Veterans Benefits Newsletter January 2023

VA Benefits: File PACT Act Claims Now | New Insurance Available | Protect Your Pension

Veterans Benefits Newsletter

January 2023

Man watching a public service announcement on the PACT Act

File Your PACT Act Claim Now

Are you eligible for PACT Act benefits? While VA began to process these claims on Jan. 1, 2023, applicants should apply now to maximize benefit payments. For any PACT Act claims received by Aug. 10, 2023, VBA may issue benefit payments back to Aug. 10, 2022. Learn how to file a disability claim to secure your full benefits!

Marine Corps Veteran and service member smiling with their son

New VA Life Insurance Program Now Available

The new Veterans Affairs Life Insurance (VALife) program provides guaranteed acceptance whole life coverage of up to $40,000 to Veterans with service-connected disabilities. Under this plan, the elected coverage takes effect two years after enrollment as long as premiums are paid during the two-year period. All Veterans age 80 or under with a VA disability rating of 0 to 100% are eligible for the VALife program and have no time limit to apply.

Woman receiving a suspicious call on her mobile phone

Protect Your Benefits from Poaching Scams

Pension Poaching is a financial scam that targets Veterans, service members, and their families with the goal of profiting from VA Pension benefits. Scammers approach Veterans who meet the age, disability, or income requirements to receive monthly pension payments. Protect yourself and your family by learning to identify and avoid fraudulent practices.

Prepare for Your Future With VR&E

With the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program, Veterans and service members with service-connected disabilities prepare for, find, and maintain employment. This New Year, choose from five VR&E program tracks to uncover exciting employment opportunities and succeed in their chosen professions.

GI Bill Covers Test Fees

Do you need to earn certification or licensure for your desired career? You can use part of your GI Bill entitlement to cover the cost, up to $2,000, of certain tests and certifications to become a licensed or certified professional. Learn more about this benefit and find out what’s approved before you take any tests.

Woman meeting with her VA health care provider

Your Claim Exam Questions Answered

After filing a disability claim, you may have some lingering questions about what comes next in the claims process. Many Veterans wonder what will happen at their VA claim exam (also known as a compensation and pension, or C&P exam). To help answer these questions, VA has updated two websites to provide current information on frequently asked questions.

Senior couple using online banking features for their new no-cost account

Enroll in Direct Deposit

Do you receive VA benefit payments through a pre-paid debit card or paper check? With the Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP) you can enroll in direct deposit, the most effective way to protect your benefits from fraud. Choose from 43 participating regional and/or national banks and credit unions to open a low or no-cost account today.

Veteran meeting with an American Legion service officer

Together We Make a Difference

Are you interested in filing a VA claim or appeal? American Legion provides expert assistance to Veterans and their families, free of charge. American Legion service officers are trained to help you develop your claim, while also providing referrals and resources on education, employment, and more. For help with your claim, contact the American Legion service officer at their nearest VA regional office.

Download VA's Health and Benefits mobile app to access to resources you need

VA Travel Pay Reimbursement

Find out if you're eligible for travel pay reimbursement through the Beneficiary Travel program. Eligible Veterans are repaid by VA for travel expenses to and from approved health care appointments.