As the end of the year approaches, many veterans wonder whether filing a VA disability claim before the end of the year can make a difference. While timing isn’t everything, it can impact your effective date, back pay, and how long your claim takes to process.
If you are debating whether you should submit your claim before or after the new year, this blog breaks down what you need to know and when you should get support. At Coskrey Law, we help veterans secure the disability benefits that they have earned and deserve. We understand how important filing timelines can be.
How VA Disability Effective Dates Work
A very important concept in VA claims is the effective date. The effective date is usually the date the VA received your claim, or the date your disability first started. The earlier the effective date, the more backpay benefits you could receive once the claim is approved.
Reasons to File Before the End of the Year
- Lock In an Earlier Effective Date
One of the most important parts of your claim is the effective date. When filing before the new year, it may secure an earlier date, which means more payback, especially if:
- Your condition has worsened this year
- You have been delaying filing, but you know you need to
- You have a new diagnosis and are preparing a claim
- You Already Have Strong Medical Evidence
If you already have:
- A recent diagnosis
- Clear medical records
- A provider that can support you
- A nexus letter showing your service and the condition you have today
- Protecting Yourself From Future Changes
Sometimes the VA will update:
- Rating schedules
- Medical criteria
- Processing guidelines
- Assumed condition list
To learn more about disability claims, click here
Why You Might Want to Wait to File
- You Need Stronger Medical Support
Sometimes it’s better to wait if you:
- Have an upcoming appointment
- Waiting on any lab results or diagnostics
- Waiting on a specialist report
Having a complete record can make your claim stronger
- You Are Waiting for a Nexus Letter
Having a nexus opinion is often the difference between approval and denial. It is usually better to wait for a high-quality letter than to submit a claim without having one.
- You Need More Time to Organize Your Claim
Having a well put-together, supported claim may improve your chances of receiving the correct rating the first time. If you feel unprepared, legal guidance can help you.
When You Should Get Support
When filing for a disability claim, it can be very stressful, especially if you have questions on whether you should submit a claim before the end of the year or wait until after the new year. You may want to contact an attorney if:
- Your initial claim was denied
- You didn’t get the rating you were expecting
- You think your effective date is incorrect
- Your case involves multiple conditions or difficult medical records
- You have questions about how to strengthen your evidence
A law firm dedicated to veterans’ disability cases, Coskrey Law will help you ensure your application is as strong as it can be.
Contact a VA Disability Lawyer Today
If you are considering filing a VA claim or appeal, or have questions on whether you should wait to file until after the new year, here at Coskrey Law, we can help guide you through the process. Contact us or get a free case evaluation, and we will do everything we can to help you.