60+ terms · Plain English
VA Terms in Plain English
Every acronym, buzzword, and piece of VA jargon — decoded. Search for any term or browse by category.
Claims & Evidence
Ratings & Compensation
Appeals & Reviews
Benefits Programs
Healthcare
Education & Employment
Service & Discharge
People & Organizations
Why knowing these terms matters
Understanding VA language can help you read a decision and ask better questions. When you know what “nexus” means, you can identify whether the record needs more evidence about a connection. When you know what “effective date” means, you can decide whether an Intent to File fits before submitting the completed application. Every term here is a tool in your toolbox.
- Check whether an ITF fits — it may establish a potential effective date if the same-benefit application reaches VA within one year
- Check the connection evidence — a reasoned medical opinion may help when the existing record does not explain the link
- Understand VA Math — your combined rating isn't a simple sum, and knowing the formula prevents surprises
- Know your appeal options — Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, and Board Appeal each have different rules and timelines
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