Veterans who served around burn pits, Agent Orange, or other toxic hazards may have two distinct routes to VA support. The VA’s PACT Act guide explains how the law expanded health care enrollment and changed the rules for certain disability claims.
Health care enrollment
Some veterans who meet basic service and discharge requirements can apply for VA health care without first filing for disability compensation. The VA guide lists qualifying deployments and exposures. Veterans whose service does not fit those descriptions may qualify for health care under other rules.
Disability compensation
For a condition VA treats as presumptive, an eligible veteran does not have to prove individually that military service caused the condition. The veteran still has to meet the relevant requirements. VA lists conditions and qualifying service by era. Check the current list and use VA’s application links to pursue the benefit that fits your circumstances.
Source information reviewed Nov. 9, 2026.