To apply for Veterans Affairs (VA) Disability benefits, start by gathering all medical records and service documents that prove your condition is connected to your military service. Then, fill out VA Form 21-526EZ, which you can submit online through the VA website, by mail, in person, or by fax.
The VA will review your claim and may schedule a medical exam to evaluate your condition. After reviewing all the evidence, they will send you a decision letter that explains whether your claim was approved and what disability rating you received.
If you disagree with the decision, you have the right to appeal. Work with an experienced Veterans’ Affairs Disability benefits claims lawyer to increase your chances of a successful initial application.
Call or text (800) 562-9830 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
Determine Eligibility
Before you apply, confirm that you meet the VA’s basic eligibility requirements. First, a service-connected disability means your medical condition was caused or worsened by your military service. This can include physical injuries, illnesses, or mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
You must also have been discharged under honorable or otherwise qualifying conditions (not a dishonorable discharge).
Veterans may qualify for benefits for a wide range of conditions, such as:
- Back injuries
- Hearing loss
- Traumatic brain injury
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Exposure-related illnesses
If your condition is linked to your military service and you have the right discharge status, you likely meet the initial eligibility requirements to apply.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 562-9830
Gather Necessary Documentation
To build a strong VA Disability claim, you need to collect all documents that clearly support your condition and its connection to your military service. Below is a list of the most important items to include:
Medical Records
These records help prove that your condition exists, is being treated, and continues to affect your health:
- Doctor’s notes and visit summaries
- Official diagnosis reports
- Treatment history, including medications and therapies
- Imaging or test results (X-rays, MRIs, lab reports)
- Surgical reports (if applicable)
Military Service Records
These types of documents help link your medical condition directly to your time in service:
- DD-214 discharge papers
- Service treatment records (records of injuries or illness documented during service)
- Duty assignments or deployment history
- Incident reports or accident logs (if related to the injury)
Supporting Statements
Collecting and submitting this full set of documentation early can help the VA better understand your case and may lead to a faster and more favorable decision:
- A personal statement describing how and when the condition started
- A medical opinion from your doctor linking the condition to your service
- Statements from fellow service members who witnessed the injury or can confirm symptoms during service
Complete VA Form 21-526EZ
The main form used to apply for Veterans Disability benefits is VA Form 21-526EZ. This is the primary claim form where you provide personal information, describe your disabilities, and explain how they are connected to your military service.
You can access this form in several ways:
- Online: Fill it out and submit it directly through the VA website.
- Mail: Download and print the form from the VA website, fill it out, and mail it to the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- In person: Visit a local VA regional office to pick up a physical copy or get help completing it.
- Fax: Contact your local VA office to get the correct fax number to use, whether you’re in the U.S. or overseas.
Tips for Completing VA Form 21-526EZ Accurately
Take your time to fill out the form carefully and include all relevant documentation to prevent delays and make it easier for the VA to evaluate your claim:
- Provide complete and honest information about each condition.
- Use clear and specific language when describing how the condition is related to your service.
- List each disability separately.
- Attach copies of supporting documents, such as medical records and service records.
- Double-check the form for any missing details before submitting it.
The Benefits of Working With an Experienced Veterans Affairs Disability Benefits Claims Lawyer
Working with an experienced Veterans Affairs disability benefits lawyer can greatly reduce the stress of applying for Veterans Disability benefits. A knowledgeable attorney understands how the VA system works, what evidence is needed, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Some of the main advantages of working with a Veterans Affairs Disability benefits claims attorney include:
- Gather documentation: A lawyer can obtain the records and proof needed to support and reinforce your claim.
- Submit an appeal: If your claim is denied or you feel your rating is too low, an attorney can handle the appeal process on your behalf.
- Push for a better rating: An attorney can review your symptoms against VA standards and advocate for a more accurate and higher disability rating.
- Provide representation: If your case is heard by a Veterans Law Judge, a lawyer can help you prepare and speak on your behalf during the hearing.
A lawyer can complete the paperwork accurately, gather all supporting documents, and make sure everything is filed on time. Instead of trying to navigate a confusing and frustrating process alone, you can rely on a professional who has handled many similar cases and knows how to protect your rights.
A Veterans Affairs Disability Benefits Claims Attorney Will Help You Apply for VA Disability Benefits
At Marc Whitehead & Associates, we have been helping people like you receive the benefits they deserve since 1992. Our legal team has over 120 years of combined legal experience, and we know how to make your voice heard before the VA.
Call today to learn more about how we can help.