travel claims related to VA Community Care appointments. Veterans referred to non-VA doctors should verify updated filing steps before submitting a claim.
• Mileage Rate Reform: Legislation called the DRIVE Act (introduced in 2025) seeks to increase mileage reimbursement to match federal employee travel rates and require faster VA payment processing. If passed, this would raise payouts for many Veterans.
• Increased Tech Access: VA continues installing in-office kiosks for Veterans to file travel claims in person, including at select VA medical centers.

FAQs About VA Travel Pay

How much does the VA pay per mile in 2025?

The VA reimburses eligible Veterans at 41.5 cents per mile.

Does the VA still have a deductible for travel pay?

Yes. The deductible is $3 one-way or $6 round-trip, with a maximum of $18 per month.

Do VA caregivers qualify for travel reimbursement?

Yes, if they are an approved caregiver under VA rules and traveling for eligible purposes such as training or as a medically necessary attendant.

How long do I have to file a VA travel claim?

You must file within 30 calendar days of the travel date.

Does VA travel pay cover food or lodging?

Yes, but only if the VA approves those expenses as medically necessary or part of long-distance or specialized care.

Travel Pay 101

If you're traveling for VA medical care, whether it’s 10 miles, 100 miles, or across state lines, don’t pay out of pocket. File your claim within 30 days, track every receipt, and stay informed about upcoming changes that could increase reimbursement for Veterans.

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