SALEM – An increase in mileage reimbursement was announced yesterday by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The mileage reimbursement is for certain veterans who travel to VA medical facilities.
 
Secretary of Veterans Affairs Dr. James B. Peake announced that mileage reimbursement rate was raised from 28.5 cents per mile to 41.5 cents per mile for all eligible veterans. Increases were made available immediately after the November 17 announcement. Dr. Peake said, “We are pleased to be able to provide them with the increase needed and we will continue to work with our veterans to ensure they receive the quality care they need.”
 
Director Jim Willis of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) applauded the benefit increase. “This benefit continues to assist veterans who travel to VA medical facilities in the state of Oregon. Making the lives of veterans better every day is not only the right thing to do, it is the duty of a grateful nation,” Willis said.
 
The increase represents the second mileage reimbursement increase in 30 years. “We owe it to our veterans to give them the best care possible,” said Peake. “The increase will once again provide assistance to our veterans, especially in these difficult economic times, to help offset gasoline costs and to assist veterans with access to the VA’s world-class health system.” The mileage reimbursement rate has increased twice during Dr. Peake’s command.
 
Beginning in January, deductibles will decrease to $3 for a one-way trip, $6 for a round trip, with a maximum of $16 per calendar month. Until then, the current deductible amounts applied to certain mileage reimbursements will remain frozen at $7.77 for a one-way trip, $15.54 for a round trip, and capped at a maximum of $46.62 per calendar month. Deductibles can be waived if they cause a financial hardship to the veteran.
 
Veterans wounded or disabled in service to their country are able to claim this benefit when traveling in relation to a Compensation and Pension (C&P) Examination. Five years of free VA Health Care is available to returning combat veterans.
 
Veterans, spouses, and dependents needing assistance with veteran benefits should contact their local County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) or ODVA. Service Officers can be located online at www.oregon.gov/ODVA/VSODIRECT or by calling 1-800-692-9666.
 

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