VA Deadlines

Missing a VA deadline usually doesn't cost you the claim. It costs you back pay. This plain-language guide covers every VA deadline that protects your effective date. It explains the Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) window 180 to 90 days before separation, and the 1-year rule that can start your pay the day after discharge. It also covers Intent to File, decision reviews, Board and court deadlines, proposed reductions and your due process rights, VA debts, severance and separation pay recoupment, and deadlines for dependents and survivors. Download our free VA Claim Deadlines guide (PDF), with examples, step-by-step instructions, a deadline worksheet and a checklist. Download our free Protecting Your Rating guide (PDF) to learn the 5-, 10- and 20-year protections and what to do in the first 30 days after a proposed reduction.