BDD claim: file VA disability before you get out

Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) lets you file a VA disability claim 180 to 90 days before you leave active duty, so a decision can come sooner after separation.

Who can use BDD (all must be true)

• You're on full-time active duty (includes Guard, Reserve and Coast Guard on full-time active duty).
• You have a known separation date with 180–90 days left.
• You can attend VA exams within 45 days of filing.

Who can't

Claims needing "special handling" are out of BDD even with more than 90 days left: case management for serious injury or illness, terminal illness, awaiting discharge while treated at a VA or military hospital, a pending Character of Discharge determination, or not being available for exams in the 45-day window.

Step by step

1. Mark the date: separation minus 180 days opens the window; minus 90 days closes it.
2. Complete the Separation Health Assessment – Part A Self-Assessment form. You must submit it with the claim.
3. File online on VA.gov (VA pulls your service treatment records for you) or with an accredited rep. If you file another way, you supply STR copies.
4. Stay available for VA exams for 45 days, and finish all phases of the VA/DoD separation exam before you leave.
5. You can add conditions until day 90 before discharge; conditions added later may not be processed until after you're out.
6. Overseas: start at a BDD office, online, or with a rep.

Under 90 days left?

You can't use BDD, but you can still file a pre-discharge claim, or a standard claim. File an intent to file now to protect your date.

Medically unfit?

If your doctor refers you to IDES, the Integrated Disability Evaluation System handles the rating instead.

Help on post: your Transition Assistance Office or Army ACAP center can book a VA benefits briefing.

Related: Top 10 most-missed veteran benefits · Leaving-the-service timeline · VA.gov sign-in help · All vet benefit guides