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Veteran News & Legislation

Legislation, policy changes, and benefit updates affecting veterans

Updated 12:08:23 PM
74 articles
medium impactfederalActiveEmployment

Career support for military spouses

VA offers career support programs designed specifically for military spouses that help them thrive no matter where military life takes them.

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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Women Veterans leading change at VA

During Women’s History Month, we honor the women who served our nation in uniform and who are also shaping the future of Veterans’ health care and policy.

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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low impactfederalActiveHealthcare

VA announces fiscal year 2027 suicide prevention grant funding opportunity

The newly released FY27 NOFO for the SSG Fox SPGP outlines upcoming funding to support community-based Veteran suicide prevention services.

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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VA Research Wrap Up: New findings on suicide prevention, diabetes and ALS

VA Research highlights new findings on improving the suicide prevention, diabetic foot ulcers, and ALS care.

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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After the crisis call: How SPCs can keep Veterans connected

Get support beyond the crisis call. Learn how SPCs help Veterans stay connected, find resources and navigate care with ongoing, compassionate follow-up.

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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medium impactfederalActiveEmployment

Staying job search savvy online

Searching for a new job can be exciting, but as more hiring and recruiting moves online, job scams have unfortunately become increasingly common. Fraudsters can pose as the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and other legitimate employers, create fake job postings, or request personal information under the guise of processing an application.

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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medium impactfederalActiveSurvivor

Minor Child Definition for Form LM-30 Labor Organization Officer and Employee Report

This final rule revises the definition of "minor child" as that term appears in 29 CFR 404.1(h) and on the Form LM-30 Labor Organization Officer and Employee Report. The definition is changed from "under 21 years of age" to "under 18 years of age." This amendment aims to align the definition with the age of majority recognized in the vast majority of United States jurisdictions, thereby reducing the reporting burden on filers while preserving the integrity and pu...

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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low impactfederalActiveSurvivor

Recission of the Statement of Policy on Qualifications for Failed Bank Acquisitions

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) is taking final action to rescind the Statement of Policy on Qualifications for Failed Bank Acquisitions issued in 2009 and related questions and answers posted on its website in 2010.

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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medium impactfederalPassedEmployment

Agency Information Collection Activities: Requests for Comments; Clearance of Renewed Approval of Information Collection: Application for Employment With the Federal Aviation Administration

In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, FAA invites public to make public comments about our intention to request the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approval to renew an information collection. The collection involves an automated application process for employment with the Federal Aviation Administration by way of the Office of Personnel Management's (OPM) USAJOBS website: www.usajobs.gov. The Applicants begin the application process by building an account on USAJO...

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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medium impactfederalActiveEducation

Request for Information for 2028 Department of War (DoW) State Priorities Impacting Service Members and Their Families

This request for information provides an opportunity for the public to submit issues that have an impact on Service members and their families where State governments are the primary agents for making positive change. Each year, the DoW selects State policy priorities for States to consider that represent barriers resulting from the transience and uncertainty of military life. For example, DoW has asked States to consider remedies to improve school transitions for children in active duty mili...

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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Revised Schedule of Remuneration for the Unemployment Compensation for Ex-Servicemembers (UCX) Program That Reflects the Military Pay Increase Effective

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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Approval and Promulgation of Delegation of Authority for Designated Facilities and Pollutants; Washington; Southwest Clean Air Agency

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is approving delegation of authority to the Southwest Clean Air Agency (SWCAA) for implementing and enforcing the Federal plan requirements for several categories of incineration units, specifically hospital/medical/ infectious waste incineration units, commercial and industrial solid waste incineration units, small municipal solid waste combustion units, and sewage sludge incineration units. The Federal plan addresses the implementation and enforceme...

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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low impactstateActiveGeneral

Establishment of the Nine Lakes of East Tennessee Viticultural Area

The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) establishes the approximately 4,064-square mile "Nine Lakes of East Tennessee" American viticultural area (AVA) in northeastern Tennessee. The Nine Lakes of East Tennessee AVA is not located within, nor does it contain, any other established viticultural area. TTB designates viticultural areas to allow vintners to better describe the origin of their wines and to allow consumers to better identify wines they may purchase.

