Best Way to Update Medical Expenses

[care4vets]

When updating file information pertaining to Actual Medical Expenses for the previous year, what is the best way to submit this information: by creating a general list or by using form 21-8416 or something else?  (This is not an application, merely an update; application has just been approved).  I assume VA does not want an itemized list of every expense, but will ask for more information if there are questions; correct?

Also, there are some verifiable recurring expenses and some expenses that were one-time.  I assume I would need to notate the recurring expenses in the list.  I have heard that VA is strict in determining what is a recurring expense, but what do I need to do to make sure they count the recurring expenses for the upcoming year?  Future benefits are dependent upon these expenses being considered qualified.

THANKS!

[vetadmin]

Just keep an good accounting and record along with receipts until the VA sends you the annual EVR (Eligibility Verification Report)  You can update and include additional information and expenes at that time.  The excpetion would be if the award was lower than the full amount.  In that case you would want to let them know now the increase in care/expenes for them to be considered for the increase in benefit.  Otherwise just hang on to everything until time for the EVR.

[care4vets]

Thanks for your reply!  Yes, it is to update info so that the full benefit can be received.  They did not give instructions on how to submit this, so I assume we can make our own list.  I think it should have general categories and not list each and every expense (unless it was a one-time expense), but I don't want to make mistakes.  The letter did not instruct to send in receipts, but to have them in case they were needed in the future.  But I'm wondering if we need to send in copies of those expenses that are recurring or if they will accept a statement only? 

Also, a few updates were made to the home in relation to the disability.  A couple pieces of furniture related to the disabilty were also purchased.  I know these are countable, but do I need to provide receipts or doctor's statements, or is listing them enough?  Under what category would they fall?

[vetadmin]

Not sure on the EVR what category these would fall in, but in the event your are not sure, you can attach a sheet of paper explaining the additional costs.

With the VA, I always recommend that you have all your ducks in a row, so keeping receipts is suggested as that clearly shows dates, costs etc.

[care4vets]

Thanks for your reply.  This is not an EVR.  It is an update of actual medical expenses in order to receive the full benefit from the previous year.  I think I know what to do, I just don't want to make mistakes, as they did not specify "how" to send in the updated info.  I'm assuming a general list can be created rather than list every single item.  I'm assuming I keep the receipts until they ask for them.  Am I correct?

[vetadmin]

Yes.

[care4vets]

I wanted to update this thread since finding this link on the VA website: 
http://www.benefits.va.gov/WARMS/M21_1MR5.asp

In Subpart III, Section G, there is helpful info on reporting Medical Expenses.

Whenever submitting such information, it is vital to report the following:
A. Purpose
B. Amount Paid
C. Date Paid
D. Name of Provider
E. For Whom

I would highly encourage those new to the process to read the document.