A Guide to VA Forms
Navigating the VA benefits system requires submitting the correct forms for claims, appeals, medical evidence, and other essential processes. This guide provides a comprehensive list of VA forms, organized by category, with descriptions to help veterans understand their purpose and when to use them.
Initial Claim Forms
These forms are used to initiate claims for VA disability compensation or pension benefits. Veterans should complete these forms when applying for benefits for the first time or seeking additional support.
Used to file a new claim for VA disability compensation. This form is essential for veterans seeking service-connected disability benefits and should include supporting medical evidence.
Designed for veterans applying for VA pension benefits, which provide financial assistance to wartime veterans who meet income and asset requirements.
An Intent to File form that helps veterans preserve their effective date while they gather necessary evidence to support their claim. Filing this form can provide additional retroactive benefits once the full claim is submitted.
Evidence & Medical Forms
These forms help veterans submit medical evidence and authorize the VA to obtain records from private healthcare providers. They are crucial for supporting disability claims and proving eligibility for additional benefits.
A Statement in Support of Claim that allows veterans to provide additional evidence, personal statements, or clarification regarding their claim.
Authorization for the VA to request medical records from private doctors or hospitals. This helps streamline the claims process by allowing the VA to collect necessary medical documentation directly.
A companion form to VA Form 21-4142, used to list multiple healthcare providers when authorizing the release of medical information.
Required for veterans applying for Aid and Attendance or Housebound benefits. A medical provider must complete this form to confirm the veteran’s need for additional care.
Used to verify a veteran’s residence in a nursing home when applying for Aid and Attendance benefits.
Allows veterans to request and authorize the release of their VA medical records for personal use or submission as evidence in a claim.
Dependent & Financial Forms
These forms help veterans manage dependent benefits and financial considerations related to VA pension and disability compensation. Adding dependents can increase monthly benefits, while financial forms assist with eligibility verification.
Declaration of Status of Dependents form used to add or remove dependents, such as a spouse or child, to VA disability compensation.
A Medical Expense Report that helps veterans document unreimbursed medical expenses for pension benefit evaluations.
An Eligibility Verification Report required for veterans receiving pension benefits to confirm ongoing eligibility.
A Statement in Support of Claim for PTSD, used by veterans who experienced trauma during combat or other service-related incidents.
Similar to VA Form 21-0781, but specific to veterans claiming PTSD due to personal assault, including military sexual trauma (MST) or domestic violence.
Appeals & Decision Reviews
If a VA claim is denied, veterans have several appeal and review options. These forms are used to challenge decisions and seek a favorable outcome through supplemental claims, higher-level reviews, or Board appeals.
Used to submit a Supplemental Claim when new and relevant evidence is available after a claim has been denied.
A Higher-Level Review request, which allows veterans to have a senior adjudicator review a previously denied claim without submitting new evidence.
Decision Review Request: Board Appeal form, used to appeal a decision to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA) for further review.
Required for veterans using the legacy appeal system (pre-February 19, 2019) to escalate their claim to the BVA.
A Notice of Disagreement (NOD) for veterans appealing decisions under the legacy VA system before the implementation of the Appeals Modernization Act (AMA).
Other Important VA Forms
In addition to claims and appeals, veterans may need other forms for healthcare benefits, caregiver support, burial benefits, or vocational rehabilitation. These forms help veterans access essential services and programs.
A Priority Processing Request for veterans who qualify for expedited claims due to financial hardship, terminal illness, or other urgent circumstances.
A Lay/Witness Statement form used for buddy statements or witness testimony to support a claim.
Application for Burial Benefits, helping families receive financial assistance for a veteran’s funeral and burial expenses.
Application for VA Health Benefits, required for veterans enrolling in VA healthcare services.
Application for Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers, which provides financial and support benefits for those caring for disabled veterans.
Vocational Rehabilitation Application for disabled veterans seeking employment training or educational support under Chapter 31 benefits.
Request for Supplies form for veterans participating in vocational rehabilitation programs.
Need Help with Your VA Benefits?
Filing VA claims and appeals can be complex, and missing the right form could delay your benefits. If you need assistance with an appeal or want to increase your VA rating, our experts are here to help. Contact us today for guidance on navigating the VA claims process and securing the benefits you deserve.
Need Help with Your VA Benefits?
Filing VA claims and appeals can be complex, and missing the right form could delay your benefits. If you need assistance with an appeal or want to increase your VA rating, our experts are here to help. Contact us today for guidance on navigating the VA claims process and securing the benefits you deserve.
