There is no filing deadline
There is no deadline to file a VA disability claim. You can file years or decades after service. What changes is how you prove service connection.
What changes after 1 year
- You lose the presumptive period advantage for most conditions (certain PACT Act conditions have extended presumptive periods)
- Your effective date will be your filing date (or Intent to File date), not the day after separation
- You need a nexus letter, a medical opinion connecting your current condition to military service
How to build your case
1. Get a current diagnosis
Visit a doctor (VA or private) and get an official diagnosis for every condition you're claiming. The VA cannot rate what isn't diagnosed.
2. Obtain a nexus letter
This is a medical opinion from a qualified provider stating your condition is "at least as likely as not" (50% or greater probability) related to your military service. The letter must include:
- Review of your service records and medical history
- A clear medical rationale explaining the connection
- Citation of medical literature when applicable
- The exact phrase "at least as likely as not"
3. Gather service records
- Request your complete military personnel and medical records from the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC)
- Get copies of any deployment records, unit histories, or exposure documentation
- Contact former unit members for buddy statements
4. Write or obtain buddy statements (VA Form 21-10210)
Ask fellow veterans, family, or friends who can attest to:
- Your condition or injury during service
- How your symptoms have continued or worsened since service
- How the condition affects your daily life today
- Specific incidents they witnessed
PACT Act extended presumptives
The PACT Act (2022) created new presumptive conditions for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxins, many with no time limit. If you served in:
- Southwest Asia (Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan): burn pit presumptives apply
- Vietnam, Thailand, Guam: Agent Orange presumptives apply
- Camp Lejeune (1953-1987): water contamination presumptives apply
The burn pits and PACT Act page lists the qualifying locations and dates.
Key evidence tips
- Medical records showing treatment during or shortly after service are the strongest evidence
- Continuous treatment records showing an ongoing condition strengthen your case
- Even if records were lost, buddy statements and personal accounts carry real weight
- The VA has a "benefit of the doubt" rule, if evidence is roughly equal for and against, they must decide in your favor (38 CFR § 3.102)