VA Form 21-0966
Intent to File
Tells the VA you plan to file. Locks in your start date for back pay. Takes 5 minutes — do this FIRST.
Intent to File
In Plain English
Tells the VA you plan to file. Locks in your start date for back pay. Takes 5 minutes — do this FIRST.
Locks in your effective date for back pay before you submit a full claim.
Step-by-Step Guide
How to file 21-0966
Important Deadline
You must file your full claim (21-526EZ) within 1 year of this Intent to File, or you lose your effective date.
When to use this form
File this FIRST, before gathering evidence or filling out any other form. It protects your effective date for up to one year.
Required
- ✓Your Social Security Number
Needed for identification
You'll need to provide
- ✓Your name, date of birth, and SSN
- ✓Type of benefit you intend to file for (compensation, pension, or survivor)
- ✓Signature and date
- ✕Not filing one at all — this is free money protection
- ✕Waiting to file until all evidence is gathered
- ✕Letting the 1-year deadline expire without submitting your full claim
Calling 1-800-827-1000 is the fastest way — a VA rep can file it for you over the phone in minutes.
Pro Tip
You can file this online in about 5 minutes at VA.gov or by calling 1-800-827-1000. Don't overthink it — just get it filed today.
Related Forms
You might also need
Disability Compensation Claim
THE claim form. This is how you officially apply for disability benefits.
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.
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?
Tell the navigator what's going on. It'll point you in the right direction.