HOW VETERANS MUST APPLY FOR PACT ACT BENEFITS BY SEPTEMBER 30, 2023! (1690 hits)
For Immediate Release From Congressman John Sarbanes!
Dear Friend,
I am reaching out to remind you about important upcoming deadlines for Veterans seeking benefits provided by the Honoring our PACT Act .
The PACT Act – landmark legislation passed by congressional Democrats and signed into law by President Biden last year – expands access to care for all Veterans, especially those exposed to toxic substances during service. In addition, this new law establishes two new Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) outpatient clinics in Baltimore and Prince George’s County to deliver much-needed services to the Veterans in our state.
Nearly 50,000 Veterans live in Maryland's Third Congressional District, and I want to ensure that each and every one receives the benefits they have earned through service to our nation. If you’re unsure of your eligibility for PACT Act benefits, check out this helpful guide published by the VA.
If you or a loved one is an eligible Veteran, please note these important upcoming deadlines:
August 9, 2023: All eligible Veterans must apply for PACT Act-related benefits by August 9, 2023 in order to receive back-paid Department of Veterans Affairs disability compensation for the year dating back to August 10, 2022.
September 30, 2023: All Veterans newly eligible for VA health care benefits under the PACT Act's 10-year expanded window must apply for benefits by September 30, 2023, when the special enrollment period ends.
America's Veterans have made every sacrifice to protect our country. Although we can never fully repay the debt we owe them, I believe it is our duty as a nation to fulfill our commitments to them. I was proud to support the PACT Act and will continue working to deliver for our Veterans in Congress.
If you, a friend or a family member need additional assistance accessing Veterans' benefits, please don't hesitate to contact my office at (410) 832-8890 or by email .
Sincerely,
Congressman John Sarbanes Maryland's Third Congressional District
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The PACT Act and your VA benefits
The PACT Act is a new law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances.
The PACT Act adds to the list of health conditions that we assume (or “presume”) are caused by exposure to these substances. This law helps us provide generations of Veterans—and their survivors—with the care and benefits they’ve earned and deserve.
This page will help answer your questions about what the PACT Act means for you or your loved ones. You can also call us at 800-698-2411 (TTY: 711). And you can file a claim for PACT Act-related disability compensation or apply for VA health care now.
