Details on Transfer Payment Programs

Additional Pain and Suffering Compensation (voted)

Start Date:

April 1, 2019

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

This TPP does not have T&Cs as the associated program is established directly in the Act and Regulations. The approval for the new program and its corresponding regulations occurred in 2018–19.

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

Provided to recognize and compensate Veterans for the non-economic loss associated with the barriers to re-establishment in civilian life caused by their service-related permanent and severe impairment. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans are able to adapt, manage, and cope within post-service life.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Disability Benefits

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Variances between planned and actual expenditures occur due to timing differences. VAC Benefit Programs/Services are funded under quasi-statutory authority based on actual demand, therefore VAC updates its client and expenditure forecasts by program each year, based on actual results, to adjust projected trends for future demand. The 2022–23 Planned Spending amounts are based upon forecasts completed in 2021 as per the 2022–23 Departmental Plan (tabled in February 2022), and not the updated 2022 forecasts completed in fall 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

An evaluation of this program will be completed in December 2023.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Assistance Fund Regulations (voted)

Start Date:

2005 (program pre-dates this back to 1964)

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2022–23

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

Administered as a national emergency assistance fund that provides War Veterans Allowance recipients, residing in Canada, with financial assistance to meet an emergency or unexpected contingency for which they do not have the resources. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans and their families are financially secure.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: War Veterans Allowance

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

The Department has five quasi-stat grant programs for which it does not request any change to existing reference levels. Although VAC forecasts slight decreases, budget amounts are not changed to help mitigate the risk of the Department exceeding its authorities for these small programs where forecasts are very sensitive to changes in demand.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

This program was considered during 2023-24 departmental evaluation planning as part of the risk/need assessment of the WVA Program. No risk/need was determined. As total program expenditures do not exceed an average of $5M over 5 years, no evaluation is planned. Risk and need will continue to be reviewed yearly during the departmental evaluation planning exercise.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Assistance to Canadian Veterans – Overseas (voted)

Start Date:

2005 (program pre-dates this back to 1964)

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2022–23

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The Assistance to Canadian Veterans Overseas program provides financial assistance to low income Canadian Veterans and their dependents who were residing in the United Kingdom and were unable to return to Canada to qualify for WVA. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans and their families are financially secure.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: War Veterans Allowance

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Variances between planned and actual expenditures occur due to timing differences. VAC Benefit Programs/Services are funded under quasi-statutory authority based on actual demand, therefore VAC updates its client and expenditure forecasts by program each year, based on actual results, to adjust projected trends for future demand. The 2022–23 Planned Spending amounts are based upon forecasts completed in 2021 as per the 2022–23 Departmental Plan (tabled in February 2022), and not the updated 2022 forecasts completed in fall 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

This program was considered during 2023-24 departmental evaluation planning as part of the risk/need assessment of the WVA Program. No risk/need was determined. As total program expenditures do not exceed an average of $5M over 5 years, no evaluation is planned. Risk and need will continue to be reviewed yearly during the departmental evaluation planning exercise.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Canadian Forces Income Support Allowance (voted)

Start Date:

April 1, 2006

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2017–18

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

Provides income support to CAF Veterans who have successfully completed VAC’s Rehabilitation Program, are capable of working, but are not yet employed. This benefit is a non-taxable benefit, and the payment rates will be comparable to those provided under the existing War Veterans Allowance Program administered by VAC. The benefit amount is income tested against total household income, but not offset by a VAC lump sum Disability Award. Additional amounts are payable in respect to the eligible spouse/common-law partner and dependants. In certain circumstances, this benefit may be payable to surviving spouses/common-law partners and orphans. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans and their families are financially secure.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Income Support

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Variances between planned and actual expenditures occur due to timing differences. VAC Benefit Programs/Services are funded under quasi-statutory authority based on actual demand, therefore VAC updates its client and expenditure forecasts by program each year, based on actual results, to adjust projected trends for future demand. The 2022–23 Planned Spending amounts are based upon forecasts completed in 2021 as per the 2022–23 Departmental Plan (tabled in February 2022), and not the updated 2022 forecasts completed in fall 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

Due to low risk and need, the CFIS program was not included within scope of the on-going 2022-23 Evaluation of IRB and Rehab Services. This program will be examined for risk/need during the yearly departmental evaluation planning process. If there is not a risk/need to evaluate the program, it may not be covered given the funding amount is under the $5M average over 5 years.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Canadian Veterans Association of the United Kingdom (voted)

Start Date:

N/A

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

N/A

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

Provides financial assistance to the Canadian Veterans Association of the United Kingdom to plan, implement and attend events within the United Kingdom. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Note: Program has been removed beginning in 2023–24 as the Canadian Veterans Association of the United Kingdom no longer exists.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans and those who died in service are honoured
DR Canadians remember and appreciate Veterans and those who died in service
Program: Canada Remembers

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Program will be removed beginning in 2023-24

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

n/a

Career Transition Services (voted)

Start Date:

April 1, 2016 (Redesigned April 1, 2018)

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2012

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The purpose of the CTS Program is to provide eligible CAF Members, Veterans, spouses, common-law partners and survivors access to the skills needed to help find a career best suited to their needs. Services are delivered by a National Services provider who will provide career counselling, job search training and/or job finding support to obtain the knowledge and/or develop the skills necessary to find civilian employment. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans and their families are financially secure.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Transition Services

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Note: Career Transition Services was administered as a grant between 2012-13 and 2017-18. In 2018-19, payments began under the Veterans Support Services Program (special purpose allotment). Veterans were able to submit receipts for up to two years for services received prior to April 1, 2018. The budget for the CTS grant was set at $73,000 to cover any Veterans who came forward with receipts covering the time period referenced. As this time limit has now expired, the transfer payment has now been discontinued.

