Understanding the Impact of the American Rescue Plan on Veteran

30 Mar Understanding the Impact of the American Rescue Plan on Veteran

As a veteran, you may have heard of the American Rescue Plan, a comprehensive relief package signed into law by President Biden in March 2021. This historic legislation aims to provide economic support to individuals and families impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, but what does it mean for veterans specifically? This blog post will explore how the American Rescue Plan can benefit veterans and provide resources for accessing these benefits.

• Economic Impact Payments

One of the most visible provisions of the American Rescue Plan is the Economic Impact Payments, commonly known as stimulus checks. Under this provision, eligible individuals and families can receive, including dependents, up to $1,400 per person, including that if you’re a veteran who meets the income requirements, you could receive a payment to help with expenses such as rent, bills, and healthcare costs.

• Extended Unemployment Benefits

If you’re a veteran who has lost their job due to the pandemic, the American Rescue Plan provides extended unemployment benefits through September 6, 2021. This includes an additional $300 per week on top of your state unemployment benefits. The plan also extends Pandemic Unemployment Assistance to gig workers and others who may not typically qualify for unemployment benefits.

• Increased Funding for VA Programs

The American Rescue Plan includes significant funding increases for several VA programs, including:

$750 million for expanding VA’s Caregiver Program
$750 million for reducing the VA’s disability claims backlog
$386 million for mental health services, including suicide prevention and outreach
$272 million for expanding VA’s telehealth capabilities

These funds will help the VA better serve veterans and their families, particularly those disproportionately affected by the pandemic.

•  Housing Assistance

The American Rescue Plan also includes funding to help veterans experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless. This includes $1.4 billion for VA’s Homeless Assistance Program and $21.6 billion for emergency rental assistance for individuals and families struggling to pay rent and utilities.

• Healthcare Coverage

If you’re a veteran who has lost your job and health insurance due to the pandemic, you may be eligible for coverage through the VA’s healthcare system. The American Rescue Plan also provides funding to help states expand Medicaid coverage, which could provide healthcare coverage for veterans who don’t currently qualify for VA healthcare.

In conclusion, the American Rescue Plan provides significant relief for veterans who the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted. From economic support to increased funding for VA programs, the plan aims to provide critical resources to help veterans and their families during this challenging time. If you’re a veteran who needs assistance accessing these benefits, reach out to your local VA office or visit the VA’s website for more information.