What BDD is
Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) lets active-duty service members file a VA disability claim 180 to 90 days before their separation date. The VA processes your claim while you're still in, with the goal of delivering a rating decision within 30 days of discharge.
What BDD gives you
- Day-one benefits: Your effective date is the day after separation
- Decision near separation: You file 180 to 90 days before you leave, so the decision can arrive close to your separation date
- Access to military medical: You can still get exams and records on base
- No gap in income: Compensation can start immediately after your last paycheck
Eligibility requirements
- You must be on active duty (including National Guard/Reserve on active orders)
- You must file between 180 and 90 days before separation
- You must be available for C&P exams within 45 days of filing
- You must submit your Service Treatment Records (STRs)
- You must have a known separation date
Step-by-step process
Step 1. Gather your evidence (before filing)
- Request complete copies of your Service Treatment Records from your military medical facility
- Get current diagnoses for every condition you're claiming, visit sick call, see your PCM
- Document everything in your military medical record NOW while you still have access
- Get buddy statements from fellow service members who witnessed your injuries or symptoms
Step 2. File on va.gov
- Create a VA.gov account if you don't have one (use DS Logon, Login.gov, or ID.me)
- Go to "File a disability claim" and select BDD
- List every condition, do not leave anything out thinking you'll add it later
- Upload all supporting documents
Step 3. Attend C&P exams
- The VA will schedule Compensation & Pension exams (usually within 45 days)
- These may be in-person at a VA facility or via telehealth
- See our C&P Exam Preparation guide for key tips
Step 4. Receive your rating
- Goal: decision within 30 days of separation
- Benefits start the day after your separation date
If you miss the BDD window
If you're inside 90 days of separation, you can't file BDD, but file a standard claim immediately. If you're past 180 days out, wait until you're in the window or file an Intent to File now to protect your date.
Common BDD mistakes
- Not claiming everything: If it's in your medical record and bothers you, claim it. You can't easily add conditions later without starting a new claim.
- Not getting current diagnoses: The VA needs a current diagnosis, not a complaint from 3 years ago
- Missing C&P exams: If you miss your exam, your claim may be decided without it, usually resulting in a denial
- Waiting until day 90: File as close to day 180 as you can, so VA has more time to process the claim