Comments on Variance(s):

n/a

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

Evaluation completed May 2022

• Veterans identified unmet needs associated with the Career Transition Services (CTS) program. Eligibility is appropriate for CTS, although there are areas of confusion amongst potential clients.
• CTS works well with the Education and Training Benefit, particularly for Veterans who access education planning services through CTS. The complementary nature of the programs is reinforced in program policies and other documentation.
• VAC front-line staff have a general knowledge of the CTS program. There is an opportunity to improve communications with front-line staff around the program.
• Veterans surveyed indicated that their awareness of the CTS program while they were serving was limited.
• Client satisfaction with CTS suggests that delivery is not meeting needs or expectations. Overall, 56% of CTS clients surveyed (including clients who received both CTS and ETB) indicated satisfaction with the services received from the third-party service provider (55% indicated satisfaction with VAC services).
• Program expenditures for CTS are on the rise and forecasted to increase in the coming years.
• Program data does not allow for easy measurement of program outcomes; the evaluation relied on the survey of clients to assess outcome achievement. There is an opportunity to improve data capture and integration the next time system changes are made.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

Not applicable.

Caregiver Recognition Benefit (Voted)

Start Date:

July 1, 2015

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2017–18

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The Caregiver Recognition Benefit recognizes the vital contribution of informal caregivers to the health and well-being of eligible Veterans and the integral role of the caregiver in providing support and assistance to Veterans who are seriously disabled. It is a monthly tax free benefit payable directly to caregivers of Veterans. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans and their families are financially secure.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Caregiver Recognition Benefit

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Variances between planned and actual expenditures occur due to timing differences. VAC Benefit Programs/Services are funded under quasi-statutory authority based on actual demand, therefore VAC updates its client and expenditure forecasts by program each year, based on actual results, to adjust projected trends for future demand. The 2022–23 Planned Spending amounts are based upon forecasts completed in 2021 as per the 2022–23 Departmental Plan (tabled in February 2022), and not the updated 2022 forecasts completed in fall 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

An evaluation of this program will be completed in March 2025.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Centre of Excellence for PTSD and Related Mental Health Conditions (voted)

Start Date:

April 1, 2019

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Contribution

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2017–18

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The purpose of the Program is to improve the capability of individuals, organizations and the healthcare community in understanding, preventing and/or treating PTSD and related mental health conditions in the Canadian Veteran, RCMP and first responder populations. The Program’s objective is to increase the Canadian expertise, knowledge creation and transfer of knowledge on the subject of mental health, suicide prevention and substance use disorders. This not only includes a strong CoE focus on translating mental health science into clinical practice, but also in using science as a means of addressing the questions or ideas brought forth by Veterans, their families and the mental health professionals involved in their mental health care—in regards to emerging therapies, for instance—as per VAC’s Veteran-centric approach to care. Finally, a focus on treatment-outcome research is also required in support of the Government of Canada’s commitment to service excellence and the optimal, timely recovery of active military and Veterans impacted by an operational stress injury. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
Program: Research and Innovation

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Spending was inline with what was forecasted for the program.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

An evaluation of this program will be completed in December 2024.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Children of Deceased Veterans Education (voted)

Start Date:

1953

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2022–23

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

Provided to recognize and compensate children of CAF members and Veterans who die or died either as a result of military service or who die or died with a disability pension/award assessed at 48% or greater at the time of death. This benefit provides for the payment of certain education costs, such as tuition and registration fees, up to a specified maximum amount per year to students who are defined in section 2 and are eligible to receive post-secondary education assistance under the Children of Deceased Veterans Education Assistance Regulations. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans are able to adapt, manage, and cope within post-service life.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Disability Benefits

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

The Department has five quasi-stat grant programs for which it does not request any change to existing reference levels. Although VAC forecasts slight decreases, budget amounts are not changed to help mitigate the risk of the Department exceeding its authorities for these small programs where forecasts are very sensitive to changes in demand.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

This program will be considered during the planning for the Disability Benefits Program evaluation. If included in the scope, it will be completed in March 2026. If no risk/need is identified, it may not be evaluated given the funding amount is under the $5M average over 5 years.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Commemorative Partnership Program (G) and Contributions under the Commemorative Partnerships Program (C) (voted)

Start Date:

N/A

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant and Contribution

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2020–21

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The objective of the CPP is to expand the reach of remembrance by providing funding for initiatives that recognize Canadian Veterans and those who died in service. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans and those who died in service are honoured
DR Canadians remember and appreciate Veterans and those who died in service
Program: Canada Remembers

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

The variance is attributed to additional funding received in Supplementary Estimates for Juno Beach Centre (grant), Invictus Games (contribution) and internal transfers from Grant to Contribution during the year. Overall program spending is in line with what was forecasted for the program.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

An evaluation of this program will be completed in March 2028.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

Organizations seeking funding support from the Commemorative Partnership Program (CPP) can access an application on VAC’s website and submit their completed form via either e-mail or regular mail. CPP staff then liaise with applicants as appropriate to make funding recommendations.

