For decades, many veterans who served in war zones were unknowingly exposed to toxic chemicals, burn pits, and hazardous environments, leading to serious health problems. The PACT Act (Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act) is one of the most important laws in VA history, expanding healthcare and disability benefits to veterans suffering from illnesses linked to toxic exposure.

Unfortunately, many veterans don’t realize they qualify for PACT Act benefits, and others struggle with denied or delayed VA claims. At Elderly Care Law Firm, we help veterans and their families navigate the VA claims process, secure compensation, and receive the healthcare they deserve.

What is the PACT Act?

The PACT Act, signed into law in 2022, expands VA healthcare and disability benefits for veterans who were exposed to toxins, including:

• Burn pits used in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other post-9/11 war zones
• Agent Orange in Vietnam, Thailand, and other locations
• Radiation exposure from nuclear testing and cleanup operations
• Contaminated water at Camp Lejeune

Before this law, veterans often had to prove that their illness was directly caused by service-related toxic exposure—a nearly impossible task for many. The PACT Act removes this burden by creating presumptive conditions, meaning veterans no longer have to provide extensive medical evidence.

Who is Eligible for PACT Act Benefits?

Many veterans and their families wonder: Do I qualify for benefits under the PACT Act?

The law expands eligibility for:

• Vietnam War veterans exposed to Agent Orange
• Gulf War and post-9/11 veterans exposed to burn pits and airborne toxins
• Cold War-era veterans exposed to radiation
• Surviving spouses and children of veterans who died from toxic exposure-related conditions

Even if a veteran previously applied for VA benefits and was denied, they can now reapply under the new law.

What Conditions Are Covered Under the PACT Act?

The PACT Act recognizes over 20 new presumptive conditions, including:

• Respiratory diseases: Asthma, chronic bronchitis, COPD, emphysema, and interstitial lung disease
• Cancers: Brain cancer, kidney cancer, pancreatic cancer, lung cancer, and lymphoma
• Heart conditions: Hypertension and ischemic heart disease (linked to Agent Orange)
• Autoimmune disorders: Sarcoidosis and chronic sinusitis

The law also expands Gulf War Illness coverage, recognizing conditions such as:

• Unexplained fatigue
• Chronic headaches
• Joint and muscle pain
• Memory loss and neurological issues

If a veteran served in an eligible location and developed one of these conditions, they are automatically presumed eligible for VA compensation.

What Benefits Does the PACT Act Provide?

The PACT Act provides critical benefits to eligible veterans, including:

• Tax-free VA disability compensation for service-related illnesses
• Free or low-cost VA healthcare, including treatments and medications
• Compensation for surviving spouses and dependents if a veteran passed away due to a qualifying condition

For many veterans, this law finally provides the recognition and financial support they deserve after years of struggling with health problems caused by toxic exposure.

How to Apply for PACT Act Benefits

The VA has received thousands of new claims under the PACT Act, leading to long wait times and processing delays. Veterans can apply by:

• Submitting a VA disability claim online
• Providing service records proving they were stationed in an eligible location
• Submitting medical records showing a PACT Act-related diagnosis

Unfortunately, many claims are denied due to missing documentation, incorrect filings, or VA backlogs. That’s why working with an experienced VA claims attorney can make all the difference.

What If My VA Claim is Denied?

Many veterans apply for benefits only to have their claims rejected due to lack of medical evidence, incorrect forms, or VA processing errors. If your claim is denied, you can appeal—but time is limited.

At Elderly Care Law Firm, we help veterans:

• Reapply or appeal a denied VA claim
• Gather the right medical and service records to strengthen their case
• Request a higher disability rating for increased compensation
• Assist surviving spouses in filing for VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)

How Can an Attorney Help with a PACT Act Claim?

The VA claims process can be frustrating and confusing, with many veterans waiting months or years for approval. An attorney ensures your claim is complete, correctly filed, and backed by strong evidence to increase your chances of success.

At Elderly Care Law Firm, we:

• Help veterans apply for PACT Act benefits without delays
• Assist in collecting medical and military records
• Appeal denied claims and fight for rightful compensation
• Help families apply for survivor benefits if a veteran has passed away

If you or a loved one served in a toxic exposure zone and developed a serious illness, you may qualify for PACT Act benefits. Don’t wait—call Elderly Care Law Firm at (305) 836-4697 today for a free consultation. Veterans fought for their country, and we fight for them to receive the benefits they’ve earned.