Veterans’ Deadline for Backdated PACT Act Toxic Exposure Claims is Aug. 9, 2023

Update – 8/10/23 – VA has announced an extension until Monday, Aug. 14. Find out more about how to apply here.

In August 2022, President Joe Biden signed into law the bipartisan Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act. The Act expanded VA health care and benefits coverage to the many veterans who were exposed to toxic burn pits and other hazardous substances, such as Agent Orange.

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) has announced that veterans or their survivors seeking backdated claims under the PACT Act have until Aug. 9 2023 to file the claim, or submit an “Intent to File.”  Eligible applicants can have their claims backdated to August, 2022.

After the Aug. 9, 2023 deadline, affected veterans will still be able to apply for benefits, but their claims will not be backdated.

“I encourage our impacted veteran members who may have eligibility under the PACT Act to apply for these benefits. You can apply any time, but Aug. 9 is the deadline for backdated claims,” said APWU President Mark Dimondstein.

For veterans who want to learn more, visit VA.gov/PACT or call 1-800-MYVA411.