BTTS keeps denying community care mileage with explanation?

You are likely being denied because the VA only reimburses community care travel under specific conditions, and your claim may be missing required documentation or eligibility criteria. Reimbursement is governed by 38 CFR 17.162, which states the VA will pay for travel to a non-VA facility only if the care was **authorized in advance by the VA** through a Community Care consult (CCN) and the veteran is eligible for the Beneficiary Travel program (generally, having a service-connected rating of 30% or higher, or meeting low-income criteria). A common denial reason is the lack of a prior authorization on file. Your actionable next steps are: 1) Immediately obtain and submit a copy of your VA authorization letter/CCN for that specific allergy appointment; 2) Ensure your submitted claim uses VA Form 10-3542 and includes a printed Google Maps or MapQuest itinerary showing mileage; 3) File a written appeal to the denial by submitting a "Notice of Disagreement" (NOD) to the VA Travel Office that processed your claim, requesting a written explanation for the denial as required by 38 CFR 1.963; and 4) Contact the Patient Advocate at your local VA Medical Center to escalate the issue if the travel office remains unresponsive. Keep copies of all submissions. **Disclaimer: This is educational information for claims assistance and is not intended as legal or medical advice.**