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 needed 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.

Include the following in your claim:

• A Separation Health Assessment - Part A Self-Assessment that can be downloaded from VA’s website

• A copy of your STRs from the current period of service. (Note: If you have electronic STRs and are not filing your claim on VA.gov, contact your local BDD intake site to receive instructions on how to send them securely)

• Any other records, personnel or other, documenting the injuries, illnesses or events that contributed to your service-related disability

• Dental records

• Mental health records, if applicable

• Birth certificate (for spouse and dependent children, if applicable)

• Direct Deposit Information

• DD Form 214 Member-4 or Service-2 Copy, for all periods of service to include current period of service once issued

• You can also fill out and mail in an Initial Claim with VA Form 21-526EZ, “Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits” at least 90 days before separation date

At Greene & Marusak, our VA-accredited representatives help active-duty service members prepare strong, accurate BDD claims so you can separate with confidence and clarity about your benefits.

Give us a call at (844) 483-8737