Further engagement with funding recipients is carried out by the Domestic Operations team. They conduct outreach regularly with various community organizations across the country to promote the program, assist in answering questions and liaise with the CPP staff.

Commonwealth War Graves Commission (voted)

Start Date:

N/A

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

N/A

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) was established by Royal Charter in 1917. Its duties are to mark and maintain the graves of the members of the forces of the Commonwealth who were killed in the two World Wars, to build memorials to those who have no known grave and to keep records and registers of Canadian war dead. VAC maintains Canadian war graves and cemeteries through a partnership with the CWGC. There are 110,358 Canadian war dead commemorated in 75 countries around the world, including Canada. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans and those who died in service are honoured
DR Canadians remember and appreciate Veterans and those who died in service
Program: Canada Remembers

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

The variance between planned spending and actual spending in 2022–23 is a result of fluctuations in exchange rates in effect at the time payments are rendered. Forecasts are updated annually and future planned spending amounts will be adjusted accordingly.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

An evaluation of this program will be completed in March 2027.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

VAC consistently engaged the CWGC through correspondence; regular meetings are held with officials.

Critical Injury Benefit (voted)

Start Date:

April 1, 2006

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2017–18

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

Provided to recognize and compensate CAF members and Veterans who, since April 1st, 2006, experienced a severe and traumatic injury or developed an acute disease caused by a sudden, single, service-related incident which resulted in an immediate and severe impairment and interference in quality of life. This benefit is in recognition of the immediate pain and suffering a Canadian Armed Forces member or Veteran has/had experience after a traumatic incident. It spans the time between the initial injury or incident and when the CAF member is medically stabilized. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans are able to adapt, manage, and cope within post-service life.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Disability Benefits

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Variances between planned and actual expenditures occur due to timing differences. VAC Benefit Programs/Services are funded under quasi-statutory authority based on actual demand, therefore VAC updates its client and expenditure forecasts by program each year, based on actual results, to adjust projected trends for future demand. The 2022–23 Planned Spending amounts are based upon forecasts completed in 2021 as per the 2022–23 Departmental Plan (tabled in February 2022), and not the updated 2022 forecasts completed in fall 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

This program will be considered during the planning for the Disability Benefits Program evaluation. If included in the scope, it will be completed in March 2026. If no risk/need is identified, it may not be evaluated given the funding amount is under the $5M average over 5 years.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Disability Awards and Allowances (voted)

Start Date:

April 1, 2006

End Date:

Disability Awards ended on March 31, 2019 and replaced with Pain and Suffering Compensation under the Disability Benefits Program. Allowances continued under the Disability Benefits Program.^{Footnote 1}

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2017–18

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

Compensation is provided in the form of monetary awards for disability or death and/or monthly allowances for eligible Canadian Armed Forces members and Veterans, and in some cases surviving spouses/common-law partners and surviving dependent children, for death, detention and the non-economic effects of service-related disability including pain and suffering, functional loss and the effects of permanent impairment on the lives of members, Veterans and their families. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans are able to adapt, manage, and cope within post-service life.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Disability Benefits

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Variances between planned and actual expenditures occur due to timing differences. VAC Benefit Programs/Services are funded under quasi-statutory authority based on actual demand, therefore VAC updates its client and expenditure forecasts by program each year, based on actual results, to adjust projected trends for future demand. The 2022–23 Planned Spending amounts are based upon forecasts completed in 2021 as per the 2022–23 Departmental Plan (tabled in February 2022), and not the updated 2022 forecasts completed in fall 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

n/a - see Pain and Suffering Compensation

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Earnings Loss and Supplementary Retirement Benefit (voted)

Start Date:

April 1, 2006

End Date:

April 1, 2019^{Footnote 1}

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2017–18

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

ELB: Ensures income replacement up to 90% of the CAF Veterans’ gross pre-release salary while the Veteran is participating in an active Rehabilitation or Vocational Assistance Plan. The benefit is payable to age 65 where it is determined that the Veteran is unable to engage in any suitable gainful employment due to diminished earnings capacity. In the event of a service-related death, the surviving spouse/common-law partner and dependent children will be entitled to receive an Earnings Loss Benefit, which would be payable until the date the Veteran would have turned age 65. The payment of the benefit to survivors and dependent children will ensure that the household continues to be supported economically in a similar manner to what would have been had the Veteran lived. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

SRB: A lump-sum taxable benefit payable to a CAF Veteran who received an Earnings Loss Benefit due to diminished earnings capacity and whose Earnings Loss Benefits have ceased as they have either reached age 65 or are no longer considered to have a diminished earnings capacity. Recognizes the lost opportunity to contribute to a retirement pension due to a severe career-ending or service-related disability. The amount payable will be equal to 2% of the total amount of the Earnings Loss Benefit that would have been payable to, or in respect of, a Veteran or member as the case may be (before income offsets). In certain circumstances, the Supplementary Retirement Benefit may be payable to a surviving spouse/common-law partner. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

