File a Claim for Service-Connected Disability Compensation

Service-Connected Disability Compensation benefits require that the disability:

• Be service-connected
• Have separated or been discharged from service under other than dishonorable conditions

A disability can apply to physical conditions, as well as mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

To have a fuller, more comprehensive understanding of potential and specific conditions to consider filing a claim for, a potential claimant may wish to speak with a New York State Veterans Benefits Advisor.

• If awarded a Service Connection Disability, treatment for that specific condition is provided to a Veteran free of charge at a VA facility (or pre-authorized non-VA provider)
• If awarded a Service Connection Disability with a compensable rating, then a tax free monthly dollar amount will be paid to the claimant.

Refer to this step by step process on how to apply for Service-Connected Disability Compensation:

1. Schedule an initial phone consult appointment with a Veterans Benefits Advisor by calling our Contact Center at 1-888-838-7697.
2. During initial appointment, the Veteran will discuss with the State Veterans Benefits Advisor possible conditions to apply for Service-Connected Disability Compensation.
3. The Veterans Benefits Advisor may then need to meet in person with the Veteran to initiate the process to file the claim, and/or request documentation to support the claim.
4. The Benefits Advisor submit the claim on behalf of the claimant.
5. The VA then adjudicates the claim.
6. The VA notifies in writing the decision of the claim, the notification is sent to both the claimant and the Benefits Advisor.
7. If the decision is adverse to the claimant, the claimant has the option to appeal within a specified time period. The Benefits Advisor can assist with, and file the appeal on behalf of, the claimant, if the claimant chooses to do so.

Please note: As claims may vary greatly in terms of complexity, timeliness and comprehensiveness of supporting documentation being provided, and the claim may require a VA requested and conducted medical evaluation of the claimant, the VA provides no specific set timeframe on when the claim will be adjudicated.

Ready? Have with you:

• Relevant military service records, such as DD214’s.
• Relevant military medical records such as Line of Duty documentation. If you don’t have copies of your medical and military service records, a State Veterans Benefits Advisor can help request the documentation.
• Relevant civilian medical records, such as current diagnosis of claimed condition.

Please note the process, complexity, and documentation needed to sufficiently file, and length of time to adjudicate, a Service-Connected Disability Compensation claim can vary greatly depending on factors such as type and number of conditions claimed.

To apply, you must schedule an appointment with a Veterans Benefits Advisor by contacting your local New York State Department of Veterans’ Services (DVS) Office.