Quick Start is a joint initiative of the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense, which enables servicemembers to submit an application for service-connected disability compensation while still on active duty, speeding the delivery of VA compensation benefits.
The Quick Start Pre-Discharge Program allows servicemembers to apply for disability compensation benefits from the VA prior to retirement or separation from military service or, in the case of National Guard and Reserve members, prior to release from active duty.
How Can Quick Start Help You?
- Quick Start helps to speed eligibility decisions on claims for VA disability compensation, allowing benefit payments to begin more quickly.
- Quick Start allows servicemembers with less than 60 days remaining on active duty to file a VA disability claim before separation, retirement, release from active duty or demobilization.
- Quick Start allows National Guard or Reserve members to file a claim while attending demobilization briefings and continue the claim process after returning home.
To participate in the Quick Start Program you must know your separation or retirement date and submit an application, along with a copy (or original) of your service medical records.
Follow These Steps to Get Started
1. Complete an Application for Compensation and/or Pension, and submit it to the nearest VA Office or any location where VA accepts claims. To locate your Regional Office, call VA at 1-800-827-1000. You can also complete your application at www.va.gov by clicking on the "Apply Online" TAB at the top of the screen, then select Compensation & Pension, which will take you to the Veterans Online Application (VONAPP).
2. You must have a known separation, retirement, release from active duty or demobilization date.
3. Submit your service treatment records. Either your original records or copies are acceptable. If applying online, you will receive further instructions.
4. Provide VA with a valid forwarding address, telephone number, and e-mail address.
5. Quick Start claims must be received by VA prior to the separation, retirement, release from active duty or demobilization date.
There are three ways to submit a Quick Start claim:
1. Complete an application for Compensation and/or Pension and submit it to your nearest VA Office. For the nearest location to file a claim call 1-800-827-1000 or visit our website at:www.vba.va/predischarge.
2. Submit an application online at VA's website (www.va.gov) using the Veterans Online Application (VONAPP).
3. Request a claim form be mailed to you by calling the VA toll-free at 1-800-827-1000.
For more information visit website at:www.vba.va.gov/predischarge
Special Note for National Guard and Reserve Members:
Guard and Reserve members can file Quick Start disability compensation claims during demobilization briefings, and then complete the claims process after returning home.
If you are unable to complete your application before separation, release from active duty or demobilization, you can submit a claim at any time following your release from active duty through your local VA facility or online through VA's website at www.va.gov.