Who Qualifies for VA Travel Pay?
Automatically Eligible (No Deductible)
Veterans who are: (1) rated 30% or higher for a service-connected disability, (2) traveling for treatment of a service-connected condition regardless of rating, (3) receiving a VA pension, (4) traveling for VA pre-authorization, or (5) having a gross household income at or below the VA Means Test threshold.
Eligible with Deductible
All other enrolled veterans may qualify for mileage reimbursement with a $3 per-trip deductible (maximum $18 per month). If your round trip exceeds the deductible, you receive the difference.
2026 Travel Pay Rates and Deductibles
How to File a Travel Pay Claim
Method 1 — BTSSS Online Portal (Recommended)
File at va.gov travel pay or AccessVA using the Beneficiary Travel Self-Service System (BTSSS). Create a VA.gov account, log in, and submit your claim. Digital submissions are processed faster than paper claims. Submit within 30 days of your appointment.
Method 2 — File In Person at the Clinic
Most VA clinics have a Travel Pay office or kiosk where you can file a paper claim (VA Form 10-3542) on the day of your appointment. Ask at check-in. Same-day filing is the easiest option if you have access to the office.
Method 3 — Mail (Last Resort)
Mail VA Form 10-3542 to your local VA medical center's fiscal service. Least preferred — allow 4–6 weeks for processing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What appointments qualify for VA travel pay?
VA-authorized medical appointments including: regular VA medical center visits, community care appointments authorized by the VA, C&P exams, radiology, lab, specialty appointments, and mental health visits. Travel for non-VA appointments not authorized by the VA generally does not qualify.
How long does travel pay take to receive?
BTSSS online submissions typically process in 7–14 business days. In-person filings process within a few weeks. Paper mail claims can take 4–6 weeks. Payment is issued by electronic funds transfer (direct deposit) to your bank account on file with the VA.
Can I file for multiple past appointments at once?
Yes — you can file for travel pay up to 30 days after each appointment. If you have multiple appointments from the past month, file them all at once through BTSSS. You cannot retroactively file for appointments older than 30 days unless there was a documented reason for the delay.