Veterans Benefits Newsletter December 2022

VA Benefits: Payments Increase | Track PACT Claims | In-Home Care

Veterans Benefits Newsletter

December 2022

Couple checking out their increase in compensation benefits online

Raising Your VA Compensation Rates

As the cost of living goes up, VA ensures that your benefit rates do too! Starting Jan. 1, 2023, all compensation benefit rates have increased by 8.7% to match adjustments made to Social Security benefits. This increase impacts disability benefits, clothing allowance, dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC), as well as other VA assistance programs. If you receive VA compensation benefits, learn your new rates today.

Track Your VA Claim

Since the PACT Act was signed into law, Veterans have set an all-time record for filing online disability compensation claims. VA will begin to process all PACT-related claims on Jan. 1, 2023. If you have a pending claim or appeal, use VA’s online tool to stay up-to-date on its status.

Supplement Your Pension with Aid and Attendance

Did you know that VA’s Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits can increase your pension payments to support the additional care you need? If you need help with daily activities, or if you are housebound, you may qualify for an increased VA pension to help pay for in-home care, assisted living, or a nursing home.

Wreaths Across America

On Saturday, Dec. 17, 2022, Wreaths Across America will remember and honor our fallen heroes by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies at more than 2,500 locations in all 50 U.S. states, at sea, and abroad. Learn how you can sponsor a wreath or volunteer online.

Couple comparing the new VALife program with the old S-DVI program

New Improved Insurance Coming Soon

Veterans Affairs Life Insurance (VALife) is launching on Jan. 1, 2023, as a new guaranteed acceptance whole life insurance program for service-connected Veterans. Those currently enrolled in Service-Disabled Veterans Life Insurance (S-DVI) may keep their coverage or switch to VALife. Learn more about which program is right for you.

Delivery man handing over packages to woman

Shop Military Discounts this Holiday Season

Save money this holiday season with a variety of discounts. Enjoy deals on clothing, electronics, fitness, food, and more—all available to Veterans, service members, and their families and caregivers. Check out these year-round discounts before your next purchase.

Woman applying for and receiving her Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits online

Apply for Your Post-9/11 GI Bill Benefits

Veterans and service members can now receive an immediate, real-time education benefits decision, thanks to the simplified Post-9/11 GI Bill application experience. VA has updated the application process, allowing eligible applicants to apply for and receive their benefits decision within minutes. Start your GI Bill journey today.

Senior accepting a Meals on Wheels delivery

Find Meals on Wheels Near You

Meals on Wheels is a life-sustaining program that allows seniors who are unable to leave their homes to shop, or have difficulty preparing a meal, to have healthy meals delivered to their homes. While the diversity of each program's services and operations may vary based on the needs and resources of their communities, Meals on Wheels is committed to supporting nearly 2.4 million seniors live healthier and more nourished lives. Find the program closest to you or a loved one this holiday season.

VA has expanded the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) to include caregivers of eligible Veterans of all service eras

Got a VA Question? Use the New Virtual Chatbot 24/7

Got a question about your VA benefits, health care, eligibility? You might want to check VA’s website, where you can access our interactive chatbot to ask questions—24 hours a day, seven days a week.