Do I qualify for VA disability compensation?

You may qualify if you served on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training; you were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable; and you have a current condition that began during, was aggravated by, or is presumed connected to your service.

How long does a VA disability claim take?

The VA's published goal is to decide claims within 125 days. Actual processing times vary by region and complexity: straightforward claims may decide in 3 months, while claims with C&P exams, multiple conditions, or appeals can run 6-12 months.

What's the difference between Intent to File and a formal claim?

Intent to File (Form 21-0966) reserves your effective date for back-pay purposes; you have 12 months to submit the formal claim (Form 21-526EZ). Filing the formal claim too early without gathering evidence can hurt your rating; filing the Intent to File first lets you secure the date while you prepare.

Can I file a claim without help?

Yes. You can file directly through VA.gov. However, accredited Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) and VA-accredited attorneys can help organize evidence and improve outcomes; most VSOs provide help for free.

What is the PACT Act and how does it affect my claim?

The Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022 expanded the list of presumptive conditions for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic exposures. If your condition is on the presumptive list and you meet the service criteria, the VA presumes service connection, significantly reducing the evidence you need to provide.

Complete VA Disability Guide

New to VA Benefits?

If you're just starting your VA disability journey, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. Veterans receiving VA disability compensation average about $2,288 per month (VBA Annual Benefits Report, FY2025), but many leave thousands on the table by not understanding the system.

Check Eligibility

See if you qualify

Estimate Rating

Calculate benefits

View Conditions

Common claims

Start Claim

Review your claims

What Are VA Disability Benefits?

VA disability compensation is a tax-free monthly payment to veterans with disabilities connected to their military service. These benefits recognize the economic impact of disabilities sustained during military service.

Key Facts About VA Benefits

Tax-Free Income

All VA disability payments are 100% tax-free

Lifetime Benefits

Once approved, benefits continue for life

Healthcare Access

Priority VA healthcare enrollment

Additional Benefits

Education, housing, and employment assistance

Types of Service Connection

Direct Service Connection

Condition that began during or was caused by military service

Presumptive Service Connection

Conditions presumed related to specific service locations/exposures

Secondary Service Connection

Conditions caused or worsened by an already service-connected disability

Aggravation

Pre-existing conditions made worse by military service

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Additional Resources

VA.gov

Official VA website

1-800-827-1000

VA Benefits Hotline