Starting Your Claim
Start your VA disability claim
Filing a claim is how you get rated. Here's exactly what to do — and how long it takes.
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See benefits I qualify for without a rating →The process
The 5-step claim process
File an Intent to File
Day 0Submit a one-page form (VA Form 21-0966) to lock in your earliest possible effective date. This protects up to 12 months of back pay if you win your claim.
File online at VA.gov, by mail, or by phone.
File Intent to File at VA.govGather your evidence
1–4 weeks (on your end)Pull together: DD-214, service treatment records, current medical records, statements from doctors, and any nexus letters connecting your condition to service.
Submitting a "Fully Developed Claim" (FDC) with all evidence upfront can shave 30–60 days off your wait.
Submit your claim
Day 0–30File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov. This is the actual disability claim. Make sure to file within 12 months of your Intent to File to keep that effective date.
File VA Form 21-526EZ at VA.govCompensation & Pension exam
Typically 3–8 weeks after submissionThe VA may schedule a C&P exam with a contracted examiner. Show up. Do not minimize your symptoms. Bring documentation.
C&P exams are the single biggest factor in your rating. Prepare carefully.
Decision
75–85 days average from submissionYou'll get a decision letter with your rating, monthly payment amount, and payment start date. Back pay (if any) is calculated from your effective date.
If denied or underrated, you have 3 appeal paths: Higher-Level Review (4–5 months), Supplemental Claim (varies), or Board appeal (12–24+ months).
Reality check
How long does it really take?
75.7 days
Current VA average processing time
March 2026
100,000+
Claims still in backlog nationally
March 2026
~30 days
Decision Ready Claims via accredited VSO
Fully developed only
150+ days
Claims with C&P exams or incomplete evidence
Estimated
Source: VA.gov, March 2026
Your options
Get help filing
File yourself online
FreeFree, you control everything. VA.gov guides you through the entire process.
File at VA.govWork with a VSO
FreeFree, accredited representatives who file on your behalf. DAV, VFW, and American Legion are the most common.
Find an accredited VSOHire a VA-accredited attorney or agent
Paid (appeals only)Only legally allowed to charge fees on appeals, not initial claims. Useful if you've been denied.
Find an accredited attorneyYou may already qualify for benefits — no rating required.
Many federal and state veteran benefits don't require a disability rating. Housing assistance, education benefits, employment programs, and more may be available to you right now.
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