What are common reasons VA Disability Compensation claims are denied?

No evidence linking the condition to military service (nexus) Insufficient current diagnosis Missed C&P (compensation and pension) examination Records gaps for service treatment history

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Veterans

VA Disability Compensation

Tax-free monthly payment to veterans with a service-connected hand injury or condition.

Typical timeline: Initial decision averages 4–6 months; complex claims and appeals can take longer.

This page is a dedicated, search-friendly version of the same checklist on the main disability benefits guide. Progress checkboxes sync in your browser only.

Claim checklist & evidence

Forms

VA Form 21-526EZ — Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits link

Step-by-step

1. File an Intent to File to lock in your effective date
VA will backdate benefits to the intent-to-file date if you complete the claim within 1 year.
Next: Submit VA Form 21-0966 or call the VA to file an intent.
2. File 21-526EZ with all evidence
Use the Fully Developed Claim path when possible to speed processing.
Next: Attend the C&P exam; missing it is a top denial reason.
3. Appeal under the AMA review options
Choose Higher-Level Review, Supplemental Claim, or Board Appeal within 1 year of decision.
Next: Add new and relevant evidence to a Supplemental Claim.

Evidence to gather

Check off items as you collect them — progress is saved only on this device (same keys as the main benefits guide).

Service treatment records showing in-service injury or symptoms — Establishes the in-service event for service connection.
Current VA or private medical diagnosis — VA requires a current diagnosis to rate the disability.
Provider 'nexus' letter linking condition to service — Bridges the in-service event and current diagnosis.

Common reasons claims get denied

No evidence linking the condition to military service (nexus)
Insufficient current diagnosis
Missed C&P (compensation and pension) examination
Records gaps for service treatment history

Sources

VA — Disability Compensation · accessed 2026-04-22