Reform to retirement pay and disability compensation policy is long overdue. Many of our nation’s combat-disabled veterans are prohibited by Congress from receiving their full earned Department of Defense retirement pay and Department of Veterans Affairs service-connected disability compensation. Over 50,000 Chapter 61 retirees with combat-related disabilities are required to forfeit every dollar of their retirement pay for every dollar they receive in disability compensation. No veteran should have to choose between two fundamentally different benefits that they earned for two entirely different reasons. Tell Congress to end this extremely unjust offset by immediately passing the Major Richard Star Act.
Complete VFW’s Fall 2022 Health Survey
The VFW regularly surveys our members and supporters in order to best inform Congress and VA. We have developed a quick survey for you to evaluate your physical and mental health over the past 30 days. Your feedback is vital to our advocacy efforts. Help us hold VA and Congress accountable by taking this short survey.
September is Suicide Prevention Month
On average, 17 veterans die by suicide each day. While VA reports a slight decline in veteran suicides from years past, the number must be reduced to zero and remain there. VA’s “Don’t Wait. Reach Out.” campaign encourages veterans who are struggling to seek help before they reach a crisis point. The solution to suicide prevention involves everyone. For any veterans in crisis, you are not alone. The Veterans Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone (988, press 1), text (838255), or online chat, VeteransCrisisLine.net.
VA Extends Hardship Suspension for Benefit Debts
VA has extended its financial hardship suspension on benefit debts through Dec. 31, 2022. This relief option was established to help veterans through the COVID-19 pandemic and was set to expire Sep. 30. Beginning this month, VA will mail debt notification letters to affected veterans advising them of the extended hardship suspension option, as well as extended debt repayment plans, waivers, or compromises. This includes debts related to disability compensation, non-service-connected pension, and education benefits. Veterans and beneficiaries can manage their debt online or call (800) 827-0648 with questions regarding benefit overpayments. For information about medical care and pharmacy copayment debt, contact the Health Resource Center at (866) 400-1238.
Till next week, praying for all service members.
– Charles Castelluccio
