Start Here: Find Your Next Step on a VA Disability Claim

Every VA disability claim moves through the same stages, but you may be joining partway through. Find the situation below that matches where you are, and start with the first link under it.

If you want the whole picture first, read how VA disability claims work. It walks through the process from start to finish in about ten minutes.

I have not filed a claim yet

1. File an Intent to File first. It takes minutes and protects your start date for back pay while you prepare.
2. Gather your evidence with the evidence checklist, or get the free printable checklist. The statement writer helps you put your own account on paper.
3. File the claim on VA Form 21-526EZ.

Not sure you qualify? Read who qualifies for VA disability.

I am still on active duty and leaving soon

If you separate in the next 180 to 90 days, a BDD claim lets you file before you leave so your decision can arrive soon after.

I filed and I am waiting

• How long a claim takes, and what the eight claim steps mean.
• Prepare for your C&P exam. It carries a lot of weight in the decision.
• What a DBQ is and how it shapes your rating.

I got a decision letter

1. Run your letter through the decision letter decoder. It lists each decision, the likely reason for any denial, your options and your deadline. Your letter stays on your device.
2. Learn to read the letter section by section.
3. Estimate what you are owed with the back pay calculator.

You generally have one year from the date on the letter to ask for a review.

My claim was denied

1. Start with what to do after a denial.
2. Choose your route: Supplemental Claim or Higher-Level Review, or a Board Appeal.
3. Fill the gap VA named. Usually that means a nexus letter, buddy statements, or a personal statement, which the statement writer can help you build.

Denied because VA saw no ongoing symptoms? See the continuity denial guide.

I am rated, but I think it should be higher

• Check your rating against VA’s criteria in ratings by condition, or look up the code on your letter in the conditions A to Z.
• See how your ratings combine with the VA disability calculator and VA math explained.
• Claim secondary conditions caused or worsened by what you are already rated for.
• Ask for a rating increase, after reading the risks first.

My conditions keep me from working

• TDIU pays at the 100% rate when service-connected conditions keep you from steady work.
• Working while on VA disability: what is and is not allowed.
• Permanent and total status and the benefits it opens for your family.
• VR&E (Chapter 31), VA’s training and employment program.

I was exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange or other toxins

• The PACT Act, for burn pits and airborne hazards.
• Agent Orange presumptive conditions.
• Gulf War illness.
• Camp Lejeune.

I have a severe disability and need help at home or on the road

• VA housing grants to buy, build or adapt a home.
• The automobile allowance and adaptive equipment for a vehicle.
• The clothing allowance if a brace, prosthetic or skin medicine damages your clothes.
• Special monthly compensation, extra pay above the regular rates.

I am a military retiree

If your retired pay drops when VA pay starts, see military retirement and VA disability pay for CRDP and CRSC.

I am a survivor or family member

• DIC survivor benefits for spouses, children and parents.
• CHAMPVA health coverage and Chapter 35 education benefits for families of veterans rated permanent and total.
• State veteran benefits, many of which extend to families.

I want someone to help me

Accredited Veterans Service Officers help with claims for free. See who can help with your claim, and look up any unfamiliar term in the glossary.