Veterans Benefits Newsletter | September 2022

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Veterans Benefits Newsletter

September 2022

PACT Act Expands Eligibility for Benefits

VA is expanding eligibility for health care and benefits for Veterans who may have been exposed to hazardous materials — including burn pits, radiation, Agent Orange, and other Gulf War toxins — during their military service. The Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022 (PACT Act) adds more than 20 new presumptive conditions, including respiratory cancers, for Veterans exposed to burn pits or other toxins.

QuickSubmit Your Evidence to VA

Filing a claim online? QuickSubmit has replaced Direct Upload as the online tool to share documents with VA’s Evidence Intake Center. QuickSubmit provides a fast and effective alternative to faxing or mailing your documents, while also maintaining a record of your uploads. Learn more about how evidence intake has improved.

Refinance Your Mortgage

Do you have a VA-backed home loan? Refinancing your mortgage can lower your monthly payments or help you pay off your home sooner. An interest rate reduction refinance loan (IRRRL) lets you replace your current loan with a new one under different terms. Find out if you’re eligible and how to apply.

File Your Appeal with the Board Online

Disagree with VA's decision on your claim? Veterans can now file their appeal to the Board of Veterans' Appeals (Board) online. Virtual hearings with the Board are also available, so there is no need to report in-person to your local VA office. All you need is Wi-Fi and a phone, laptop or tablet. Learn more about efforts to ensure easy access to the Board.

Student Loan Forgiveness for Non-Profit Employees

Do you have student loans to repay? You can qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program with a VA career. PSLF removes the burden of student debt for borrowers who work for a government or non-profit employer. Learn how to trade your student debt for a promising career serving Veterans.

Prepare Financially for Hurricane Season

As hurricane season continues, the Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP) can help to ensure uninterrupted access to your benefits. With VBBP, you can utilize online banking to stay up-to-date on your financial information even if a natural disaster forces you to evacuate your area. Open an account with a participating bank or credit union today to receive your benefits via direct deposit.

Reach Out for Support

Life is full of challenges, and if left unaddressed, they can lead to isolation, financial hardship, relationship issues and other challenges that can increase the risk for suicidal thoughts. Don’t go through life’s hard moments alone — reach out for help. If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, please call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988, option 1 to speak with a trained responder.

Download Objective Zero App to Connect

The Objective Zero Foundation connects members of the military community — including Veterans, Service members, their families, and caregivers — with peer support and access to wellness and mental health resources. The free Objective Zero mobile app allows members to match and connect with the right peer supporter via voice, video, and text. Members may build unique profiles or choose to remain anonymous and enjoy activities, including meditation and yoga. The app is available on both iOS and Android smartphones, download it today!

VA Dental Insurance for Veterans

VA’s Dental Insurance Program (VADIP) offers discounted private dental insurance for eligible Veterans and family members. Find and enroll in a plan that meets your needs and budget.

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