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FOR VETERANS

Veterans Disability CompensationVA Disability

Learn about service connection, evidence, disability ratings, and the next step in a VA compensation claim.

  • A current physical or mental health condition
  • Qualifying military service
  • A connection to service, including applicable presumptions
LET’S START WITH YOU01 / 05

Your VA Claim Next Steps.

Start with your details, then focus on your service connection and claim stage.

Provide a phone number or email address.

Your details are sent only when you review and confirm your request.

No Social Security number or medical records needed. Privacy & Terms

YOUR VA DISABILITY PATH

Start Where You Are.

01

Preparing a New Claim

Learn about service connection and evidence.

Plan My VA Claim02

Claim Pending

Track your claim and respond to VA requests.

Follow My VA Disability Claim03

Disagree with a Decision

Explore VA decision review options.

Review My VA Disability Decision04

Condition Has Worsened

Learn about filing for an increased rating.

Explore a Rating Increase
A service member saluting an American flag during a ceremony; editorial stock photograph.
AT A GLANCE

Connecting Your Condition to Your Service

Understand the evidence VA needs to consider.

Your Service

Qualifying military service

Your Condition

A current physical or mental health condition

The Connection

A link to service, including applicable presumptions

Agency Review

VA reviews service connection and evaluates disability severity under its own rules.

A simplified overview. Other rules apply; this is not an eligibility test.

Official VA Requirements

How VA Disability Works

VA disability compensation provides tax-free monthly payments for eligible service-connected conditions. VA reviews your service, your condition, and the evidence connecting them. Discharge status can affect eligibility.

Service Connection and Ratings

A condition may have started in service, been made worse by service, or appeared later but be related to service. Certain conditions can qualify under presumptive rules. VA assigns a disability rating under its own criteria; this is different from Social Security’s disability standard.

Prepare Your Claim

Gather relevant medical and service records, statements that support your claim, and any VA decision letters. For help preparing or pursuing a claim, use a VA-accredited representative. VA-recognized Veterans Service Organizations can provide free help.

A Guide, Not a Benefits Decision

Only VA can decide whether you qualify. This website does not submit a benefits application or establish representation.

Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
COMMON QUESTIONS

VA Disability Questions.

Answers about service connection & claim evidence.

Visit the Resource Center
What Does Service Connection Mean?

A service-connected condition is an illness or injury caused or made worse by qualifying military service. Conditions that appear later may also qualify when the required link exists. Some conditions have presumptive rules.

Learn More
Does a VA Rating Also Qualify Me for SSDI?

No. VA ratings and Social Security disability decisions use different rules. It is possible to receive both if you independently meet each program’s requirements and apply separately.

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Where Can I Get Accredited Claim Assistance?

VA’s official directory can help you find an accredited VSO representative, attorney, or claims agent. Accredited VSO representatives offer free claim assistance. Visiting this site does not appoint a representative.

Learn More
VA DISABILITY NEXT STEPS

Your VA Claim Next Steps.

Service Connection & Claim Evidence

Plan My VA Claim