STRIVE Act of 2025

This bill changes VA health care billing to prevent surprise or unfair copays. It says the VA cannot charge copays to covered veterans. It also stops the VA from sending a bill more than two years after care if the delay was caused by the VA’s own processing. If a VA mistake leads to a big copay, the amount can’t be more than $2,000. The VA can also choose to waive a copay on its own if it would be appropriate, even if the veteran doesn’t ask.

Key points

• Who is affected: Veterans receiving VA hospital care or medical services, especially those already eligible for no copays (“covered veterans”).
• What changes: No copays for covered veterans; no retroactive billing after two years if the delay was the VA’s fault; $2,000 cap on copays caused by VA error; VA can waive copays without a formal request.
• Why it matters: Reduces surprise bills and protects veterans when VA errors or delays occur.