VA Form 21-526EZ
Disability Compensation Claim
THE claim form. This is how you officially apply for disability benefits.
Disability Compensation Claim
In Plain English
THE claim form. This is how you officially apply for disability benefits.
The main form for filing a VA disability compensation claim — initial claims, increases, and secondary conditions.
Step-by-Step Guide
How to file 21-526EZ
When to use this form
When filing your first disability claim, claiming a new condition, or requesting an increase for a worsening condition.
Required
- ✓DD-214 (Member 4 copy)
Proof of military service. Request from NPRC if you don't have it.
Recommended (if applicable)
- +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
A medical opinion connecting your condition to service. Strongly recommended.
- +Buddy statements (VA Form 21-10210)
Written statements from people who witnessed your condition or in-service events.
You'll need to provide
- ✓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
- ✕Not listing every condition — claim everything now rather than filing separately later
- ✕Vague descriptions of how conditions connect to service
- ✕Forgetting to upload supporting evidence with the form
- ✕Not selecting 'increased' for conditions that have worsened
Mail to
Department of Veterans Affairs, Claims Intake Center, PO Box 4444, Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Online is fastest (average 125 days). Mail takes longer. You can also file in person at a VA Regional Office.
Pro Tip
File online at VA.gov for fastest processing. Use a VSO if you want free help — they can review your form before submission.
Related Forms
You might also need
Intent to File
Tells the VA you plan to file. Locks in your start date for back pay. Takes 5 minutes — do this FIRST.
Lay/Witness Statement (Buddy Statement)
A written statement from someone backing up your claim — friends, family, or fellow service members.
Authorization to Release Medical Records
Gives the VA permission to pull your private doctor's records. Saves you from gathering them yourself.
PTSD Statement
Details the traumatic event(s) connected to your PTSD claim. Combat and non-combat versions exist.
Continue Your Research
Forms are just one piece. Make sure your full claim is solid.
Related Journeys
Veterans who use this page are often on one of these paths.
Just Separated / Brand New
“Where do I even start?”
Filing a First Claim
“How do I file my first claim?”
Denied or Stuck
“My claim got denied. Now what?”
Increasing Your Rating
“My condition got worse.”
100% P&T Veterans
“I'm 100% P&T — what else am I entitled to?”
Family Members
“My spouse or parent is a veteran.”
Survivor & Gold Star Benefits
“I lost my veteran. What am I entitled to?”
Guard & Reserve Veterans
“I was Guard or Reserve — do I qualify?”
Still have questions?
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