What you need to know about PACT Act deadlines

Dear American Legion Family Members and Friends,

It is abundantly clear that The American Legion-endorsed PACT Act will help connect veterans exposed to toxins with the benefits earned through their service. What may not be clear, however, are the upcoming deadlines and what they mean to veterans and their family members.

First off, the Sgt. 1st Class Heath Robinson PACT Act ushers in a range of VA health care options and benefits for millions of veterans who were exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange and other toxins. It covers those who were exposed in Iraq and Afghanistan, veterans who encountered Agent Orange in Vietnam and others.

Please note: There is no deadline to apply for PACT Act benefits.

However, there are upcoming timelines that will require urgent action by some individuals.

If you file your PACT Act claim — or submit your intent to file — by Aug. 9, 2023, you may receive benefits backdated to Aug. 10, 2022. That’s the date when President Biden signed the legislation into law.

There also is a Sept. 30 deadline for some post-9/11 veterans to enroll for VA health care under a special one-year window opened by the PACT Act. The bill automatically assumes those who served in certain locations were exposed. Once they are enrolled, veterans' individual cases will dictate what benefits they will receive.

The important part is to enroll in VA by the end of September. You can start here.

Who is eligible to enroll in this scenario? You are if you meet any of the following criteria:

• You served in a theater of combat operations during a period of war after the Persian Gulf War and were discharged or released between Sept. 11, 2001, and Oct. 1, 2013.

• You served “in combat against a hostile force during a period of hostilities” after Nov. 11, 1998.

• Post-9/11 combat veterans who exited service on or after Oct. 1, 2013, have up to 10 years after their separation dates.

Here are some additional resources:

• Need help? An accredited American Legion service officer provides free assistance to any veteran or family member. Find one near you by searching here.

• File a claim online through VA’s website.

• Submit an Intent to File online form for a VA claim. (Remember, the deadline is Aug. 9.)

• Visit VA.gov/PACT to learn about and apply for PACT Act-related care and benefits. You can also call 1-800-MYVA411 to apply over the phone.

Even if the PACT Act does not apply to you, it affects millions of our brothers and sisters. Please share this with other veterans so they are aware and can receive the benefits they earned through their service and sacrifice.

Vincent J. “Jim” Troiola

National Commander

The American Legion