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Starting a VA disability claim

Filing for the first time raises a lot of questions. We walk you through how a claim works, what the VA needs to see, and what to have in hand before you start.

See whether this fits your situation.

A short conversation, no obligation, and no medical records needed.

Start my free consultationOr call (938) 267-0760

Who this is for

  • Veterans who have never filed a VA disability claim
  • Veterans who started a claim years ago and never finished it
  • Spouses and family members helping a Veteran get started

How we help

  1. 01

    Explain the process

    How a claim moves from filing to decision, in plain language, with every VA term translated.

  2. 02

    Identify what may be needed

    The three things most claims rest on: a current diagnosis, an in-service event, and a link between the two.

  3. 03

    Plan your next step

    A clear list of what to gather and what to do first, so you aren't guessing.

Straight talk before you start

  • We can't promise the VA will grant a claim or assign a particular rating. The VA makes every decision.
  • Our initial conversation never requires your medical records, Social Security number or VA file number.

Common questions

What information should I have before contacting you?

Nothing is required to start a conversation. If you have them handy, it helps to know your current combined rating (if you have one), the conditions you're thinking about, and roughly when your last VA decision arrived.

Please don't send medical records, your Social Security number or your VA file number through our website forms.

How long does the VA disability process take?

It varies. The VA decides how long a claim takes, and timing depends on the type of claim, the evidence needed and whether exams are scheduled. The VA publishes current average processing times on VA.gov (opens in a new tab).

We'll be honest about what we know and don't know about timing in your situation.

Can you guarantee that my rating will increase?

No, and you should be cautious of anyone who does. The VA alone decides claims and ratings, based on the evidence and its rating criteria.

What we can promise is clear explanations, honest answers and respect for your time, including when the answer isn't what you hoped to hear.

See all frequently asked questions

You've already served.Let us help you understand what comes next.

Take the first step with a straightforward conversation about your situation.

Busy right now? Schedule a call for later

No pressure. No confusing jargon. Just clear guidance.