VA Claims Explained

VA Claims Explained - VA Claims Field Manual book cover

The Veteran's No-BS VA Claim Starter Pack

Written by veterans who've been through the claims gauntlet. No legal jargon. No fluff. Just the scripts, worksheets, and tactics that actually work.

Book 1 of 5 in the VA Claims Field Manual Series · Included with Kindle Unlimited · Kindle eBook ($9.99)

The complete VA disability claim starter guide. Break down VA regulations into plain-English steps and file with confidence from day one.

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Deep Dive

What's Inside

This manual walks you through the entire VA claims process from Intent to File through your first rating decision. You'll learn how VA math really works, what evidence actually moves the needle, and how to organize your medical records so raters can find what they need.

Each chapter includes fillable worksheets you can print or use digitally. The scripts give you exact language for talking to providers, VSOs, and C&P examiners without sounding rehearsed.

Included Materials

What You'll Get

  • Claim timeline walkthrough from Intent to File through rating
  • VA math calculator worksheet to model combined ratings
  • Evidence checklists organized by condition type
  • Provider briefing script for nexus letters
  • C&P exam preparation questions
  • Decision letter decoder guide

Is This For You?

Who This Helps

  • First-time filers overwhelmed by the 526-EZ who need a clear starting point
  • Veterans returning after years away who need to understand current VA processes
  • Family members helping a veteran navigate benefits for the first time
  • Anyone previously denied who wants to restart with stronger evidence strategy

Key Features

Highlights

  • Plain-English explanations of CFR 38 rating criteria
  • Real rating decision examples with annotations
  • Printable worksheets for every filing step
  • Scripts for provider and examiner conversations
  • Updated for current VA form requirements

The Complete Series

More in This Series

Free Resources

Related Resources

Start Here Pathfinder
Answer a few questions and get your personalized claim roadmap.
Free Claim Playbooks
Step-by-step guides for new claims, supplementals, and specific conditions.
Downloadable Templates
Print-ready lay statement templates, symptom logs, and nexus letter outlines.
VA Math Calculator
Model your combined rating and estimate monthly compensation.
C&P Exam Prep Guide
Free prep checklist covering what to bring, what to say, and common questions.
Lay Statement Guide
How to write VA Form 21-10210 statements that move the needle.

Common Questions

FAQ

Do I need a VSO to file my first claim?
No—you can file on your own using VA.gov or paper forms. A VSO (Veterans Service Organization) rep can help for free, but many veterans successfully file solo. This manual walks you through both approaches. If you want VSO support, our new claim playbook covers how to choose and work with one.
How long does the VA claims process take?
Straightforward claims average 107-125 days (about 4 months). Complex cases with multiple conditions or extensive C&P exams may take 5-6 months or longer. Filing an Intent to File locks in your effective date while you gather evidence—covered in Chapter 2. Use our VA disability calculator to estimate your potential rating while you wait.
What's the difference between direct and secondary claims?
A direct claim links your condition straight to service (e.g., you injured your knee during deployment). A secondary claim links a new condition to an already service-connected one (e.g., your service-connected knee caused your hip problems). Chapter 4 covers both strategies with evidence checklists for each.
What evidence do I need before filing?
At minimum: evidence of an in-service event (service records, lay statements, or other documentation), a current medical diagnosis, and a nexus linking the two. This manual includes evidence checklists by condition type. Download our evidence checklist templates to organize your packet before you file.