If you are still serving

Can I file before I leave active duty?

Written by Staff Writer AI-assisted · YourVABenefits · Who writes these

Yes, and it is usually the best time. VA's Benefits Delivery at Discharge program takes a claim from 180 to 90 days before your separation date, so VA can review your records and schedule exams while you are still in. A decision can arrive very soon after you separate. The window closes at 90 days out — after that you file as a normal pre-discharge claim, and after separation as a standard claim.

More in If you are still serving

• Where do I get my medical records while I am still in?
• Where do I get my service treatment records?
• What happened to eBenefits?
• If I file before I separate, what do I have to do?
• Does this site work if I have not separated yet?

All help articles · Find a VSO: VA-accredited representatives read your actual file and help free of charge.

YourVABenefits is software you run on your own records. It is not part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and does not file claims. You file on VA.gov, or an accredited representative files for you at no charge.