Risch Introduces Bill to Improve Veteran Access to Disability Benefits

​ WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) today introduced the Veterans’ Earned Benefits Access Act to allow veterans to access their disability benefits when repaying separation pay. Under current law, the VA is required to withhold a veteran’s entire monthly disability payment until their separation pay has been recouped. The Veterans’ Earned Benefits Access Act would allow veterans to instead repay the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) through monthly payments of no more than 25 percent of their monthly disability compensation. “Idaho veterans who answered the call to serve our country should not face delays in accessing their earned benefits,” said Risch. “My Veterans’ Earned Benefits Access Act ensures veterans can receive the disability benefits they need while repaying their separation pay.” The Veterans’ Earned Benefits Access Act applies to veterans who were involuntarily separated from military service, such as those separated due to downsizing. The bill does not apply to those who were dishonorably discharged. The Veterans’ Earned Benefits Access Act is supported by the Idaho Division of Veteran Services.