Choose Your Claim Path

Direct Connection Claim

1. Start the Intent to File

   Once you submit an Intent to File, you protect your effective date. From that day, you’ll have 1 year to complete your claims while still being eligible for retroactive pay.

   Intent to File (VA Form 21-0966)

2. Request a Full Military Record

   Request your service treatment records, personnel file, and C-File through a FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) request. Processing may take months, so submit early.

   FOIA (VA Form 20-10206)

3. Prepare Personal & Lay Statements

   Personal Statement: Describe your disability, when/how it began, and how it affects daily life and employment.

   VA Form 21-4138

   Lay Statements: Family, friends, or coworkers who observed your condition can provide supporting statements.

   VA Form 21-10210

   Buddy Statements: Ask fellow service members to confirm in-service events, injuries, or stressors.

   VA Form 21-10210

4. Gather Medical Records

   Collect all medical records (VA & private). Use Blue Button for VA records, FOIA requests, or CDs from discharge. Highlight relevant events, diagnoses, and treatments.

5. Submit Your Claim

   Include all collected records and statements with your claim.

   Submit a New Claim

6. Track Your Claim

   Processing can take several months. Keep your contact info updated, attend VA exams (C&P exams), and regularly check claim status for VA requests.