Allied Veterans and Families Now Eligible for Increased Support

Veterans benefits have now been extended to Allied Veterans—those who served with the forces of any nation allied with Canada during the First World War, Second World War or the Korean War. _______________________

In June 2009, amendments to the War Veterans Allowance Act extending benefits to Allied Veterans received Royal Assent. Her Excellency the Governor General of Canada assented to a Bill which enables Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) to extend benefits to low-income Allied Veterans of the Second World War and the Korean War. Family members may also receive benefits.

"Thanks to the unanimous support of all parties, these legislative changes have passed extraordinarily quickly," said the Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs. "This is a testament to the significance of these amendments and it allows us to fulfill our Government’s promise to do the right thing for Canada’s Allied Veterans and their families."

The changes to the legislation provide low-income Allied Veterans of the Second World War, who live in Canada and have for at least ten years, with access to War Veterans Allowance and associated assistance and health benefits. Eligibility will also be expanded to include those who fought for Allied Forces in the Korean War who live in Canada and have for at least ten years.

"Our Government made a promise to support Allied Veterans living in Canada by extending benefits that were removed in 1995. We are proud to be keeping that promise by amending this legislation," said Minister Thompson. "Our Government has made major improvements to programs, services and benefits for Veterans and their families since 2006. With this new legislation, we are building on our commitment—by giving Allied Veterans more choice, more options, and more hope of living out their lives with respect, comfort, dignity and honour."

Programs under this legislation include:

• War Veterans Allowance—Guaranteed monthly income to meet basic needs.
• Assistance Fund—Financial assistance in times of emergency that affect health and/or safety.
• Funeral and Burial—Financial assistance to ensure a dignified funeral and burial for Veterans.
• Treatment Benefits—Coverage ranging from hearing aids to prescription drugs to dental and vision care.
• Veterans Independence Program—A home-care program that includes personal care services, access to nutritious meals, housekeeping, grounds maintenance and other services.
• Long-Term Care—Care in a facility for those who are no longer able to stay at home.

Family members may also receive the War Veterans Allowance, the Assistance Fund and housekeeping and grounds maintenance to help them remain in their own homes.

Although implementation is scheduled for January 2010, eligible Allied Veterans and family members may receive payment for benefits back to October 14, 2008.

For More Information

Visit the Veterans Affairs Canada website to learn more about the benefit, including questions and answers. Or, call 1-866-522-2122 (service in English), 1-866-522-2022 (service in French).

Source: Veterans Affairs Canada