- 1). Gather the documents. You must provide discharge or separation from service papers (DD214 or equivalent). If you were discharged under dishonorable circumstances, you are likely to be denied benefits. You also must attach dependency records: find your marriage license and your children's birth certificates. To prove that you are disabled, attach medical evidence to your application: request doctor and hospital reports.
- 2). Fill out the application. You must fill out VA Form 21-526, Veterans Application for Compensation and/or Pension. Get this form at your local VA office or complete it online by visiting the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs online application system website.
- 3). Get the letter. When VA receives your application, a representative will send you a letter notifying you that your claim was received. The letter will also outline the steps you need to take to get your application approved, including the list of additional documents that you need to present. The letter may also include forms, such as medical releases, that you must complete.
- 4). Complete the medical examination. The Rating Veterans Service Representative (the person who decides whether to approve or deny your claim) will likely order a medical examination. Be sure to report for your exam on time. Rescheduling it will delay the decision on your claim. Your examiner will document the completed evaluation and forward to the appropriate VA office for processing, unless additional tests are necessary.
- 5). Get benefits. VA will obtain and review all of the necessary medical and other evidence and make the decision regarding your claim. You will then get the letter explaining the decision. If the benefits are granted, the letter will state the monthly benefit amount and the start date. If the benefits are denied, the letter will explain why. You may appeal an unfavorable decision on the VA website.
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