How Does Moving Affect My VA Claim?
As you may have experienced, from being stationed in different states and countries while serving in the military, moving to a new home and place can be both an exciting and overwhelming experience. In addition to the physical move, there are so many things to take care of, such as notifying everyone, including friends, family, utilities, and other bills of your new address. For Veterans, a common question is; Does moving affect my VA claim or VA benefits? If I move to a new address, what should I do?
The short answer and essential to note is that moving does not change the amount of disability benefits you receive. However, depending on how far you move, it may change what regional VA office your claim is filed at. Our nationwide VA attorneys will explain the steps you should take if you have a VA claim and are moving to a new home and address.
VA claims and benefits: Moving within the same state
If you move within the same state, the same regional VA office will likely handle your VA claim. However, some states do have more than one VA regional office. To see if your state has multiple regional offices, click here. If your state only has one regional VA office, you must update them of your new address as soon as possible. You can do this by updating your address online or by calling 1-800-827-1000.
Updating your address with your regional VA office will also update;
Your disability compensation
VA health care (including prescriptions, appointments, lab and test results, and communications from your VA medical center)
Your pension benefits
Your claims and appeals
Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)
VA claims and benefits: Moving to a different state
If you move to a different state, your claim will be transferred to that regional VA office. Keep in mind that transferring your claim can cause delays in processing your claim, as your file will need to be transferred between offices.
It's crucial to update your address with your new VA office as soon as possible to avoid any significant delays in receiving your benefits.
Here are some steps to take when you move so that your new address is on file and you do not miss any important correspondence related to your benefits:
Find your new VA regional office.
Update your address online at VA.gov.
Or call 1-800-827-1000 to update your address.
Contact your new local VA medical center or clinic to update your address.
Update your address with any private healthcare providers who are treating your service-connected disability.
Keep a copy of your updated address with you.
Again as mentioned above, updating your address with your regional VA office will also update;
Your disability compensation
VA health care (including prescriptions, appointments, lab and test results, and communications from your VA medical center)
Your pension benefits
Your claims and appeals
Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)
How do I update my address for any additional benefits I am receiving?
Remember that updating your address with your VA office may only automatically update some of your benefits. If you receive the following benefits from;
Education benefits
Your direct deposit - if you are moving to a new bank
Home loan benefits
CHAMPVA
The Foreign Medical Program
You must update your address with any benefits or programs directly related to you.
It's understandable that moving can be stressful, but it is essential to remember that your VA benefits will not be affected by your move. By following the steps listed above, you can ensure that your benefits are not interrupted and that you continue receiving the care you need.
Here are some additional things to remember when moving to a new area or state.
If you are moving to a different state, you may need to see a new doctor for your VA disability exam.
You may need to file a new VA claim if your disability worsens after you move.
If you are moving to a rural area, you may need help finding a VA healthcare provider.
How The VA Claims Lawyer can help you with your move.
We understand that moving can be stressful and overwhelming. Our VA attorneys can assist you in transferring your VA claim to your new regional VA office. We also work with Veterans nationwide.
At The VA Claims Lawyer, we're not just your legal representative. We're your advocate. We've successfully assisted countless veterans in getting the VA benefits they deserve. We can also help you obtain the best possible outcome in your case. If we don't win your case, there is no fee. Contact us today at (877) VET-FILE for your free case evaluation.