Affected benefit debts include those related to disability compensation, non-service-connected pension and education benefits.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced an extension to the temporary hardship suspension for benefit debts that was set to expire on Sept. 30. The relief option, which was established to help veterans through the COVID-19 pandemic, will now be good until Dec. 31.
“Helping veterans manage, pay off and — in some cases — eliminate their debt is one of our top priorities,” said VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “Extending this hardship suspension is a key part of that critical effort, and it will help ease the burden for veterans who are living with debt.”
Notices will be mailed to affected veterans informing them of the extended hardship suspension option, as well as extended debt repayment plans, waivers and compromises. Benefit debts include those related to disability compensation, non-service-connected pension and education benefits.
Veterans and beneficiaries can manage their debt online or call 800-827-0648 with questions regarding benefit overpayments. For information about medical care and pharmacy copayment debt, veterans and beneficiaries can call the Health Resource Center at 866-400-1238.
- Veterans Benefits