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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Listing of Color Additive Exempt From Certification; Beetroot Red; Delay of Effective Date

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or we) is announcing a delay of the effective date of our February 6, 2026, final order to amend the color additive regulations to provide for the safe use of beetroot red for the coloring of human foods generally, at levels consistent with current good manufacturing practice, except in products under the jurisdiction of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), infant formula, or foods for which standards of identity have been issued under sect...

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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Agency Information Collection Activity: Gray Market Clauses: 852.212-71 and 852.212-72

In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, this notice announces that the Office of Acquisition and Logistics (OAL), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), will submit the collection of information abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and comment. The PRA submission describes the nature of the information and its expected cost and burden, and it includes the actual data collection instrument.

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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Agency Information Collection Activity: Department of Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulation (VAAR)-Information Security and Privacy Contract Clauses

In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, this notice announces that the Office of Acquisition and Logistics (OAL), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), will submit the collection of information abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and comment. The PRA submission describes the nature of the information and its expected cost and burden, and it includes the actual data collection instrument.

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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low impactfederalActiveLegal

Notice of OFAC Sanctions Action

The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is publishing the names of one or more persons that have been placed on OFAC's Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List (SDN List) based on OFAC's determination that one or more applicable legal criteria were satisfied. All property and interests in property subject to U.S. jurisdiction of these persons are blocked, and U.S. persons are generally prohibited from engaging in transactions wi...

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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Agency Information Collection Activity Under OMB Review: Nonsupervised Lender's Nomination and Recommendation of Credit Underwriter

In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, this notice announces that the Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, will submit the collection of information abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and comment. The PRA submission describes the nature of the information collection and its expected cost and burden and it includes the actual data collection instrument.

3 weeks agoMar 26, 2026
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VA Research Wrap Up: New findings on Agent Orange, Parkinson’s disease and opioid use

VA Research published new findings on skin cancer linked to Agent Orange exposure, Parkinson's disease and a potential new treatment for substance use disorder.

1 month agoMar 4, 2026
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VA sets new record for customer satisfaction in memorial services

NCA earned the highest customer satisfaction score in 2025 by any public or private organization, according to American Customer Satisfaction Index.

1 month agoMar 4, 2026
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low impactfederalIntroducedHealthcare

Sheridan VA’s Home Based Primary Care brings gardening to Vets

Home Based Primary Care at Sheridan VA Health Care System introduced indoor gardens during home visits. Veterans quickly made them part of their routine.

1 month agoMar 4, 2026
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Advance your nursing career with VA Travel Corps

VA Travel Corps offers a unique opportunity for experienced clinical nurses to take on temporary assignments at VA medical centers (VAMCs) and health care facilities across the U.S. On rare occasions, assignments may also include U.S. territories such as Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. Keep reading to find out if VA Travel Corps is a good fit for you.

1 month agoMar 4, 2026
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VA Research Wrap Up: New findings on telehealth, Parkinson’s disease and military transitions

VA Research recently published findings on telehealth kidney disease management, potential treatment for Parkinson's and help with military transition.

1 month agoMar 4, 2026
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medium impactfederalActiveHousing

VA Homeless Programs: More than just housing

VA Homeless Programs brings comprehensive care directly to formerly homeless Veterans’ new front doors.

1 month agoMar 4, 2026
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low impactfederalActiveDisability

Introducing the Claim Assist Portal: A new, easier way to respond to VA claim requests

VA is making it easier than ever to keep your claim on track. With the new Claim Assist Portal, you’ll have a faster, more convenient way to respond when additional information is needed.

1 month agoMar 4, 2026
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medium impactfederalIntroducedHealthcare

Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records

In accordance with the Privacy Act of 1974, the DoD is modifying and reissuing a current System of Records Notice (SORN) titled, "Defense Manpower Data Center Data Base," DMDC 01. The SORN is being retitled "Uniformed Services Human Resources Information System," to reflect the updated name of the underlying database. The system is designed to collect and maintain records that support a single central facility within the DoD. Its primary functions include assessing manpowe...

