If you're a Veteran or caregiver eligible for VA health care travel reimbursement, you can now submit your claims online through the Beneficiary Travel Self-Service System (BTSSS). This system allows you to file claims 24/7, track their status, and receive payments more quickly. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.
Step 1: Set Up Direct Deposit
Before filing a claim, ensure you have direct deposit set up to receive your reimbursement. This will expedite the payment process. If you haven't set it up yet, you can find instructions on how to do so on the VA's website.
Step 2: Sign In to the BTSSS Portal
Access the BTSSS portal through AccessVA. You can sign in using one of the following accounts:
Login.gov
ID.me
DS Logon
My HealtheVet
VA PIV
If you don't have an account, you'll need to create one. Once signed in, you'll be directed to the portal's welcome page.
Step 3: Review Your Beneficiary Travel Profile
After signing in, check the box to agree to the terms and conditions, then select "Proceed to Profile Review." Ensure your personal, contact, and financial information is up to date. Once reviewed, select "Proceed to My Dashboard." Caregivers will first select "Proceed to My Veteran List," then choose the specific Veteran to access their dashboard.
Step 4: Create a Claim
You can create a claim in two ways:
Go to the "My Appointments" area. In the "Associated Appointments" column, select "Create Claim" for the appointment you're claiming travel pay for.
Or go to the "My Claims" area. Select "Create," then "Create a Claim" for the appointment you're claiming travel pay for.
This will open the "Initiate a Claim" form. Confirm or update your address, then select "Create Claim and Add Expenses.
Step 5: Add Your Expenses and Attach Receipts
On the "Claim Expenses" page, ensure your appointment information and address are correct. If you have receipts or proof of attendance records for non-VA care appointments, select "Add Attachments." You can add up to five attachments. Then, choose an expense type and follow the instructions to add information about each expense.
Step 6: Submit Your Claim
Review the Beneficiary Travel Agreement Notice. Check the box to show your agreement, then select "Submit Claim." After submission, the system will redirect you back to your claims dashboard. Your claim will be listed as "in review." You should receive your payment within 3 to 5 business days.
Additional Tips
File Timely: Submit your claim within 30 days of your appointment or when you become eligible for reimbursement.
Save Your Work: If you need time to gather receipts or other information, you can choose to save your claim and come back later to edit it. However, you'll still need to submit it within 30 days.
Need Help? If you have questions or need assistance, you can contact your VA health facility's Beneficiary Travel contact or call the BTSSS toll-free call center at 1-855-574-7292 (TTY: 711).
By following these steps, you can efficiently submit your VA travel reimbursement claim online, ensuring timely processing and payment.
