Claims Assistant

🎯 Select Your Claim Type

Check off documents as you gather them. ZEUS saves your progress.

DD-214 (Certificate of Release / Discharge)

Required for all VA claims. Get free copy at archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records

Military Service Records (STR)

Service Treatment Records — available through VA or NPRC request

Private Medical Records

Any treatment related to your disability claims

Nexus Letter from Doctor

Doctor's opinion connecting condition to service — very important

Buddy Statements (Lay Evidence)

Statements from fellow service members who witnessed your condition

VA Form 21-526EZ (Application)

Main disability compensation application form

Social Security Number & Address

For identity verification on all VA forms

Direct Deposit Info

Bank routing and account number for payments

1 year from discharge — File VA disability claim within 1 year of separation for earliest effective date
Appeals: 1 year — You have 1 year from VA decision to appeal (Higher Level Review or Board)
SSDI: 5 month wait — Social Security requires 5-month waiting period after disability onset date
SSI: Apply immediately — SSI has no waiting period but strict income/asset limits ($2,000 individual)
GI Bill: 15 years — Post-9/11 GI Bill must be used within 15 years of last discharge
Free VSO help — Veterans Service Organizations (DAV, VFW, American Legion) provide free claims assistance
TDIU available — Total Disability Individual Unemployability — get 100% pay at lower rating if you can't work