1 month agoMar 4, 2026
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low impactfederalActiveLegal

Agency Information Collection Activity Under OMB Review: Civil Rights Discrimination Complaint

In compliance with the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) of 1995, this notice announces that the Office of the Secretary, Department of Veterans Affairs, will submit the collection of information abstracted below to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and comment. The PRA submission describes the nature of the information collection and its expected cost and burden, and it includes the actual data collection instrument.

1 month agoMar 4, 2026
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low impactfederalActiveLegal

Notice of OFAC Sanctions Action

The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is publishing the names of one or more persons that have been placed on OFAC's Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List (SDN List) based on OFAC's determination that one or more applicable legal criteria were satisfied. All property and interests in property subject to U.S. jurisdiction of these persons are blocked, and U.S. persons are generally prohibited from engaging in transactions wi...

1 month agoMar 4, 2026
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medium impactfederalActiveHealthcare

M14 General Principles on Planning, Designing, Analyzing, and Reporting of Non-Interventional Studies That Utilize Real-World Data for Safety Assessment of Medicines; International Council for Harmonisation; Guidance for Industry; Availability

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or Agency) is announcing the availability of a final guidance for industry entitled "General Principles on Planning, Designing, Analyzing, and Reporting of Non- interventional Studies That Utilize Real-World Data for Safety Assessment of Medicines." The guidance was prepared under the auspices of the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH). The guidance outlines general principles...

1 month agoMar 4, 2026
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medium impactfederalActiveSurvivor

SBIC License Issuance

Pursuant to the authority granted to the United States Small Business Administration under section 301(c) of the Small Business Investment Act of 1958, as amended, to grant Small Business Investment Company licenses under the Small Business Investment Company Program, this notice satisfies the requirement effective August 17, 2023 under 13 CFR 107.501(a) to publish in the Federal Register the names of SBICs with date of licensure and Total Intended Leverage Commitments. The following SBICs re...

1 month agoMar 4, 2026
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Lasting lifestyle changes through TeleMOVE!

A Veteran describes how VA’s TeleMOVE! program helped him lose 190 pounds, come off all his medications and find a new way to stay connected to care.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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Simple ways Veterans can protect against suicide risk right now

An overview of simple life changes and daily habits Veterans can implement to protect against suicide risk.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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Watch out for scams and stay safe while online shopping

Post-holiday deals attract shoppers—and unfortunately, scammers. Fraud targeting Veterans and their families often increases during this time as criminals exploit online shopping and holiday generosity.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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VA Research Wrap Up: New findings on substance use, diabetes and PTSD

VA’s Office of Research and Development recently published three News Briefs highlighting research findings on benzodiazepine use diabetes and PTSD.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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A new era of healing: Welcoming West Texas VA’s first facility service dog

Loretta, West Texas VA's first facility service dog, brings joy, comfort and healing to Veterans, enhancing compassionate care.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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Riding for a cause: A mission to S.A.V.E. our Veterans

Raising awareness about Veteran suicides with the annual Be the One New Mexico S.A.V.E. Run led by the New Mexico American Legion Riders.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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How one Army Veteran built Authentically American®

An Army Veteran launched Authentically American® in 2017 to revive American manufacturing—with the help of the U.S. Small Business Administration.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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Heart health research from MVP

The Million Veteran Program shares its new research into heart health and how it could improve health care for Veterans of today and tomorrow.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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The future of mental health care is at VA

VA is leading the nation in transforming mental health care for America’s Veterans and we’re looking for passionate providers to join us.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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Making the changes to better your health

Big or small changes can have a big impact on Veterans receiving treatment for mental health or SUD.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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VA Research Wrap Up: New findings on schizophrenia, burn pits and prostate cancer

VA Research recently published findings on the genetics behind schizophrenia, burn pit exposure and prostate cancer risk.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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low impactfederalActiveEmployment

Veterans: Find your perfect VA career

Veterans bring unmatched experience, leadership, and dedication to the workforce. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is proud to be one of the largest employers of Veterans in the nation, offering meaningful careers that allow former service members to continue their mission in a new way, as well as support in getting started on a civilian job search.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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low impactfederalActiveHealthcare

Implementation of Section 402 of Title IV (HOME Act of 2024) of the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act

This notice informs the public of the VA's implementation of Title IV, Section 402 of the Senator Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act, which increased the maximum per diem rate from 115 percent to 133 percent of the State Home domiciliary care rate beginning on the date of the enactment of the HOME Act of 2024 and ending on September 30, 2027.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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medium impactfederalActiveSurvivor

