Beginning March 5, 2024, VA is making all Veterans exposed to toxins while serving our country eligible to enroll directly in VA health care without first applying for VA benefits. We're using every tool at VA's disposal to ensure that as many of these Veterans as possible come to VA for their care.

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How does this make the health care enrollment process easier for Veterans?

Many Veterans believe they have to file a claim for disability compensation benefits and get their claim approved to get access to VA health care.

But with this expansion and other authorities, that isn’t accurate.

If you served in World War II, Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq or Afghanistan, you’re eligible.

If you deployed to any combat zone after 9/11, you’re eligible.

If you deployed in support of the Global War on Terror, you’re eligible.

And even if you never deployed but were exposed to toxins or hazards here at home—by working with chemicals, pesticides, lead, asbestos, certain paints, nuclear weapons, x-rays and more—you’re eligible, too.

Even if none of these descriptions match your service, you may be eligible based on your income.

Bottom line: it’s now quicker and easier than ever for you to enroll. 

You don’t need to be sick or file a claim to become eligible; all you have to do is show that you served in one of those locations or operations, or participated in one of the activities that could have exposed you to hazards.

So don’t worry and don’t wait, apply on March 5 to get access to the best, most affordable health care in America for Veterans.