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Free, independent VA-benefits guidance

You don’t have to understand the VA to know what to do next.

Tell Wayfinder what happened, what you are trying to do, or where you are stuck. We’ll turn it into a practical route in plain English.

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Your answer comes back as

  1. 1Do now
  2. 2Gather
  3. 3Go next
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Choose your situation

Start with what’s happening—not VA terminology.

Pick the closest match. The route opens with the useful action and keeps the supporting detail in view.

See all nine routes

Six common starting points

  1. Starting point 1. Route 01I’m new to VA benefitsFind the right starting point without learning the system first.Follow this route
  2. Starting point 2. Route 02I need to file my first claimCheck claim timing, gather evidence, and follow the filing route.Follow this route
  3. Starting point 3. Route 03I want to understand my ratingSee what the decision means and which benefit rules to check next.Follow this route
  4. Starting point 4. Route 04My claim was denied or is stuckChoose a review path, respond to a delay, or fix a bad exam.Follow this route
  5. Starting point 5. Route 05My condition has gotten worseUnderstand increases, evidence, and when a new claim may fit.Follow this route
  6. Starting point 6. Route 06I’m helping a veteran or familyFind family, caregiver, survivor, and support routes.Follow this route

Quick find

Go straight to a useful tool.

See all benefits and tools

Field notes

Field notes from behind the guide.

The newest lessons, observations, and practical guidance from the veteran building VA Wayfinder.

Browse all field notes

Latest post

Claims Tips

How to Request Your VA Claims File — and What to Look For If You Were Denied

Everything VA looked at when it decided your claim is written down in one file, and you're allowed to ask for a copy. Here's how to request it and what to look for when it arrives.

By James Gregory7 min read

Get help from a person

Some next steps should not be taken alone.

Wayfinder can help you prepare, but accredited representatives, clinicians, and local support can act with you.

Why trust Wayfinder

Clear about what we are—and what we are not.

Independent

Not affiliated with the VA or a claims company.

Plain English

Actions first, terms explained only when they help.

Source-backed

Official destinations and verification dates where decisions matter.

About the project