VA Claims Process
From filing to appeals - everything you need to navigate the VA claims system
Filing a Claim
Start here if you're preparing to file a new claim or supplemental claim.
Guide to Filing a Claim
Step-by-step walkthrough of the claims process
Writing a Personal Statement
How to write an effective statement in support of your claim
Buddy Letters
Get supporting statements from fellow service members
Nexus Letters / IMOs
Independent Medical Opinions to support service connection
Claim Types
Original, increase, secondary, supplemental, and more
Benefits Delivery at Discharge
File before you separate for faster processing
Service Connection
Understanding direct, secondary, and presumptive connections
Exams & Processing
What happens after you file - exams, processing, and what raters look for.
The C&P Exam
What to expect at your Compensation & Pension exam
DBQs (Disability Benefits Questionnaires)
The forms examiners use to evaluate your conditions
Stages of a Claim
Track your claim through each processing phase
Dealing with a Bad Examiner
What to do if your exam goes poorly
How Raters Think
Insider perspective on how claims are decided
What Examiners See
Understanding the examiner's perspective
DTA Errors (Duty to Assist)
When the VA fails to help develop your claim
Decisions & Appeals
Understanding your decision and options if you disagree.
Special Ratings
Additional compensation beyond the standard rating schedule.
TDIU (Unemployability)
100% pay rate when you can't work due to disabilities
SMC (Special Monthly Compensation)
Additional compensation for severe disabilities
Permanent & Total (P&T)
Understanding permanent ratings and additional benefits
Aid & Attendance
Extra compensation when you need help with daily activities
1151 Claims
Compensation for VA medical malpractice
Rating Changes
Increases, reductions, and protecting your rating.