The needs of Veterans are changing. It is happening now, and it is happening quickly. On October 6, 2011, our Government responded by announcing that enhancements to the New Veterans Charter are now in effect—improving financial support for thousands of Canadian Veterans.

To date, Veterans Affairs Canada has helped more than 20,000 Veterans, Canadian Forces members and their families through programs and services under the New Veterans Charter. The Charter offers the financial help Veterans need while providing full physical and psychological rehabilitation services, vocational assistance, health care benefits, and one-on-one case management—all aimed at helping Veterans make a successful transition to civilian life.

Our Government promised that the New Veterans Charter would evolve with the needs of the men and women it serves—and these latest enhancements follow through on this promise. Over the next five years, an additional $189 million dollars has been set aside for Veterans most in need. It is estimated that a minimum of 4,000 Veterans will qualify for this enhanced financial support during this time.

Enhancements to the New Veterans Charter:

• A minimum pre-tax income of $40,000 a year for Veterans who are in rehabilitation or, if they are no longer able to be gainfully employed, until age 65;
• Expanded eligibility for additional monthly allowances (worth up to $1,632 per month, payable for life) for seriously injured Veterans;
• A new $1,000 monthly supplement to the Permanent Impairment Allowance (payable for life) to help our most seriously injured or ill Veterans who are unable to return to suitable, gainful employment; and
• New payment options for Canadian Forces members and Veterans receiving a disability award. While these men and women still have the choice of a lump-sum payment, they are also now able to receive a disability award as either an annual payment (with interest) over any number of years they choose, or as a combination of a partial lump-sum payment and annual payments (with interest).

These enhancements are just one example of how our Government is changing to meet the needs of today’s Veterans. In the following weeks and months, Veterans will see the positive impact of how Veterans Affairs Canada is cutting red tape and working to offer the hassle-free service Veterans have asked for.

Are you a Veteran? Do you know someone who is a Veteran and may benefit from these enhancements? To learn more about the services and benefits available to Canadian Veterans, visit veterans.gc.ca.