The fifth round of payments from the Iraq War Fund, officially known as the US Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism (USVSST) Fund, is set to distribute $1.035 billion to eligible Iraq War veterans and other victims of state-sponsored terrorism. These payments, scheduled to begin in January 2025, offer critical financial relief for veterans who have endured the lasting impacts of their service.
But what exactly is the Iraq War Fund, and how does it work? More importantly, who qualifies for these payments, and what steps should you take to ensure you receive compensation?
In this article, we'll break down everything Iraq veterans need to know about this financial assistance, the latest Iraq War veteran payout round, and how our attorneys at James Rolshouse Law Firm PLLC can handle the entire process for you—ensuring you get the financial support you're entitled to.
James Rolshouse takes a personal approach to serving veterans, as he served in the military as a US Army medic. During a 16-month combat tour in Iraq, he was the senior medic for the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division. With a deep understanding of both the challenges of combat and the importance of care, Rolshouse is dedicated to advocating for veterans seeking financial aid.
Understanding the Iraq War Fund
The USVSST Fund was created to provide financial compensation to individuals impacted by state-sponsored terrorism, including Iraq War veterans. It is funded through legal resolutions in both civil and criminal cases with organizations that violated US sanctions, such as the $1 billion Standard Chartered Bank settlement under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
To date, the fund has distributed over $12.78 billion and will continue issuing payments until its scheduled expiration in 2039. The fund divides its resources between claimants linked to the 9/11 terrorist attacks and those affected by other acts of state-sponsored terrorism, including the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.
Veterans and their families who were impacted by the Iraq War may qualify for unclaimed veteran benefits from the Iraq War Fund. Key eligibility criteria include:
- Veterans injured in areas influenced by Iranian-backed militias between 2003 and 2011, including those suffering from physical injuries and emotional trauma.
- Families of veterans killed in these regions during the same time frame, who can file claims to receive compensation for their loss and ongoing financial needs.
Veterans and family members who are eligible may continue to receive payments in future rounds of distribution, without needing to resubmit an application each time.
The Fifth Distribution of Iraq War Fund Payouts: Key Details for Veterans
For the fifth round of payments, a total of $1.035 billion has been allocated, with $517.5 million designated specifically for Iraq War-related claims. Letters outlining payment amounts were sent to all eligible claimants on December 30, 2024, and disbursements will begin on a rolling basis throughout January 2025.
In just the first week of January 2025, $766 million was distributed to around 14,700 claimants. These payments are part of an ongoing distribution process, with funds being released as claims are evaluated and approved.
This distribution offers crucial support for veterans grappling with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial instability. The funds can help cover:
- Medical treatments and rehabilitation
- Mental health care services
- Lost wages due to inability to work
The fund continues to accept qualifying claims for future rounds until 2039, which means additional payments may be available in the years ahead.
Challenges Faced by Iraq War Veterans
Many veterans face both visible and invisible wounds from their service, which can have a lasting impact on their lives. These challenges often include:
- Physical injuries: Amputations, burns, traumatic brain injuries, and other serious wounds that require lifelong care and specialized treatments
- Emotional trauma: PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions that can make reintegration into civilian life difficult
- Financial strain: Even with VA benefits, veterans often experience gaps in coverage and long wait times for care, leading to mounting medical bills and financial instability
The Iraq War Fund aims to bridge these gaps, providing veterans with the financial relief they need to focus on recovery and rebuild their lives.
How to Access the Iraq War Fund
If you're a veteran of the Iraq or Afghanistan wars—or a family member of someone who was injured or killed in areas affected by Iranian influence—you may be eligible for compensation through the USVSST Fund. Many are unaware of this hidden money for veterans, which can be a critical financial lifeline.
However, accessing this financial relief isn't as simple as filling out a form—it requires meeting strict eligibility criteria, adhering to deadlines, and navigating a complex legal process. Here's how it works:
Steps to File a Claim:
- Prove eligibility: To qualify, you must provide documentation proving that your injuries, loss, or service-related conditions are directly linked to Iran's influence during the Iraq or Afghanistan wars. This often involves showing court judgments, medical records, or other official documentation.
- Complete an application: The USVSST Fund has specific application forms that must be accurately filled out and submitted within the designated timeframe. Deadlines are strictly enforced, and incomplete or late applications can lead to disqualification.
- Review and wait: After submitting your claim, the Special Master's team will review your application, verify the documentation, and determine the amount of compensation you're entitled to receive. Approved payments are distributed in rounds, with the most recent fifth-round payments beginning in January 2025.
Working with a Lawyer Can Help You Secure Compensation
While you can file a claim on your own, the process is complicated and time-sensitive, with a high potential for errors that could jeopardize your claim. Hiring a lawyer can significantly increase your chances of success.
At James Rolshouse Law PLLC, we offer expert legal support backed by James Rolshouse's firsthand military experience. As a US Army medic who served in Iraq, James understands both the physical and emotional challenges veterans face and is dedicated to making sure you get your rightful compensation.
Here's how our lawyers can help:
- Expert guidance: Experienced attorneys know the ins and outs of the fund's requirements, including what documentation is needed and how to present your case in the strongest way possible. This expertise also reduces the risk of errors or missed deadlines.
- Maximizing compensation: Lawyers are skilled in identifying all possible sources of compensation and ensuring that nothing is overlooked. They can help you gather detailed medical records, court judgments, or other supporting documents to make your claim airtight.
- Time savings: Gathering documentation, completing forms, and responding to requests can be overwhelming, especially if you're already dealing with physical or emotional challenges. A lawyer takes on this burden, freeing you up to focus on your recovery and well-being.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that a professional is handling your case can ease the stress of navigating a legal system you may not be familiar with. Attorneys also ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
If you are a US citizen, active or retired military member, or a family member of someone killed or injured in Iraq or Afghanistan between 2003 and 2011 in areas affected by Iranian influence, you may be eligible to file a claim under the fund. Find out if you qualify for financial relief today. James Rolshouse Law Firm PLLC is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.