Veterans Affairs Canada

Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) is a department of the Government of Canada responsible for providing pensions, benefits, and services to military veterans, former and current members of the Canadian Armed Forces and Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), their families, and certain civilians. Its core mission is to support the well-being of Veterans and their families, promote recognition and remembrance of their achievements and sacrifices, and deliver exemplary, client-centred services. The department's main offices are located in Ottawa, Ontario.

The department offers a wide array of programs and services, including compensation for service-related illness or injury, income replacement benefits, and comprehensive health care, which encompasses mental health support and specialized operational stress injury clinics. VAC also provides rehabilitation services, financial assistance for areas such as housing and education, and support tailored for families and caregivers. Digital resources like the My VAC Account and a Benefits Navigator are available to help clients access information and manage their benefits online.

As of May 2025, the Honourable Jill McKnight serves as the Minister of Veterans Affairs, with Nancy Gardiner appointed Deputy Minister in March 2026. The department continues to address challenges such as processing wait times for disability claims, aiming for a 16-week target, which was met in 69% of cases in 2023 and 2024. Recent reports have highlighted systemic unfairness in VAC's internal review process for benefit appeals. The department remains focused on enhancing the transition to civilian life for service members and tackling issues like veterans' homelessness.