File an Intent to File (VA 21-0966) first to protect your effective date

Include ALL conditions — even ones you think are minor

Get a nexus letter from your doctor linking conditions to service

Veterans Affairsvery hard

VA Disability Compensation Application

VA 21-526EZ · VA

Application for disability compensation and related benefits for service-connected conditions. Requires linking conditions to military service.

Form Details

Total fields: 160
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Filled by: patient
Frequency: one time

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Where to Submit This Form

🌐

VA.gov (recommended)

https://www.va.gov/disability/file-disability-claim-form-21-526ez/

Fastest method. Create or sign into your VA.gov account.

📬

Mail to VA Regional Office

Department of Veterans Affairs Evidence Intake Center PO Box 4444 Janesville, WI 53547-4444

📠

Fax to VA

Fax: 844-531-7818

🏢

In person at your local VA Regional Office

https://www.va.gov/find-locations/?facilityType=benefits

Required Attachments

📎 DD-214 or other discharge documents
📎 Medical evidence (VA or private treatment records)
📎 Any buddy statements or personal statements
📎 Nexus letter from doctor (if claiming service connection)

Processing Time

3-6 months for initial claims. Priority processing for certain conditions (ALS, POW, 85+ years old).

What Happens Next

VA will send a confirmation letter. You can track status at VA.gov. You may be scheduled for a C&P exam.

Tips for This Form

✓ File an Intent to File (VA 21-0966) first to protect your effective date
✓ Include ALL conditions — even ones you think are minor
✓ Get a nexus letter from your doctor linking conditions to service
✓ You can submit additional evidence for up to 1 year after filing

You Might Also Need

Intent to File a Claim

VA 21-0966 · VA

Preserves the effective date for a VA benefits claim while gathering evidence. Provides 1 year to submit the formal claim.

Authorization to Release Information to VA

VA 21-4142 · VA

Authorization and consent allowing VA to obtain private medical records from non-VA providers for disability claim adjudication.

Statement in Support of PTSD Claim

VA 21-0781 · VA

Statement detailing stressor events related to a PTSD disability compensation claim. Describes incidents during military service.

TDIU (Individual Unemployability) Application

VA 21-8940 · VA

Application for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability. Claims total disability rating when unable to maintain substantial gainful employment due to service-connected disabilities.

VA Aid & Attendance Examination

VA 21-2680 · VA

Examination for housebound status or permanent need for regular aid and attendance. Physician completes detailed ADL assessment sections.

VA Healthcare Enrollment

VA 10-10EZ · VA

Application for VA health benefits. Requires military service history, current insurance, income/assets, and toxic exposure history.

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Disclaimer: BeneFill™ provides form-filling assistance and informational guidance only. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the VA or any government agency. The information provided is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal, medical, financial, or tax advice. Always verify form requirements and submission details directly with the issuing agency.