The vast majority of VA benefits and services will continue uninterrupted during the ongoing government shutdown, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced Wednesday, however the department did warn that some critical care and assistance programs will be impacted.
According to the announcement, the following will be impacted:
- VA Regional Offices will be closed
- VA will not process applications for pre-need burials
- VA will not provide career counseling services.
- VA will not provide transition assistance program activities.
- VA will cease public affairs and outreach efforts to veterans.
- The GI Bill Hotline will be closed.
The following will not be impacted.
- VA Medical Centers, Outpatient Clinics and Vet Centers will remain open
- VA Benefits will continue to be processed and delivered, including compensation, pension, education, and housing benefits.
- Burials will continue at VA National Cemeteries.
- Applications for headstone markers and burial benefits processing will continue.
- The Board of Veterans' Appeals will continue to make decisions.
- VA Contact Centers (1-800-MyVA411) will remain open
- The Veterans Crisis Line (Dial 988, Press 1) will remain open 24/7.
