VA Disability Claim Stages
Overview
A VA disability claim progresses through 8 formal stages. Claims may move backward between stages if additional evidence or clarification is needed.
BLUF: Your claim will move through these stages whether you understand them or not. But knowing where you are in the process keeps you from calling the 800 number every day like a nervous private waiting for leave approval.
Check your claim status: https://www.va.gov/claim-or-appeal-status/
Stage 0: Intent to File
Not a formal stage
When you begin a claim online without submitting it, the VA recognizes this as an intent to file, giving you one year to gather supporting evidence before formal submission.
Stage 1: Claim Received
Your claim has been officially accepted by the VA. This marks the beginning of formal processing.
Stage 2: Initial Review
A Veteran Service Representative (VSR) conducts a preliminary assessment. They determine whether your claim is complete enough to proceed or if critical deficiencies exist that would require closure and resubmission.
Stage 3: Evidence Gathering
The VA actively collects necessary documentation, including: - Military medical records - Civilian medical records you've authorized - Compensation & Pension Examinations (C&P exams) - Requests for clarification on submitted evidence
Stage 4: Evidence Review
After approximately 30 days, the VA reviews whether all requested evidence has been received. If gaps remain, the claim returns to Stage 3. Once complete, the claim moves to a Rating Veteran Service Representative (RVSR/Rater).
Stage 5: Rating
Typically involves significant wait times while your claim awaits a rater's review.
The rater evaluates all evidence and assigns disability ratings with written narratives explaining their decisions. If development gaps are discovered, the claim returns to Stage 3.
Stage 6: Preparing Decision Letter
The VA creates your formal decision letter containing your disability ratings and monthly payment amount. The claim may be returned to earlier stages if issues are identified.
Stage 7: Preparation for Decision Notification (Final Review)
A senior reviewer conducts a final quality check. If a partial decision was made, deferred issues return to Stage 3 for additional development.
Stage 8: Complete (Claim Decided)
Your decision letter will arrive within approximately 2 weeks. You can view your decision online at VA.gov or access claim letters.
Typical Processing Times
| Stage | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| Stage 1-2 | Days to 1 week |
| Stage 3 | 30-90 days (depends on evidence needed) |
| Stage 4 | 1-2 weeks |
| Stage 5 | 2 weeks to several months |
| Stage 6-7 | 1-2 weeks |
| Stage 8 | Decision letter mailed within 2 weeks |
Total Average: 3-6 months for initial claims; can be longer for complex cases
Priority Processing
Certain veterans qualify for expedited review: - Terminal illness - Age 85 or older - Financial hardship - Homelessness - Medal of Honor recipients - Former POWs - ALS diagnosis - Seriously ill or very seriously injured