Disability Compensation Claim

1. 1

   Do now · 01

   Before you start

   Estimated time

   1-3 hours depending on number of conditions

   Use this form when: When filing your first disability claim, claiming a new condition, or requesting an increase for a worsening condition.

2. Gather · 02

   Gather your documents

   Helpful when available

   • +DD-214 (Member 4 copy) — VA generally reviews discharge information. Submit a copy if VA asks or if it helps resolve missing service information.
   • +Service treatment records — Medical records from active duty. Helpful but the VA can request these.
   • +Private medical records — Records from non-VA doctors showing current diagnosis and treatment.
   • +Nexus letter from a doctor — May help when a medical connection to service is at issue, but it is not required for every claim.
   • +Buddy statements (VA Form 21-10210) — Written statements from people who witnessed your condition or in-service events.
3. 3

   Waypoint · 03

   Complete the form

   • ✓Service history (dates, branch, service number)
   • ✓List of conditions being claimed
   • ✓How each condition is connected to service (direct, secondary, aggravated)
   • ✓Treatment history for each condition
   • ✓Supporting evidence uploads
4. 4

   Waypoint · 04

   Avoid common mistakes

   • ×Leaving out a condition you intend to claim
   • ×Vague descriptions of how conditions connect to service
   • ×Assuming you must already have every supporting record before filing
   • ×Not selecting 'increased' for conditions that have worsened
5. Go next · 05

   Submit the form

   Available methods

   • Online
   • Mail
   • Fax
   • In person

   Mail to

   Department of Veterans Affairs, Claims Intake Center, PO Box 4444, Janesville, WI 53547-4444

   Fax to

   844-531-7818 (U.S.) or 248-524-4260 (outside the U.S.)

   Submission note

   You can file online, by mail, by fax, or in person. Current processing times change, so check VA.gov rather than relying on a fixed estimate.

   Start on VA.gov↗ (opens in a new tab)View or download official form↗ (opens in a new tab)

Continue the route

Forms are just one piece. Make sure your full claim is solid.