End-to-end checklist for your first claim: file Intent to File today → pull STRs → enroll in VA health care → run the Symptom Wizard → check presumptions → get diagnoses → get nexus letters → write statements → file 21-526EZ → prep for C&P.
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Filing your first VA disability claim
This chapter walks you through the END-TO-END process for your first claim. For the step-by-step mechanics of the form itself, see the first-claim filing walkthrough.
Step 1 — File an Intent to File (today)
Locks your effective date for 12 months. Takes 10 minutes. See the ITF walkthrough.
Step 2 — Pull your STRs
Get them from milConnect. Review for documented complaints. See STRs chapter.
Step 3 — Enroll in VA health care
Builds the medical record and triggers TERA screening. See VA health care + TERA.
Step 4 — Brainstorm everything you might claim
Most first-time filers miss 5+ claimable conditions. Use the Symptom Wizard — it walks you through every body system and surfaces what’s claimable.
Step 5 — Check presumptions
Cross-check your service against:
- PACT Act (Gulf War + post-9/11)
- Agent Orange (Vietnam, Thailand, Korean DMZ, Blue Water Navy)
- Camp Lejeune (1953–1987 water contamination)
- Gulf War undiagnosed illness (deadline 12/31/2026)
- 1-year post-discharge chronic disease presumption
Any presumption that applies means NO nexus letter needed for those conditions.
Step 6 — Get diagnoses for anything not in your records
You need a current diagnosis for each condition. Schedule with your VA provider or civilian provider. Be specific about symptoms.
Step 7 — Get nexus letters
For any non-presumptive condition that doesn’t have an in-service diagnosis. See the nexus letter chapter and use the generator.
Step 8 — Write personal statements
One 21-4138 per major condition, or one master statement. 3–5 paragraphs. Use the generator.
Step 9 — Get buddy / lay statements if applicable
21-10210. One per witness. Especially valuable for undocumented in-service events or ongoing symptoms.
Step 10 — File the formal 21-526EZ
Step-by-step walkthrough. File comprehensively — every condition you can claim.
Step 11 — Prep for and attend C&P exams
VA will schedule exams within 30–60 days of filing. See the C&P exam strategy.
Step 12 — Read your rating decision carefully
When the decision arrives, see reading your rating decision. If anything is denied or under-rated, you have ONE YEAR to appeal — see appeals overview.
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