An Intent to File is a formal notice submitted to the VA that lets them know that you plan to apply for benefits without having to complete the full application right away. It’s a simple but important step that can secure an earlier effective date for your benefits, which means you could receive retroactive payments if your claim is approved. Retroactive payments are for the time between the VA processed your intent to file and when the claim is approved.

Once the Intent to File is submitted, you have up to one year to complete and submit the full application for:

• Disability compensation

• Pension benefits

• Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)

The VA will consider the date you submitted your Intent to File as the effective date for benefits, as long as your full claim for benefits is received within that one year window.

• You must file a full claim for benefits within one year of the VA receiving your Intent to File

• If you don’t submit the full claim within that year, you’ll lose the protected effective date

• A new Intent to File must be submitted if the one year window is passed

Submit Online:

Click to submit an Intent to File form online

By Phone:

Call 1-800-827-1000 (TTY: 771) to notify VA of your Intent to File

By Mail or In Person:

Submit VA Form 21-0966 and mail it to the VA intake center or bring it to a VA regional office near you

Filing an Intent to File gives you time to gather evidence, consult a VA-accredited representative, or prepare your claim thoroughly—without losing out on potential back pay. It’s a smart first step, especially if you're unsure whether your application is complete or still gathering documentation.

We have attorney’s and representatives here at Greene & Marusak that can help you complete your application.

Give us a call at (844) 483-8737