The Winnable Claim process
How a VA disability claim actually moves, from first step to decision. Plain English, with the VA source for every step.
Step by step
- 1. Lock your dateFile an Intent to File (VA Form 21-0966). You then have one year to file, and VA can pay back to that date.
- 2. Gather the proofA current diagnosis, proof of the in-service event, and a medical link (nexus). See evidence VA needs. Track it in your checklist.
- 3. File the claimOnline at VA.gov or on VA Form 21-526EZ. Free accredited help: find a VSO.
- 4. Prep for the C&P examKnow your file, describe your worst days honestly, and never skip. About the VA claim exam.
- 5. Read the decisionCheck every condition, rating and effective date. Check your claim status.
- 6. Pick a lane if deniedSupplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or Board Appeal, within one year. VA decision reviews.
Claim types (theories of entitlement)
DirectThe condition started in, or was caused by, service. 38 CFR 3.303
SecondaryCaused or worsened by a condition VA already rates. 38 CFR 3.310
PresumptiveVA presumes the link for certain conditions and exposures, like the PACT Act and chronic diseases (38 CFR 3.309).
AggravationA condition you had before service got permanently worse in service. 38 CFR 3.306
IncreaseA rated condition got worse. File for an increase with new severity evidence. VA.gov
Build a Winnable Claim
Built on the three Caluza elements (Caluza v. Brown, 7 Vet.App. 498 (1995)), plus seven things that win in practice. Your ticks are saved in this browser. Sign in (optional) to save them to My Claim.
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