To submit a standard disability claim, you need to complete the Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits (VA Form 21-526EZ). If there are records related to your claim that are not held by a federal agency, you need to inform the VA and provide any necessary information for obtaining those records.
The VA may need records from sources such as state or local governments, private doctors, private hospitals or health facilities, and your current or former employers. With your permission, the VA will gather related records from federal agencies, VA medical centers (including private facilities), and the Social Security Administration. They will also make efforts to request relevant records that you authorize them to obtain from non-federal facilities. Additionally, the VA may provide a medical exam or obtain a doctor's opinion if necessary.
The evidence needed to support your disability claim depends on the type of claim you are filing. You should submit the information and evidence as soon as possible. You have up to one year from the date the VA receives your claim to provide additional information or evidence. The processing time for a standard claim is longer because the VA needs time to gather evidence.
If you want a faster decision, you can consider submitting a fully developed claim, where you gather and submit all the evidence at the same time as your claim. A fully developed claim typically results in a faster decision compared to a standard claim. You can start your online application or find out how to file a claim by mail or in person.
Last Reviewed: May 26, 2023