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Okaloosa County veterans manager says PACT Act driving surge in benefit claims
Summary
Eddie E. Taylor Jr., Okaloosa County Veterans Affairs Manager, told meeting attendees the PACT Act (Aug. 10, 2022) has expanded eligibility for toxic-exposure claims and produced a sharp uptick in new and increased VA disability awards locally.
Eddie E. Taylor Jr., Okaloosa County Veterans Affairs Manager, said the federal PACT Act has broadened conditions tied to toxic exposure and is responsible for a large increase in local VA claims and awards.
"They signed into law something called the PACT Act," Taylor said. "...veterans are now qualifying, and it's through the roof right now." He told the meeting many veterans who had never applied are receiving substantial ratings and entitlements under the new law.
Taylor described the office's role in helping veterans and their families navigate VA, state and local benefits, noting that incorrect self-filed online forms often lead to rejections and delays. He said the office also supports claimants through the appellate process when initial claims are denied.
Taylor cautioned that many applicants struggle with online filing at va.gov and that the county's service officers provide hands-on help. He said one service officer typically sees about 3 to 4 clients per day and emphasized the demand given an estimated "40 plus thousand veterans in Okaloosa County."
