Changes at the Department of Veterans Affairs: What Veterans Need to Know

By: Donnel Beckles, VA Managing Advocate, and Caroline Temple, Senior Advocate

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is undergoing some significant changes this year, and while some of them have been widely discussed, others are still unfolding. With new leadership and major restructuring efforts, veterans may be wondering how these changes will affect their benefits and healthcare. At Veterans Help Group, we’re keeping a close eye on these developments and ensuring that our clients are well informed and prepared for anything that may come their way.

New Leadership: Secretary Doug Collins Takes the Helm

On February 5, 2025, Doug Collins was sworn in as the new Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Collins addressed the public in a video message on February 20, assuring veterans that their health care and benefits would remain protected under his leadership. While we’ve seen many changes within the Department of Veterans Affairs, Collins reassured the public that veterans’ benefits would not be cut and that veterans would continue to receive the care they deserve.

That said, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) system has been grappling with long wait times and delays in decisions that directly impact veterans’ benefits and healthcare. As the new Secretary settles into his role, we are closely monitoring these developments to make sure that our clients receive the best possible service. At Veterans Help Group, we continue to advocate for veterans, working diligently to maximize the benefits they are entitled to, regardless of the changes occurring at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

“Fork in the Road”: Deferred Resignation Program for VA Employees

On January 28, 2025, the VA introduced a deferred resignation program known as “Fork in the Road.” This program offers VA employees the option to resign, effective September 30, 2025. However, the program comes with several conditions and caveats, and some key positions within the VA are exempt from these terms. While this move is part of a broader restructuring effort, it could have an impact on the efficiency and delivery of services to veterans in the short term.

Additionally, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has already laid off over two thousand probationary employees this year. Fortunately, mission-critical positions were not included in these layoffs, but these changes might still affect the VA’s ability to process claims and deliver benefits to veterans promptly.

Upcoming Cuts: 80,000 VA Positions to Be Eliminated

On March 4, 2025, the VA issued an internal memo detailing plans to cut an additional 80,000 positions as part of a larger reorganization effort. The goal is to return the VA to its 2019 staffing levels of 399,957 employees. The department is set to conduct internal reviews before publishing its full Reorganization plan in June 2025. This restructuring could potentially affect the timeliness and efficiency of the VA’s operations.

While these changes are still in the works, we understand that uncertainty can be unsettling for veterans. That’s why at Veterans Help Group, we’re committed to staying informed and ensuring our clients are prepared to navigate these changes successfully.

What Does This Mean for You?

We understand that the news of changes at the VA can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to your benefits and healthcare. Rest assured that, despite these uncertainties, Veterans Help Group is here to support you. We are closely monitoring these developments to ensure that your claims are not delayed or affected by any restructuring efforts at the VA.

Whether you’re navigating the VA claims process, seeking assistance with appeals, or just need help understanding how these changes might impact you, we’re here for you every step of the way.

We’re committed to helping veterans like you secure the benefits and you deserve. Contact us today to get the support you need during this time of transition.

More 2025 Veterans News Here:

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Important PACT Act Update: VA Expands Presumptive Conditions – Easier for Veterans to Get Benefits
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VA Disability Payment Schedule for 2025
How Trump Admin Could Impact VA Policies and Veteran Benefit Access
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