How do I go about filing a disability claim?

SSgt Gary Phillips — Thu, 26 Dec 2024 18:28:51 -0500

There is nothing on the VA website to do so.

Response by CW5 Sam R. Baker made Dec 26 at 2024 7:00 PM

CW5 Sam R. Baker — Thu, 26 Dec 2024 19:00:16 -0500

It's a process you have to start with your separation and file online. I completed mine without a VSO, not that makes it right or me a superstar, but if you follow the online application, it will work. Let me know if you need a little help.

Response by LTC Kevin B. made Dec 26 at 2024 7:23 PM

LTC Kevin B. — Thu, 26 Dec 2024 19:23:09 -0500

This old Command Post might be helpful. I'll post some others too.

https://www.rallypoint.com/command-post/vietnam-vets-filing-a-disability-compensation-claim

Vietnam Vets: Filing a Disability Compensation Claim | RallyPoint

Nothing is more frustrating than filing a VA disability compensation claim under the new “Fully Developed Claim (FDC)” system and only receiving a denial letter telling you that the military didn’t cause your disabilities. What do you have to do before filing a VA claim? I would suggest that you first look for a County Veterans Service Officer or National Service Officer that has been properly trained by the VA in disability claims preparation...

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 26 at 2024 8:53 PM

SGM Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 26 Dec 2024 20:53:35 -0500

Start here
https://www.va.gov/disability/file-disability-claim-form-21-526ez/introduction

You will need to create a user account to do this.
And I highly recommend that you work with a Veteran Service Organization (VSO) to help you prepare that claim for submission, especially if you have been separated from the military for over a year.
VSOs are VFW, American Legion, DAV, the state veterans admin of every state, etc.
Complete list here:
https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/accredvso.asp

File For Disability Benefits | Veterans Affairs

Learn how to apply online for disability compensation.

Response by A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney made Dec 27 at 2024 7:23 AM

A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney — Fri, 27 Dec 2024 07:23:34 -0500

#1..... https://www.va.gov/disability/how-to-file-claim/#content
#2.... https://www.usa.gov/benefit-finder/all-benefits
#3.... https://www.va.gov/contact-us/#call-us ~~ [login to see] ~Hours: 24/7
#4.... http://www.dav.org/victories-for-veterans
If you need an interpreter: Call [login to see] and select 0. We’ll connect you with a VA call center agent. Tell the agent that you want a language interpreter to join the call.
`
These Are A Few I Still Have In My Permanent Files ~ And They AIN'T Been No Help Neither, (;-)>
But What The "L", Give'em A Shot.

VA.gov | Veterans Affairs

Response by LTC Trent Klug made Dec 28 at 2024 12:11 AM

LTC Trent Klug — Sat, 28 Dec 2024 00:11:25 -0500

I highly recommend contacting a Veteran Service Organization to start the process. I hope you have all your medical records already.