NOTE: these programs have been removed (SRB) or replaced (ELB) as of April 1, 2019. They are subject to review rights and final payments to be made but no new applications are being accepted for these programs. Existing ELB clients have been transitioned to the Income Replacement Benefit.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans and their families are financially secure.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Income Support

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Variances between planned and actual expenditures occur due to timing differences. VAC Benefit Programs/Services are funded under quasi-statutory authority based on actual demand, therefore VAC updates its client and expenditure forecasts by program each year, based on actual results, to adjust projected trends for future demand. The 2022–23 Planned Spending amounts are based upon forecasts completed in 2021 as per the 2022–23 Departmental Plan (tabled in February 2022), and not the updated 2022 forecasts completed in fall 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

n/a (see Income Replacement Benefit)

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Education and Training Benefit (Voted)

Start Date:

April 1, 2018

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2017–18

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The objective of the Education and Training Benefit Program is to provide funding that allows eligible Veterans to pursue further training and education at a post-secondary level, in recognition of their service to Canada. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans and their families are financially secure.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Transition Services

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Variances between planned and actual expenditures occur due to timing differences. VAC Benefit Programs/Services are funded under quasi-statutory authority based on actual demand, therefore VAC updates its client and expenditure forecasts by program each year, based on actual results, to adjust projected trends for future demand. The 2022–23 Planned Spending amounts are based upon forecasts completed in 2021 as per the 2022–23 Departmental Plan (tabled in February 2022), and not the updated 2022 forecasts completed in fall 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

Evaluation completed in May 2022.

• ETB is largely meeting Veterans’ expectations. Eligibility is appropriate for ETB. Improvement could be made to ETB short course funding.
• ETB generally works well with the Career Transition Services (CTS) Program, particularly for Veterans who access education planning services through CTS. The complementary nature of the programs is reinforced in program policies and other documentation.
• VAC front-line staff have a general knowledge of the ETB program. There is an opportunity to improve communications with front-line staff around the program.
• Veterans surveyed indicated that their awareness of the ETB program while they were serving was limited. The evaluation found that being able to access ETB does not impact Veterans’ decision to leave the Canadian Armed Forces.
• The evaluation finds the ETB program is being delivered effectively. Eighty percent of Veterans surveyed indicated the training funded by the program met their needs, with 59% reporting that ETB provided them with the skills and knowledge they needed to engage in activities important to them.
• Approximately 85% of survey respondents who participated in the ETB program indicated that they had completed their course of study or were still enrolled. Most indicated a satisfactory outcome from the program.
• Program expenditures for ETB are on the rise and are forecast to increase in the coming years.
• Program data does not allow for easy measurement of program outcomes; the evaluation relied on the survey of clients to assess outcome achievement. There is an opportunity to improve data capture and integration the next time system changes are made.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Housekeeping and Grounds Maintenance (VIP) (voted)

Start Date:

January 1, 2013

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2012–13

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The Housekeeping and Grounds Maintenance grant provides assistance to eligible clients to remain independent in their own homes or communities by providing payments for housekeeping and grounds maintenance services. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans and their families are financially secure.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Veterans Independence Program

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Variances between planned and actual expenditures occur due to timing differences. VAC Benefit Programs/Services are funded under quasi-statutory authority based on actual demand, therefore VAC updates its client and expenditure forecasts by program each year, based on actual results, to adjust projected trends for future demand. The 2022–23 Planned Spending amounts are based upon forecasts completed in 2021 as per the 2022–23 Departmental Plan (tabled in February 2022), and not the updated 2022 forecasts completed in fall 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

An evaluation of this program will be completed in March 2028.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Income Replacement Benefits (voted)

Start Date:

April 1, 2019

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

This TPP does not have T&Cs as the associated program is established directly in the Act and Regulations. The approval for the new program and its corresponding regulations occurred in 2018–19.

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The Income Replacement Benefit is a monthly taxable financial benefit payable to Veterans who have a barrier to re-establishment in civilian life as a result of physical or mental health problem(s) resulting primarily from service. It provides compensation to Veterans for the economic impacts that health problems resulting primarily from service have on the Veteran's ability to earn income and save for retirement. The benefit may be payable for life if the health problem has caused a diminished earning capacity in recognition of the permanent future earnings loss and the potential impact this loss may have had on career advancement opportunities and the long-term capacity to save for retirement. Survivors and orphans may also be eligible for the Income Replacement Benefit. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans and their families are financially secure.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Income Support

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Variances between planned and actual expenditures occur due to timing differences. VAC Benefit Programs/Services are funded under quasi-statutory authority based on actual demand, therefore VAC updates its client and expenditure forecasts by program each year, based on actual results, to adjust projected trends for future demand. The 2022–23 Planned Spending amounts are based upon forecasts completed in 2021 as per the 2022–23 Departmental Plan (tabled in February 2022), and not the updated 2022 forecasts completed in fall 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

A draft report for the Audit of the Income Replacement Benefit has been prepared and it is currently in Departmental approvals.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

An evaluation of this program will be completed in December 2023.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Last Post Fund (voted)

Start Date:

N/A

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2016–17

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The Last Post Fund (LPF) Corporation is an independent, non-profit organization that delivers the Funeral and Burial Program on behalf of Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC). The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans and those who died in service are honoured
DR Canadians remember and appreciate Veterans and those who died in service
Program: Funeral and Burial Program

