What the Proposed PACT Act Expansion Means

Ahead of Veterans Day 2026, lawmakers introduced a bill to expand the PACT Act to include veterans who served in the Iran War. If passed, this legislation would add Iran War service to the list of deployments covered for presumptive toxic exposure conditions. This means Iran War veterans could access VA disability benefits for illnesses linked to burn pits and other environmental hazards without the current burden of proof.

The PACT Act, originally enacted in 2022, covers veterans who served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations. The new bill would amend Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), likely affecting sections such as 38 CFR § 3.309 and § 3.317, which govern presumptive service connection for toxic exposures.

How Presumptive Conditions Work for VA Claims

Presumptive conditions are illnesses the VA automatically assumes are related to military service in certain locations or timeframes. Under the PACT Act, veterans who served in qualifying areas and develop listed conditions do not need to prove direct service connection. This streamlines the claims process and increases approval rates.

If the bill passes, Iran War veterans diagnosed with cancers, respiratory illnesses, or other conditions listed in 38 CFR § 3.309 would be able to file claims using VA Form 21-526EZ. They would only need to show evidence of service in Iran during qualifying periods and a current diagnosis.

Steps Iran War Veterans Should Take Now

  • Monitor the Bill’s Progress: Follow updates on the legislation through official sources and veteran service organizations (VSOs).
  • Gather Service Records: Secure copies of your DD214, deployment orders, and any medical records documenting service in Iran.
  • Document Medical Conditions: Keep detailed medical records and diagnoses related to possible toxic exposures.
  • Prepare for Early Filing: If you have a qualifying condition, consider preparing your claim packet now so you can file promptly if the law passes.

For more on filing, visit our VA claims hub. Use the VA disability rating calculator to estimate potential benefits.

What to Expect from the Claims Process

If the PACT Act expansion becomes law, Iran War veterans will follow the same process as other PACT Act claimants. File VA Form 21-526EZ, attach proof of service in Iran, and provide medical evidence of a presumptive condition. The VA will review your claim under the updated presumptive rules, which should reduce wait times and denials.

Approved claims result in monthly tax-free payments. As of 2026, a single veteran with no dependents rated 50% disabled receives $1,075.16 per month. Ratings and payment amounts are explained on our disability ratings hub.

Where to Find Help and More Information

Veterans can get free assistance from accredited VSOs when filing claims. Stay updated on the bill's status through the VA, the office of Senator Cantwell, or our topic explainers index. If you have questions about eligibility or documentation, reach out to a VA-accredited representative.