The Department of Veterans Affairs is mandating overtime hours for claims processors in its 56 regional benefits offices in an effort to reduce the compensation claims backlog.
The mandate, which will be implemented through the end of fiscal year 2013, will be used to alleviate the backlog of disability compensation claims and will continue to emphasize high-priority claims for homeless veterans and those claiming financial hardship, terminally ill, former Prisoners of War, Medal of Honor recipients and veterans filing Fully Developed Claims.
“VA is dedicated to providing veterans with the care and benefits they have earned and deserve,” Eric K. Shinseki, secretary of the Veterans Affairs, stated in a news release. “This increased overtime initiative will provide more veterans with decisions on their claims and will help us achieve our goal of eliminating the claims backlog.”
Claims for Wounded Warriors separating from the military for medical reasons will continue to be handled separately and on a priority basis with the Department of Defense through the Integrated Disability Evaluation System.
