Page 149 - A Soldiers Exposition

Example

A Veteran has filed a claim for disability compensation and, on the application, indicated treatment from a
private doctor and an award of Social Security disability. In this case, the VA would be responsible for
obtaining the Social Security records and would assist in obtaining the private physician records, but
ultimate responsibility in obtaining the private records would be with the Veteran.

http://www.benefits.va.gov/COMPENSATION/evidence.asp

How to Apply

There are numerous ways to apply for VA disability benefits depending on the type of benefit you are
seeking:

• Online using an eBenefits account.
• Complete and mail your claim form to your nearest VA regional office.
• Go to a VA regional office and have a VA employee assist you. To find the VA regional office
nearest you, use the Veterans Affairs National Facilities Locator or call VA toll free at 1-800-827-
1000.
• Work with an accredited representative or agent.

Applying Online through eBenefits

When you apply online through eBenefits you can use the VONAPP Direct Connect (VDC) feature that
will recognize you upon log-in and help you complete your claim for disability compensation. You can also
upload all supporting evidence you may have and make your claim a Fully Developed Claim.
If you need time to obtain supporting evidence, you can begin the application process within
eBenefits/VDC, obtain your evidence and then complete your application and the VA will recognize the
date you started the application as your date of claim as long as you complete it within one year. By
submitting all of your supporting evidence with your claim, you save processing time and obtain a quicker
decision.

Working with an Accredited Representative

The VA encourages individuals who are applying for disability compensation to work with an accredited
representative or agent to assist them in completing a Fully Developed Claim for submission through
eBenefits/VDC. Being accredited means organizations and individuals must have the VA permission to
represent Veterans before the Department in their claims for VA benefits. The purpose of this requirement
is to ensure that Veterans have qualified and competent representation. These individuals receive
specialized training in VA benefits law and procedure.

http://benefits.va.gov/transformation/fastclaims/