What happens after you file?
These stages explain VA processing. They do not show your personal claim status.
Claim received
What VA is doing
VA received the claim in its system.
What you may need to do
Retain your filing confirmation. Check VA's official status tool to confirm receipt and see actual requests.
Initial review
What VA is doing
VA checks the basic information it needs to process the claim.
What you may need to do
Respond if VA says information is missing.
Evidence gathering
What VA is doing
VA collects and checks evidence. It may request records, ask you for evidence, or schedule an examination.
What you may need to do
Read each request, supply or identify the requested evidence, and attend an examination if scheduled. Follow the response instructions in the notice.
Evidence review
What VA is doing
VA reviews the evidence it gathered. It can return to evidence gathering if more information is needed or received.
What you may need to do
Keep contact information current and check for requests. You can send needed evidence through VA; more evidence may require further review.
Rating
What VA is doing
VA decides the issues and any applicable disability evaluations. It can return to evidence gathering.
What you may need to do
Watch for requests. This label does not mean that service connection or a particular percentage has been approved.
Preparing decision letter
What VA is doing
VA prepares the explanation of its decision. More evidence can return the claim to development.
What you may need to do
Prepare to read the decision issue by issue. The label is not a payment promise.
Final review
What VA is doing
A senior reviewer checks the claim and the decision letter.
What you may need to do
Continue to follow any actual requests from VA.
Claim decided
What VA is doing
The decision letter is available in VA's claim-status tool. VA also mails a copy.
What you may need to do
Read every issue's outcome, findings, reasons, evaluation, effective date if applicable, and review instructions. Keep the letter.