Approval and Promulgation of Air Quality Implementation Plans; Nevada; Regional Haze State Implementation Plan for the Second Implementation Period

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is approving portions of the regional haze state implementation plan (SIP) revisions submitted by the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) on August 12, 2022 ("2022 Nevada Regional Haze Plan") and on May 28, 2025 ("2025 SIP Supplement"), as satisfying applicable requirements under the Clean Air Act (CAA) and the EPA's Regional Haze Rule (RHR) for the program's second implementation period. These revisions addr...

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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medium impactfederalActiveSurvivor

Update to Notice of Financial Institutions for Which the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Has Been Appointed Either Receiver, Liquidator, or Manager

Notice is hereby given that the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (Corporation) has been appointed the sole receiver for the following financial institution effective as of the Date Closed as indicated in the listing.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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medium impactfederalActiveHealthcare

Qualification of Drivers; Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance; Application for Exemption

FMCSA requests public comment on the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance's (CVSA) request for guidance, which FMCSA is treating as an application for exemption, to allow motor carriers and drivers to rely on a paper copy of the medical examiner's certificate (MEC) as proof of the driver's medical certification until the Medical Examiner's Certification Integration (NRII) final rule is fully implemented in all 50 States and the District of Columbia.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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medium impactfederalActiveHealthcare

Determination of Regulatory Review Period for Purposes of Patent Extension; AURORA EV-ICD

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or the Agency) has determined the regulatory review period for AURORA EV-ICD and is publishing this notice of that determination as required by law. FDA has made the determination because of the submission of applications to the Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), Department of Commerce, for the extension of a patent which claims that medical device.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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medium impactfederalActiveHealthcare

Determination of Regulatory Review Period for Purposes of Patent Extension; ALFAPUMP

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or the Agency) has determined the regulatory review period for ALFAPUMP and is publishing this notice of that determination as required by law. FDA has made the determination because of the submission of an application to the Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), Department of Commerce, for the extension of a patent which claims that medical device.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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medium impactfederalActiveHealthcare

Medical Billing for Healthcare Services Provided by Department of Defense Military Medical Treatment Facilities to Civilian Non-Beneficiaries

As required by the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (NDAA-23), this rule reduces financial harm to civilians who are not covered beneficiaries of the Military Health System (MHS), and who receive healthcare services at DoD military medical treatment facilities (MTF). The rulemaking implements the MHS Modified Payment and Waiver Program (MPWP) through which the DoD applies a sliding fee scale and/or a catastrophic fee waiver to medical invoices of certain...

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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low impactfederalActiveGeneral

Veterans benefits increase 2.8% to keep pace with inflation

The post Veterans benefits increase 2.8% to keep pace with inflation appeared first on DAV.

2 months agoFeb 7, 2026
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high impactfederalActiveDisability

Honoring Our PACT Act Deadline Reminder: File Your Toxic Exposure Claim by August 2026

The VA is reminding veterans that the PACT Act includes a special filing period for retroactive benefits. Veterans who file a toxic exposure claim by August 10, 2026 may be eligible for benefits retroactive to August 10, 2022 -- the date the PACT Act was signed into law. After this deadline, benefits will only be effective from the date of filing. The VA strongly encourages all veterans who served in locations with known toxic exposures to file their claims as soon as possible to maximize their benefits.

What Changed

Deadline reminder: File toxic exposure claims by August 10, 2026 for benefits retroactive to August 10, 2022

2 months agoFeb 1, 2026
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high impactfederalNow In EffectHealthcare

PACT Act Toxic Exposure Screening Now Available for All Veterans

Veterans can now request a toxic exposure screening at any VA health care facility as part of the PACT Act implementation. This free screening helps identify potential health conditions related to military environmental exposures including burn pits, Agent Orange, and contaminated water.

What Changed

All veterans enrolled in VA healthcare can now receive toxic exposure screenings. The screening covers burn pit exposure, Agent Orange, radiation, contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, and other environmental hazards.

