Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, #VetResources Newsletter
As of midnight, funding for some government agencies, including portions of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), has expired. While most VA benefits and services will continue uninterrupted, the government shutdown is not without consequences for veterans. Here’s what you need to know:
Critical Veterans Care and Assistance Programs Impacted by the Shutdown
- No Veteran career counseling or transition assistance program activities.
- The GI Bill Hotline will be closed.
- VA regional benefits offices will be closed.
- VA will cease public affairs and outreach to Veterans.
- No permanent placement of headstones or maintenance of grounds at VA national cemeteries.
- No processing of applications for pre-need burials.
- No printing of new presidential memorial certificates.
VA Services Not Impacted by the Shutdown
- Veteran health care is not impacted. VA Medical Centers, Outpatient Clinics, and Vet Centers remain open.
- VA benefits will continue to be processed and delivered, including compensation, pension, education, and housing benefits.
- Burials will continue at VA national cemeteries. Applications for headstones, markers, and burial benefits processing will continue.
- The Board of Veterans’ Appeals will continue decisions on Veterans’ cases.
- VA Contact Centers (1-800-MyVA411) and the Veterans Crisis Line (988, Press 1) are open 24/7.
For more information, visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website.
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