Wisconsin (Civic Media) – The PACT Act is the largest health care and benefit expansion in VA history. It expands and extends eligibility for VA health care for Veterans exposed to toxic substances during military service. This includes service at home or abroad. Veterans who served in the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, the global war on terror, or any other combat zone after 9/11 are eligible to enroll. By accelerating the PACT Act eligibility timeline, Veterans can enroll in health care beginning March 5, 2024. This is up to eight years earlier than what was written into law.

Accelerated Timeline

This accelerated timeline was announced by President Biden on Veterans Day in November last year. This bipartisan bill will help millions of Veterans who were exposed to toxins and burn pits during their military service. The Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act was signed into law August 10, 2022. According to the Fact Sheet from the White House, the PACT Act is the most significant expansion of benefits and services for toxic exposed veterans in more than 30 years. Within one year, the VA delivered more than $1.85 billion in earned PACT Act benefits to Veterans and their survivors.

Be Wary of Scammers

As a Veteran or Survivor, you may have questions on how this law will affect your health care or benefits. Be wary of predatory organizations who are charging for their services saying they’ll help you navigate the new law. It’s best to reach out to your local Veteran organizations, such as the VFW or VA directly. You can find your local VFW here.