Filing a VA disability claim is a major step toward receiving the compensation and healthcare you’ve earned through military service. But for many veterans, the real stress begins after clicking “submit.”
Claims seem to sit. Status messages change without explanation. Timelines feel uncertain.
Understanding what happens after you file can dramatically reduce anxiety and help you avoid mistakes that slow your claim down.
“The VA claims process feels confusing because veterans don’t see what’s happening behind the curtain,” explained by Brian Reese, said while educating veterans on VA timelines. “Once you understand the stages, the waiting becomes more manageable.”
After submission, every VA disability claim moves through five core stages, each designed to ensure the VA has enough evidence to issue a legally sound decision.
Below is a clear breakdown of those five stages, realistic timelines, and what veterans should expect at each point.
How Long Does It Take the VA to Decide a Disability Claim?
On average, the VA takes about 155 calendar days to decide a disability claim from submission to final decision.
That timeline can be shorter or longer depending on several factors:
- Type of claim filed (Fully Developed vs. Standard)
- Number and complexity of conditions
- Need for C&P exams
- Speed of evidence collection
“The biggest delays usually come from missing evidence or incomplete exams,” explained by Brian Reese, said while reviewing common claim slowdowns.
The 5 Stages of a VA Disability Claim (After You File)
| Stage | What Happens | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 | Claim Received | 7–14 days |
| Stage 2 | Initial Claim Review | 14–30 days |
| Stage 3 | Evidence Gathering, Review & Decision | 60–100+ days |
| Stage 4 | Preparation for Notification | 7–14 days |
| Stage 5 | Decision Notification Sent | 10–14 days |
Stage 1: Claim Received
This stage begins when the VA officially acknowledges your claim.
- Online filings generate immediate confirmation
- Mailed claims receive a letter within about one week
- Your claim enters the VA’s national work queue, where it’s assigned to available staff
“This step protects your effective date, which is critical for back pay,” explained by Brian Reese, said while discussing claim strategy.
What you should do:
Nothing just confirm your submission went through.
Stage 2: Initial Claim Review
A Veteran Service Representative (VSR) reviews your claim to ensure:
- Required forms are present
- Conditions are clearly identified
- The claim can move forward
Claims filed as Fully Developed Claims (FDCs) often move faster here.
“This stage is essentially quality control before the real work begins,” explained by Angela Morris, said during a claims intake review.
What you should do:
Avoid submitting new evidence unless requested it can slow things down.
Stage 3: Evidence Gathering, Review, and Decision
This is the longest and most important stage of the VA claims process.
During this phase, the VA may:
- Request service records
- Request private medical records
- Schedule C&P exams
- Obtain medical opinions
- Review all submitted evidence
Your claim may move back and forth within this stage multiple times.
“Veterans panic when they see movement here but this is normal,” explained by Brian Reese, said while explaining VA status changes.
What you should do:
- Attend all C&P exams
- Respond promptly to VA requests
- Keep contact information updated
Stage 4: Preparation for Notification
Once the VA reaches a decision, it prepares your VA decision letter.
This packet explains:
- Whether each condition was approved, denied, or deferred
- Your disability rating(s)
- Effective dates
- Monthly compensation
“Veterans often see changes on VA.gov before the letter arrives,” explained by Angela Morris, said while guiding veterans through online status updates.
What you should do:
Review VA.gov but wait for the official letter before reacting.
Stage 5: Decision Notification Sent
The VA mails your decision packet via U.S. mail.
Delivery typically takes 10–14 days, though direct deposit payments may begin sooner if awarded.
“This is when appeal clocks start ticking, so read everything carefully,” explained by Courtney Hall, said while discussing appeal rights.
What you should do:
Open the letter immediately and review each decision carefully.
What Should You Do While Waiting for a VA Decision?
In most cases nothing.
Unless the VA contacts you:
- Don’t upload unnecessary documents
- Don’t call repeatedly
- Don’t miss scheduled exams
“Silence doesn’t mean your claim is stuck it usually means it’s being worked,” explained by Brian Reese, said while calming claim-related anxiety.
You should:
- Monitor VA.gov periodically
- Answer VA requests quickly
- Attend all exams
Why Claims Move Backward Sometimes?
Veterans often see claims move “back” to earlier stages.
This usually means:
- Additional evidence is needed
- An exam clarification was requested
- A medical opinion was insufficient
This is normal, not negative.
How to Speed Up a VA Disability Claim?
“You can’t control the VA but you can control your evidence,” explained by Brian Reese, said during claim preparation training.
Proven ways to reduce delays:
- File a Fully Developed Claim
- Submit strong medical evidence upfront
- Attend all C&P exams
- Avoid adding new claims mid-process
Final Takeaway
Understanding the five stages of a VA disability claim gives veterans clarity, confidence, and control during an otherwise stressful waiting period.
“Knowledge doesn’t just reduce anxiety it improves outcomes,” explained by Brian Reese, said while summarizing VA education principles.
When you know what’s happening and when action is required, you’re far more likely to protect your benefits, your back pay, and your peace of mind.
FAQs
What happens after I submit my VA claim?
The VA acknowledges receipt and begins its 5-stage review process.
How long does a VA disability claim take?
On average, about 155 days, though complex claims can take longer.
Is it normal for my claim to move between stages?
Yes. Movement especially during evidence gathering is common.
Should I upload new evidence while waiting?
Only if the VA requests it. Unsolicited uploads can slow processing.
Can I appeal if I disagree with the decision?
Yes. You may choose a Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or Board Appeal.
