WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced on Tuesday that it delivered a record amount of care and benefits to veterans in New Jersey during fiscal year 2024, reflecting the department’s commitment to improving services for veterans, their families, and survivors. These outcomes were part of a nationwide effort under the Biden-Harris Administration, driven largely by the PACT Act, which has expanded health care access and benefits.
“Veterans deserve the very best from VA and our nation, and we will never settle for anything less,” said VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “We’re honored that more Veterans are getting their earned health care and benefits from VA than ever before, but make no mistake: there is still work to do. We will continue to work each and every day to earn the trust of those we serve — and ensure that all Veterans, their families, and their survivors get the care and benefits they so rightly deserve.”
In New Jersey, the VA delivered more than 1.4 million health care appointments this fiscal year, with 5,309 veterans newly enrolling in VA health care. The department also expanded its reach in providing financial benefits, with 69,116 veterans receiving compensation, totaling an estimated $1.77 billion, and 1,702 veterans receiving pension benefits worth around $30.8 million. Additionally, the VA processed 29,366 disability claims in New Jersey, achieving a grant rate of 63.8%.
The VA also provided emergency health care to over 490 New Jersey veterans experiencing acute suicidal crises, reflecting the department’s emphasis on supporting veterans in critical situations. On a broader scale, trust in the VA reached record levels nationwide, with an 80.4% overall trust rate among veterans and a 92% trust rate in VA health care services.
Special support was extended to New Jersey’s women veterans, with 6,710 receiving compensation benefits totaling $182.3 million and 517 newly enrolling in VA health care. In addition, 1,947 survivors of veterans in the state received pension benefits, and 7,251 spouses and dependents received Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, representing estimated benefits of $147 million.
The VA’s commitment to honoring veterans in their final resting places was also evident, as 47 veterans were interred at VA national cemeteries in New Jersey this year. This reflects the department’s mission to provide dignity and honor to veterans in all aspects of their service and beyond.
Find a VA Benefits Lawyer in New Jersey to Help You With Your Injury Claim
Finding a VA benefits lawyer in New Jersey can be essential for veterans and their families seeking assistance with navigating the complexities of VA claims and appeals. Experienced VA benefits attorneys specialize in helping veterans secure compensation for disabilities, pensions, survivor benefits, and more, especially when initial claims are denied or under-reviewed. In New Jersey, top law firms and independent lawyers with expertise in veterans’ affairs often offer free initial consultations to evaluate cases and guide veterans through the intricate legal requirements.
Key qualities to look for in a VA benefits lawyer include accreditation by the Department of Veterans Affairs, a track record of successful claims, and a clear understanding of the latest VA policies, including the PACT Act provisions. Law firms like Scura, Wigfield, Heyer, Stevens & Cammarota, LLP and Turley Redmond Rosasco & Rosasco, L.L.P. are among those that offer dedicated services to veterans in New Jersey, providing tailored legal support to maximize benefits and ensure that veterans receive the compensation they have earned.
