Lock Your Effective Date: File an Intent to File Today

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Lock your backpay today: file an Intent to File in 10 minutes. Jump on VA.gov and submit VA Form 21-0966 (Intent to File) right now to secure today’s effective date for compensation while you gather evidence for up to one year. Screenshot the confirmation page, note the time/date, and upload that screenshot to your claim documents. If VA.gov gives you trouble, call 800-827-1000 and ask them to record your intent to file. This simple move banks retro and buys you time to build a clean, winning packet.

Disclaimer and Official Resources

VA Claim Helper is an independent, veteran-run resource. We’re not affiliated with the VA and don’t provide legal representation. This information is educational only.

For official claim assistance, please find an accredited representative (VSO, attorney, or claims agent) .

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About VA Claim Helper

VA Claim Helper is led by a U.S. Navy submariner (ET2/SS, USS Pittsburgh 1995–2005) translating VA law into plain-English claim strategy so veterans can document service connection, prep for C&P exams, and win ratings without guesswork.

We publish daily VA disability tips, evidence checklists, and field manuals that walk you from Intent to File through appeals. Every guide is battle-tested with the veteran community and refreshed when VA policy shifts so the intel stays mission ready.

Service: U.S. Navy • 1995–2005 • USS Pittsburgh (SSN 720), ET2/SS

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  • FAQ — clear answers to the most frequent VA claim questions.

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