2 months agoJan 28, 2026
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high impactfederalNow In EffectDisability

VA 2025 Disability Compensation Rate Increase Now in Effect

The Department of Veterans Affairs 2025 disability compensation rates are now in effect, reflecting a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). Veterans receiving VA disability compensation will see increased monthly payments starting with January 2025 payments.

What Changed

Monthly disability compensation rates increased by 2.5% across all rating levels. For example, a 100% rated veteran without dependents now receives $3,832.06/month, up from $3,737.85 in 2024.

2 months agoJan 28, 2026
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high impactfederalNow In EffectSurvivor Benefits

DIC Rates Increased for Surviving Spouses

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) rates for surviving spouses and dependents have increased for 2025. Surviving spouses now receive higher monthly payments, with additional allowances for children and Aid and Attendance needs.

What Changed

The base DIC rate for surviving spouses is now $1,612.75/month, with additional allowances available. Survivors should verify they are receiving all entitled benefits including the 8-year kicker if applicable.

2 months agoJan 28, 2026
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high impactfederalActiveHealthcare

Veteran Suicide Prevention Resources Expanded

The VA has expanded suicide prevention resources including the Veterans Crisis Line (988, Press 1), same-day mental health appointments, and partnerships with community organizations. Veterans in crisis can access immediate support 24/7.

What Changed

New resources include expanded telehealth mental health services, peer support programs, and the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program funding community-based prevention efforts.

2 months agoJan 28, 2026
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medium impactfederalActiveVA Process

VA Announces Major Claims Processing Improvements

The VA has implemented new technology and processes to reduce disability claims processing times. The average processing time for initial claims has decreased, with the VA committing to further reductions through automation and workflow improvements.

What Changed

Veterans filing initial disability claims can expect faster decisions. The VA has also expanded the use of presumptive conditions under the PACT Act to expedite toxic exposure claims.

2 months agoJan 28, 2026
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medium impactfederalNow In EffectEducation

GI Bill Housing Allowance Rates Updated for 2025

The Post-9/11 GI Bill Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) rates have been updated for 2025, reflecting changes in Basic Allowance for Housing rates. Students attending school full-time will see adjusted housing payments based on their school location ZIP code.

What Changed

MHA rates now match 100% of the E-5 with dependents BAH rate for each ZIP code. Students should verify their new payment amounts through the VA education benefits portal.

2 months agoJan 28, 2026
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medium impactfederalNow In EffectHousing

VA Home Loan Limits Removed for Eligible Veterans

Veterans with full VA home loan entitlement no longer face loan limits. Eligible veterans can now borrow as much as a lender will approve without a down payment, regardless of home price in high-cost areas.

What Changed

The Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act removed loan limits for veterans with full entitlement. Veterans can purchase homes above the previous county loan limits without requiring a down payment.

2 months agoJan 28, 2026
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high impactfederalNow In EffectCaregiver

VA Expands Caregiver Support Program Eligibility

The VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers has expanded eligibility to include veterans from all service eras. Previously limited to post-9/11 veterans, the program now supports caregivers of veterans who served before September 11, 2001.

What Changed

Caregivers of veterans from all service eras can now apply for the program, which provides monthly stipends, health insurance, respite care, and training.

2 months agoJan 28, 2026
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high impactfederalActiveHealthcare

VA Announces Expansion of Telehealth Mental Health Services to All Enrolled Veterans

The VA has announced a major expansion of its telehealth mental health services, making virtual therapy and psychiatric appointments available to all enrolled veterans nationwide. The program includes same-day crisis counseling via video, a new mobile app for scheduling and conducting therapy sessions, and expanded partnerships with community mental health providers for evening and weekend availability. The VA has hired 3,000 additional mental health professionals to support the expansion.

What Changed

Telehealth mental health services expanded to all enrolled veterans with same-day crisis counseling and evening/weekend availability

3 months agoJan 20, 2026
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high impactfederalNow In EffectDisability

2026 VA Disability Compensation COLA Increase: 2.5% Effective January 1

The Department of Veterans Affairs has implemented the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) of 2.5% for all disability compensation, pension, and survivor benefit payments. This increase, based on the Consumer Price Index, applies automatically to all eligible veterans and survivors. A veteran rated at 100% disability will see their monthly payment increase from $3,737.85 to approximately $3,831.29. The increase is reflected in payments beginning February 1, 2026.

