How to Speed Up Your VA Disability Claim

The VA says that in January of 2024, the average time for processing a VA disability claim was just over 159 days. Some cases take significantly longer. And, of course, you can expect a much longer timeline if it is necessary to appeal a denial. 

In certain circumstances though, a veteran seeking VA disability benefits may be entitled to priority processing. A veteran who believes they are eligible can request priority processing by completing and filing VA Form 20-10207. 

7 Reasons a Veteran May Qualify for Expedited Processing

A veteran may be entitled to priority processing of their VA disability claim if:

1. The veteran is experiencing extreme financial hardship. Note that this doesn’t just mean that the budget is stretched thin while awaiting a determination. The VA will be looking for evidence such as notices of foreclosure or eviction, past-due utility bills, and collection notices. 
2. The veteran is terminally ill. To qualify for expedited processing based on terminal illness, the veteran will be required to submit medical documentation.
3. The veteran has been diagnosed with ALS. As with terminal illness, a priority processing request based on a diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) will require medical documentation. 
4. SI/VSI status.  A veteran who is very seriously injured or ill (VSI) or who is seriously injured or ill (SI) during military operations is entitled to expedited processing. Both military and medical records may be required for this type of priority processing. 
5. The veteran is age 85 or older. The only proof required for priority processing based on the veteran’s age is their verified date of birth. 
6. The veteran is a former prisoner of war. This may be demonstrated through military records and information such as the veteran’s branch of service, dates of service, place and dates of internment, and other relevant information. 
7. The veteran is a Medal of Honor or Purple Heart recipient. Military records may be used to establish eligibility for priority processing on this basis. 

How Much Difference Does Priority Processing Make? 

There’s no specific timeline for a claim going through priority processing. However, the claim will get priority at every stage of the process, which can shave off a significant amount of time. 

Get Help Expediting Your VA Disability Claim

Qualifying for priority processing can speed up your VA disability claim. But, it’s not the only aspect of your claim that can make a difference. For example, if you’re able to submit a fully developed claim, that can also be a time saver. 

An experienced VA disability benefits advocate can explain your options for moving your claim forward as quickly as possible, and help you avoid unnecessary delays due to small errors or missing evidence. To learn more, call Veterans Help Group right now at (855) 855-8992 or contact us here now.

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