The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers disability benefits, including medical coverage and income, to individuals that become disabled as a result of military service. Medicaid provides health coverage for low-income pregnant women, children, the elderly and disabled.
Time Frame
If you receive a letter stating that your VA benefits or Medicaid have been discontinued, you must submit an appeal letter within a certain time frame. It is recommended that the appeal request is submitted to your local office within 10 days of the date on the letter.
Warning
One of the most common reasons for losing benefits is failure to comply with submitting paperwork or attending necessary recertification appointments. Ensure address and phone number are up to date and keep track of any upcoming appointments and/or documentation that must be submitted.
Significance
For many disabled veterans, the only source of income and health coverage is through the VA. Many low-income individuals only have Medicaid as their insurance coverage. The appeals and reinstatement process can be lengthy and result in significant financial stress.
Reinstatement
The process of reinstating VA benefits or Medicaid coverage may be handled by contacting a caseworker who turns the benefits back on, the case may be reviewed by a disability specialist or an administrative law judge or you may have to attend a court hearing. The process is largely determined by the reason for and the time frame between losing benefits and filing an appeal for reinstatement.
Representation
You have the right to representation during the reinstatement process. This can be a friend or family member, an entitlement specialist from a mental health agency or another agency or an attorney.
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