When to File
Many veterans file post-service initial claims for VA disability compensation; however, if you are finishing up your service, you can file that initial claim 180 days out from your discharge date. This is called the Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program. If you're within 90 days of discharge, you can still file that initial claim, but it will not fall under the BDD program and will be processed once you are out of service. For post-service claims, veterans can file at any time. For some claims, filing closer to your discharge date is more advantageous to the success of your claim.
What Makes You Eligible
For those considering filing a claim for VA disability compensation, there are three boxes you'll need to be sure you can check for eligibility before submitting your claim: (1) you must have served in the military, naval, or air service, (2) on "active" duty, and (3) received a discharge "under conditions other than dishonorable." If you're unsure of your eligibility, you can speak with our team for clarification of your specific situation.