VA Mileage Rate Jumps to Match GSA Standard, Deductibles Banned for Veteran Travel

The newly introduced Heroes Earned Affordable Lifts Act, or the HEAL Act, is making some much-needed adjustments to how the VA handles travel reimbursement for veterans getting medical care. This isn't about massive structural change; it's about fixing the details that make a huge difference in a veteran's wallet and schedule.

Putting Mileage Reimbursement on Autopilot

The biggest financial change here is how the VA calculates mileage reimbursement for veterans using their personal vehicles to get to appointments. Currently, that rate is a fixed 41.5 cents per mile, which often lags behind the real cost of gas and wear-and-tear. The HEAL Act changes this by requiring the Secretary of the VA to tie the veteran travel rate directly to the General Services Administration (GSA) rate (Section 2). This is the rate the government uses to reimburse its own employees when they use their private cars for official business. For veterans, this means the reimbursement rate should now automatically adjust with federal standards, ensuring they get a fairer shake when driving long distances for necessary care.

The End of the Travel Deductible

For many veterans, the current system includes a deductible for travel reimbursement, essentially forcing them to pay out of pocket before the VA kicks in. The HEAL Act puts a hard stop to this. The bill states explicitly that the VA absolutely cannot charge veterans any kind of deductible for travel expenses related to getting an examination, treatment, or care (Section 2). This is a clean win for veterans, especially those on fixed incomes or those needing frequent appointments, as it removes a direct financial barrier to accessing their earned benefits.

More Rides, More Options

Accessing care often isn't just about the money; it's about finding a reliable ride. The HEAL Act expands the list of who the VA recognizes as an approved transportation provider. Beyond the usual suspects, the VA must now also recognize approved personal care services providers and local government veterans service agencies, including their staff or volunteers (Section 2). This is huge for veterans in rural areas or those with mobility issues. By expanding the pool of recognized providers, the bill increases the chances that a veteran can get a ride from someone already involved in their care or from a trusted local agency, making it easier and more convenient to keep those crucial appointments.