VA Forms Directory
Every VA form a veteran is likely to need — explained in plain English, with the right situations to use each one and direct links to the official VA.gov page.
The primary form to file an original or increased VA disability compensation claim.
Use when: Any time after discharge. File a Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) claim 180–90 days before separation for faster processing. Use an Intent to File (ITF) first if you need to lock in an effective date while gathering evidence.
- VA Form 20-0995Decision Review Request: Supplemental Claim
File a Supplemental Claim with new and relevant evidence after an unfavorable decision.
Use when: Ideally within one year of the decision date to protect your original effective date. After one year you can still file, but a favorable decision starts the effective date from the new filing date.
- VA Form 20-0996Decision Review Request: Higher-Level Review
Ask a senior reviewer to take a fresh look at the existing evidence — no new evidence allowed.
Use when: Within one year of the decision letter to preserve the original effective date.
Appeal a VA decision to the Board of Veterans' Appeals in Washington, D.C.
Use when: Within one year of the decision letter.
Apply for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU).
Use when: Any time your conditions prevent gainful work. File alongside or after a claim that triggers TDIU consideration.
- VA Form 21-4138Statement in Support of Claim
General-purpose lay statement form for adding context, evidence narrative, or buddy statements.
Use when: Any time during a claim or appeal. Best when supporting specific evidence gaps.
Document in-service stressors supporting a PTSD claim.
Use when: Alongside or shortly after a PTSD claim on Form 21-526EZ.
Document in-service personal assault or MST stressors.
Use when: Alongside the PTSD claim. Markers (changes in behavior or performance) can substitute for direct evidence.
- VA Form 21-686cApplication Request to Add and/or Remove Dependents
Add a spouse, child, or dependent parent — or remove a dependent after a status change.
Use when: Within one year of the qualifying event to receive full back pay for the additional dependent compensation.
- VA Form 22-1990Application for VA Education Benefits
Apply for Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33), Montgomery GI Bill (Chapter 30), and other education benefits.
Use when: Before starting your program. The VA recommends applying at least 6–8 weeks ahead so the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) arrives in time.
- VA Form 22-5490Dependents' Application for VA Education Benefits
Spouses and children apply for Chapter 35 DEA or transferred Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits.
Use when: Before the dependent's program begins.
- VA Form 26-1880Request for a Certificate of Eligibility (VA Home Loan)
Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to use the VA home-loan benefit.
Use when: Before applying for a mortgage with a VA-approved lender. Many lenders pull the COE for you electronically.
- VA Form 10-10EZApplication for Health Benefits (VA Healthcare Enrollment)
Enroll in VA healthcare.
Use when: Any time after discharge. Combat veterans have a 10-year enhanced enrollment window post-separation.
How to Choose the Right VA Form
The VA has hundreds of forms, but most veterans only need a handful. Start with 21-526EZ to file or increase a disability claim. After a decision, the three appeal forms — 20-0995 (Supplemental Claim), 20-0996 (Higher-Level Review), and 10182 (Board Appeal) — determine which lane you choose. Education benefits run on 22-1990, healthcare enrollment on 10-10EZ, and the home loan benefit on 26-1880.
If you're unsure which form fits your situation, talk to an accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO) — DAV, VFW, American Legion, and PVA all offer free claim help.