Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center - Houston, Texas

Beneficiary Travel Change

July 1, 2012

Beginning July 1, 2012, the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center (MEDVAMC) and its clinics began transitioning to a new method of processing travel reimbursement claims.  Except for rare exceptions, Veterans will be reimbursed for beneficiary travel via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) to a checking or savings account. During the transition period between July 1 – September 30, 2012, Veterans will still be able to receive cash payments at the Agent Cashier Offices.  

The benefit of the new EFT method is to streamline the travel claim process, improve our ability to track the status of your claim, cut down on long lines at the Agent Cashier, and make your VA visits more convenient.

How do I start my EFT Payments?
To receive EFT payments, you must complete the enclosed form and return it to the Agent Cashier Office either in person or by mail. Once you have a checking or savings account and your EFT has been established, you can expect to receive reimbursement in 3 to 5 days from the date your claim was submitted to the MEDVAMC. 

How will EFT affect me?
You should make sure you have sufficient funds for your travel to and from your VA appointment since immediate cash reimbursement will no longer be an option.   

Will this affect the Agent Cashier Offices at the outpatient clinics?
Yes. Currently, the outpatient clinics in Beaumont and Lufkin operate Agent Cashier Offices.  These offices will close permanently September 30, 2012. 

What if my EFT account has not yet been established?
All Veterans who have made a claim for travel reimbursement should submit the EFT Set Up Form (Also available at the Agent Cashier) by September 30, 2012. After that date, only a one-time cash payment will be available at the main hospital Agent Cashier Office. 

We thank you for your cooperation during this transition.  For more information, contact the Agent Cashier at 713-794-7498.