VA Disability Glossary – Key Terms Every Veteran Should Know

Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) Program

  • The Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) Program allows service members to file a VA disability claim before leaving active duty so they can receive VA benefits more quickly after separation. The program allows service members to apply for VA disability compensation benefits between 180 to 90 days prior to separation. This timeframe allows VA to review Service Treatment Records (STRs), schedule necessary exams, and evaluate the claim before separation.

    BDD is designed to reduce the gap between military service and the start of VA compensation, helping veterans transition more smoothly into civilian life.

  • To be eligible for BDD, service members must:

    • Know their separation date

    • File their claim between 180 and 90 days prior to separation

    • Provide a copy of their STRs for the current period of service

    • Provide a completed Separation Health Assessment - Part A Self-Assessment

    • Be available for 45 days from the date the claim is submitted to attend VA exams

    In addition to service members who do not meet the requirements above, the following issues and conditions are excluded from BDD claims. Service members who are:

    • Seriously ill or injured;

    • Lost a body part;

    • Are terminally ill;

    • Claims requiring a C&P exam in a foreign country, except those that can be processed through Landstuhl, Germany or Camp Humphreys, Korea;

    • Claims for service members awaiting discharge while hospitalized in a VA or military treatment facility; or

    • Claims that require a character of discharge determination.

  • At Greene & Marusak, our VA-accredited representatives can help you understand the BDD program.

    Give us a call at (844) 483-8737

    Check out our YouTube video where two of our own U.S. Army veterans break down the BDD Program: VA Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) Program explained by U.S. Veterans

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