VA Offers Claims Expediting Advice

In the face of complaints about delays by the Department of Veterans Affairs in processing disability claims (previous item), the VA offers advice to speed up claims. First, veterans should file their claims immediately after separation or retirement, or as soon as possible if a service-connected illness or injury occurs after separation. Veterans also should use a trained Veteran’s Service Officer to assist with their claim. In addition, the application should be completely filled in and include ample supporting documentation. And claimants should respond promptly to any request for additional information because the claim process stops until they reply.