Still on active duty, separating soon

A guided path tuned for pre-separation: pull records before you lose access, file in the BDD window, then what happens after you file. Work top to bottom.

Before you file

1 How VA claims workorient yourself first

Seven paths to service connection The seven legal pathways VA uses to grant claims.
Combat service & claims What the 38 USC 1154(b) combat presumption does, and does not, do.

More: Guard & Reserve service

2 Pull your records first

More: Correcting military records

3 Your filing window

Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) File 180 to 90 days before separation under BDD.

More: TERA exam exceptions

4 Find your condition

Find your condition (body-area map) Open the guided body-area picker to find your condition and its codes.

5 Build your evidencethe heart of the claim

📨 File your claim on VA.gov (Form 21-526EZ)

Or have your representative file it for you. This is the moment the clock starts.

After you file, while you wait

6 Your C&P examVA schedules this; prep when you get the letter

Prepare for the C&P exam What to expect and how to document your symptoms.

7 Track your claim

Claim stages The 8 internal stages and the VA.gov tracker.

Anytime, get accredited help

8 Find accredited helpall VA-accredited

9 If your situation differs

More: BDD claim path New claim by body system

Restart the wizard

RateMyVSO is encyclopedic. Cards link to research and tools. Not legal advice.