How to Apply for Disability Compensation Step-by-Step

Veterans with service-connected disabilities may be eligible for various VA benefits, including disability compensation, a tax-free monthly benefit provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Learn how to file a disability claim with the VA.

What is VA disability compensation?

VA disability compensation is a benefits program that provides monthly benefits to disabled veterans. To be eligible, you must have a current injury or illness that started or was worsened during your time in the service or began after service as a direct result of your time in the military. Also, you must have an other than dishonorable discharge.

The VA measures the severity of service-connected disabilities through its disability rating system. The rating, in percentages from 10% to 100%, shows how the disability impacts your quality of life and ability to work. 

Your disability rating and number of dependents determine your VA disability payment amount. Certain conditions and circumstances may qualify for special monthly compensation in addition to disability payments.

How to apply for disability compensation

If you’re a veteran with a service-connected condition, disability compensation can provide helpful financial assistance and access to healthcare. The process of applying for disability compensation involves several steps:

Gather documentation

First, you must gather the necessary documentation to support your claim.

• Military records: Request a copy of DD Form 214 from the National Archives to verify your military service and status.

• Medical records: Gather VA medical and hospital records related to your service-connected disability. Fill out the Standard Form 180 to request a complete copy of your military records, personnel file, and service treatment records.

• Statement of support: A statement of support or a buddy statement from a fellow service member, commander, family member, or friend can help provide context about your condition and credibility for your claim. 

Determine your eligibility

To be eligible for disability compensation benefits, you must:

• Have served active duty, active training, or inactive duty for training

• Have a current service-connected physical or mental condition that began or was worsened by your time in the military

• Have an other than dishonorable discharge from the service 

Fill out the application

You must complete the Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits (VA Form 21-526EZ) to file a claim.

You can submit the form online at VA.gov, apply in person at the nearest VA regional office, or print a completed copy and mail it to the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Department of Veterans Affairs Claims Intake Center PO Box 4444 Janesville, WI 53547-4444

Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) and VA-accredited agents and lawyers can help you complete and submit the application. 

VA Disability Compensation claims timeline

In 2024, it takes an average of 149.6 days for the VA to make a decision on your initial application. The process is as follows:

1. Claim submission: If you submit your VA disability compensation application online, you’ll receive an on-screen submission confirmation. You’ll receive a letter acknowledging receipt if you submit your application via mail. 

2. Initial review: The VA will review your claim and assess if any additional information is needed. 

3. Evidence gathering, review, and decision: At this stage, the VA might ask you, your healthcare providers, or government agencies for additional information about your claim. The VA will review all the evidence and make a decision on your claim.

4. Preparation for notification: The VA will then prepare to send your decision packet in the mail. 

5. Claim complete: At the end of the process, the VA will mail your decision packet, which can take 7-10 days to arrive. 

What is an Intent to File?

If you plan to file a disability compensation claim but need additional time to gather your service documentation and medical evidence, complete the Intent to File form (VA Form 21-0966). This form starts the claim process and notifies the VA of your intent to file for disability benefits.

You have one year from the date you submit the Intent to File to file your application. The date the VA receives your Intent to File is important because it marks the start of your claim and determines when you may begin receiving retroactive payments if eligible. 

“If you file that form today, you have a year to file a claim," says Cliff Farrell, an attorney with Atticus. "If you don't file a claim, it just goes away. If you do file a claim, you're protected back to that date, no matter when you file it within that year. When I sign up a new client, I immediately file an intent to file because that protects them.”

4 Tips for VA Form 21-526EZ

The Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits, also known as VA Form 21-526EZ, is the main application form for disability compensation benefits. The application form has 11 sections. Consider the following when completing the form:

1. Get a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. This form, also known as DD-214, details your enlistment and discharge dates and is helpful for the application section on service information.

2. Receive a diagnosis. For the claim information section, you must list current conditions and the in-service exposure or event. You must have an official diagnosis. 

3. Gather your bank information. The application will ask you for your direct deposit information. If the VA grants you benefits, submitting your direct deposit information will ensure a smooth transfer of your monthly compensation payments.

4. Submit additional information. If you need more space, you can submit VA Form 4138 with additional information about your condition or an in-service event to support your claim. 

What happens next?

After you submit VA Form 21-526EZ, the VA will review your application and supporting documents. If necessary, the VA may request that you complete a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam to evaluate your condition further and its connection to your time in the service.

The decision review process takes approximately 147 days. The VA’s decision will be mailed to you. 

You have the right to appeal the VA’s decision if you receive a denial or disagree with the decision or VA disability rating. The appeals process will allow you to submit additional medical evidence and supporting statements. 

Get help applying for VA benefits

If you plan to apply for VA benefits, you don't have to go it alone. Take our VA benefits quiz to see if you qualify. If you’d like, Atticus can also introduce you to an experienced veterans' benefits attorney to help you navigate the application process.