09/18/2009

VA Benefits - ALS Deadline 9-23-09

Last September the Secretary of Veterans Affairs designated amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) a service-connected disability for all Veterans with 90 days or more of continuous active service in the military (See MDA's 9/23/08 press release). As a result, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can now pay disability compensation to Veterans with ALS and survivors of Veterans with ALS who have passed away.

Veterans with ALS are encouraged to contact their local Veteran's Service Organization (VSO) by September 23, 2009 to retroactively qualify for a full year's worth of benefits. For a state-by-state listing of VSOs, please visit the VA Web site.

US Congressman Leonard Boswell (Iowa) released a statement saying, “Our men and women in uniform sacrifice so much for this country, and it is our country's responsibility to care for our soldiers both during and after service. I am pleased that the VA is offering benefits to veterans with ALS, and I urge those men and women to contact their VSO in time to receive retroactive payments” (Rep. Boswell's full press release can be found on his official Web site).

Additionally, widows/widowers of Veterans who have passed away from ALS may be eligible for the Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) benefit. The DIC benefit is a monthly monetary award with an additional monetary benefit for dependents. For more information, please contact your local VA Regional office at 1-800-827-1000 or visit the VA Web site.