Filing Your First VA Claim? Avoid These Rookie Mistakes

Introduction

Transitioning out of the military is a life-changing step—and one of the most important things you can do for your future is to file a VA disability claim. If you’re dealing with injuries, illnesses, or mental health conditions tied to your service, filing a claim ensures you receive the compensation, medical care, and support you’ve earned.

But for many veterans, the first claim becomes a frustrating, confusing experience. Paperwork gets rejected. Exams are missed. Claims get denied for seemingly minor issues. The truth is, filing your first VA claim can be a minefield if you don’t know what to expect.

This blog breaks down the most common mistakes first-time filers make—and more importantly, how you can avoid them. If you’re filing your first VA claim in 2025, this is your checklist for success.

Mistake #1: Waiting Too Long to File

One of the most common rookie mistakes is delaying your claim. Some veterans wait years to apply, either because they’re unsure of their eligibility, overwhelmed by the process, or simply believe their symptoms will go away.

But waiting can cost you—literally. The VA only pays retroactive benefits from the date you file (not the date your condition started). Waiting means leaving money on the table.

How to avoid it:
File as soon as possible after separation. If you’re not ready to submit everything yet, file an Intent to File via VA.gov. This holds your place in line for up to 12 months while you gather evidence.

Mistake #2: Not Knowing What Conditions to Claim

Many veterans underestimate their own symptoms—or forget about conditions that seem “manageable.” Others claim conditions they think the VA wants to see, rather than what they’re actually experiencing.

The result? Claims that are too narrow, or too vague, to get approved.

How to avoid it:
Do a full self-assessment of your physical and mental health. Think about:

• Chronic pain or injuries from training or deployment

• Hearing loss or tinnitus

• Breathing problems or sleep apnea

• PTSD, anxiety, or depression

• Secondary conditions caused by your primary issues

If you’re not sure, speak to a VSO (Veteran Service Officer) or use your separation health assessment as a reference point.

Mistake #3: Submitting an Incomplete Claim

You can’t just say “I have back pain” and expect benefits. The VA needs three things to approve your claim:

1. A current diagnosis

2. Evidence the condition started or was aggravated during service

3. A nexus (connection) between the two

New veterans often submit claims without medical records, forget to explain the service link, or leave out supporting documents. The result is delays—or denials for “lack of evidence.”

How to avoid it:
Submit a Fully Developed Claim (FDC) only if you already have all necessary records: service treatment notes, VA or private diagnoses, and proof of connection. If not, submit a Standard Claim and let the VA help gather evidence—but expect it to take longer.

Mistake #4: Skipping Lay Evidence

You might assume that only medical professionals can support your claim. But the VA also values lay evidence—written statements from you, family members, or fellow service members describing your symptoms and how they affect your daily life.

These statements are especially helpful for mental health claims or conditions with limited in-service documentation.

How to avoid it:
Write a detailed personal statement about your symptoms, when they began, and how they impact you. Ask your spouse, roommate, or battle buddy to write a short buddy letter confirming your account. Be honest, specific, and consistent.

Mistake #5: Missing or Ignoring the C&P Exam

Once you file, the VA will likely schedule a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam. This is your chance to show a medical provider how your condition affects your life.

Missing the appointment, or showing up unprepared, is one of the fastest ways to derail a claim.

How to avoid it:
Check your email, mail, and VA.gov dashboard for scheduling updates. If the exam date doesn’t work, call the provider (like QTC, VES, or LHI) immediately to reschedule. Before your exam:

• Review your claim so you know what’s being evaluated

• Bring a list of symptoms and how they affect you

• Be honest, but don’t minimize your pain or limitations

Mistake #6: Filing Without Help

Yes, you can file a claim on your own—but that doesn’t mean you should. The VA system is complicated, and the stakes are high. If you check the wrong box or miss a deadline, you could lose out on months (or years) of benefits.

How to avoid it:
Work with a free Veteran Service Officer (VSO). These are trained professionals—often veterans themselves—who can guide you through the process, help you gather documents, and make sure your claim is airtight before you submit.

Organizations like the VFW, DAV, AMVETS, and American Legion offer VSO services nationwide.

Mistake #7: Giving Up After a Denial

Many first-time claimants are denied—and give up right there. That’s a mistake. The VA’s initial decisions aren’t final. Often, claims are denied due to fixable issues like missing evidence or unclear exams.

How to avoid it:
If you’re denied, don’t panic. You have three main appeal options:

1. Supplemental Claim (add new evidence)

2. Higher-Level Review (have a senior reviewer re-evaluate)

3. Board Appeal (take your case before a Veterans Law Judge)

Choose the option that best fits your situation—and get help from a VSO to build your case.

Rookie Mistakes Recap (Quick Reference)

Here’s a quick look at the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:

Final Thoughts

Filing your first VA claim can feel like stepping into a maze—but it doesn’t have to be. By learning from those who’ve gone before you, preparing your evidence, and seeking support, you can avoid the rookie mistakes that cost veterans their benefits every year.

Your time in uniform mattered. So do the health issues that came with it. The VA benefits process isn’t perfect—but it works when approached the right way. Claim what you’ve earned. Get the help you need. And don’t let rookie mistakes stop you from securing your future.