PACT Act — Honoring our PACT Act of 2022
A landmark 2022 federal law that dramatically expanded VA health care and disability benefits eligibility for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange.
Official source: va.gov
Burn Pit / Airborne Hazard Presumptives: veterans who served post-9/11 in Southwest Asia are now presumed exposed if they served in designated locations. Added 23+ automatically covered (presumptive) cancers and 11 rare cancers to the VA's qualifying conditions list. Expanded Agent Orange presumptives to include veterans who served in Korea (1967–1971) and Blue Water Navy veterans. Extends VA health care eligibility (10-year enrollment window) for post-9/11 veterans.
→ Even if you were previously denied for a toxic-exposure condition, file again under the PACT Act — the law is retroactive.
In real life
- A veteran who got sick after being near burn pits can now get help from the VA.
- Someone who was exposed to Agent Orange a long time ago can now get disability payments.
- A service member exposed to radiation can now get their health care covered by the VA.
Also known as
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Frequently asked questions about PACT Act
What is Honoring our PACT Act of 2022 (PACT Act)?+
A landmark 2022 federal law that dramatically expanded VA health care and disability benefits eligibility for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, radiation, and other toxic substances during military service. Burn Pit / Airborne Hazard Presumptives: veterans who served post-9/11 in Southwest Asia are now presumed exposed if they served in designated locations.
Who qualifies for PACT Act?+
Expanded Agent Orange presumptives to include veterans who served in Korea (1967–1971) and Blue Water Navy veterans.
How do I apply for PACT Act?+
Apply at va.gov (search for the program by name) or work with a free accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) through your state VA office.
Where can I get help?+
Use BenefitKarma's free Benefit Eligibility Screener to see what VA benefits you may have missed, or talk with a free accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) through your state VA office.
Source: va.gov