(Photo: VA.gov)
Veterans are being warned about a mail scam that uses official-looking postcards to promise additional VA benefits and monthly payments.
The Federal Trade Commission issued a new warning Aug. 24 about postcards promoting a so-called “Veterans Savings Program.” The program does not exist. The postcards are designed to convince Veterans or their spouses to call a number and provide personal or financial information.
Some versions of the postcard mention real benefits such as CHAMPVA, TRICARE For Life, and dental coverage. They may also reference the recipient’s state or claim that additional benefits are available regardless of a VA disability rating. Those details are intended to make the message appear legitimate.
Sense of urgency is one of the warning signs. The postcard often tells the recipient to respond quickly or risk missing the opportunity. VA says some mailers have instructed Veterans to call within five days. Once a Veteran calls the number, the person on the other end may claim to have a connection with VA and thank the Veteran for their service. The conversation can then shift toward requests for a Social Security number, bank account information, or other personal details.
Veterans who receive one of the postcards should not call the number listed on it. VA recommends independently verifying any information about benefits by contacting the department directly at 1-800-827-1000 or using official VA websites. Veterans should never provide sensitive information to an unverified caller or respond to pressure to act immediately.
The warning comes at a time when VA is also sending legitimate postcards to millions of Veterans.
Between Aug. 13 and Sept. 11, VA is mailing official “Choose VA” postcards to approximately 3.8 million Veterans who are not currently enrolled in VA health care. Those postcards are legitimate and provide information about health-care eligibility and enrollment.
Veterans can look at what a postcard is asking them to do before responding. Legitimate VA communications should direct Veterans to official government resources. VA also recommends checking links before opening them or scanning a QR code. Official VA websites use the VA.gov domain.
A postcard promising benefits through the “Veterans Savings Program” should be discarded. Anyone who receives the fraudulent mailer can also help protect other Veterans by reporting it through VSAFE.gov or by calling 1-833-38V-SAFE (87233). Reports can also be submitted to the Federal Trade Commission through ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Veterans who are unsure about a benefits offer should verify it before providing information or making a payment. A few minutes spent checking an unexpected message can prevent personal information, money, and earned benefits from falling into the wrong hands.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted family connection to the military, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
