NOT THE REAL DEAL

Veterans Choice Program (VCP) Phone Line Imposter

FACT SHEET

April 27, 2017

VCP Phone Line Imposter

It has come to VA’s attention that a phone line has been set up by an unknown party to potentially “mimic” the VCP phone line. This imposter phone line may be intended to reach Veterans who inadvertently dial the VCP number incorrectly.

We want you to know that we are taking this seriously and to keep you aware of the steps we are taking.. VHA Office of Community Care (VHA CC) has reported the “mimic” line to the VA Office of Inspector General for a possible civil or criminal investigation.

“Mimic” Phone Line

The phone line established to “mimic” the VCP phone line is 1-800-606-8198. You know you have reached the wrong VCP phone line when:

  • The phone line offers callers a $100 rebate if the caller provides a credit card.
  • The phone line does not state the caller has reached U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or the VCP phone line.Be aware that this phone number incorrectly confirms callers had reach the VCP if the caller asks that question.

VCP Phone Line

The correct VCP phone line is 1-866-606-8198. This line is for Veterans to check their eligibility for the VCP and ask questions about the program.

If you are unsure if you have reached the correct phone line, hang up and dial 1-866-606-8198 again. The phone line will state the caller has reached the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

About Jeff Cavanagh

Jeff Cavanagh spent his freshman year at St. Petersburg Junior College back in the early 70s before enlisting in the United States Navy. Soon after, he attended Jacksonville University on a Navy ROTC scholarship. After college, he was commissioned and became a qualified Surface Warfare Officer spending the next 22 years honing his skills as a ship-handler and expert recruiter before retiring in 1994. Jeff expresses a deep sense of pride in St. Petersburg College due to connections that go back many years. His father, Tom Cavanagh, was a career Air Force fighter pilot and combat veteran who taught Geography and Western Civilization at St. Petersburg Junior College in the 60’s and 70’s.