Resource Library

Using this library

Every link below goes to an official .gov or .mil source. We don't link to third-party sites that charge for free government services. If you ever see a site claiming to help with VA claims for a fee, verify it's an accredited VSO or claims agent before paying anyone anything.

Filing a claim

• VA Form 21-526EZ (disability compensation application) — va.gov/disability/file-disability-claim-form-21-526ez
• Intent to File (lock in your effective date early) — va.gov/decision-reviews/file-an-intent-to-file
• VA Form 21-4142 (release private records to VA) — va.gov/find-forms/about-form-21-4142
• VA Form 21-4138 (personal statement or buddy statement) — va.gov/find-forms/about-form-21-4138

Tracking and managing your claim

• Check claim status — va.gov/claim-or-appeal-status
• VA disability hub — va.gov/disability
• VA Regional Office finder — va.gov/find-locations
• Call VA directly — 1-800-827-1000 (Mon–Fri, 8am–9pm ET)

After a decision

• Supplemental Claim (new evidence) — VA Form 20-0995 — va.gov/decision-reviews/supplemental-claim
• Higher-Level Review — VA Form 20-0996 — va.gov/decision-reviews/higher-level-review
• Board of Veterans' Appeals — VA Form 10182 — va.gov/decision-reviews/board-appeal

Getting your service records

• Request military records (NPRC) — archives.gov/veterans
• Request VA medical records — va.gov/health-care/get-medical-records
• eBenefits portal — ebenefits.va.gov (many features have migrated to va.gov)

Finding help

• Accredited VSO and claims agent directory — va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/index.asp
• Veterans Crisis Line — veteranscrisisline.net or call 988, press 1
• VA Mental Health Services — va.gov/health-care/health-needs-conditions/mental-health
• Caregiver Support Line — 1-855-260-3274