Apply for veteran pension, compensation; file a claim

1. Gather your available documents

Collect any DD-214, medical evidence, dependency documents, and prior VA decisions. If you're unsure what you need, the VSO will help identify missing items during your appointment.

2. Complete VA Form 21-22 (Representation)

This form authorizes the VSO to assist you.

• Veterans sign as “The Veteran.”
• Survivors sign as “A Claimant.” (See Survivor Benefits page)

Online form:
Online Authorization Form

If you cannot use the link, the VSO can provide an alternative format.

3. Complete Intake / Intent to File (if needed)

The VSO may file VA Form 21-0966 – Intent to File to protect your effective date.

Online version:
Online Authorization Form

If you cannot use the link, the VSO can provide an alternative format.

4. Schedule an appointment

A VSO Representative will:

• Review your available evidence
• Explain claim options
• Identify what documentation is required
• Prepare and file the claim on your behalf

Appointments available by phone or in person.

5. Monitor VA communications

The VA may contact you for:

• Additional evidence or information
• A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam

C&P exams can be held:

• At your local VA medical center, or
• With an official VA contract exam provider

You may receive appointment notifications by phone, text, email, or postal mail. The VSO cannot schedule, reschedule, or access C&P exam details.
All scheduling is handled directly by VA medical center or its exam contractors.

6. Attend Your C&P Exam (if required)

Not all claims require exams, but if VA orders one—attendance is required. Missing an exam may delay or negatively impact your claim.

VA contractors include:

• Loyal Source Government Services — 833-832-7077
• OptumServe / OSHS — 866-933-8387
• QTC / Leidos — 800-682-9701
• Veterans Evaluation Services (VES) — 877-637-8387

7. Track your claim

Track online: Track Your VA Claim or Appeal
VA Hotline: 800-827-1000

As of early 2026, disability claims average 85–103 days, though complex claims may take longer.

8. Contact the VSO after your decision

We can help you:

• Understand the decision
• File an appeal
• Discuss next steps

1. Complete Initial Forms

VA Form 21-22 (Representation)

• This form authorizes the VSO to assist you and communicate with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on your behalf.
  Submit the online version:
  Online Authorization Form

VA Form 21-0966 (Intent to file) (If the veteran is intending on filing a claim please also complete)

VA Form 21-0966 Intent to File

• The 21-0966 lets the VA know we will be filing a claim on the veteran’s behalf and sets the date of claim to the current month.

Online version: Online Authorization Form

If you cannot use the links, the VSO can provide an alternative format.

2. Contact the Marin County Veterans Service Office to schedule an appointment

📧 uufirgfreivprf@znevapbhagl.tbi
📞 415-473-6193

3. Prepare available documentation

(See “Before you start.”)

4. Meet With an Accredited VSO Representative

Your representative will:

• Review your documents
• Identify what else is needed
• Advise on claim type and evidence
• Prepare and file your claim (if applicable)

5. Respond to VA Requests

The VA may contact you for:

• Additional evidence
• Attendance at a C&P exam
  • Contractors may contact you by phone, text, or email. The VSO cannot schedule or modify exam appointments.

6. Attend Your C&P Exam (if required)

Attendance is essential. Missing an exam may delay or negatively affect your claim.

7. Track Your Claim

Monitor status:

Track Your VA Claim or Appeal
VA Hotline: 800-827-1000

A VA disability claim typically takes an average of 85 to 103 days to complete as of early 2026, though timelines vary widely based on complexity. While many claims are finalized in a few months, others can take six months to over a year.

8. See Related Action Pages to get help applying to other benefits/resources

9. Contact the VSO After You Receive a Decision

The VSO can help you:

• Understand the decision
• File an appeal
• Review any questions/concerns