Understanding Your VA Disability Compensation Benefits and How to File in 2025

As a veteran, your service to our country may have resulted in illnesses or injuries, or it may have worsened pre-existing conditions. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers disability compensation, a tax-free monthly payment, to recognize these sacrifices. This article outlines who is eligible for these benefits and guides you through the process of filing a disability claim.  

Who is Eligible for VA Disability Compensation?

You may be eligible for VA disability compensation if you meet both of the following criteria:

• You currently have an illness or injury (a condition) affecting your mind or body
• You served on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training

And at least one of the following must also be true:

• You became sick or were injured while serving in the military, and this condition can be directly linked to your service (an in-service disability claim).
• You had an illness or injury before joining the military, and your military service made it worse (a pre-service disability claim).
• You have a disability related to your active-duty service that didn't appear until after your service ended (a post-service disability claim).

The PACT Act: Expanding Benefits for Veterans Exposed to Toxic Substances

A significant piece of legislation, the PACT Act, expands access to VA health care and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances. This law acknowledges the long-term health consequences of such exposures and aims to provide deserving veterans and their survivors with the care and benefits they have earned. It's important to understand how the PACT Act might affect your eligibility.  

Presumptive Conditions

For certain medical conditions, the VA automatically presumes that your military service caused the condition. These are known as presumptive conditions. If you have a presumptive condition, you don't need to provide direct proof of the link between your service and the illness. You only need to meet the specific service requirements associated with that presumption.  

Categories of presumptive conditions include:

• Chronic illnesses that appear within one year after your discharge   
• Illnesses caused by contact with contaminants (toxic chemicals) or other hazardous materials   
• Illnesses resulting from your time as a Prisoner of War (POW)   
• Discharge Status Considerations

If you received an "other than honorable," "bad conduct," or "dishonorable" discharge, your eligibility for VA disability benefits may be affected. However, there are other avenues to explore:  

You can learn about the process of applying for a discharge upgrade.
You can investigate the VA Character of Discharge review process.

What Conditions Are Covered for Compensation?

VA disability benefits can cover a wide range of physical and mental health conditions, including but not limited to:

Physical Conditions:

• Chronic back pain leading to a diagnosed back disability   
• Breathing problems due to a current lung condition or disease   
• Severe hearing loss   
• Scar tissue
• Loss of range of motion   
• Ulcers   
• Cancers and other conditions caused by exposure to toxic chemicals or other hazards  

Mental Health Conditions:

• Anxiety   
• Depression
• Mental or physical health conditions related to military sexual trauma (MST)   
• Post-traumatic stress (PTS or PTSD)   
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)

How do I File a VA Disability Claim?

Filing a disability claim is a crucial step in accessing the benefits you deserve. Here's a guide to help you through the process:

1. Prepare Your Application

Determine your eligibility: Review the eligibility criteria outlined earlier to ensure you likely qualify.
Complete the claim form thoroughly: Ensure all sections of the application are filled out accurately and completely.
Gather supporting evidence: Collect any documents that support your claim. This may include:

• VA medical records and hospital records related to your claimed conditions or showing a worsening of a rated disability.   
• Private medical records and hospital reports relevant to your claimed conditions or indicating a worsening disability.   
• Supporting statements from family members, friends, clergy, law enforcement, or fellow service members who can provide insights into your condition, its onset, or how it has worsened.   

Identify any additional required forms: Depending on your specific circumstances, there may be additional forms you need to submit.

2. Submit Your Claim

You can file your claim through one of the following methods:

Online: The quickest way to file is electronically through the VA website.

By Mail: Download and complete the Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits (VA Form 21-526EZ) and mail it to:
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444

In Person: Bring your completed application to a VA regional office near you.

By Fax:
Within the U.S.: 844-531-7818
Outside the U.S.: 248-524-4260

With the Help of a Trained Professional: You can seek assistance from accredited attorneys, claims agents, or Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representatives.
 
3. Supporting Your Claim with Evidence

While you are not required to submit evidence with your initial claim, providing supporting documentation can help expedite the process. The VA will also review your discharge papers (DD214 or other separation documents) and service treatment records. You have up to one year from the date the VA receives your claim to submit any additional evidence.

VA Claim Exams (C&P Exams): The VA may schedule claim exams to gather more information about your condition. If scheduled, it is crucial to attend these appointments.  

Intent to File: If you plan to file a paper claim, submitting an "intent to file" form beforehand can establish an earlier effective date for your claim, potentially leading to retroactive payments. This is not necessary if you file online, as the effective date is set when you begin the online application.  

4. What Happens After You File?

Once you submit your claim, the VA will review your application and evidence. You generally don't need to take further action unless the VA requests additional information or schedules exams. Be sure to attend any scheduled exams.

Use this link so you can track the status of your claim online.

How Long Does the Decision Process Take for your Disability Claim?

As of June 2025, the average time to complete disability-related claims is approximately 107.4 days, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).This timeframe can vary depending on the complexity of your claim and the evidence submitted.  

By understanding the eligibility requirements and the steps involved in filing a claim, you can navigate the process more effectively and pursue the disability compensation benefits you have rightfully earned. Remember to gather thorough documentation and seek assistance if needed to ensure a complete and well-supported claim.

As a registered Public Benefit Corporation, WeSalute is committed to serving the military community with integrity and transparency. We actively seek out and verify new discounts, ensuring you always have access to valuable savings and benefits that truly help. But we are more than just discounts; WeSalute is committed to being your one-stop resource, ensuring that you and your family receive the comprehensive support and recognition you deserve.

For other military and veteran benefits check out the WeSalute website and marketplace.