VA Benefits Documents Required

- Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up. – Thomas Edison

We have complied a list of documents required to ensure that your VA claim runs smoothly.

Applying for VA Benefits

For many veterans one of the more difficult tasks is deciding on whether to apply for VA benefits. The are confused on whether they should apply, would they qualify, how to apply and where to go for help. We hope that our articles will help you with the decision, and point you in the right direction.

One of the most important points in starting your VA benefit claim in your documents, these must be in order and we have complied a list of documents needed, please read our documents required section carefully.

Documents Required for Non-Medical Benefits

• A copy of your discharge certificate, or DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, if available
• Your VA claim number or Social Security number if receiving benefits under prior service
• A copy of all marriage certificates and divorce decrees (if any)
• A copy of each child’s birth certificate (or adoption order)
• A copy of your birth certificate if there are living parents dependent on you for support
• A copy of any service medical records for disabilities you intend to claim
• The most typical claim for benefits is for compensation for military service related injuries. Complete VA Form 21-526, Veterans Application for Compensation or Pension, (On-line version) (Print out version). Or, you may obtain a copy of the form from any VA Regional Office (list of regional offices).

Documents Required for Medical Benefits

• A copy of your discharge certificate, or DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, if available
• In order to document your service in a theater of combat operations, it would be helpful if you brought any of the following:
• A copy of your Leave and Earnings Statement showing receipt of Hostile Fire or Imminent Danger Pay
• Receipt of the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
• Kosovo Campaign Medal
• Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
• Southwest Asia Campaign Medal
• Proof of exemption of federal tax status for Hostile Fire or Imminent Danger Pay
• Orders to a theater of combat operations
• Complete VA Form 10-10EZ, Application for Health Benefits, online. Or, you may obtain the form by:
• Calling VA’s Health Benefits Service Center toll free number, 1-877-222-VETS(8387), Monday through Friday between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM (Eastern Time)
• Calling or visiting any VA health care facility or VA regional office. To find the facility nearest you, visit the VA Facilities web page.