Filing a VA disability claim yourself is free and very doable. Here are the VA claim steps from start to decision, what each one involves, and what to do if you disagree with the result.
Your effective date sets when back pay starts. Under 38 CFR 3.155(b), if VA gets your complete claim within one year of an intent to file, it treats the claim as filed on the intent-to-file date. If you file online, starting the application on VA.gov sets it automatically. If you file on paper, submit VA Form 21-0966 first. How effective dates and back pay work →
Write down each condition you will claim: things that started in service, conditions that got worse, presumptive conditions from an exposure, and secondary conditions caused by ones already service-connected. Missing a secondary is one of the most common ways veterans leave money behind.
VA reviews your DD214 (or other separation documents) and service treatment records. You can add VA and private medical records, supporting statements from family or people you served with, and a medical opinion where the link to service is not obvious. You do not have to submit evidence with your claim, but strong evidence up front helps. See evidence examples, the nexus letter template, and your own statement (21-4138).
The disability claim form is VA Form 21-526EZ. VA accepts it online at VA.gov, by mail to the Claims Intake Center, in person at a regional office, by fax, or through an accredited representative. Online is fastest and saves your progress. A free accredited VSO can file it with you. Which VA form do I need? →
VA may schedule a claim exam (Compensation and Pension, or C&P). Do not miss it. Describe your worst days honestly and consistently with your records. How to prepare for a C&P exam →
Your claim moves through VA's stages: received, initial review, evidence gathering (usually the longest), evidence review, rating, preparing the decision letter, final review, and decided. Sending new evidence partway through sends it back to evidence gathering. The 8 stages and rough timelines → Your decision letter lists each rating, your payment, and the effective date. How to read it →
Under 38 CFR 3.2500, within one year of the decision notice you can request a Higher-Level Review or appeal to the Board, and you can file a Supplemental Claim with new and relevant evidence. Choosing a review within that year keeps your original effective date (38 CFR 3.2500(h)). The three review options →
You never have to pay to file an initial VA claim. Accredited Veterans Service Officers (VFW, DAV, American Legion, county offices) help at no cost. VSO vs attorney vs claim sharks →