VA cannot decide disability compensation from the intent alone. You must still submit the completed claim and supporting information within the applicable period.
When an intent to file can help
Use an intent to file when you plan to claim disability compensation but need time to collect medical records, service information, statements, or other evidence. If VA later approves the completed claim, the intent date may become the effective date used to calculate eligible retroactive payments.
Choose a submission method
- Start the disability application online. When you sign in with an identity-verified VA.gov account and start the covered online form, VA can automatically record an intent to file.
- Submit VA Form 21-0966. The form can be submitted through the official online tool, in person, or by mail using the current instructions.
- Notify VA by phone. VA also permits an intent to file by calling the benefits line listed on its current intent-to-file page.
Record the date and benefit type
Save the confirmation or a complete copy of what you submitted. Confirm that the intent covers disability compensation. An intent for a different general benefit, such as pension, does not automatically reserve a date for a disability compensation claim.
Complete the claim within one year
VA states that you have one year after notifying it of the intent to complete and file the claim. The intent is no longer active after the completed claim is filed, and VA generally allows only one active intent to file at a time.
Do not use this route for every review request
A denied issue, a disagreement with a decision, a worsening already service-connected disability, and a new secondary condition can require different claim or review routes. Identify the exact request before relying on an intent to file.