(September 14 , 2005)

In order to further improve the lines of communication and to respond to the concerns between the National VA Council and you our members, I have established a National VA Council Briefing. This NVAC Briefing will bring you the latest news and developments within DVA and provide you with the current status of issues this Council is currently addressing. I believe that this NVAC Briefing will greatly enhance the way in which we communicate and the way in which we share new information, keeping you better informed.

Alma L. Lee

National VA Council, President

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In This Briefing : VA Creates Procedures for Benefits

in Wake of Hurricane Katrina

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 14, 2005

 

 

VA Creates Procedures for Benefits in Wake of Hurricane Katrina

WASHINGTON - The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has established emergency procedures for veterans whose VA financial benefits have been affected by Hurricane Katrina.

"It is critical that veterans and their families who are victims of this devastating hurricane continue to have access to their funds," said the Honorable R. James Nicholson, Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Nicholson said the Department is providing replacement checks for victims of Hurricane Katrina who are unable to obtain VA benefits checks mailed to their homes or electronically deposited in banks within the affected area.

More than 80 percent of veterans receive their VA benefits checks through direct deposit and those payments will continue without interruption. Veterans and beneficiaries who do not have access to their banks or who normally receive a paper check can obtain a replacement check by calling 1-800-827-1000 or by visiting any VA regional office in the country. VA hospitals are not able to provide replacement checks.

For questions related to health care for veterans within the hurricane zone, VA is operating a toll-free hot-line at 1-800-507-4571. Information for veterans affected by the hurricane is also available on the Internet at <http://www.va.gov>.

 

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