Types of Disability Claims

Initial Service Connected Disability Claim

An intial claim is the first claim you file for disability compensation from VA and can be submitted at any time after your discharge from the military. However, you are encouraged to submit your claim as soon as you are able to ensure all available documents are on hand.

New Service Connected Disability Claim

A new claim is a claim for service connection for a disability that has not been filed before.

Supplemental Disability Claim

This is a claim already filed that VA could not grant (requires new evidence unless a presumptive illness previously denied)

Claim For Increased Disability Already Rated

This is a claim for an increased evaluation of a disability that VA has already determined to be service-connected.

Secondary Service Connected Disability Claim

This is a claim for a disability that developed as a result of or was worsened by a disability which VA has already determined to be service-connected.

Individual Unemployability

You’ll have to provide evidence (supporting documents like a doctor’s report or medical test results) showing that your disability prevents you from holding down a steady job.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder:

A completed VA Form 21-0781, "Statement in Support of Claim for Service Connection for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
OR
If claiming PTSD based on personal assault, VA Form 21-0781a, "Statement in Support of Claim for Service Connection for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Secondary to Personal Assault

* About VA Form 21-0781a and Download The Form

Special Claim (file a claim for special needs linked to your service-connected disability)

These may include needs like:

• A specially equipped vehicle if your service-connected disability prevents you from driving
• Temporary payments if you’re recovering from surgery or other treatment and unable to move
• Increased payments if you can’t work because of your service-connected disability

* Learn More About Special Claims