How to File for VA Disability Benefits
Veterans of the U.S. armed forces who have sustained service-related injuries in the line of duty are eligible to receive disability benefits, which can range from $120 to $3,100 each month. Filing your application for disability benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs quickly is very important, as the process can take months to complete. If your benefits application is denied and you still need help, be aware that you can file an appeal.
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Instructions
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Contact your local Veterans Affairs office and ask them to send you VA Form 21-526, entitled "Veterans' Application for Compensation and/or Pension." You can locate a local VA office by visiting the official website for Veterans' Affairs, va.gov, and clicking "Locations" in the top-right portion.
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Find any medical records, identification documents for dependents or separation papers that are in your personal possession. Copy these documents to be attached to your disability application.
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Complete VA Form 21-526 and send it to your local VA office so that your claim can be filed. Attach any relevant copies of personal records. Alternatively, you can complete the Veterans' Affairs online VONAPP (Veterans Online Application) disability digital application, which is instantly filed with the VA. From this point, it may take Veterans Affairs up to one year to fully process your request and begin to distribute your disability benefits.
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Tips & Warnings
You may appeal a denial of benefits. Within one year of the denial, you may file a Notice of Disagreement (NOD) to declare your appeal; in response, the VA will issue a Statement of the Case pertaining to the decision. You must file VA Form 9, "Appeal to Board of Veterans' Appeals," to file an official appeal in your case.
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