VA Long Beach Healthcare System
VA offers debt relief to Veterans through year’s end
October 7, 2020
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) today announced its commitment to extend debt relief to Veterans adversely impacted by COVID-19 to the end of 2020 by suspending certain debt collection actions.
The department recognizes Veterans and beneficiaries are still being greatly impacted by the coronavirus prompting the extension of financial relief.
“Veterans and their families should be focused on their health and safety during the pandemic,” said VA Secretary Robert Wilkie. “VA is taking action to give those with pending debts greater flexibility during these challenging times.”
VA is suspending all actions on Veteran debts under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Treasury Department. This includes the suspension of collection action or extending repayment terms on preexisting VA debts, whichever the Veteran prefers.
For benefit debts, Veterans should contact the VA Debt Management Center at 1-800-827-0648.
For health care debts, Veterans should contact the Health Resource Center at 1-866-400-1238 or https://www.pay.gov for payments.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will Veterans still receive bills in the mail for VA Health Services?
No. Veterans will not receive bills directly from the VA during this billing pause.
1. Even though Veterans are currently not receiving bills, is it possible for a Veteran to inquire on their balance and to pay any current or accrued debt?
Yes. Veterans may inquire about their balance or pay any outstanding debt even though bills are not currently being sent Veterans may contact their billing representatives (WCPAC) in person at their facility, or contact the Health Resource Center at 866-400-1238. Veterans may also visit www.pay.gov
2. Will current and future debts during the billing pause be waived?
Currently there are no plans to waive payments and activities VA normally would assess a co-pay on (office visits for certain groups of Veterans and medications). This is subject to change as further guidance is released by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
3. How long is this billing pause going to last?
Until the end of the 2020 calendar year (December 31, 2020).
4. What if a Veteran has a collection action against them for outstanding debt?
VA is suspending all collection actions and extending repayment terms on preexisting VA debts until the end of the calendar year.
5. Who should a Veterans contact if they have any questions about billing and collections?
Veterans may contact their billing representatives (WCPAC staff) in person at their facility or contact the Health Resource Center at 866-400-1238. Veterans may also visit www.pay.gov
