Filing a VA disability claim is straightforward once you know the steps. Here is the process from Intent to File through the decision — and how to protect your effective date.
Before anything else, submit an Intent to File. This locks in your potential effective date (which determines your back pay) and gives you up to one year to complete the full claim while you gather evidence.
File online at VA.gov, by mail, or in person. The fastest, best-supported option for many veterans is a Fully Developed Claim submitted with all evidence up front.
The VA may schedule a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam. Attend it — missing it can lead to a denial. Be honest and thorough about how the condition affects you on your worst days, not just your best.
The VA reviews everything and issues a rating decision. If you disagree, you have appeal options (a Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or appeal to the Board).
Accredited Veterans Service Organizations (such as the DAV, VFW, and American Legion) help veterans file claims for free. You do not need to pay anyone to file an initial claim.
It notifies the VA you plan to file and locks in your effective date, which sets your back pay. You then have up to a year to complete the full claim.
Yes. The Compensation & Pension exam is important evidence, and missing it can lead to a denial. Describe how the condition affects you on your worst days.
No. Filing is free, and accredited VSOs like the DAV, VFW, and American Legion help you file at no cost. You should not pay to file an initial claim.
You have options: a Supplemental Claim with new evidence, a Higher-Level Review, or an appeal to the Board of Veterans Appeals.