The process of obtaining a VA decision is notorious for its lengthy wait times and can be a frustrating experience. Changes are on the horizon for the VA, albeit gradual. Here’s a timeline of what you can expect when waiting for your claim decision:
- Claim Submission
- Congrats! You’ve completed the first step. After submitting your claim, you should receive confirmation online if that’s how you filed, or you’ll receive a letter by mail. Ensure you’ve provided as much favorable information as possible before submitting your claim.
- Review
- Your claim is under review. This phase is critical; having all the necessary evidence is key. If you submitted sufficient evidence initially, you won’t need to gather more, which can expedite your claim. Once all the required evidence is gathered, your file proceeds to the decision process.
- VA Decision
- You will recommend a decision for your claim based on the available documentation. Your application might be sent back to a previous stage for further investigation if necessary. If not, the recommended decision undergoes a final review, and a decision is made. Once the final decision is reached, your award packet will be dispatched.
The total time required for this process can extend to a year or even more, depending on your location and the number of times your claim needs to be reevaluated.
Active Duty Advantage
Those nearing discharge from active duty have a significant advantage. The Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program is tailored for military personnel approaching discharge. To benefit from this program, you must apply between 60 and 180 days before your discharge date. This process is the swiftest for eligible individuals, ensuring a quicker claim response. The longer you delay filing your claim, the harder it becomes to expedite the process.
Don’t Procrastinate
Waiting to file your claim is not advisable. If you’ve been putting off this process, make time to complete it now. The sooner you submit your claim, the sooner you can expect to receive your benefits. If your claim is denied, don’t delay in appealing it either. Remember, the longer you wait to appeal, the more extended the process becomes.
E-Benefits can also provide an estimate of when you should expect to receive your claim decision. Additionally, consider VDC Bootcamp, as they can assist in filing your claim, making the process smoother and more efficient. Feel free to contact us for help in navigating this journey.