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Variances between planned and actual expenditures occur due to timing differences. VAC Benefit Programs/Services are funded under quasi-statutory authority based on actual demand, therefore VAC updates its client and expenditure forecasts by program each year, based on actual results, to adjust projected trends for future demand. The 2022–23 Planned Spending amounts are based upon forecasts completed in 2021 as per the 2022–23 Departmental Plan (tabled in February 2022), and not the updated 2022 forecasts completed in fall 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

An evaluation of this program will be completed in March 2027.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

National meetings specific to the LPF are held with VAC officials on a regular basis to discuss relevant issues and files. In addition, the Director General of Commemoration (VAC) sits on the Governing Council and the Executive Committee of the LPF. The Department also engages with the LPF through ongoing communication at the operational level.

Pain and Suffering Compensation (voted)

Start Date:

April 1, 2019

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

This TPP does not have T&Cs as the associated program is established directly in the Act and Regulations. The approval for the new program and its corresponding regulations occurred in 2018–19

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

Provided to recognize and compensate CAF members and Veterans, as well as their survivors and dependants, for the non-economic effects of a service-related disability and/or death. Monthly payments will provide immediate financial opportunities. Coupled with the wellness programs, this can help recipients move on to successfully focus on a new life and career path. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans are able to adapt, manage, and cope within post-service life.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Disability Benefits

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Variances between planned and actual expenditures occur due to timing differences. VAC Benefit Programs/Services are funded under quasi-statutory authority based on actual demand, therefore VAC updates its client and expenditure forecasts by program each year, based on actual results, to adjust projected trends for future demand. The 2022–23 Planned Spending amounts are based upon forecasts completed in 2021 as per the 2022–23 Departmental Plan (tabled in February 2022), and not the updated 2022 forecasts completed in fall 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

An evaluation of this program will be completed in March 2024.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Payments of Gallantry Awards (voted)

Start Date:

August 1990

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2022–23

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

Provided to recognize and compensate any gratuities and annuities awarded in respect of gallantry by any member of the CAF. Members of the British Forces who enlisted prior to March 31, 1949 while domiciled in Canada or Newfoundland may receive gratuities and annuities as long as they are not in receipt of such awards from the British Government. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans are able to adapt, manage, and cope within post-service life.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Disability Benefits

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

The Department has five quasi-stat grant programs for which it does not request any change to existing reference levels. Although VAC forecasts slight decreases, budget amounts are not changed to help mitigate the risk of the Department exceeding its authorities for these small programs where forecasts are very sensitive to changes in demand.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

This program will be considered during the planning for the Disability Benefits Program evaluation. If included in the scope, it will be completed in March 2026. If no risk/need is identified, it may not be evaluated given the funding amount is under the $5M average over 5 years.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Payments under the Flying Accidents Compensation Regulations (voted)

Start Date:

1955

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2022–23

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The Flying Accidents Compensation Regulations (FACR) provide for payment of compensation to or in respect of an employee of the Public Service of Canada, where the employee is killed or injured as a direct result of a non-scheduled flight in the course of his/her duties. The legislative authority for these regulations is Section 9 of the Aeronautics Act, as administered by the Minister of Transport. Veterans Affairs Canada adjudicates on claims for compensation under these regulations. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans are able to adapt, manage, and cope within post-service life.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Disability Benefits

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

The Department has five quasi-stat grant programs for which it does not request any change to existing reference levels. Although VAC forecasts slight decreases, budget amounts are not changed to help mitigate the risk of the Department exceeding its authorities for these small programs where forecasts are very sensitive to changes in demand.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

This program will be considered during the planning for the Disability Benefits Program evaluation. If included in the scope, it will be completed in March 2026. If no risk/need is identified, it may not be evaluated given the funding amount is under the $5M average over 5 years.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Pensions for Disability and Death (voted)

Including pensions granted under the authority of the Civilian Government Employees (War) Compensation Order, P.C. 45/8848 of November 22, 1944, which shall be subject to the Pension Act; for former prisoners of war under the Pension Act, and Newfoundland special awards

Start Date:

September 1, 1919

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2022–23

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

Compensation can be in the form of a Disability Pension which is a tax-free, monthly payment provided for life to recognize and compensate for the economic (loss of income), and non-economic (pain and suffering), impacts of a service-related disability. Compensation can also be in the form of pensions for death and/or monthly allowances. These benefits may be provided to eligible Veterans, Canadian Armed Forces Veterans and members, their survivors, spouses/common-law partners, and dependents. Certain Canadian civilian groups (e.g. Ferry Command, Nursing Sisters) whose lives have been permanently affected as a result of service to their country may also be eligible. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans are able to adapt, manage, and cope within post-service life.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Disability Benefits

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Variances between planned and actual expenditures occur due to timing differences. VAC Benefit Programs/Services are funded under quasi-statutory authority based on actual demand, therefore VAC updates its client and expenditure forecasts by program each year, based on actual results, to adjust projected trends for future demand. The 2022–23 Planned Spending amounts are based upon forecasts completed in 2021 as per the 2022–23 Departmental Plan (tabled in February 2022), and not the updated 2022 forecasts completed in fall 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

