How to Claim Disability Through the Veterans Administration

By Kayla Lowe

If you suffered a disability while serving in the military, you are perhaps eligible to claim disability through the Veterans Administration. Disability pension, however, is available for low-income veterans with a disability not caused during military service, but that prevents them from becoming gainfully employed. To claim disability through the Veterans Administration, you first must complete the appropriate form.

Download Form 21-256 and either complete it on your computer and print, or first print and complete manually in black ink.

Complete the general information section. Provide your basic information such as name, address, dates of military service and your branch of military service. Submit a copy of your DD214 separation papers with this section.

Complete the compensation section, if applying for compensation benefits. List all disabilities you are claiming related to your military service, the places where you received treatment while in the military and the dates of treatment. If you received treatment following military service, list the dates and locations and submit supporting medical records.

Complete the dependency section. List your spouse and any previous marriages as well as any dependents. Submit copies of your marriage and divorce records as well as your dependents' birth certificates with this section.

Complete the pension section, if applying for a pension. List all sources of income, including any income your spouse receives. If you have any nursing home information, submit documentation with this section. Mail your completed form 21-526 to your local VA office.

Complete your form 21-526 online through VA's VONAPP service.

Apply for both compensation and pension if you wish, but you can only select one to receive if you are awarded both.

You cannot claim disability through the Veterans Administration if you were dishonorably discharged.

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