Types of VA Claims You Can File: A Complete Guide (2026)

VA disability claims grant access to financial compensation and healthcare for injuries tied to active duty. Submitting a successful claim requires submitting clear medical evidence to prove your condition stems from military service.

Here is a breakdown of how the process works and the different types of claims you can submit.

What Are VA Claims?

VA claims are formal documents submitted by a veteran or active service member, allowing them to receive tax-free monthly compensation, along with medical care and other benefits, to address the injury or illness they sustained as a result of their military service.

Who Qualifies for a VA Claim?

When it comes to understanding how to file a VA claim, you’ll want to first consider whether you qualify. VA claims have eligibility criteria you must meet. You’ll need to have served on active duty, inactive duty training or active duty for training. You must also have a diagnosed current illness or injury that impacts your mind or body.

Additionally, one of the following must be true:

• You got injured or sick while serving and can link the condition to your service.
• You have a disability linked to duty that did not appear until after you ended service.
• You had a condition before joining the military, and serving made it worse.

Some conditions are assumed to have occurred from service. Pact Act presumptive conditions usually deal with exposure to toxic materials, leading to chronic illnesses and cancer.

Filing an Intent to File First

Completing a VA intent to file form is an important step when beginning claims. This form records your potential start date for retroactive benefits. It also starts the clock running, giving you one year to file formal VA claims.

Submitting an intent to file form can be done online, via mail, in person at your regional VA office or through a representative.

Original Claims for First-Time Filers

Original VA claims are the first disability claims that you submit to the Department of Veterans Affairs. This process establishes eligibility and service connection. You can file an original claim at different points of your military service, including as a pre-discharge claim, so that you can start receiving compensation as soon as you leave service.

It’s possible to file an original claim at any point after being discharged, but filing within one year is usually the best option.

Increased Claims for Worsening Conditions

If you are already receiving benefits because of a condition, what are your options in the event that it gets worse? In that situation, you can file for increased VA claims, which means reapplying for a bump in compensation.

You will have to present updated medical records that show the disability has worsened. If the claim is approved, then your disability rating will likely be updated.

Secondary Service-Connected Claims

If you have a service-connected disability that has resulted in a new health issue or the worsening of a condition, you may be able to file a secondary service-connected claim. To be eligible for this option, you must already have an approved disability. You should have an official diagnosis from a doctor regarding this new secondary issue.

An example would be needing to take medications for a service-connected injury or illness, and the medication causes a secondary health issue. You would be entitled to receive compensation for both of these health consequences, in that case.

Special Claims for Unique Circumstances

Special claims allow you to request additional compensation and temporary ratings for unique circumstances. You may be able to request the following:

• Temporary Disability Ratings: A temporary 100% rating if you’re hospitalized or recovering from surgery for a condition related to your service
• Adaptive Equipment and Automobile Allowance: One-time financial help to purchase a specially-equipped vehicle
• Clothing Allowance: An annual allowance to replace clothing that prosthetics or other devices you use because of a service-related condition might have damaged
• Special Monthly Compensation: Higher-rate compensation for special situations like blindness or the loss of a limb
• Title 38 U.S.C. 1151 Claims: Compensation for disabilities caused by VA hospital care, vocational rehabilitation or medical treatment

If you can’t hold a steady job because of the disability, you could also receive individual unemployability (TDIU). VA TDIU lets you receive compensation at the 100% rating.

Supplemental Claims After a Denial

If your claim is denied, you might be able to pursue a supplemental claim. This allows you to present additional evidence. You must begin these claims within one year of receiving the denial letter to protect your back pay. The new evidence will trigger a fresh look at your claim.

How the VA Assigns Your Disability Rating

How severely the condition impacts your daily life and your ability to work both matter. The VA will also review your medical records and exam results, and consider the standard rating that your condition typically gets assigned.

What Happens After You File Your Claim?

After submitting your claim, the VA will confirm receipt, review all paperwork and evidence and schedule C&P exams, if needed. Once all of this occurs, a specialist will assign a rating and prepare a decision letter. The decision is then mailed to you. If your claim is denied, you may be able to file an appeal.

Understanding Your Rights When Filing a VA Claim

VA claims can help you receive essential compensation if you have a service-related condition. By understanding the types of claims available and your rights, you can have a better chance of receiving the financial support you need.