It can take an extensive amount of time before the VA can finalize your disability claim. To keep yourself updated, you need to check VA claim status from time to time.
However, many veterans may find it challenging to check their VA disability claim status. If you find yourself asking, “How to check the status of my VA claim?” seeking the educational and coaching assistance of a veteran coaching firm, such as J4V, may help you with the knowledge for a more seamless process of applying for VA disability claims. You can visit our page for more information.
For this article, we will uncover different methods of VA claim tracking, useful VA claim status tools, and the steps you can take if your claim is taking longer than expected.
Ways to Check Your VA Claim Status
The VA offers different tools for veterans to track their claim status via the following:
- Online tools
- Phone support
- Mail notifications, or
- Personal visits.
These methods are the VA’s way of ensuring that veterans remain updated on the status of their VA claims. Here are:
Online Through VA’s Website (VA.gov or eBenefits)
Checking your VA claim status online—or by using the VA’s New Track Claims Tool—is potentially one of the easiest and most convenient, giving you 24/7 access to your claim information. Here are the steps to access your claim details.
1. Log into your VA account, start by visiting the VA.gov website, and locating the “Sign In” option. You can log in by using the following accounts (if there are any).
- Login.gov
- ID.me
- DS Logon, or
- My HealtheVet Account
If you don’t already have one, you’ll need to create an account and go through identity verification to maintain a secure login.
2. Once you’re signed in, look for the “Claims and Appeals” section. If you have an active claim or appeal, a notification box will appear in this section. To view more details, select the “Manage All Claims and Appeals” option.
3. From here, you’ll be able to see a full list of both active and past claims. Clicking on a specific claim will display its current status, along with any required next steps—such as submitting additional documents. In most cases, all you need to do is wait while the VA processes your claim.
Alternatively, you can check your claim through eBenefits by logging in and navigating to the “Disability Compensation” section.
By Phone (VA Hotline)
Speaking with a representative is also an option. You can check your claim status by contacting the VA benefits hotline at 1-800-827-1000.
By Mail (Status Notification Letters)
The VA also sends status updates through the mail. If you haven’t received any updates, ensure your mailing address is correct in the VA system. While slower than online tracking, mail notifications provide official documentation of your claim’s progress.
In-person at a VA Regional Office
You can visit your nearest VA regional office and speak with a VA representative to check your claim status. To find the closest office, use the VA Facility Locator.
Understanding Different VA Claim Statuses and What They Mean
When tracking your VA claim, you’ll encounter various status terms. Here’s what they mean:
Step 1: Claim Received
After filing for your VA claims benefits, the system ought to move it to “Claim Received,” meaning that it is accepted by the VA and should undergo review.
Step 2: Under Review
A representative will conduct a thorough review of your claim and help with its finalization. During this process, The VA will try to determine if your claim would require additional evidence. Under this status, the VA will also schedule the result of the Compensation and Pension Exam (C&P).
Step 3: Gathering of Evidence
At this stage, the representative will require additional evidence from the appropriate source, if necessary.
Step 4: Evidence Review
Another evaluation, or review, will be conducted to finalize a decision.
Step 5: Preparation for Decision
The representative has recommended a decision at this stage. Documents, including the details of the decisions, are being prepared.
Step 6: Pending Decision Approval
Review of the decision is undergoing, and a decision should be finalized soon.
Step 7: Preparation for Notification
Your decision is being prepared for mailing.
Step 8: Complete
The VA should send you the details of the decision via the U.S. mail. The information would include the process that the VA underwent to finalize the decision, such as the validity of your documents, medical records, and service connection.
What to Do If Your Claim Is Taking Too Long?
The VA would usually take up to 3 or 6 months to make a decision. In some circumstances, it may take longer for reasons such as missing documents or backlogs.
It is a lengthy process; hence, it is important to ensure that you have sufficient documents and evidence of your claim. If in the event that the process is taking longer than the usual timeframe, then you may perform the following:
- Contact the VA Hotline–Call 1-800-827-1000 and request an update.
- Submit a Request for Assistance–Use the VA Inquiry Routing & Information System (IRIS).
- Confirm if you have submitted incomplete or missing documents–Log into VA.gov to see if the VA requested additional evidence.
How to Appeal a Decision After Checking Your Claim?
One of the most concerning aspects that may result in a lengthy VA decision process is VA claim denial. If you feel that this is incorrect, you can also appeal the decision and request one of the following:
- Request a Higher-Level Review
- Submit a Supplemental Claim.
- File a Board Appeal
What Are the Common Issues When Checking VA Claim Status?
While tracking your VA claim, you may encounter these common problems:
- Login Issues on VA.gov
- Outdated Contact Information
- Claim Not Showing Up
How to Stay Proactive and Informed About the VA Claims Process
Seeking educational and coaching assistance from a professional VA consulting firm, such as Just4Veterans, can help you stay informed and educated about the recent happenings in the VA claims process.
We are a dedicated veteran coaching firm offering top-notch education and coaching.
You may book a free strategy call to directly reach our veteran coaches. You may also visit our VA claims assistance page to learn more about us.