Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) Claim
If you are between 180-90 days before separation you can file a BDD claim.
Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) Claim
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If you are between 180-90 days before separation you can file a BDD claim.
Ideally, this will allow you to get a claim decision the day after you separate - but this is not always the case.
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IMPORTANT NOTES:
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You MUST submit your Service Treatment Records (STRs) NO LATER THAN 90 DAYS BEFORE you separate from active duty. Failure to do so WILL result in your claim being removed from the BDD program!
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You can obtain your STRs HERE.
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If some records are missing/incomplete that is fine - just submit what you can for now!
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If you decide to file for additional conditions when you are under 90 days to separation, your claim WILL be converted to a Fully Developed Claim or a Standard Claim, depending whether private medical evidence is required to be obtained by the VA.​
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RATER NOTE: Seriously, if you have NOT been seen in service for your claimed condition(s) it is CRITICAL that you file BEFORE you separate! It WILL GREATLY assist you in getting service connection!
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BDD claims CANNOT have ratings finalized till the day AFTER you officially separate from active duty!
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NOTES:
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BDD claims are given priority in terms of claims processing.
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All conditions will be considered under Primary service connection even if they are factually due to another condition.
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Filing a BDD
To file a BDD claim yourself, you can go to VA.gov.
Alternatively, you can have a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) assist you in filing a claim.
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FAQ
How long will it be before my claim is rated?
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The million dollar question! Ideally, the VA would have your rating ready to go, the day after you separate. However, it rarely happens that way. Realistically, you should get a decision in one-three months after separation.
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My claim status shows a date in the future?
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The date shown is the date after you separate from the military. This is because your Effective date cannot be any earlier.
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Do I have to explain how I developed a condition?
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No, when you joined the military you did so with a presumption of soundness - meaning you were 100% healthy (barring anything brought up at MEPS). So the fact something popped up while you were in service means you are good to go (unless it is something the VA will NOT service connect).
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My separation date changed! Do I need to do anything?
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Call the VA (1-800-827-1000) and let them know whats is going on, as a courtesy.
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Whoops, looks like I am just gonna stay in the military. Do I need to do anything?
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Yes! Submit a Personal statement explaining the situation. Failure to do so may result in a debt being created - if the VA starts paying you!
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