Veterans exposed to burn pits during their service may develop serious health issues, which the VA now recognizes as service-connected disabilities.
Understanding how burn pit disability compensation works, the presumptive conditions related to burn pit exposure, and how to file a claim are crucial steps for veterans seeking benefits. This guide will explain the burn pit disability rating, compensation, and the impact of the PACT Act.
What Is Burn Pit Disability?
Burn pits were used on military bases, particularly in Iraq and Afghanistan, to dispose of waste by burning. These pits released harmful chemicals and toxins into the air, leading to long-term health problems for many veterans. The VA recognizes that exposure to burn pits can result in chronic illnesses and conditions that are now considered presumptive.
For veterans suffering from illnesses due to burn pit exposure, the VA provides disability compensation based on the severity of the condition and how it impacts their daily life.
For more detailed eligibility information, visit the VA’s burn pit exposure page: VA Eligibility for Hazardous Materials Exposure.
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Burn Pit Presumptive Conditions
The PACT Act added a list of 23 presumptive conditions for veterans exposed to burn pits, meaning veterans no longer have to prove their illness is linked to burn pit exposure. If you served in specific areas and developed one of these conditions, the VA presumes your exposure caused the illness.
Some of the burn pit presumptive conditions include:
- Asthma
- Chronic bronchitis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Lung cancer
- Chronic rhinitis
- Chronic sinusitis
- Interstitial lung disease
For the full list of 23 presumptive conditions, you can visit the official PACT Act VA Benefits page: The PACT Act and Your VA Benefits.
Burn Pit Disability Percentage and Ratings
The burn pit disability percentage assigned by the VA depends on the severity of your illness. The rating scale generally ranges from 0% to 100% depending on how much your condition affects your daily functioning and overall health.
For example:
- Asthma caused by burn pit exposure may result in a 30% to 60% rating, depending on the frequency of attacks and the need for inhalational therapy.
- COPD related to burn pits may receive a higher rating, depending on the severity of lung function loss.
The VA rating takes into account how your condition impacts your ability to work and perform daily tasks. A higher rating means more disability compensation each month.
For more on how the VA calculates these percentages, you can read the VA’s guide to disability ratings: VA Rating for Burn Pit Exposure.
How Much Is Burn Pit Compensation?
The amount of burn pit compensation you receive is tied to your VA disability rating. Veterans with higher ratings receive more monthly compensation. For example in 2024:
- 30% disability rating: Approximately $508.05 per month (without dependents)
- 50% disability rating: Approximately $1,041.82 per month (without dependents)
- 100% disability rating: Approximately $3,621.95 per month (without dependents)
The actual amount you receive may vary based on your rating and whether you have dependents. Veterans with severe conditions may also qualify for additional benefits, such as Special Monthly Compensation (SMC).
For more on how burn pit compensation works, see this detailed article: VA Burn Pit Disability Compensation.
Is Burn Pit Compensation Separate from VA Disability?
No, burn pit compensation is not separate from your overall VA disability compensation. If the VA determines that your burn pit-related illness is service-connected, your disability rating will reflect that. The compensation you receive for burn pit exposure is part of your overall VA disability compensation package.
How to File for Burn Pit Exposure
Filing a burn pit claim starts with documenting your illness and linking it to your military service. Here are the steps to file a VA claim for burn pit exposure:
- Gather Medical Records: Collect all medical records showing your diagnosis of a condition related to burn pit exposure.
- Prove Service Connection: Your service records should show that you were stationed in a location where burn pits were used, such as Iraq, Afghanistan, or other areas recognized by the VA.
- Submit VA Form 21-526EZ: This form is used to apply for disability compensation. Be sure to include all relevant medical documentation and service records.
- Request a C&P Exam: The Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam helps the VA determine the severity of your condition and assigns your disability rating.
For more guidance on how to file a burn pit claim, visit How to File a VA Claim for Burn Pit Exposure.
PACT Act and Burn Pit Legislation
The PACT Act, passed in 2022, expands VA healthcare and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances. The act not only increases the list of presumptive conditions but also makes it easier for veterans to file claims and receive the care they need.
Before the PACT Act, veterans had difficulty proving their illnesses were connected to burn pits. Now, with more presumptive conditions added, veterans can automatically qualify for compensation without needing to prove the direct link.
For more on how the PACT Act changes burn pit claims, visit PBS News: Burn Pit Injury and the VA.
