VA Secretary Doug Collins Announces Hiring of Over 2,000 Employees to Address Surging Claims
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is set to hire over 2,000 additional claims processors across the United States during fiscal year 2027. This initiative aims to manage the increasing volume of disability and pension claims filed by veterans. VA Secretary Doug Collins stated that these new hires are crucial for continuing the department's progress in claims processing volume, speed, and accuracy. In fiscal year 2026, the VA processed a record 3.1 million compensation and pension claims, while receiving over 3.15 million new claims, marking an approximate 80% increase compared to 2022. The VA currently employs more than 13,000 individuals in claims processing, achieving a 93.88% accuracy rate in fiscal year 2026, with only 3.2% of decisions appealed. The new employees will be responsible for reviewing disability claims, evaluating supporting evidence, and applying federal laws and regulations to determine benefit eligibility. The VA is actively encouraging veterans and others to apply for these posit...