VA does not charge a filing fee for a disability compensation claim. An accredited Veterans Service Organization representative can help free of charge; accredited attorneys and claims agents may charge fees only in circumstances allowed by VA rules.
1. Confirm the claim category
Use an original claim for a condition you have not claimed before. Use an increased claim when an already service-connected condition has worsened. Use a secondary claim when a new condition is caused or aggravated by a service-connected condition. If the issue was previously denied, review the VA decision-review options before submitting another 21-526EZ.
2. Consider an intent to file
If you are not ready to complete the claim, submit an intent to file online, by phone, or with VA Form 21-0966. You generally have one year after VA receives the intent to complete the claim and preserve that potential effective date. Keep VA's acknowledgment and the deadline.
3. List every condition precisely
Identify each physical or mental health condition you are claiming and explain the event, injury, disease, exposure, or service-connected condition that supports the theory of service connection. Avoid combining unrelated conditions under a vague label.
4. Identify treatment and records
Provide the names and locations of military, VA, federal, and private treatment sources and the approximate dates. Upload records you already have. For private records that VA should request, complete the current authorization forms identified by VA.
5. Include supporting evidence
Evidence may include service records, medical records, diagnostic results, medical opinions, and lay or witness statements. The necessary evidence depends on whether the claim is direct, secondary, presumptive, based on aggravation, or for an increase.
6. Submit through an official method
The recommended route is VA's online disability application. Paper filers should use the current VA Form 21-526EZ page; as reviewed, the listed revision is January 2026. VA also accepts claims by mail, fax, in person, or through an accredited representative. Follow the current addresses and fax numbers on VA.gov rather than copying an old form package.
7. Save proof of filing
Keep the confirmation page, uploaded files, certified-mail or fax confirmation, and a copy of the completed application. Record the date VA received the claim or intent to file.
8. Attend claim exams and answer requests
VA may arrange a compensation and pension examination or request more information. Confirm appointments, explain any inability to attend, and submit requested evidence by the stated deadline. Continue normal medical care separately.
9. Review the decision and deadlines
Read the reasons, favorable findings, rating, effective date, and notice of review rights for each condition. The correct next filing depends on whether you have new and relevant evidence, allege an error, or want Board review.
Official sources
- VA filing methods and current contact details
- Official VA Form 21-526EZ page
- Online disability claim
- Supporting forms for VA claims
- Find a VA-accredited representative