How To File an Initial VA Disability Claim?

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Filing your first VA (US Department of Veterans Affairs) disability claim can feel overwhelming. Many veterans wonder how to file an initial VA disability claim and what evidence the VA requires. At Unruh Law, P.C., we guide veterans through each step, making sure claims are filed correctly and supported with strong evidence. The goal is to give you the best chance of getting benefits without unnecessary delays.

This guide explains how to file your initial claim, what evidence you need, and what to expect along the way.

1. Check If You’re Eligible

The first step is making sure you qualify for VA disability benefits. Most veterans are eligible if:

You served in the U.S. military
Your discharge is not dishonorable
You have a current condition or illness
Your condition is connected to your service (or was made worse by it)

Eligibility may sound simple, but proving the connection to your service is where many claims get complicated. That’s where legal guidance can help.

2. Gather Your Evidence

Evidence for a VA claim is the backbone of any claim. Without it, VA may deny or underrate your condition. Collect:

Service treatment records that show injuries or illnesses during service
Separation or discharge papers (DD-214 or equivalent)
Private medical records from your current doctors or therapists
VA medical records if you receive care through the VA
Supporting statements from family, friends, or fellow service members who can describe how your condition affects you today

When you work with Unruh Law, P.C., we help identify gaps in your evidence and make sure the VA gets everything it needs.

3. Decide Between a Fully Developed or Standard Claim

The VA offers two main types of claims:

Fully Developed Claim (FDC): You send in all evidence up front. This can move faster because the VA doesn’t have to wait for extra documents.
Standard Claim: You can submit evidence later, but the process may take longer since VA will request more information.

If you already have strong evidence, the Fully Developed Claim option is often best. If you still need time to gather documents, the Standard Claim may work better.

4. Consider Filing an Intent to File

If you’re not ready to submit your full claim yet, you can file an Intent to File form. This protects your effective date, which is the date the VA uses to start your benefits.

For example, if you file an Intent to File in March but don’t complete your full claim until September, you may still get back pay starting in March. Filing this form gives you time to gather evidence without losing benefits.

5. Complete VA Form 21-526EZ

The VA Form 21-526EZ is the main application for disability compensation. This form asks about your service history, medical conditions, and evidence.

Tips for completing the form:

List all conditions you want to claim. If you leave one out, you may not get compensation for it later
Attach all medical and service records you have
Double-check your information before submitting

At Unruh Law, P.C., we review your forms with you to avoid mistakes that could cause delays or denials.

6. Submit Your Claim

You can file a VA Claim in several ways:

Online through VA.gov
By mail to the VA Claims Intake Center
In person at a VA regional office
Through a representative such as a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or a VA-accredited attorney

No matter which method you choose, keep copies of everything you submit. This helps if the VA loses paperwork or requests additional records later. Have questions? Contact Unruh Law for more information!

7. Attend the C&P Exam

The VA may schedule a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam after you file. This exam helps them evaluate your condition.

Be honest about your symptoms, but don’t exaggerate nor don’t downplay them either
Explain how your condition affects work, relationships, and daily activities
Missing this exam can result in delays or even a denial

Veterans often feel stressed about this step. At Unruh Law, P.C., we prepare you for what to expect so you feel confident going in.

8. Monitor Your Claim and Respond to Requests

Once your claim is filed, the VA may ask for more information. This could include additional records, clarification of service events, or updated medical evidence.

Always respond as quickly as possible
Keep track of your claim online through VA.gov
Save copies of every request and your responses

Delays often happen when veterans don’t respond in time. We help track deadlines so nothing falls through the cracks.

9. Review the VA’s Decision

When the VA makes a decision, you’ll receive a letter explaining:

Whether your claim was approved or denied
The disability rating (0%–100%) assigned to your condition
The effective date for benefits
How much compensation will you receive each month

It’s important to read this letter carefully. Many veterans are surprised by low ratings or denials, even with strong evidence. If that happens, you still have options to appeal.

10. What To Do If Your Claim Is Denied or Rated Too Low

Don’t lose hope if the VA denies your claim or gives you a lower rating than expected. This happens often. Many veterans must appeal to get a fair outcome, especially if their evidence for a VA claim was incomplete or misunderstood. Common reasons include:

Missing or incomplete medical records
Weak connection between your condition and the service
Errors in how the VA reviewed your evidence

You have the right to appeal. Depending on your case, you may file a Higher-Level Review, a Supplemental Claim, or appeal directly to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. At Unruh Law, P.C., we handle appeals every day and know how to strengthen a case that the VA undervalued.

