VA Claims Process
From filing to appeals - everything you need to navigate the VA claims system
Decisions & Appeals
Understanding your decision and options if you disagree.
Appeals & Decisions Overview
All appeals and decision resources
Effective Dates
When your benefits start and how backpay works
Filing an Appeal
HLR, Supplemental Claims, and Board Appeals
Requesting Your C-File
Get a copy of your complete claims file
Understanding Decision Letters
How to read and interpret your rating decision
Exams & Processing
What happens after you file - exams, processing, and what raters look for.
Exams & Processing Overview
All C&P exam and processing resources
C&P Exam
What to expect at your Compensation & Pension exam
DBQs
The forms examiners use to evaluate your conditions
Dealing with a Bad Examiner
What to do if your exam goes poorly
Stages of a Claim
Track your claim through each processing phase
Filing a Claim
Start here if you're preparing to file a new claim or supplemental claim.
Filing a Claim Overview
All resources for filing claims
Buddy Letters
Get supporting statements from fellow service members
Claim Types
Original, increase, secondary, supplemental, and more
Guide to Filing a Claim
Step-by-step walkthrough of the claims process
Nexus Letters / IMOs
Independent Medical Opinions to support service connection
Writing a Personal Statement
How to write an effective statement in support
Rating Changes
Increases, reductions, and protecting your rating.
Special Ratings
Additional compensation beyond the standard rating schedule.
Special Ratings Overview
TDIU, SMC, P&T, and more
Aid & Attendance
Extra compensation when you need help with daily activities
Permanent & Total (P&T)
Understanding permanent ratings and additional benefits
SMC
Additional compensation for severe disabilities
TDIU (Unemployability)
100% pay rate when you can't work due to disabilities