The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) achieved a significant milestone on March 4, 2024, by processing its one millionth Veteran benefits claim for fiscal year 2024, marking the earliest point ever reached in its history and nearly six weeks ahead of the previous record. This achievement represents a 35% increase in claim processing compared to the same time last year.

This progress is largely attributed to the PACT Act, which has expanded benefits for Veterans exposed to hazardous conditions during their service. Under President Biden’s Unity Agenda, the VA has delivered $69 billion in compensation and pension benefits to 6.5 million Veterans and survivors through February 2024. The PACT Act has significantly contributed to this by boosting claim approvals and increasing the rate of granted claims, including 75.1% of those related to the Act.

Veterans have been applying for benefits at unprecedented rates, with a 4.5% increase in claims filed compared to last year. Notably, January 2024 saw the highest single-month claim production in VA history, and February 7, 2024, set a new single-day record. Despite a growing backlog of claims, the VA has reduced the number pending over 125 days by more than 42,000 claims in the past three months. The VA plans to address the backlog further by expanding its workforce, enhancing training, and improving technology.

For more information on VA disability benefits and to apply, visit the VA’s official website.

Reference: Department of Veterans Affairs. (2024). VA Achieves Record Milestone in Veteran Benefits Claims Processing. Retrieved from https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-processed-its-one-millionth-veteran-benefits-claim-fy2024/