Why Doing It Right Matters

Filing an initial claim correctly saves time, reduces stress, and can secure the benefits you deserve sooner. A properly prepared claim shows the VA that you understand how to file an initial VA disability claim and have the right evidence..

Why Choose Unruh Law, P.C.?

The VA disability system can be frustrating and confusing, especially if this is your first time filing. At Unruh Law, P.C., we focus on helping veterans build strong claims from the start. Here’s what sets us apart:

Nationwide help: We assist veterans across the United States, no matter where you live.
Step-by-step guidance: From gathering evidence to filing appeals, we walk with you through the process.
Focus on veterans: Our team understands the challenges veterans face when dealing with the VA and fights to make the process smoother.
No upfront fees: You don’t pay us unless we help you win your case.

Take the First Step Toward Your VA Benefits

Filing an initial VA disability claim is a big step, but you don’t have to do it alone. With the right preparation and legal support when needed, you can avoid common mistakes and improve your chances of success.

Unruh Law, P.C. helps veterans nationwide file claims, gather evidence, and fight for the benefits they earned. If you’re ready to start your claim, reach out today for a free case review.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take for the VA to decide on an initial claim?
Most initial claims take several months, but the timeline can vary based on evidence and complexity. Fully Developed Claims may move faster than Standard Claims.

2. Can I file an Intent to File before gathering evidence?
Yes. Filing an Intent to File protects your effective date even if you don’t have all your evidence ready. This means once you submit your full claim within a year, your back pay may still be calculated from the date you filed the Intent to File.

3. Will filing an Intent to File affect my benefits?
Yes, in a good way. It protects your effective date so you may receive more back pay when your claim is approved.

4. What if I don’t have all my evidence ready?
You can still file a Standard Claim or submit an Intent to File to protect your effective date. This gives you extra time to gather medical records and statements.

5. Do I need a lawyer to file my initial VA claim?
No, you can file on your own. However, many veterans work with accredited lawyers or VSOs (Veterans Service Organizations) to avoid mistakes and build stronger claims.

6. What happens if I miss my C&P exam?
Missing your Compensation & Pension exam can delay or hurt your claim. Always reschedule if you can’t make it, and let the VA know right away.

7. Can I claim more than one condition on my initial application?
Yes. You should list every condition connected to your service. If you leave one out, you may need to file a new claim later.

8. Can I work while receiving VA disability benefits?
Yes. Many veterans work while receiving benefits, unless they are rated 100% or receive Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU).

9. What if the VA gives me a 0% rating?
A 0% rating means the VA recognizes your condition but doesn’t see it as disabling enough for compensation. You can appeal if symptoms affect your life more than the VA recognizes.

10. Can family members help support my claim?
Yes. The VA accepts statements from family members, friends, or coworkers. These statements can describe how your condition impacts your daily life, which strengthens your claim.

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Ms. Mikaya has been a wonderful help to me. She has been keeping me informed of any and all inputs to my case. She is a great help. Thanks Roger... Read More

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Bennett N.

John Unhru is a "one of a kind" attorney! He knows how to HELP VETERANS, especially when the Vet like myself has nearly given up all hope of getting any compensation from the VA. With years of experience he understands the VA Process,... Read More

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These guys are amazing I applied originally on my own for injuries sustained during service. The VA denied my claim. That when I contacted Unruh Law. They were friendly, professional and very helpful. that day I was sent over papers to... Read More

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I was skeptical at first but they took my case and after a time I went from a 90% to 100%. time frame can't be blamed on them as we all know how the VA works. it takes 8 months to a year for everything you file. Just be patient and things... Read More

Kevin w.

Steven and the others at Unruh Law were such a huge help in getting my VA disability processed, had no idea how to navigate some of the process and they made it practically stress free. So grateful and would easily recommend them to anyone... Read More

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Started my claim journey with the VA many years ago. After a number of horrible experiences and frustration of the VA wanting to dismiss Veterans claims, I found Unruh Law firm. John Unruh and Steven the Claims Manager have my claim at... Read More

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Steven (and company) have been amazing to work with! Gets back to you right away and doesn’t give up. I am glad that I hit up the first lawyer that showed up on google after pretending that I didn’t get severely damaged by my... Read More

How To File an Initial VA Disability Claim?

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