Frequently Asked Questions

v How can I check on the status of my pending claim?

You can call 1-800-827-1000 and follow the recorded instructions, or you can contact the VA and fill out the Ask A Questionform.

v Can I check my pending claim status online?

You can use the eBenefits portal to check the status of your claim online if you are an eBenefits Premium (Level 2) account holder. To determine the status of your pending claim, login to your eBenefits account ( https://www.ebenefits.va.gov ) and select My eBenefits. On the "Compensation" tab, select Compensation & Pension Claims Status to view your claim status.

If you are not an eBenefits account holder, you can visit the eBenefits Registration page at https://www.ebenefits.va.gov/ebenefits-portal/ for information on how to establish an account.

v How long will it take to receive a decision on my compensation claim?

The length of time it takes to receive a decision depends on several factors, such as the complexity of your disability(ies), the number of disabilities you claim, and the availability of evidence needed to decide your claim. Currently most claims are being processed within six months, but can take longer in complex claims.

v Do I need to do anything if I have a claim or appeal pending with VA?

No, you do not have to do anything additional with regard to your pending claim or appeal.

v Can I have my claim reconsidered even though denied in the past?

If you have new evidence to support your previously denied claim, you should send a written request to your VA regional office to have your claim reopened. Include the new supporting evidence (or information telling VA where the evidence can be obtained). You may use VA Form 21-4138, Statement in Support of Claim, to submit your written request.

You may find the form at: http://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/21-4138.pdf

v Can I reopen a claim for disability compensation?

You are entitled to reopen your claim for disability compensation at any time for any condition(s) not previously claimed. VA will require current medical treatment records to support your claim. Also, if you are already service- connected for other physical ailments, you may request reevaluation of these conditions if they have worsened. You may submit your claim on blank paper stating the conditions, date the disability began, and where you were treated. VA will obtain your service medical records for those conditions treated in service. Conditions treated by private doctors will require an authorization release form. This process will begin when your claim is received. Please provide your VA claim number on all correspondence. If you have further questions, please feel free to call us toll free at 1-800-827-1000, Monday thru Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You may also file your claim in person with a Benefits Representative at your nearest VA office.

v What if I have another disability not previously claimed?

If you have another disability that you feel is related to your military service, but you have not previously filed a claim for that disability, you may file a new claim by submitting a written request. VA Form 21-4138, Statement in Support of Claim, may also be used for this purpose.

You can find VA Form 21-4138 at:
http://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/VBA-21-4138-ARE.pdf

To establish a new condition as service-connected, we will need any information you can provide that will help us link that condition to your military service. You should also submit current medical evidence. Be sure to include your VA claim number or Social Security number on all correspondence. Mail the completed form or other written request and any evidence you have to your VA regional office.

You may find the address for a VA regional office at:

http://www1.va.gov/directory/guide/division_flsh.asp?dnum=3

For all current information about compensation and pension, eligibility, payment rates, applications, etc., go to http://www.vba.va.gov/VBA/ and click on the applicable links.

v How does VA determine the level of compensation payable?

Disability compensation is a monthly benefit paid to veterans because of injuries or diseases that happened while on active duty, or were made worse by active military service.

VA must obtain evidence to establish that the disability claimed is the result of the veteran's military service. VA then evaluates the medical evidence and assigns a disability rating percentage.

VA evaluates each service-related condition in 10% increments. For some conditions, the maximum level of compensation is 100%. However, for most conditions, the maximum level of compensation is less than 100%.

Once the medical evidence is evaluated and a percentage rating assigned, VA pays the amount of compensation provided by law for that rating.

For current information about compensation, eligibility, payment rates, applications, etc., go to http://www.vba.va.gov/VBA/ and click on the applicable links.

v Can I get back compensation payments?

Generally, VA can only pay benefits based on the date of claim. This applies in the case of an original claim, a claim for an increased evaluation, or a claim to add a new disability.

If VA finds a clear error was made in an earlier decision, you may receive additional back pay based on that prior claim.

For all current information about compensation and pension, eligibility, payment rates, applications, etc., go to http://www.vba.va.gov/VBA/ and click on the applicable links