Mental Health Benefits
You don't need to understand every program before taking the next step.
Information is being prepared.
What is this?
Some eligible former CAF members who submit a disability application for an eligible mental health condition may receive mental health treatment coverage while VAC processes the application. Treatment coverage is not approval of the disability claim.
Separate treatment eligibility from claim approval.
Who might qualify?
Only the responsible organization can determine eligibility.
Where this may fit in your transition
Typical process
Submit the disability claim and ask VAC about immediate coverage.
If you receive a decision
Treatment access is not a final approval of disability entitlement.
- • Entitlement — whether the condition is related to service
- • Assessment — the severity or percentage rating
- • Effective date — when the benefit starts
- • Calculation — how the amount was determined
- • Approved services — what is covered and for how long
- • Frequency or dollar limit — caps on treatment or services
- • Reasons for denial — the specific basis for the decision
Every situation is different. Timelines vary based on the organization, the complexity of the application, and the volume of requests being processed.
What usually happens next
Application received
The organization typically sends a confirmation that your application was received.
Information requests
They may ask for additional medical, service, or financial records to support your application.
Review
A decision maker reviews your application, the evidence provided, and the applicable program rules.
Decision
You receive a written decision explaining the outcome, the reasons, and any review rights.
If approved
Benefits begin according to the program rules and the effective date stated in the decision.
If not approved
The decision letter explains why and describes your review or appeal options, including any deadlines.
Reassessment
If your condition or circumstances change, you may request a reassessment of the decision.
Reviews and appeals
Depending on the issue, you may request a departmental review or a hearing before the Veterans Review and Appeal Board.
Every situation is different. Timelines vary and are not guaranteed.
Evidence that may help
Submitted claim
diagnosis/clinical concern
treatment recommendation
provider details.
Not every document is required for every application. This list is for general awareness only.
You may also want to explore
Treatment Benefits
VAC Treatment Benefits provide eligible Veterans with coverage for authorized health-care products and services.
OSI clinics
A related program that may be worth exploring.
rehabilitation
A related program that may be worth exploring.
IRB.
A related program that may be worth exploring.
Helpful VANCA tools
Official sources
VAC
Veterans Affairs Canada is the primary decision-maker for this program. Check their official page for the most current eligibility rules, application forms, and processing times.
Program rules may change. The official department, tribunal, insurer, or benefit provider makes eligibility and payment decisions. VANCA provides information only — not decisions.
Before you apply
- I understand what this benefit is.
- I know what evidence I already have.
- I understand who makes the decision.
- I know my next step.
- I know where to ask questions if I become stuck.
Last reviewed
2026-07-16
Next scheduled review
Not scheduled
Official source verified
2026-07-16