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Guide

Filing a VA disability claim

How to file for disability compensation, protect your start date with an intent to file, and what evidence and exams to expect. Free help is available.

Checked against official sources on October 12, 2026

Start by protecting your date

An intent to file sets a potential start date (the effective date) for your benefits. After you submit it, you have one year to file the full claim. You can submit it online, by phone, or on VA Form 21-0966. Each type of benefit needs its own intent to file.

If you start the claim online, your effective date is set automatically when you begin.

Intent to file on VA.gov

Ways to file

  • Online on VA.gov (the fastest way to lock in your date).
  • By mail on VA Form 21-526EZ.
  • In person at a VA regional office, or by fax.
  • With a free accredited representative, who can file for you.

How to file a claim

What the evidence needs to show

Your claim needs to show three things, unless your condition is one the VA presumes is service-connected:

  • A current illness, injury or disability.
  • An event, injury or illness during service.
  • A link between the two (sometimes called a nexus).

More on evidence

Statements from people who knew you (buddy statements) count, on VA Form 21-10210 or 21-4138. The VA can help gather your records. You have up to one year after filing to submit more evidence.

If you already have everything, you can file a Fully Developed Claim: send all your evidence with the 21-526EZ and certify there is nothing more. The VA says this can mean a faster decision; if you send more evidence later, it moves to standard processing.

Evidence needed

The claim exam (C&P exam)

The VA may ask you to attend a claim exam if it needs more information. The examiner won’t treat you or prescribe medicine; the exam is only for your claim. Go to it: if you miss it, your claim can be delayed or decided on the evidence the VA already has. If you had a good reason, ask to reschedule. Travel to the exam can be reimbursed.

About the claim exam

Free help

Accredited representatives from Veterans service organizations help with claims at no cost, always. You never need to pay anyone to file a first claim. For questions, call the VA benefits line at 800-827-1000.

Find an accredited representative · Never pay to file: avoiding claim sharks

Sources

Plain-language help from Veterans, not legal advice. Rules change; the official pages above are the final word. RateMyVA is independent and not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.