File your Intent to File

It takes about five minutes on VA.gov and locks in your effective date for back pay. Nothing to fill out here.

Submit VA Form 21-0966 on VA.gov

An Intent to File tells VA you plan to file a claim. If you file the claim within one year, VA uses the Intent to File date as the effective date, so back pay is calculated from that day. The form is VA Form 21-0966, filed online on VA.gov, by phone, or by mail. It is free, and no one can charge you for it.

Already filed a claim and got a decision? See your next step after a decision.

What is an Intent to File and why does it matter · Back pay estimator

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.