Filing your VA disability claim before you leave active duty is not just convenient it is one of the most strategic decisions you can make during your transition out of the military.
The Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program allows eligible service members to file early, complete Compensation and Pension (C&P) exams while still in uniform, and in many cases receive a VA disability decision within days of separation.
Despite its advantages, BDD remains one of the most underused VA programs.
“BDD claims consistently outperform standard VA claims in speed and accuracy,” says a VA-accredited claims specialist.
Overview: BDD VA Claims at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program name | Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) |
| When you can file | 180 to 90 days before separation |
| Exams completed | While on active duty |
| STRs required | Yes (current period of service) |
| Availability for exams | 45 days after filing |
| Decision timing | Often within 30 days after discharge |
| Best filing method | Online (VA.gov) |
What Is the VA Benefits Delivery at Discharge Program?
The BDD program allows active-duty service members to file a VA disability claim before separating or retiring from military service.
How the BDD Program Works?
When you file a BDD claim, the VA uses the time before your separation to:
- Review your Service Treatment Records (STRs)
- Schedule and complete C&P exams
- Develop and prepare your claim for a faster decision
The ultimate goal is for you to receive a rating decision as early as the day after discharge.
“The biggest advantage of BDD is eliminating post-service delays,” explains a veterans transition advisor.
Why BDD VA Claims Are Faster Than Standard Claims?
BDD claims move faster because the VA does not need to wait for records or schedule exams after separation.
Key Speed Advantages
- Exams are completed while you are still accessible
- STRs are current and complete
- No delays waiting for post-service medical development
Pro Tip: Veterans who skip BDD often wait 80+ days for a decision. Many BDD filers receive decisions in 30 days or less.
Who Is Eligible for the BDD Program?
Not every service member qualifies, but most do.
BDD Eligibility Requirements
You must:
- Know your official separation date
- File your claim between 180 and 90 days before separation
- Provide Service Treatment Records for your current period of service
- Submit a Separation Health Assessment – Part A
- Be available for 45 days after filing to attend VA exams
“Timing is everything with BDD missing the window means losing the advantage,” says a military transition counselor.
Who Is Not Eligible for BDD VA Claims?
You may not qualify if your claim involves special circumstances.
Common Disqualifiers
- Serious illness or terminal condition
- Loss of a body part requiring immediate care
- Hospitalization at separation
- Claims requiring a character of discharge determination
- Exams needed in foreign countries (with limited exceptions)
Pro Tip: Even if BDD is not available, you can still file a Fully Developed Claim (FDC) or Standard Claim.
How to File a BDD VA Claim?
Option 1: File Online (Recommended)
Filing online is the fastest and most reliable method.
Online Filing Platforms
- VA.gov
- eBenefits
This method allows for quicker uploads and faster exam scheduling.
Option 2: File by Mail (Slower)
You may file by mail using VA Form 21-526EZ.
Mailing Address
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
“Mailing adds unnecessary delays online filing is strongly preferred,” advises a VA claims examiner.
What to Include With Your BDD Claim?
A complete claim is critical for fast decisions.
Required Documents
- VA Form 21-526EZ
- Separation Health Assessment – Part A
- Service Treatment Records (current period)
- Records of in-service injuries or illnesses
- Mental health or dental records (if applicable)
- Direct deposit information
- Marriage and birth certificates (if claiming dependents)
- DD Form 214 (once issued)
Pro Tip: Incomplete STRs are the one of the reason BDD claims lose speed.
Required Forms for BDD VA Claims
VA Form 21-526EZ
This is the main disability compensation form used for:
- BDD claims
- Fully Developed Claims
- Standard claims
Service Treatment Records (STRs)
Not a form, but mandatory. You must submit complete STRs for your current service period.
Separation Health Assessment (SHA)
This medical exam documents your health status at separation and is required for BDD.
VA Form 21-4142a
Used to authorize the VA to obtain private medical records, if applicable.
“These forms don’t just support your claim they control the timeline,” notes a VA disability educator.
BDD VA Claim Timeline
While no timeline is guaranteed, BDD claims are consistently faster.
Typical Timeline
- Claim filed: 180–90 days pre-separation
- Exams completed: While still on active duty
- Decision issued: Often within 30 days after discharge
VA Performance Data
- 2018: 53% decided within 30 days
- 2019: Increased to 57.7%
A well-prepared claim can sometimes be decided the day after separation.
Other Pre-Discharge Benefits to Handle Early
BDD is just one piece of a smooth transition.
Additional Programs to Explore
- Post-9/11 GI Bill education planning
- VA home loan eligibility
- Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E)
- Healthcare enrollment preparation
“The earlier you start, the fewer problems you’ll face after discharge,” says a veterans transition planner.
What If You Don’t Qualify for the BDD Program?
If BDD is unavailable, you still have options.
Alternative Claim Types
- Fully Developed Claim (FDC)
- Standard VA Disability Claim
While slower, these paths still lead to benefits.
STRs You Should Always Keep
- Entrance and separation exams
- Inpatient and outpatient records
- TBI documentation
- Behavioral health records
- Dental records
Pro Tip: Always keep a personal copy of your STRs.
Why BDD VA Claims Matter So Much?
BDD claims reduce:
- Post-service stress
- Financial gaps
- Long waits for compensation
They allow veterans to transition with stability, healthcare access, and income already in place.
“BDD is the closest thing to a fast-track in the VA system,” explains a veterans law expert.
Final Thought
The BDD VA claims program is one of the most powerful tools available to service members preparing to leave active duty. By filing early, completing exams on time, and submitting complete records, you can significantly shorten your wait for VA disability benefits and in some cases receive a decision almost immediately after separation.
If you qualify, use BDD. Waiting until after discharge often means waiting months longer for benefits you already earned.
FAQs
What does BDD stand for in VA claims?
Benefits Delivery at Discharge.
When can I file a BDD claim?
Between 180 and 90 days before separation.
Is BDD faster than a standard VA claim?
Yes. BDD claims are among the fastest processed.
Do I need STRs to file BDD?
Yes. Complete STRs are required.
What if I miss the BDD window?
You can still file an FDC or standard claim.
