UPDATE: The VA Has extended the deadline to Aug. 14, 2023. Our full article: VA Extends Deadline for Retroactive PACT Act Benefits Following Technical Issues
Veterans have until Wednesday to take advantage of the opportunity to receive backdated benefits provided by the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics, or PACT, Act.
Those who begin the claims process, even by submitting a document indicating their intent to file, by August 9, 2023, could be eligible for benefits backdated to August 10, 2022. It’s worth noting that the entire claims process does not need to be completed by the deadline – initiating the process is sufficient.
The PACT Act, signed into law last year by President Joe Biden, expands health care and benefits for Veterans, including survivors, who have been exposed to harmful substances such as burn pits and Agent Orange during their service.
This legislation adds more than 20 conditions related to exposures, such as high blood pressure, that are now presumed to be connected to military service. The Act’s provisions have been designed to make it easier for Veterans to access the care and benefits.
Notably, the Act goes beyond health care, offering additional advantages such as mileage reimbursement for health care-related travel and tax-free monthly payments.
Congressman Steve Womack has urged Veterans to seize this opportunity, emphasizing that the act covers a wide range of toxic exposures and resulting conditions. Womack encouraged Veterans to apply online through the VA to ensure they don’t miss the approaching deadline.
Marc Rohner, a program specialist at the Dayton VA, encourages Veterans to take the first step by calling the Veterans Benefits Administration’s primary customer service number at 1-(800) 827-1000 and expressing their intent to file for PACT Act benefits. After this initial step, Veterans have a year to complete the filing process.
While there is no strict deadline to apply for PACT Act benefits, filing by August 9, 2023, can yield backdated benefits. For further details and eligibility information, Veterans can visit here or contact their local Veterans Benefits Administration for assistance.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
