Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) Program
How Do We Get Started?
​​To get started:
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Create an account and apply online at va.gov (see "File for Disability Compensation").
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Include (in the hope of processing your claim faster):
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A Separation Health Assessment - Part A Self-Assessment form.​ (​Guide).
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A copy of the service members Service Treatment Record.
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Any other records, personnel or other, documenting the injuries, illnesses, or events that contributed to the disability (including the "Buddy Statement."
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Such as: Military entrance physical and all periodic health assessments; inpatient/outpatient records; military and private medical documents; traumatic brain injury records; behavioral health/mental health records, and dental records.
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Direct Deposit Information (banking).
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DD Form 214 Member-4 or Service-2 copy, for all periods of service once the form is received. This form is NOT required with the initial application; however, it is needed for completion of the BDD claim - so send this in as soon as it is received (remember - file early because benefits could start as soon as you file).
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Some Brief Q & A's About BDD Claims
​​Some commonly asked questions are:
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Question: Should a Veteran file for BDD even if they are unsure where their permanent residency will be when they get out?
Answer: Yes, but more important is understanding where the Veteran/family needs to reside when the exam for the BDD claim is ordered. If you are not at the address put on the VA forms, the exams will be ordered for the wrong place and may delay the decision. ​
Question: What if a BDD if filed but we move before scheduling your compensation and pension (C&P) exam or move before the scheduled appointment?
Answer: The exams will be ordered based on the address that is placed on the VA application. If those exams are missed, they must be rescheduled which could significantly delay the processing of the BDD claim. ​
​​Question: How long does a BDD claim take? Is the BDD claim timeline the same regardless of whether it's a BDD claim?
Answer: The timetable is quite different. When a Veteran files a claim after they separate, it can sometimes take nine months to a year. BDD claims run parallel to your active military service, meaning you still receive a paycheck when the claimed are processed. IN most cases, the claim is completed within weeks after separation, up to a few months.
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You can find more information by clicking here.
Can We Expedite Our BDD Claim?
You absolutely can try!
Some Additional Resources
Benefits Delivery at Discharge
This site provides you with information from: Contact Information for BDD Intake Sites to How it Works.
Information provided here provides information on filing a claim before getting off of active duty.
VFW Accredited Service Officers assist in filing for disability compensation, pension and death benefits, and more. They also aid in requesting hearings before the VA and the Board of Veterans Appeals to present oral arguments when needed.
Experts are available
across the country to help navigate VA benefits and provide counseling for
claims and appeals.