3 flowcharts · Visual guides
Claim Flowcharts
Visual maps for every major VA process. See exactly where you are, what's next, and what to expect at each step.
Flowchart 1
Filing an Initial Claim
The step-by-step path from Intent to File through your rating decision.
File Intent to File (ITF)
VA Form 21-0966 — locks in your effective date for back pay.
Gather Evidence
Medical records, service records, buddy statements, nexus letters.
Submit VA Form 21-526EZ
List all conditions. Upload evidence. File online or through a VSO.
VA Reviews Claim
VA assigns your claim to a rater and reviews all evidence submitted.
C&P Exam Scheduled
Compensation & Pension exam — the examiner evaluates your current condition.
Was the C&P exam accurate and fair?
Wait for decision
VA issues rating decision letter.
File rebuttal or request new exam
Document errors and file a Supplemental Claim.
Are you satisfied with the decision?
Claim approved!
Back pay from your ITF date. Monthly compensation begins.
Choose an appeal lane
Supplemental Claim, HLR, or Board Appeal.
Flowchart 2
Appeal Decision Tree
Which appeal lane should you choose? Follow the decision tree.
Claim Denied or Rated Too Low
Read your decision letter carefully. Identify the specific reason.
Do you have NEW evidence the VA hasn't seen?
File a Supplemental Claim
VA Form 20-0995 — submit new evidence.
Best for: Nexus letters, new medical records, buddy statements
Did the VA make a clear error?
File a Higher-Level Review
VA Form 20-0996 — senior reviewer re-examines.
Best for: Wrong rating criteria, ignored evidence
File a Board Appeal
VA Form 10182 — judge reviews your case.
Best for: Complex cases, need a hearing
Flowchart 3
Filing for a Rating Increase
When your condition has worsened, here's the path to a higher rating.
Condition Has Worsened
Your service-connected condition is worse than when it was last rated.
Document the Worsening
Get current medical records, updated diagnosis, and document daily limitations.
Do you have a secondary condition caused by your SC condition?
File increase + new secondary claim
Use 21-526EZ for both the increase and the secondary condition.
File claim for increase
Use 21-526EZ selecting 'increase' for the worsening condition.
File Intent to File first
Lock in your effective date before submitting the full claim.
Submit 21-526EZ with updated evidence
Include new medical records, updated nexus letter if applicable.
Attend new C&P Exam
Describe your worst days. Don't minimize symptoms.
Receive updated rating
New combined rating calculated. Back pay from ITF date.
Secondary conditions are powerful
A secondary condition is one caused or worsened by your already service-connected disability. For example: a service-connected knee injury causing a back condition, or PTSD causing sleep apnea. Secondary claims can significantly boost your combined rating.
Dive Deeper
These flowcharts show the path. The detailed guides show you how to walk it.
Related Journeys
Veterans who use this page are often on one of these paths.
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