Lock Your Effective Date: Submit an Intent to File on VA.gov Today

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Filed under:Claim Evidence & Filing Essentials, Post-Decision Timing & Back Pay

Protect your backpay—lock your effective date in five minutes today. Go to VA.gov, start a new disability claim, and save it to create your Intent to File—this time-stamps today while you gather records. Screenshot the confirmation page (or save the email), note the date/time, and stash it with your claim folder. You now have up to one year to finish the full submission and evidence without losing today’s date. Unsure about steps? Search “intent to file” on VA.gov and follow the prompts.

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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