What Changed

All VA disability compensation, pension, and DIC rates increased by 2.5% for 2026

3 months agoJan 5, 2026
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medium impactstateNow In EffectFLEmployment

Florida Enacts Veteran Small Business Tax Credit Program

Florida has launched a new tax credit program for veteran-owned small businesses. The program provides a $5,000 annual tax credit for the first three years of operation for businesses majority-owned by veterans. Additionally, veteran-owned businesses that hire other veterans will receive an extra $2,500 tax credit per veteran employee hired. The program also includes mentorship through the Florida Small Business Development Center network and expedited state licensing.

What Changed

New $5,000 annual tax credit for veteran-owned businesses, plus $2,500 per veteran employee hired

4 months agoDec 20, 2025
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high impactfederalSigned Into LawDisability

Major Richard Star Act Signed Into Law - Combat-Injured Veterans to Receive Full Retirement and Disability Pay

The Major Richard Star Act has been signed into law, ending the longstanding offset between military retirement pay and VA disability compensation for combat-injured veterans. This historic legislation allows over 50,000 combat-disabled retirees with less than 20 years of service to receive both their full military retirement pay and their VA disability compensation simultaneously. Previously, these veterans had their retirement pay reduced dollar-for-dollar by their VA disability amount.

What Changed

Eliminates the offset between military retirement pay and VA disability compensation for Chapter 61 medical retirees with combat-related disabilities

4 months agoDec 15, 2025
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medium impactfederalNow In EffectEmployment

Veterans CAREERS Act Provides Transition Assistance and Credentialing Support

The Veterans CAREERS Act has been enacted to help transitioning service members obtain civilian professional credentials and certifications. The law provides up to $4,000 in funding per veteran for professional licensing fees, certification exams, and preparatory courses. It also mandates that the Department of Labor work with state licensing boards to create expedited credentialing pathways that recognize military training and experience in fields such as healthcare, IT, logistics, and skilled trades.

What Changed

Up to $4,000 funding for professional credentials; expedited licensing pathways for military-trained professionals

4 months agoDec 10, 2025
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high impactstateNow In EffectTXHousing

Texas Passes Property Tax Exemption Expansion for Disabled Veterans

Texas Governor has signed into law an expansion of property tax exemptions for disabled veterans. Veterans with a VA disability rating of 50% or higher now qualify for a full property tax exemption on their primary residence, up from the previous threshold of 100%. The exemption is also now transferable to a surviving spouse regardless of whether the veteran died from service-connected causes. This is expected to save qualifying veterans between $3,000 and $12,000 annually depending on property values.

What Changed

Property tax exemption threshold lowered from 100% to 50% disability rating; exemption now transferable to surviving spouse

4 months agoDec 1, 2025
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high impactfederalNow In EffectHealthcare

VA Expands Presumptive Conditions List Under PACT Act - 12 New Cancers Added

The Department of Veterans Affairs has expanded the list of presumptive conditions under the PACT Act to include 12 additional cancer types linked to toxic exposures during military service. Veterans who served in burn pit areas, near radiation sites, or were exposed to other toxic substances and have been diagnosed with these conditions can now file for disability benefits with a streamlined claims process. The VA estimates this expansion will benefit approximately 400,000 additional veterans.

What Changed

Added 12 new cancer types to the PACT Act presumptive conditions list, including bladder cancer, ureter cancer, and several rare cancers linked to burn pit and radiation exposure

5 months agoNov 15, 2025
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high impactfederalNow In EffectHealthcare

VA Permanently Eliminates Copays for Native American and Alaska Native Veterans

The VA has permanently eliminated all healthcare copayments for Native American and Alaska Native veterans enrolled in VA healthcare. This policy change removes financial barriers to care for approximately 150,000 veterans and applies to all VA medical services, prescription medications, and community care referrals. The decision follows years of advocacy by tribal organizations and recognizes the unique trust responsibility the federal government holds with tribal nations.

