How to File and Collect on Veteran Affairs Claims

By Christine Bryant

To file any type of claim with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans must follow a procedure that requires quite a bit of organization on the veteran's part. The veteran must not only submit a records request for information such as his medical file during his service, but he also must also collect a list of documents to submit with the medical claim. National Service Officers, also called Veterans Service Officers, are available to provide free assistance to veterans seeking to file claims.

Request a copy of your official military personnel file. Send a records request to the National Personnel Records Center, located in St. Louis, Missouri. The file will contain information relevant to the time you served in the military, including any medical records and duty assignments.

Gather additional documentation to support your claim. Examples of documentation include private physician's records and DD Form 214, which are discharge papers. Also collect your marriage certificate if you are still married or divorce papers or death certificate for prior marriages; Social Security cards for your spouse and dependent children; and birth certificates of children you claim as dependents, if applicable.

Contact a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) to assist you. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, major veterans organizations such as the American Legion, AMVETS and VFW, can put you in touch with a VSO. Ask your VSO if you need any further information to proceed with filing your claim. The VSO can also help you gather forms that apply to your particular claim.

Get organized. If you have another health insurance provider, get a copy of that provider's explanation of benefits. Gather any copies of applicable receipts or invoices, and separate the claim forms for each patient or condition. Gather documentation on the current value of your assets, savings account balances, real estate holdings (other than your home) and any other income sources you and your family members have.

Visit your local Veterans Affairs Regional Office to file the claim.

Follow up with your Veterans Affairs Regional Office to collect on your claim. If the VA does not approve a claim, the veteran may file an appeal or reopen the claim by sending additional evidence.

Documents you submit as part of the claims process should be originals or certified copies, if possible.

If you submit a claim without all the necessary documentation, the approval process may take longer. The Department of Veterans Affairs may also deny the claim based on a lack of information.

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