Filing a VA Disability Claim, Step by Step

VA disability compensation is a tax-free monthly benefit for veterans with conditions connected to their military service. The claims process has a reputation for being confusing, but broken into steps it's manageable — and getting it right the first time saves months. Here's the path.

What a claim needs to prove

At its core, a service-connected disability claim rests on three things:

• A current diagnosed condition — a medical problem you have now.
• An in-service event, injury, or exposure — something that happened during service.
• A "nexus" — evidence linking the two, often a medical opinion that your condition is at least as likely as not related to your service.

Gather your evidence

Strong claims are built on documentation. Pull together:

• Your service treatment records and, if relevant, deployment or exposure records.
• Current medical records showing the diagnosis and how the condition affects you.
• "Buddy statements" from people who served with you or know how the condition impacts your daily life.
• Any private medical opinions connecting the condition to service.

How ratings work

The VA assigns each service-connected condition a rating from 0% to 100% in 10-point increments, based on how severe it is. Multiple conditions are combined using VA math (not simple addition), which is why two 50% conditions don't equal 100%. Your combined rating determines your monthly compensation.

File the claim

You can file online at VA.gov, by mail, or with help. Consider filing a Fully Developed Claim — submitting all your evidence up front — which can speed things up. The VA may schedule a C&P (Compensation & Pension) exam to evaluate your condition; show up, be honest, and describe your worst days, not just your average ones.

Get free, qualified help

You do not have to navigate this alone, and you should never pay someone just to file an initial claim. Accredited Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) — and state and county veteran service officers — help veterans prepare and file claims for free. They know the system and can dramatically improve your odds.

If you're denied or under-rated

A denial isn't the end. Under the modernized appeals system you generally have options: a supplemental claim with new evidence, a higher-level review, or an appeal to the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Deadlines apply, so act promptly and lean on your VSO.

The bottom line

Prove the current condition, the in-service cause, and the link between them; document everything; and use a free accredited VSO. File a fully developed claim when you can, attend your exam, and don't give up if the first decision isn't right. Confirm current forms and processes at VA.gov.