Under the PACT Act, veterans exposed to toxic chemicals can receive backdated benefits if they begin their application by Wednesday, Aug. 9.
“I am urging Illinois veterans who may be eligible under the PACT Act to begin applying by August 9th to ensure they will receive the full benefits and care they have earned,” U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen (D-Illinois) said in a news release. “Those who placed themselves in harm’s way to protect our nation represent the best of what we have to offer and deserve the most support we can provide.”
The PACT Act, passed by Congress last year, makes nearly 3.5 million veterans across the country eligible for the care and benefits they earned. The law ensures eligibility for benefits for veterans who were exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, Gulf War toxins, and radiation.
PACT Act-related claims submitted by Aug. 9 will be backdated to August 10, 2022, so eligible veterans are encouraged to submit an intent to file as soon as possible, the release said. While there is no deadline to apply for regular benefits, this important deadline marks an opportunity for veterans who bravely served to receive additional support.
The Federal Trade Commission warns veterans to be on the lookout for scammers who might try to pressure you because of the filing deadline.
In fact, only a scammer will say you can only apply for VA benefits with their help. To help you avoid a scam:
- Don’t pay to file. It’s free to apply for any type of veterans’ benefits. Anyone who says otherwise is a scammer. File your PACT Act claim for free online through the VA’s website or in person at a VA Regional Office.
- Don’t pay for help. Scammers may offer to help you file your application for benefits — for a fee or a percentage of the benefits you get. Get free help from an accredited representative.
Veterans and their families can find more information on PACT Act benefits by visiting VA.gov/PACT or by calling 1-800-MyVA411. Mr. Sorensen’s office can also assist with VA-related issues and can be contacted at (309) 786-3406.
If you suspect a scam or run into someone who doesn’t tell the whole truth about applying for VA benefits, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
