How to Claim VA Benefits

By Ashley Leonard

VA benefits exist to help military veterans and their families obtain medical care, steady income and higher education, among other programs. If you have been discharged from active military service under other than dishonorable conditions, you are eligible for most VA benefits. In order to apply for and claim benefits, you'll need to fill out and sign various forms, based on your needs. The benefits that are provided vary, from health insurance to death and burial benefits.

Download the application for VA benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs' official website. You'll need this application to claim VA benefits. You also have the option of completing the application online through the Department of Veterans Affairs' website.

Fill out the application in its entirety. Within the application include your name, address and any other personal information requested. You'll be asked a series of questions, and it is your responsibility to answer every question correctly, so your application can be processed in a timely fashion. You can fill out different applications based on your needs. For example, VA form 21-526 is the application for compensation and pension, and VA form 22-1990 is the application for education benefits. You can complete more than one application, but it is always best to contact the Department of Veterans Affairs to make sure you are filling out the correct application.

Attach the supplemental information that is required, based on the type of benefits you are seeking. If you are seeking disability benefits, you will have to send the VA copies of your medical records verifying your disability. Also, if you are adding your spouse to your benefits, you will have to submit a copy of your marriage license. The documents can either be mailed or faxed to the VA regional office. The mailing address and the fax number can be found on the application.

Sign and submit your application online or mail it to the VA regional office for processing. If you are submitting your application online, you can sign the application by typing in your first and last name. After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation number instantly. If you mail in your application, you will get your confirmation number in the mail. You can visit the Department of Veterans Affairs' website to check the status of your application.

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