Filing a Veterans Affairs disability claim can be exhausting for some, but knowing how the process works is a big help. This post is just that.

1. Claim Received – I personally, have sent in a claim entirely via the United States Postal Service (snail Mail), and electronically via their website.
2. Under Review – A Veteran Service Representative (VSR) does the initial review of your claim. If your claim requires additional evidence, it might get kicked back at this point
3. Gathering of Evidence – a VSR will start the process of collecting additional evidence if needed. They will ask healthcare providers, as well as get up Compensation and Pension examination (C&P). Once they have all the evidence, then they will review the evidence and when they have done that, they will move your claim to a Rating Veteran Service Representative (RSVR) for decision (Step #4)
4. Review of Evidence – The VSR will review the entire package and if it requires additional information it will be sent back to Step #3, it it looks good it will move to Step #5
5. Preparation for Decision – The RSVR will review the entire claim package (application, medical records, supporting documents, personal statements, buddy letters, and other documentation). The RSVR will recommend a decision
6. Pending Decision Approval – The decision recommendation documents are reviewed and a final award is approved
7. Preparation for Notification – The Senior Veterans Service Representative (SVSR) reviews the completed package and then authorizes the release of the award letter and payment.
8. Claim Completed – According to the claims that I have received. If you receive a notice via snail mail. If you receive a small letter envelope (a tri-folded letter size) your claim was not awarded, this could mean that more evidence is required. If you receive a flat letter package, then your claim was awarded.