What Happens After You Submit Your VA Disability Claim: Timeline and Expectations
- bwelts3
- 23 minutes ago
- 3 min read
You’ve gathered your records, completed the forms, and finally hit “submit” on your VA disability claim. Now what?
The waiting game begins — and for many veterans, it can feel like a long and confusing process. But understanding what happens behind the scenes can make that wait easier and help you stay one step ahead.
At United Veteran, we guide veterans through every phase of the VA claim process, from filing to follow-up. Here’s what you can expect once your claim is submitted — and how to keep things moving in the right direction.
Step 1: Claim Received (Initial Review)
When your claim is first submitted, the VA confirms it’s been received and logs it into their system. You’ll see your claim status listed as “Received” or “Initial Review” in your VA.gov account.
At this stage, the VA is:
Making sure your application is complete
Checking your eligibility for benefits
Beginning to request your service and medical records
Average time: A few weeks
What you can do:✅ Double-check that your contact information is current.✅ Be ready to respond if the VA requests additional forms or documentation.
Step 2: Evidence Gathering
Next, the VA collects all the information needed to evaluate your claim. This includes your service treatment records, medical exams, and any private medical evidence you submitted.
They might also schedule a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam if they need more information about your condition.
Average time: 1–3 months
What you can do:✅ Attend all scheduled exams — missing one can delay your claim.✅ Keep copies of everything you submit.✅ Provide any private treatment records that support your claim.
Step 3: Review & Decision
Once all the evidence is gathered, a VA claims processor reviews everything and makes a decision on:
Whether your condition is service-connected
The percentage rating for each condition
Your overall combined disability rating
You’ll then receive a VA Rating Decision letter in the mail (and digitally on VA.gov).
Average time: 2–3 months
What you can do:✅ Read your decision letter carefully — it explains the evidence considered and how the VA reached your rating.✅ If something looks off, don’t panic — you have options (more on that below).
Step 4: Decision Notification
Once the decision is made, the VA updates your claim status to “Complete” or “Closed.”
If your claim is approved, you’ll receive back pay from your effective date and monthly compensation moving forward. If it’s denied or you disagree with the rating, you can appeal the decision through one of three review options:
Higher-Level Review (ask for a senior reviewer to reexamine the case)
Supplemental Claim (submit new evidence)
Board Appeal (appeal directly to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals)
What you can do:✅ Don’t wait — appeals have strict deadlines.✅ Reach out for expert help before submitting your appeal to make sure it’s strategic and well-supported.
Step 5: Moving Forward
Even after your claim is complete, it’s important to stay engaged. Many veterans are eligible for increased ratings over time as conditions worsen or new evidence becomes available.
At United Veteran, we stay by your side through every stage — from your first claim to your final rating. Because this process isn’t just about paperwork; it’s about your well-being, your family’s security, and your future stability.
Typical VA Claim Timeline (Average Range)
Note: Timelines vary depending on complexity, number of conditions, and backlog.
Final Thought
Submitting your VA disability claim is just the first move — what happens next determines everything that follows.
With the right knowledge and support, you can move through the process confidently, avoid common delays, and get the rating you’ve earned.
At United Veteran, we help you stay informed, prepared, and proactive — every step of the way.
🎖️ Ready to understand your VA claim status or appeal a decision? Connect with our team today!
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