If you’re reading this, someone probably told you, “You should file a VA claim.” Maybe they’ve been saying it for years. Maybe it’s the first time you’re thinking about it seriously. Either way, I’ve been where you are—wondering if it’s worth the time, energy, and vulnerability.

Let me tell you something I wish someone had told me sooner: it’s okay to ask for help. And it’s okay to want clarity before you step into the process. So let me walk you through the VA disability claims journey—step by step—with free resources I personally trust, and some rough timeframes to expect.

🛠️ Step 1: Determine If You Qualify

Timeframe: Immediate – 1 week

You need a current diagnosis, evidence that the condition was caused or worsened during military service, and a “nexus” connecting the two.

Free Resources:

• VA Benefits Eligibility Tool
• VA Lay Statement Guide
• HadIt.com Forums (veteran-run discussions, peer guidance)
• DAV.org Help with Claims

If you’re not sure, connect with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO). They work for you, not the government.

• Search for a VSO
• County Veteran Service Officers Directory

📄 Step 2: File Your Initial Claim (Intent to File First)

Timeframe: 1 hour to prepare + VA average: 125–150 days

Start by submitting an Intent to File. That locks in your effective date while you gather evidence. Then you file the full claim.

Free Resources:

• VA Intent to File Tool
• VA Form 21-526EZ (Application for Disability)
• Vets Guardian (for-profit but offers free consultations; good for complex cases)

🔍 Step 3: Evidence Gathering & Adjudication

Timeframe: 4 to 5 months average (can vary)

The VA reviews medical evidence, service treatment records, and may schedule a C&P exam (Compensation & Pension).

Free Resources:

• VA C&P Exam Guide
• Military Service Records Request (NPRC)
• Veterans Law Blog – C&P Exam Tips (private site but very educational)

🧾 Step 4: Decision & Rating Letter

Timeframe: Included in the 125–150 day total (Step 2)

The VA issues a decision: denied, granted, or partial. You’ll get a rating decision letter explaining why.

Free Resources:

• Understand VA Decision Letters
• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) VA Claims Support

🔁 Step 5: Appeal or Supplemental Claim (if denied or underrated)

Timeframe: Varies greatly – 4 to 18 months depending on option

You can:

• Request a Higher-Level Review (125–150 days)
• Submit a Supplemental Claim with new evidence (125–150 days)
• Appeal directly to the Board of Veterans Appeals (average: 12–18 months)

Free Resources:

• VA Appeals Process Overview
• NVLSP (National Veterans Legal Services Program) (Nonprofit legal help for appeals)
• Wounded Warrior Project – Benefits Services (free help from trained staff)

🔒 Step 6: Sustainment – Updates, Increases, Secondary Claims

Timeframe: Ongoing (review every 3–5 years or as conditions worsen)

Disabilities change over time. You can request increases, add secondary conditions (like depression caused by chronic pain), or file for TDIU if you can’t work.

Free Resources:

• VA Form 21-526EZ (Again – for increases)
• Hill & Ponton Guide to TDIU (for-profit legal group with helpful blog content)
• Veteran Appeals Resources – The American Legion

🎯 Final Thoughts

Starting a VA claim is a personal decision—one that can stir up emotion, old memories, and self-doubt. But you don’t have to do it alone. Reach out to a VSO, or me and get educated, and move at your own pace. There are people—like me—who once hesitated too. And we’re all better for finally taking that step.

You’ve served. You’ve earned this. And your well-being matters.