The 10-Step VA Disability Claim Roadmap
From Intent to File to protecting your rating. Everything you need to navigate the VA system and get the benefits you earned. Built by a veteran who went from 10% to 100% P&T.
Phase 1: Strategy & Clock
Intent to File: Lock Your Backpay Date
File your Intent to File today to lock in your backpay date. This 5-minute step could be worth tens of thousands of dollars.
Read Step 01Preparation: The 3 Pillars (Caluza Triangle)
Learn the Caluza Triangle — the 3 pillars every VA claim must satisfy: current diagnosis, in-service event, and medical nexus.
Read Step 02Phase 2: Building the Case
The Paper Trail: Service Records
Request your DD-214, Service Treatment Records, and personnel files. These are the foundation of your claim.
Read Step 03The Human Story: Lay Evidence
Write powerful lay statements and buddy letters that translate your service into evidence the VA rater understands.
Read Step 04Nexus Letters & Medical Evidence: The Medical Arsenal
Get nexus letters, complete DBQs, and use the ACE process to build an airtight medical evidence package.
Read Step 05Phase 3: Submission & Waiting
Submitting the Claim: FDC vs Standard
Submit your claim the right way. Compare Fully Developed Claims vs. Standard Claims and organize your evidence package.
Read Step 06The C&P Exam: Tactics & Survival
Survive your C&P exam with proven tactics. Learn what to say, what NOT to say, and how to handle a bad examiner.
Read Step 07The Tracker & VERA: Monitor Your Claim
Track your claim status on VA.gov and schedule VERA appointments to get real answers from a human.
Read Step 08Phase 4: The Outcome & Beyond
Appeals & Reviews: The Pivot
Denied or rated too low? Learn your 3 appeal options: Higher-Level Review, Supplemental Claims, and Board Appeals.
Read Step 09The Win: Protect & Maximize Your Benefits
Protect your rating with the 5/10/20-year rules and unlock every benefit you and your family deserve.
Read Step 10Not sure DIY vs VSO vs attorney?
Compare free VA disability claim help options — self-file with this guide, work with a VSO, or when paid accredited help usually makes sense.
Ready to Begin?
The first step is filing your Intent to File. Do it today — it takes 5 minutes and could be worth tens of thousands of dollars in backpay.