An evaluation of this program will be completed in March 2026.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Re-Establishment Credits under section 8 of the War Service Grants Act (R.S.C., 1970, c. W-4) (statutory)

Start Date:

1970

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

Statutory - War Service Grants Act and Veterans’ Land Act

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

War Service Grants: 2000–01; Veterans’ Land Act: 2017–18

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

Section 8: Subject to this Act, every member of the forces who does not elect to take benefits under Part I of the Veterans’ Land Act, except section 17 thereof, or any educational, vocational or technical training benefits under the Veterans Rehabilitation Act is, in order to assist in his re-establishment, eligible, in addition to the war service gratuity, for a re-establishment credit in an amount equal to the total amount payable to him under subsection 3(1). The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans and their families are financially secure.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: War Veterans Allowance

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Spending was less than forecasted for the program.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

This program was considered during 2023-24 departmental evaluation planning as part of the risk/need assessment of the WVA Program. No risk/need was determined. As total program expenditures do not exceed an average of $5M over 5 years, no evaluation is planned. Risk and need will continue to be reviewed yearly during the departmental evaluation planning exercise.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Repayments under section 15 of the War Service Grants Act of compensating adjustments made in accordance with the terms of the Veterans’ Land Act (R.S.C., 1970, c. V-4) (statutory)

Start Date:

1970

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

Statutory - War Service Grants Act and Veterans’ Land Act

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

War Service Grants: 2000–01; Veterans’ Land Act: 2017–18

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

Section 15: Notwithstanding anything in this Act, where a member of the forces has elected to take benefits under the Veterans’ Land Act and has, on or before the 31st day of October 1968, applied for qualification under that Act, been certified as qualified to participate in benefits under that Act or entered into a contract with The Director, The Veterans’ Land Act, and, subsequently, the application is withdrawn, the certificate of qualification is cancelled or the contract is terminated, as the case may be, the Minister may, on application by the member

1. in the case of withdrawal or cancellation, within one year thereof, or
2. in the case of termination, not later than one year from the determination by the Minister, pursuant to subsection 16(1), that re-establishment credit is available to the member

make available to the member the re-establishment credit he would have been eligible for under this Act less the amount of the benefits, if any, received by that member under the Veterans’ Land Act as determined by the Minister. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans and their families are financially secure.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: War Veterans Allowance

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Spending was less than forecasted for the program.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

This program was considered during 2023-24 departmental evaluation planning as part of the risk/need assessment of the WVA Program. No risk/need was determined. As total program expenditures do not exceed an average of $5M over 5 years, no evaluation is planned. Risk and need will continue to be reviewed yearly during the departmental evaluation planning exercise.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Research Funding Program (voted)

Start Date:

June 22, 2019

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Contribution and Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2021–22

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

To provide support to research initiatives benefitting the well-being of military members, Veterans and their families. Improving well-being outcomes for Veterans requires an in-depth understanding of the health challenges they face, and calls for an innovative approach to supporting military members, Veterans and their families, with research that focuses on their specific needs. The creation of the Program will result in improved well-being for Veterans by supporting the development of partnerships to further research, treatment, and knowledge dissemination on Veteran-related issues. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
Program: Research and Innovation

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Internal transfer from Grant to Contribution during the year. Spending was less than forecasted for the program.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

An evaluation of this program will be completed in December 2024.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Retirement Income Security Benefit (voted)

Start Date:

July 1, 2015

End Date:

April 1, 2019

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2018–19

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

Ensures that Veterans who are entitled to a VAC disability benefit and who have been determined to have a diminished earnings capacity have a minimum annual retirement income equal to 70% of the income they received from NVC benefits prior to reaching age 65. The benefit will also ensure eligible survivors have 50% of the eligible income level of the Veteran, were he/she still alive. This benefit assures eligible clients that they will have sufficient funds to meet their basic needs following termination of the VAC Earnings Loss Benefit. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

NOTE: these programs have been removed (SRB) or replaced (ELB) as of April 1, 2019. They are subject to review rights and final payments to be made but no new applications are being accepted for these programs. Existing ELB clients have been transitioned to the Income Replacement Benefit.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans and their families are financially secure.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Income Support

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Variances between planned and actual expenditures occur due to timing differences. VAC Benefit Programs/Services are funded under quasi-statutory authority based on actual demand, therefore VAC updates its client and expenditure forecasts by program each year, based on actual results, to adjust projected trends for future demand. The 2022–23 Planned Spending amounts are based upon forecasts completed in 2021 as per the 2022–23 Departmental Plan (tabled in February 2022), and not the updated 2022 forecasts completed in fall 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

n/a (see Income Replacement Benefit)

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Returned Soldiers Insurance Actuarial Liability Adjustment (statutory)

Start Date:

1920

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

Statutory - Returned Soldiers’ Insurance Act

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2000–01

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

This fund was established by the Returned Soldiers' Insurance Act, to provide life insurance to contributing Veterans of World War I. The account is credited with premiums and is charged with disbursements for death benefits and cash surrender values. The account is actuarially maintained and credited with actuarial liability adjustment during the year and charged to expenditures. The final date on which application for this insurance could have been received was August 31, 1933. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans and their families are financially secure.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: War Veterans Allowance

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Spending was less than forecasted for the program.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

This program was considered during 2023-24 departmental evaluation planning as part of the risk/need assessment of the WVA Program. No risk/need was determined. As total program expenditures do not exceed an average of $5M over 5 years, no evaluation is planned. Risk and need will continue to be reviewed yearly during the departmental evaluation planning exercise.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Supplementary Retirement Benefit Payout (voted)

Start Date:

April 1, 2019

End Date:

March 31, 2020

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

This TPP does not have T&Cs as the associated program is established directly in the Act and Regulations. The approval for the new program and its corresponding regulations occurred in 2018–19

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The Earnings Loss Benefit and the Supplementary Retirement Benefit ended on April 1, 2019.

