THE PACT ACT 2023 SPECIAL ENROLLMENT PERIOD IS ENDING IN SEPTEMBER
For many Veterans who benefit from the PACT Act, 2023 has been an important year for receiving those benefits. But for some, that window is closing. PACT Act 2023 compensation is available for Post-9/11 combat Veterans that were in the U.S. military between the years 2001 and 2013, but only until September 30, 2023. If this is how you qualify, it’s important to receive the PACT Act 2023 benefits you deserve due to exposure to toxins through your service and deemed permissible due to a special enrollment period. Related read: The Veteran's Complete Guide to GI Bill Benefits
The Special Enrollment Period for the PACT Act 2023 is Ending in September
There is a provision in the PACT Act 2023 that allows Post-9/11 Veterans to receive benefits during a special enrollment period. Since 2022, the bill has been opening the door for Veterans who served all the way back to the ‘60s to receive benefits, but for some, that window is fast closing. The VA PACT Act 2023 provides benefits by automatically assuming that Veterans were exposed to toxins when serving. This allows Veterans the opportunity to enroll and receive benefits based on where they served and other personal factors.
Applying as a Post-9/11 Veteran Before the Special Enrollment Period Ends
Because of the nature of these benefits for the healthcare of Veterans and the timeliness of their availability, signing up is very important for Post-9/11 Veterans. Eligibility is open for anyone who hasn’t been enrolled in VA healthcare services, served after the Gulf War, and was released or discharged between September 11, 2001, and October 1, 2013. Furthermore, Veterans that were fighting in combat against hostile forces meet certain criteria after November 11, 1998, and can also enroll for benefits involving PACT Act 2023 conditions before the end of the special enrollment period as well. It’s worth noting that if you are a Veteran that has left service after October 1, 2013, you have ten years from your separation date to receive benefits as allowed by the regulations. Suggested read: What Are the 23 Illnesses Covered Under the PACT Act?
PACT Act 2023 Special Enrollment Period Deadline Is Approaching, Here’s How to Apply
Seeing as there have been more than 500,000 PACT Act claims already filed with VA, it’s safe to say that the response has been huge. The VA has had to hire personnel to handle the increased workload. In light of all this, the sooner you sign up, the easier it should be for you, overall. In order to submit PACT Act claims 2023, you’ll need to do so through official channels and you have several different options, including:
- Over the phone at the toll-free hotline. Available Monday through Friday from 5:00 am until 5:00 pm PT, simply dial 877-222-8387.
- If you prefer to apply via the mail, you can fill out an Application for Health Benefits (VA Form 10-10EZ) and send it to Health Eligibility Center, 2957 Clairmont Rd., Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30329. Please note that you’ll need to sign and date the form or have your power of attorney do so and submit their POA form. When signing using an “X,” you’ll need two witnesses from people you know that will need to print and sign their names on the form.
- You can also apply in person with a signed VA Form 10-10EZ at either the VA’s Seattle or American Lake Eligibility Offices.
- Finally, you may also apply using the assistance of the Veteran Service Organization or Washington State Department of Veteran Affairs, which can be reached at 206-341-8295.
Remember, following the September 2023 deadline, the special enrollment period will end and post-9/11 Veterans may have difficulties receiving the benefits they are presently entitled to. Sign up for the PACT Act 2023 if you qualify as soon as possible to receive the compensation you deserve. Read next: Veterans With Cancer To Get PACT Act Benefits First