The PACT Act: How veterans can access support for toxic exposure claims

As with any benefits program, knowing how to navigate the system is key to unlocking the help you need.

By Team Mighty

Posted on Nov 11, 2024 2:27 PM PST

Reviewed By Tessa Robinson

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Steve Gebhart, a U.S. Army veteran and a Veterans Affairs volunteer at the Joint Ambulatory Care Center in Pensacola, Fla., is pleased to hear the news that veterans in the Pensacola region are now being encouraged to use Naval Hospital Pensacola for emergencies and inpatient care. The ability for veterans to use the Naval Hospital is not a new agreement between the local VA Clinic and the hospital, but encouraging veterans to use the hospital will benefit everyone. (VA photo by Thomas Coffelt)
Steve Gebhart, a U.S. Army veteran and a Veterans Affairs volunteer at the Joint Ambulatory Care Center in Pensacola, Fla., is pleased to hear the news that veterans in the Pensacola region are now being encouraged to use Naval Hospital Pensacola for emergencies and inpatient care. The ability for veterans to use the Naval Hospital is not a new agreement between the local VA Clinic and the hospital, but encouraging veterans to use the hospital will benefit everyone. (VA photo by Thomas Coffelt)

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The Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, passed in August 2022, represents one of the most significant expansions of VA benefits in recent history. Designed to help veterans who have suffered from toxic exposure during military service, the PACT Act offers comprehensive coverage and resources for those impacted by harmful substances like burn pits, Agent Orange, radiation, and other toxic exposures. For veterans who have faced health challenges tied to their service, this act provides a crucial lifeline. 

But as with any benefits program, knowing how to navigate the system is key to unlocking the help you need. Here’s a guide on what the PACT Act covers, how to access support, and why seeking help now is crucial for your long-term health and well-being.

What is the PACT Act?

The PACT Act dramatically expands VA healthcare and benefits to veterans who were exposed to toxic substances while serving. Prior to the passage of the act, many veterans faced an uphill battle to prove their illnesses were directly related to their service, especially if they were tied to toxic exposure. The act simplifies this process in three crucial ways.

Expanding the list of presumptive conditions

Veterans no longer need to prove that their illnesses are service-related if they have specific conditions tied to toxic exposure. These include certain cancers, respiratory diseases, and other ailments linked to toxins such as burn pits or Agent Orange.   

Broadening the geographic areas and time frames covered

The act extends presumptive coverage to veterans who served in locations known for toxic exposure, such as Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, and post-9/11 combat zones.

Improving VA research and support

The PACT Act mandates further research into the health effects of toxic exposure and requires the VA to provide better outreach and education for veterans affected.

Key benefits of the PACT Act

The PACT Act offers a range of benefits for veterans, including VA healthcare enrollment, disability compensation, and healthcare for survivors. Veterans who were previously ineligible for VA healthcare may now qualify due to expanded coverage for those exposed to toxins.

The act also adds new presumptive conditions, making it easier for veterans to receive monthly disability compensation without needing to prove direct service connection. In cases where a veteran has passed away due to a condition tied to toxic exposure, survivors may also be eligible for benefits.

How to access support

From left, Ohio Department of Veterans Services Director Deborah Ashenhurst, Brielle Robinson, Danielle Robinson and Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine stand for a photo during the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame Class of 2023 Induction Ceremony at Fawcett Event Center in Columbus, Ohio, Nov. 9, 2023. Brielle and Danielle represented former Ohio Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Heath M. Robinson — Brielle’s father and Danielle’s husband — who was posthumously inducted for his tremendous advocacy and efforts on behalf of his fellow veterans, which led to Congress passing the Sgt. 1st Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022 that enables veterans who were exposed to toxic burn pits to receive health care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Olivia Lauer, Ohio National Guard Public Affairs)
From left, Ohio Department of Veterans Services Director Deborah Ashenhurst, Brielle Robinson, Danielle Robinson and Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine stand for a photo during the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame Class of 2023 Induction Ceremony at Fawcett Event Center in Columbus, Ohio, Nov. 9, 2023. Brielle and Danielle represented former Ohio Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Heath M. Robinson — Brielle’s father and Danielle’s husband — who was posthumously inducted for his tremendous advocacy and efforts on behalf of his fellow veterans, which led to Congress passing the Sgt. 1st Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022 that enables veterans who were exposed to toxic burn pits to receive health care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Spc. Olivia Lauer, Ohio National Guard Public Affairs)

Navigating the VA’s system can be complex, but following a step-by-step approach can ensure you receive the benefits you deserve under the PACT Act.

Determine your eligibility

Start by determining whether you qualify for benefits under the PACT Act. The VA has established a list of conditions presumed to be related to toxic exposure. Some of these include:

– Asthma, chronic bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

– Certain cancers, such as lung, brain, kidney, or gastrointestinal cancer

– Respiratory issues linked to burn pit exposure

Additionally, the VA has expanded geographic eligibility, so veterans who served in specific areas or time periods, such as Vietnam or Afghanistan, may qualify.

To review the full list of presumptive conditions and eligible locations, visit the VA’s PACT Act information page.

File your claim

If you believe you qualify for PACT Act benefits, the next step is to file a claim. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Gather medical records. Collect any medical documentation that proves your diagnosis or treatment for a condition related to toxic exposure. If you don’t have complete records, the VA can assist in retrieving relevant documents.
  2. Submit an online claim. The VA’s **eBenefits portal** allows you to submit your claim digitally, ensuring that your paperwork is processed as quickly as possible.
  3. Get help from a Veterans Service Officer (VSO). If you’re unsure about the process, many VSOs provide free assistance with submitting claims. These organizations, like The American Legion or Disabled American Veterans (DAV), are invaluable in helping veterans navigate the claims process.

Understand the timeline

Once you’ve filed your claim, be prepared for a waiting period. The VA is working through a significant backlog of claims, especially with the passage of the PACT Act. However, retroactive payments can apply, meaning that if your claim is approved, you could receive compensation dating back to the date you filed.

Appeal if necessary

Don’t be discouraged if your claim is denied initially. Veterans often need to appeal VA decisions to get the benefits they deserve. If you’re denied, you have the right to file an appeal, and many veterans ultimately succeed in securing benefits this way. Again, VSOs can be instrumental in assisting with the appeals process.

Key resources for veterans

Several resources are available to help veterans file their claims and access the benefits provided under the PACT Act:

Veterans Crisis Line 

For immediate mental health support, veterans can contact the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988, then pressing 1, or by texting 838255.

Veteran Service Officers (VSOs) 

Organizations like the VFW, DAV, and American Legion offer free assistance for veterans submitting claims and navigating the benefits system.

VA.gov

The VA’s official website provides access to claim forms, updates on your claim status, and a comprehensive list of benefits.

The PACT Act Information Page

For the most up-to-date information on eligibility, presumptive conditions, and the claims process, visit the PACT Act page on VA.gov.

Encouragement to seek support

If you’re a veteran who has been exposed to toxic substances, now is the time to act. The PACT Act represents a monumental shift in how the VA handles claims related to toxic exposure, and it’s designed to make it easier for you to access the healthcare and compensation you deserve.

Even if you’re uncertain about whether your condition is connected to your service, it’s worth exploring your options. Many veterans wait too long to file claims, missing out on crucial benefits. Don’t let that be your story. Reach out to a Veterans Service Officer, gather your records, and take the steps necessary to secure your future.

By maximizing the benefits of the PACT Act, you can ensure your health, your family’s security, and your well-being are protected for years to come.