Those entitled to continued Earnings Loss Benefit on March 31, 2019, received a lump sum payment equal to the Supplementary Retirement Benefit amount they would have been entitled to on that date. Those who had been entitled to receive continued Earnings Loss Benefit but were no longer entitled to that benefit and have not received the Supplementary Retirement Benefit to which they are entitled would have also received a lump sum payment. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans and their families are financially secure.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Income Support

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Variances between planned and actual expenditures occur due to timing differences. VAC Benefit Programs/Services are funded under quasi-statutory authority based on actual demand, therefore VAC updates its client and expenditure forecasts by program each year, based on actual results, to adjust projected trends for future demand. The 2022–23 Planned Spending amounts are based upon forecasts completed in 2021 as per the 2022–23 Departmental Plan (tabled in February 2022), and not the updated 2022 forecasts completed in fall 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

n/a (see Income Replacement Benefit)

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Treatment Allowances (voted)

Start Date:

August 1990

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2022–23

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

Treatment allowances may be paid to an eligible pensioner during periods of hospitalization or on an out-patient basis for acute care of a pensioned condition, when the care is prescribed by a treating physician and a consulting departmental medical officer has confirmed the care to be “acute care”; or when the person undergoes a medical examination as requested by the Veterans Review and Appeal Board and is hospitalized in order to undergo the examination. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans are able to adapt, manage, and cope within post-service life.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Disability Benefits
Program: Health Care Benefits

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

The Department has five quasi-stat grant programs for which it does not request any change to existing reference levels. Although VAC forecasts slight decreases, budget amounts are not changed to help mitigate the risk of the Department exceeding its authorities for these small programs where forecasts are very sensitive to changes in demand.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

This program will be considered during the planning for the Disability Benefits Program evaluation. If included in the scope, it will be completed in March 2026. If no risk/need is identified, it may not be evaluated given the funding amount is under the $5M average over 5 years.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

United Nations Memorial Cemetery in Korea (voted)

Start Date:

N/A

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

N/A

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The United Nations Memorial Cemetery in Korea is the final resting place of the United Nations’ fallen during the Korean War. There are 2,300 buried here, including 378 Canadians. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans and those who died in service are honoured
DR Canadians remember and appreciate Veterans and those who died in service
Program: Canada Remembers

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Spending was less than forecasted for the program.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

An evaluation of this program will be completed in March 2027.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

VAC engaged the United Nations Memorial Cemetery in Korea for the care and maintenance of the graves of 378 Canadian soldiers buried there.

Veterans and Family Well-Being Fund (voted)

Start Date:

April 1, 2018

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Contribution and Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2021–22

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The Veteran and Family Well-Being (VFWB) Fund supports VAC in meeting this responsibility by providing funding to organizations undertaking innovative initiatives to improve the well-being of Veterans and their families. The VFWB Fund works in partnership with public, private and academic sectors to help achieve this objective. Veterans and families have unique needs that are compounded by physical, mental, economic and social pressures. As a result, they may experience a diminished quality of life, with limited ability to participate in the workplace or to contribute to their communities.

The fund’s objectives are to:

• Drive progress on new knowledge and understanding of Veteran and family well-being using the determinants of health model;
• Build capacity within the non-profit and volunteer sectors on issues specific to Veterans and their families such as homelessness, careers and employment, transition to civilian life, etc.;
• Encourage co-ordination between multiple players: agencies, institutions, associations and other level of government; and
• Support new ideas for adapting existing programs and/or forming new programs and services to address ill-and-injured Veterans’ treatment and care needs.

The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
Program: Research and Innovation

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Internal transfer from Grant to Contribution during the year. Overall program spending is in line with what was forecasted for the program.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

An evaluation of this program will be completed in August 2023.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Veterans Emergency Fund (voted)

Start Date:

April 1, 2018

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2018–19

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The purpose of the Veterans Emergency Fund (VEF) is to enable Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) to provide funds to assist Veterans and their families during times of crisis and when facing emergency financial situations that threaten their health and well-being. The objective is to provide prompt monetary assistance with the intent of resolving the immediate need. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are able to adapt, manage, and cope within post-service life.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Veterans Emergency Fund

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

The variance is attributed to increased demand for the Veterans Emergency Fund.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

An evaluation of this program will be completed in January 2027

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Veterans Independence Program (VIP) (voted)

Start Date:

1981

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Contribution

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2012–13

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The Department’s Veterans Independence Program is a national home care program that assists eligible clients to remain independent in their own homes or communities by offering a variety of programs and services, including; housekeeping, grounds maintenance, personal care, health & support services, ambulatory care, transportation, access to nutrition and home adaptations. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans and their families are financially secure.
DR Veterans have a sense of purpose.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: Veterans Independence Program

