Resources
Educational tools, official VA links, and practical guides to help you navigate the VA claims system with confidence.
VA Disability Ratings
The VA assigns disability ratings from 0% to 100% in 10% increments based on the severity of your service-connected condition. Your rating determines your monthly compensation amount, access to additional benefits, and eligibility for programs like VA health care, education assistance, and more.
Service connection established but no compensation. Opens door to other VA benefits.
Low-severity conditions. Monthly compensation begins but no additional dependent pay.
Moderate conditions. Additional compensation for dependents becomes available at 30%.
Significant impairment. Higher monthly payments and expanded benefit eligibility.
Severe conditions or total disability. Maximum compensation and full benefit access.
Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability — paid at 100% rate even if rating is lower.
Official VA Resources
eBenefits Portal
Apply for benefits, check your claim status, and manage your VA information online.
Visit SiteVA Disability Compensation
Official information on disability compensation, eligibility, and how to apply.
Visit SiteVA PACT Act Information
Full details on PACT Act eligibility, presumptive conditions, and how to file.
Visit SiteBoard of Veterans' Appeals
Information on the appeals process, hearing options, and how to prepare your case.
Visit SiteVA Survivor Benefits
Guidance on DIC, survivor pensions, burial benefits, and more for families.
Visit SiteVA Forms Directory
Find and download any VA form — from 21-526EZ to 20-0995 and everything in between.
Visit SiteKey VA Terms Explained
Service Connection
The link between your current medical condition and an event, injury, or illness that occurred during your military service. This is the foundation of every VA disability claim — the VA must agree that your condition is connected to your service.
Presumptive Condition
Certain medical conditions the VA automatically presumes are service-connected if you served in specific locations or during specific time periods. Common examples include Agent Orange-related conditions for Vietnam veterans and respiratory issues for burn pit-exposed veterans under the PACT Act.
Compensation & Pension (C&P) Exam
A medical examination ordered by the VA to evaluate the severity of your claimed conditions and determine if they are service-connected. These exams are conducted by VA or VA-contracted medical professionals. Attendance is mandatory — missing a C&P exam can result in denial.
Disability Rating
A percentage assigned by the VA (0% to 100%, in 10% increments) that reflects how severely a service-connected condition impairs your ability to function. Your rating directly determines your monthly compensation amount.
Nexus Letter
A medical opinion letter from a qualified healthcare provider that establishes a link (or "nexus") between your current medical condition and your military service. A strong nexus letter can significantly improve your chances of approval.
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)
A tax-free monthly benefit paid to eligible survivors of veterans who died from a service-connected condition. It is also available to survivors of veterans who were rated totally disabled for a certain period before death.
Higher-Level Review
One of three VA decision review options. A senior reviewer re-examines your case based on the existing evidence — no new evidence is allowed. You can request an optional informal conference to speak directly with the reviewer.
Supplemental Claim
A decision review option that allows you to submit new and relevant evidence that the VA has not previously reviewed. This is the right path when you have additional documentation that strengthens your claim.
Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU)
A VA benefit that pays at the 100% disability rate even if your combined rating is less than 100%, provided your service-connected conditions prevent you from maintaining substantially gainful employment.
DBQ (Disability Benefits Questionnaire)
A standardized VA form used by medical professionals to document the diagnosis, severity, and service connection of a claimed condition. DBQs help ensure consistent medical evidence across all claims.
Effective Date
The date from which your benefits are payable. Generally this is the date the VA received your claim or the date entitlement arose — whichever is later. The effective date determines how much back pay you may receive.
Accredited Representative
An individual who has been formally recognized by the VA as authorized to assist veterans with preparing, presenting, and prosecuting claims. Accreditation requires passing an exam, completing continuing education, and adhering to ethical standards.
Important Deadlines to Know
Missing a deadline can delay your benefits by months — or close your case entirely. Here are the key timelines every veteran should know:
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