Benefits Delivery at Discharge Program

Transitioning out of military service comes with a lot of important decisions. The Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) Program can help make that transition easier by allowing eligible Service members to apply for VA disability benefits before they leave active duty, potentially reducing the wait for a disability decision after separation.

What is the Benefits Delivery at Discharge Program?

The Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) Program lets Service members apply for VA disability compensation before they leave active duty. You can file your claim between 180 and 90 days before your separation date.

By applying early, VA can review your medical records, schedule exams, and begin processing your claim before you leave service. The goal of the program is to help VA make a disability decision as quickly as possible after you leave military service.

Am I eligible?

You may be eligible for the BDD Program if you:

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File your claim between 180 and 90 days before your separation date

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Provide your service treatment records (STRs) for your current period of service

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Complete the Separation Health Assessment – Part A Self-Assessment form

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Attend any required VA exams within 45 days after submitting your claim

Some claims require special handling and cannot be processed through the BDD Program. You are not eligible if:

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You need case management for a serious injury or illness

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You have a terminal illness

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You are receiving treatment at a VA hospital or military treatment facility while waiting for discharge

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VA needs to determine your Character of Discharge

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You cannot attend a VA exam during the 45-day period after filing your claim

How do I get started?

Before you submit your claim, gather the documents and information listed below. Having these items ready can make the application process easier and help avoid delays.

You will need:

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A completed Separation Health Assessment – Part A Self-Assessment

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Service treatment records (STRs) from your current period of service

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Medical records that show injuries, illnesses, or events connected to your disability

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Dental records

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Mental health records, if applicable

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Birth certificates for your spouse and dependent children, if applicable

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Direct deposit information

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A copy of your DD Form 214 for prior periods of military service, if applicable. Find VA forms here.

Apply Online

The easiest way to apply for the BDD program is online through VA.gov. Filing online can help your claim move faster. When you’re ready, submit your claim and the required documents using the VA disability claim portal.

Apply by mail

If you prefer to apply by mail, download and print the Separation Health Assessment – Part A Self-Assessment and any other required forms. Complete the forms and gather the supporting documents listed above.

Once everything is ready, mail your completed forms and documents to:

Department of Veterans Affairs Claims Intake Center

PO Box 4444

Janesville, WI 53547-4444

What if I can't get help from the Benefits Delivery at Discharge Program?

If you are not eligible for the BDD Program, you can still apply for VA disability benefits through the Fully Developed Claim Program or the Standard Claim Process. Your local VA office can help you understand your disability claim options and the claims process after separation.

What if I need help?

If you have questions about the Benefits Delivery at Discharge Program or how to apply, help is available. You can:

Contact your local VA office

Your local VA office can answer questions, explain your options, and help you understand the application process.

Call the VA Benefits hotline

You can call the VA Benefits hotline at 800-827-1000 anytime Monday —Friday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST.

VA representatives can answer questions about the Benefits Delivery at Discharge Program, explain the claims process, help you check the status of a claim, and provide information about other VA benefits and services.