VA Review

[Lyjo]

I just received a 10-10EZR from Atlanta because it looks like I busted the income level for my Number 5 classification. The problem seems to be related to the fact that the VA hospital where I signed up said to NOT include Social Security. It looks like Atlanta indeed DOES include Social Security to figure income as it pertains to VA income limits.

Anyone else had this problem? From what I'm reading in the package they sent me, I'm going to have to pay VA for everything they've done for me. So far my only co-pay has been for the meds.

Do they listen to sob stories? Is there a way I might be able to convince them to let me repay just co-pay and not the entire bill? Can't believe my social security is going to knock me out of the excellent VA care I've been getting.

Gimme some hints if you have them.

[Emmons]

Lyjo.

I would update the 10-10EZR and add the SS on it. unless they have changed, they want all income information on the form.

If it causes an overpayment back to the VA, file for a waiver of that amount.

It is sad but seems like the VAMC's say one thing and Atlanta says another.

[Savannah]

Go in and talk to the benefits people.

[ItstheTrip]

GO NOW to the nearest Disabled American Veterans Service Officer. They will be able to give you the best advice.

[Lyjo]

Thanks for the suggestions. I appreciate the feedback. At least I'm not the only one this has happened to.

[Savannah]

Be sure to post what is going on so the info can help others. Good luck.

[Volunteer]

Had a little problem getting back on the board so I re-registered using a new name.

I finally got my first response from VA and they said I may no longer qualify for medical coverage OR I may have to pay a co-pay on medical care. The letter said I would receive a followup letter telling me how much I owe the VA and whether they're completely kicking me out of the program. Looks like I'm screwed no matter what since they say I'll either have to pay this past year's co-pay or pay the entire amount for all the treatment I've received.

By what little I know, it looks like my Social Security puts me $100 to $200 above the limit for the Classification Five I'm currently assigned to by VA. I can't believe the local VA hospital said SS didn't count and has been treating me for my heart condition for almost a year now. Lord knows what my final bill will be. Of course, I'll beg to be excused from that but don't really expect them to be very open to cutting me any slack.

It would be one thing if I went into this last year trying to find a way to cheat VA but I actually went to the VA hospital not expecting to qualify for any coverage since I don't have any service-connected problems. I was pleased when they said I did qualify and the reason was that my income from SS wouldn't be used in making the determination.

I'll come back and let you know once all the other shoes drop.

[Emmons]

Volunteer.

Their is a place on the 10-10EZR to put last years medical expenses, if you did an updated form and didnt put the expenses I would do another one and add it. You can update the form at any time. If you do an update I would take it to the eligibility clerk at the VAMC and have him or her look it over and send it in for you.

It is sad to say but the VA hires some people that just want a paycheck and dont know what the crap they are doing or telling Veteran's.

Keep us posted.

[Volunteer]

Take a look at the date on my original post and you'll see how long I've been working with VA on this situation.

In yesterday's mail, I received a bill and all the VA is asking for at this point in time is a $10 co-pay for my visits to the VA hospital in Kerrville, Texas. And once I pay that, my income should fall back below the poverty level where I originally signed up. I've already been paying the standard co-pay for my meds.

If this is where it ends, I'll be happy. The total bill is about $150 and that's an amount I can cover without too much distress.

Of course, there always that other shoe and sometimes when it drops ... things get hairy. But I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

As promised, I just wanted to bring you up to speed on this situation. And thanks again for all the input. I sincerely appreciate it.