Health Care Benefits for Veterans Exposed to Toxic Substances

In August of 2022, I was proud to support the Honoring Our PACT Act—comprehensive legislation that expands eligibility for Veterans Administration (VA) health care to Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. This landmark legislation addresses the full range of issues impacting toxic-exposed Veterans, including access to earned benefits and health care through the VA. Click here for more information from the Department of Veterans Affairs. 

There is no deadline to apply for ongoing PACT Act benefits, but Veterans who submit their intent to file for PACT Act-related claims by August 9^th, 2023 may be eligible for 12 months of backdated compensation.

The VA is encouraging all Veterans who believe they were affected by toxic substance exposure (as well as their survivors) to apply for PACT Act benefits, regardless of their discharge date. Veterans seeking to receive backdated compensation must submit their intent to file by August 9^th and can complete the rest of the filing process at a later date.

Beneficiaries can submit their intent to file online or by calling the VA at 1-800-827-1000, Monday-Friday from 8am-9pm.