Intent to File Countdown

Track your 365-day ITF window and make sure you file your claim before it expires. Need help with your claim? See the Claim Builder Guide.

Your ITF Date

When did you file your Intent to File?

The date you submitted your ITF to the VA.

Filing Checklist

Complete these before your deadline. Progress is saved locally.

Gather service treatment records
Request your STRs from the National Personnel Records Center or your branch.

Get buddy/lay statements
Ask fellow service members, family, or friends to write statements supporting your claim.

Schedule C&P exam prep
Review what to expect. C&P Exam Prep Guide

Obtain nexus letter if filing secondary
A medical nexus letter links your secondary condition to a service-connected disability.

Complete and submit VA Form 21-526EZ
The main claim form. File online at VA.gov.

Upload all supporting evidence
Medical records, DBQs, nexus letters, buddy statements, and any other documentation.

What happens if I miss the deadline?

Your effective date resets

If you don't file your full claim within 365 days, your Intent to File expires. Your effective date will become the date you actually submit your claim, not the ITF date. This can cost you months of back pay.

You can file a new ITF

If your ITF expires, you can always file a new one. But you'll lose the earlier effective date permanently. The new effective date will be the date of your new ITF.

How to protect your date

File your claim (VA Form 21-526EZ) before the deadline, even if you don't have all evidence yet. You can submit a partially complete claim and add evidence later. An incomplete claim filed on time is better than a perfect claim filed late.

Calculate your potential back pay

Wondering how much your effective date is worth? Use the Back Pay Calculator to estimate.