Maximise your benefits: DVA transport claims for Australian veterans
As an Australian Veteran, getting the support you need for your health can be challenging.
Did you know veterans can claim transport expenses through the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA)?
Through our Veteran Access Scheme™, we frequently speak with veterans who are unaware that they can claim transport expenses for medical appointments. We're here to help you understand and use the veteran health care benefits available to you.
Let’s cover what you need to know about transport claims, making it easier for you to get the support you require.
What are transport claims?
Transport claims are part of the DVA's way of helping you get to your medical appointments without worrying about travel costs. These claims can cover:
Private vehicles
Public transport
Community transport
Vehicle ferries
Parking and road tolls
The DVA may also reimburse for travel for the following modes of transport if it’s the most cost-effective:
Non-emergency ambulance
Aeroplane
Taxi or hire car
The goal is to reduce your financial stress
so you can focus on your health.
When you travel for an appointment, you can submit your claim for reimbursement afterward. Veterans have up to 12 months from the date of travel to submit their transport claim for reimbursement.
You can either claim each trip separately or group several trips together in one claim. Some people prefer to claim each trip individually so they don’t forget any expenses or lose receipts for things like parking.
Who can claim transport costs?
To claim transport costs through the DVA, you need to meet specific eligibility criteria. Here's a more detailed look at what you need to qualify:
Have a DVA Health Card (Gold, White, or Orange):
Gold Card: Entitles you to a wide range of healthcare services at DVA's expense, making you generally eligible for transport claims for all approved medical treatments.
White Card: Covers treatment for specific conditions accepted as related to your service. Transport claims can be made for treatments directly related to these conditions.
Travel for DVA-Approved Medical Treatments:
Travel must be for medical appointments, treatments, or services (approved by DVA) including: visits to general practitioners, specialists, allied health professionals, and hospitals.
It's important to verify your eligibility with the DVA or your healthcare provider before making any travel arrangements, especially if you intend to claim afterwards
How to make a transport claim
Making a claim might seem complicated, but it's easy with the right help. The DVA has a video that shows you how to do it step-by-step.
The video will show you how to:
Sign into your MyService account via myGov
Access the "Claim Travel Expenses" section
Start a new claim or access draft claims
Add expenses for each appointment
By following the video, you can submit your travel claims easily and get your money back without hassle. If you do not have a MyService account or prefer to use a paper form, you will need to use Claim form D0800 “Claim for Travelling Expenses.”
Tips for a smooth claim
Check your Eligibility: Before you travel, make sure you can claim the costs.
Keep Records: Write down all your travel costs and medical appointments.
Submit Complete Information: Make sure all information and documents are correct and complete.
Utilise the DVA's resources, such as guides, fact sheets, online videos, customer support, and online tools available through the MyService portal to help you navigate the claims process efficiently and ensure your claims are processed quickly.
Key Takeaways
Don't miss out on the support available to you.
DVA transport claims can help reduce the financial burden associated with travel for medical treatment. By knowing the eligibility criteria, types of help available, and the claims process, you can make sure you get the benefits you're entitled to.
At Provocatus, we're here to help you understand and access better the support Australian veterans need for a healthier life.
For more tips and support, visit the Provocatus Veteran Access Scheme™ page.
If you have any questions or need help, contact us at vas@provocatus.com.au or call the DVA at 1-800-VETERAN.
We're here to support you every step of the way.