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Variances between planned and actual expenditures occur due to timing differences. VAC Benefit Programs/Services are funded under quasi-statutory authority based on actual demand, therefore VAC updates its client and expenditure forecasts by program each year, based on actual results, to adjust projected trends for future demand. The 2022–23 Planned Spending amounts are based upon forecasts completed in 2021 as per the 2022–23 Departmental Plan (tabled in February 2022), and not the updated 2022 forecasts completed in fall 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

An evaluation of this program will be completed in March 2028.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

Veterans Insurance Actuarial Liability Adjustment (statutory)

Start Date:

1970

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

Statutory - Veterans’ Insurance Act

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2000–01

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

This fund was established by the Veterans' Insurance Act, to provide life insurance to contributing Veterans of World War II. The account is credited with premiums and is charged with disbursements for death benefits and cash surrender values. The account is actuarially maintained and credited with actuarial liability adjustment during the year and charged to expenditures. The final date on which application for this insurance could have been received was October 31, 1968. The TPP does not have repayable contributions.

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans and their families are financially secure.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: War Veterans Allowance

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Spending was less than forecasted for the program.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

This program was considered during 2023-24 departmental evaluation planning as part of the risk/need assessment of the WVA Program. No risk/need was determined. As total program expenditures do not exceed an average of $5M over 5 years, no evaluation is planned. Risk and need will continue to be reviewed yearly during the departmental evaluation planning exercise.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.

War Veterans Allowances and Civilian War Allowances (voted)

Start Date:

September 1, 1930

End Date:

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment:

Grant

Type of appropriation:

This program is appropriated annually through Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions:

2022–23

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program:

The War Veterans Allowance (WVA) is a form of financial assistance available to eligible Veterans, qualified civilians and their survivors, dependants and orphans. In recognition of war service, qualified persons are provided with regular, monthly income to meet basic needs. WVA is based on income, domestic status and number of dependants. Recipients are paid at a single, married or orphan’s rate. Payments are indexed annually to the CPI. Eligibility for WVA is determined by the wartime service of a Veteran or qualified civilian, age or health, income or residency. The TPP does not have repayable contributions

Linkages to Departmental Results (DR) and Program Inventory and their results achieved:

DR Veterans are physically and mentally well.
DR Veterans and their families are financially secure.
DR Veterans are satisfied with the services they receive.
Program: War Veterans Allowance

The Performance Indicators, Targets, Dates to Achieve Targets, and Results for the above noted Departmental Results and Programs can be found on GC InfoBase.

Comments on Variance(s):

Variances between planned and actual expenditures occur due to timing differences. VAC Benefit Programs/Services are funded under quasi-statutory authority based on actual demand, therefore VAC updates its client and expenditure forecasts by program each year, based on actual results, to adjust projected trends for future demand. The 2022–23 Planned Spending amounts are based upon forecasts completed in 2021 as per the 2022–23 Departmental Plan (tabled in February 2022), and not the updated 2022 forecasts completed in fall 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2022–23:

n/a

Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–23:

This program's risk/need for evaluation was assessed during the 2023-24 departmental evaluation planning exercise. No risk/need was determined. As total program expenditures do not exceed an average of $5M over 5 years, no evaluation is planned. Risk and need will continue to be reviewed yearly during the departmental evaluation planning exercise.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–23:

In 2022–23 Veterans Affairs Canada continued to engage its stakeholder network for input, feedback and perspective on issues of importance to Veterans and their families. This included:

• The use of the Let’s Talk Veterans online engagement platform to consult with stakeholders on Health Claims Processing, Supports for Veteran Families and Caregivers, National Veterans Employment Strategy;
• Ministerial advisory group meetings. These groups are focused on Policy, Service Excellence and Transition, Care and Support, Commemoration, Families, and Mental Health.
• Forums, roundtables, and technical briefings were also used to engage on a variety of topics including but not limited to Women and 2SLGBTQI+ Veterans, Veteran Employment and Education, Rehabilitation Services and Vocational Assistance, and Commemoration Strategic Plan.
• Targeted engagement with organizations representing Indigenous Veterans; and
• Ministerial visits across the country to announce funding recipients, commemorate our Veterans and to meet with members of key Veteran stakeholder groups.

The Minister’s Advisory Groups went through a renewal process to fill vacancies which resulted in the appointment more than 30 new members in June 2022. Membership includes a diverse group of Veterans, spouses, representatives of stakeholder organizations, Canadian Armed Forces members, diversity and subject-matter experts. These group have been meeting regularly over the past year and the first in person meeting happened in March 2023.

The Deputy Minister continued his informal virtual coffee group meetings. This group engages many Veteran organizations to make connections on a variety of service and program related topics.

To ensure information is reaching all audiences, Veterans Affairs Canada also engaged with stakeholders through proactive media outreach, news releases, Salute newsletter, email blasts, advertising, promotion through social media channels such as Twitter and Facebook, updated web content, and messages through My VAC account. Social media channels are becoming increasingly important as a platform through which Veterans, their families and all Canadians can provide input and views on programs and services as well as issues of importance to Veterans and their families.