What's happening to my claim?

Here's what happens when you've filed your claim.  Please note that the information in parentheses corresponds to the stages you may see if you choose to follow up on your  claim via eBenefits:

  1. The VA receives your claim. (Claim Received)
  2. A Veterans Service Representative (VSR) examines your claim to determine if the VA needs any additional information to make a decision. (Under Review)
  3. If the VA needs additional information, the VSR requests it from you, your Veteran Service Officer, or may ask for it from the necessary facility or agency on your behalf. (Gathering of Evidence)
  4. Once the VA obtains, or has completed its efforts to obtain, all of the information it needs, the VSR ensures that each issue claimed is ready for a decision. (Review of Evidence)
  5. The VSR electronically routes the claim and supporting information to a Rating Veterans Service Representative (RVSR) for a review. (Preparation for a Decision)
  6. The RVSR decides your claim and makes a final award approval decision after reviewing all evidence in your record, including the initial application, examination reports, and service treatment records. (Pending Decision Approval)
    1. If it is determined that more evidence or information is required, the claim will be sent back in the process for more information or evidence. (Deferred for Further Development)
  7. After deciding the claim, the RVSR routes it to a VSR to input the decision and draft the decision letter.  A Senior Veterans Service Representative (SVSR) reviews the completed documents, then authorizes release of the letter and any payment. (Preparation for Notification)

The VA sends you a decision packet by U.S. mail, including details of the decision, the  award and the Notice of Disagreement Form 21-0958. (Complete)