COVID-19 Medical Debt Relief - Community Care
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COVID-19 Medical Debt Relief

Below are answers to some common questions from the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) concerning the collection of medical and pharmacy charges for care administered April 6, 2020 through September 30, 2021.

I received a letter/statement saying I have a balance for medical and pharmacy care, but I do not need to make a payment, what should I do? What happens if I do not do anything?

No action is necessary in terms of making a payment for these charges. Out of concern for Veterans and their financial well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic, VA has suspended collections on medical care copayment debt through September 30, 2021. VA realizes these are challenging times for many and we continue to put Veterans first.

Are interest or fees accruing on my debt while statements are suspended?

VA has stopped the accrual of interest and fees during the suspension period.

My account was in collection with the U.S, Department of the Treasury prior to April 6, 2020. What happens now?

All collection actions for medical care and prescriptions owed to VA in the form of copayments under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, as well as garnishments of federal or state payments, are temporarily suspended through September 30, 2021. Beginning October 2021, those collection processes will resume.

I have a medical copayment debt for care I received prior to April 6, 2020; can you assist me? What are my debt relief options?

VA has extensive debt relief options available to Veterans:

Suspension of debt: You will not be required to pay on your debt until October 2021.

Monthly repayment plan: Veterans can request an agreement to make smaller payments each month to pay their debt over time. Complete VA Form 1100, Agreement to Pay Indebtedness.

Waiver, write-off, or compromise: If a Veteran cannot make monthly payments, a waiver, write-off or compromise can be requested. Complete VA Form 5655, Financial Status Report.

Financial hardship determination: If a Veteran is struggling because of life situations, VA can help. Financial hardship assistance to manage VA debt or an exemption from future copayments can be requested. Complete VA Form 10-10SH, State Home Program Application for Veteran Care Medical Certification.

Contact the VA Health Resource Center to discuss your options for medical copayment debt.
Call 866-400-1238, Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. ET

When does the suspension period end?

The suspension of new debts runs from April 6, 2020, through September 30, 2021.

If collection is paused, why am I getting a letter or statement from VA?

VA has several reasons for sending you information on your debt. We want to inform you of:

  • your current debt balances;
  • that collection on your accounts is suspended through September 30, 2021;
  • that relief options, such as an extended repayment plan, compromise or a waiver are available; and 
  • how to contact us in case you want further explanation of these actions.
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