Veterans who served in Vietnam, the Gulf War or in the post 9/11 era and their family members may be eligible for disability compensation and other benefits.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs officials in a news release Thursday said disability and survivors claims began being processed Jan. 1 as a result of the Sgt. 1st Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act.

The VA began processing PACT Act benefits claims Dec. 12 for terminally ill veterans as well.

Veterans may be eligible for compensation if their illness was caused by exposure to burn pits, Agent Orange and other toxic substances during their time in the military.

For information about the PACT Act and how to file a claim, visit va.gov/PACT. If veterans, their families, caregivers or survivors have questions about PACT Act and wish to speak with someone to help, they may call 1-800-MyVA411 at any time.