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VA Rating Calculator
VA math, bilateral factor, and 2026 pay rates.
Open calculatorDenied? What Now
Step-by-step after a denial.
Read guideC&P Exam Prep
Before, during, and after your exam.
Read guideBuddy Statements
Guide and free template.
Get templatePersonal Statements
Guide and free template.
Get templateFamily Resources
CHAMPVA, DEA, and state benefits.
Learn moreKey VA forms
| Form | Purpose |
|---|---|
| VA Form 21-0966 | Intent to File: may preserve an effective date for up to one year |
| VA Form 21-526EZ | Application for disability compensation |
| VA Form 20-0995 | Supplemental Claim |
| VA Form 20-0996 | Higher-Level Review |
| VA Form 10182 | Board appeal (Notice of Disagreement) |
| VA Form 21-8940 | TDIU application |
| VA Form 21-10210 | Lay/witness statement |
| VA Form 21-0781 | Statement for mental health conditions due to in-service traumatic events |
| VA Form 21-22a | Appoint an individual (agent or attorney) as your representative |
| VA Form 21P-534EZ | DIC, survivors pension, and accrued benefits |
Key SSA forms
| Form | Purpose |
|---|---|
| SSA-1696 | Appoint a representative |
| SSA-3368 | Adult disability report |
| SSA-561 | Request for reconsideration |
| HA-501 | Request for hearing |
Important deadlines
| Deadline | Time limit |
|---|---|
| Complete a claim after an Intent to File | 1 year |
| VA Higher-Level Review or Board appeal | 1 year from the decision notice (shorter for contested claims) |
| Supplemental Claim that preserves the effective date | 1 year from the decision |
| Appeal to the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims | 120 days from the Board decision |
| SSA appeals (each level) | 60 days (+5 days presumed mailing) |
C&P exam tips
- Go to every scheduled exam. Missing one can lead to a denial. If you can't make it, call to reschedule right away.
- Describe your worst days and flare-ups, not just today.
- Be honest and specific: how far can you walk, how long can you sit, how often do attacks happen?
- Bring a short written list of symptoms and how they affect your work and life.
- Request a copy of the exam report afterward through VA.
Glossary
- Service connection: VA's finding that a condition is related to military service
- Nexus: The medical link between a condition and service
- C&P exam: Compensation & Pension examination
- Effective date: The date benefits begin. It drives back pay.
- P&T: Permanent and Total. VA doesn't expect improvement.
- TDIU: Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability
- SMC: Special Monthly Compensation
- Presumptive: A condition VA presumes is service-connected for qualifying service
- Pyramiding: Rating the same symptoms twice, which isn't allowed
- SGA: Substantial gainful activity ($1,690/month in 2026 for SSA)