Harder Encourages Veterans to Apply for Benefits Through the PACT Act Before August 9
In order to be eligible for a year’s worth of retroactive disability benefits, veterans need to apply before August 9th
The PACT Act expanded medical and disability benefits for veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange, burn pits, and other toxic substances
WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-9) is encouraging veterans who think they are eligible for benefits through the PACT Act to apply before August 9 in order to get retroactive benefits for the last year. After the August 9th deadline, veterans can still apply for PACT Act benefits, but they won’t be backdated. Rep. Harder worked to pass the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, which was enacted last year to extend medical and disability benefits to U.S. Military veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange, burn puts, and other toxic substances.
“Getting the PACT Act signed into law was a long-overdue win for our nation’s veterans who were exposed to toxic substances. Veterans who think they might be eligible – especially Vietnam veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange and might have been denied benefits in the past – should apply as soon as possible to be eligible for retroactive benefits,” said Rep. Harder. “If you risked your life to defend our country, you shouldn’t be fighting for the care you need. My grandfather died when I was little due to exposures during his service – I think of him and I’m thankful we’re doing right by our veterans.”