What Changed

All healthcare copays eliminated for Native American and Alaska Native veterans

5 months agoNov 5, 2025
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high impactfederalNow In EffectHealthcare

VA MISSION Act Community Care Eligibility Expanded to Include Dental Services

The VA has expanded its MISSION Act community care program to include comprehensive dental services for veterans with a 50% or higher disability rating. Previously, only veterans with 100% disability or those with dental conditions directly related to service-connected disabilities were eligible for VA dental care. The expansion allows qualifying veterans to receive preventive, restorative, and emergency dental care through VA-approved community dental providers nationwide.

What Changed

Dental care eligibility through community care expanded to veterans with 50%+ disability rating

6 months agoOct 15, 2025
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medium impactfederalNow In EffectLegal

Veterans Fraud Prevention Act Strengthens Protections Against Benefit Scams

New federal legislation has been enacted to crack down on individuals and organizations that defraud veterans of their benefits. The Veterans Fraud Prevention Act increases penalties for those who charge illegal fees for VA claims assistance, impersonate VA employees, or operate predatory financial schemes targeting veterans. The law also establishes a dedicated Veterans Fraud Task Force within the Department of Justice and provides funding for veteran financial literacy programs.

What Changed

Increased penalties for veteran benefit fraud, created DOJ Veterans Fraud Task Force, funded financial literacy programs

6 months agoOct 15, 2025
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medium impactfederalActiveVa process

VA Launches Automated Decision Support for Claims - Average Processing Time Cut to 90 Days

The VA has deployed a new automated decision support system that assists claims processors in evaluating disability claims. Early results show the average processing time has been reduced from 150 days to approximately 90 days. The system uses advanced data analysis to help identify relevant evidence and suggest rating decisions based on medical evidence, which human adjudicators then review and finalize. The VA reports that the accuracy rate has improved alongside the faster processing times.

What Changed

New automated decision support reduces average VA claims processing time from 150 to 90 days

6 months agoOct 1, 2025
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medium impactstateNow In EffectNYEmployment

New York Enacts Veteran Hiring Preference for State Contractors

New York State has enacted legislation requiring all state contractors to give hiring preference to qualified veterans for positions funded by state contracts. Companies bidding on state contracts valued at $100,000 or more must demonstrate veteran hiring plans and report on veteran employment metrics. Companies that achieve at least 10% veteran workforce composition receive a 5% advantage in the bid evaluation process.

What Changed

State contractors must give veteran hiring preference; companies with 10%+ veteran workforce get 5% bid advantage

7 months agoSep 15, 2025
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high impactstateNow In EffectCAEducation

California Expands Free College Tuition for Veterans and Dependents

California has enacted legislation providing free tuition at all California State University and University of California campuses for veterans and their dependents. The CalVet Education Benefits program now covers all tuition and mandatory fees for undergraduate and graduate programs, with no time limit on eligibility. Dependents of veterans with 50% or higher disability ratings are also eligible. The program is expected to benefit over 200,000 veterans and family members statewide.

What Changed

Free tuition at all CSU and UC campuses for veterans and dependents of 50%+ rated veterans, with no time limit

7 months agoSep 1, 2025
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high impactfederalNow In EffectHealthcare

GUARD VA Benefits Act Expands Healthcare Access for National Guard and Reserve Members

The GUARD VA Benefits Act has expanded healthcare eligibility for National Guard and Reserve members who were called to active duty under federal orders. Members with qualifying deployments now have access to the full range of VA healthcare services for five years following their deployment, regardless of whether they have a service-connected disability. This legislation addresses a longstanding gap that left many Guard and Reserve members without VA healthcare access despite their federal service.

What Changed

National Guard and Reserve members with qualifying federal deployments now eligible for VA healthcare for 5 years post-deployment

8 months agoAug 1, 2025
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high impactfederalSigned Into LawHealthcare

Elizabeth Dole Home and Community-Based Services for Veterans and Caregivers Act Enacted

The Elizabeth Dole Home and Community-Based Services Act has been enacted, significantly expanding in-home care options for veterans who need assistance with daily living. The law increases funding for the VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC), expands veteran-directed care programs, and establishes new partnerships with community-based organizations to deliver home health services. The legislation also increases the monthly stipend for family caregivers by 20%.

What Changed

Expanded VA home care programs, increased caregiver stipends by 20%, and established new community care partnerships

9 months agoJul 1, 2025
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