💼 VA Disability Compensation: Step-by-Step Filing Guide

Everything you need to know to file confidently, correctly, and successfully.

Navigating the VA disability system can feel like trying to speak a foreign language with a blindfold on. But if you have a service-connected condition — whether physical, mental, or both — you're likely eligible for monthly tax-free compensation through the VA Disability Compensation program.

This guide walks you through the entire process, from understanding eligibility to submitting your claim and appealing if necessary.

🧠 What Is VA Disability Compensation?

VA Disability Compensation is a tax-free monthly payment to veterans who were injured or became ill as a result of their active duty service — or who had a pre-existing condition worsened by service.

Depending on the severity and number of conditions, veterans can receive:

  • $171 – $4,000+ per month

  • Additional payments for dependents, spouses, or severe disabilities

  • Free VA healthcare tied to rated conditions

✅ Step 1: Determine Eligibility

You may be eligible if:

  • You served on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty for training

  • You have a current diagnosed medical condition

  • You can link that condition to your military service

Examples of common service-connected conditions:

  • PTSD, anxiety, depression

  • Hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in ears)

  • Joint pain, back pain, arthritis

  • Sleep apnea, migraines

  • Burn pit exposure effects

▶️ Even if it developed after discharge, you may still qualify if it’s related to service.

🗂 Step 2: Gather Documentation

You’ll need:

  • Your DD-214 (proof of military service)

  • Medical evidence (VA or private doctor reports)

  • Nexus letters (statements connecting your condition to service)

  • Any lay statements from family, friends, or former comrades that support your claim

📝 Tip: A “nexus letter” from a doctor is crucial. It should say your condition is “at least as likely as not” related to your service.

🖥 Step 3: File Your Claim

You can file:

  • Online at VA.gov

  • By mail with VA Form 21-526EZ

  • With a VSO (Veterans Service Officer) who files on your behalf for free

▶️ Claims can be initial, secondary (a new issue caused by a service-connected condition), or a request for increase if your condition has worsened.

⏱ Step 4: Attend a C&P Exam (Compensation & Pension)

After filing, the VA may schedule a C&P exam — a medical evaluation to determine how your condition affects your daily life.

📌 Be honest, detailed, and direct. Don’t downplay your symptoms.

🧾 Step 5: Wait for Your Rating Decision

The VA will:

  • Review your file

  • Assign a disability rating from 0% to 100%

  • Mail you a decision letter and begin payments (if approved)

Timeframe: 3 to 6 months, sometimes faster or longer depending on backlog.

🔁 Step 6: Appeal If Denied or Under-Rated

If denied or rated too low, don’t give up. You have several appeal options:

  • Request a Higher-Level Review

  • Submit a Supplemental Claim with new evidence

  • File a Board Appeal to go before a judge

🛡 A VSO, legal aid group, or experienced advocate can help you fight back and win.

💡 Why You Should File Even for “Small” Conditions

A 10% rating might only bring $171/month — but it opens the door to other benefits, like VA healthcare, state discounts, and even property tax relief.

▶️ And if your condition worsens later, you’ll already be in the system.

🔗 Quick Links & Resources

  • 🧾 File for VA Disability Compensation (VA.gov)

  • 🆘 Find a Free VSO Near You

  • 📄 Download Form 21-526EZ (PDF)

🏁 Final Thoughts: You Earned This.

You don’t need to “prove” you were hurt in battle — only that your condition is connected to your time in uniform.
You served. You sacrificed. And you deserve every benefit available.

👉 Need help getting started? Visit VeteranAssistant.com for guides, links, and fast DD-214 retrieval.
👉 Want personalized help filing? A VSO can support you for free.