How long does an Intent-to-File last?

One year. File the completed claim within that window to preserve the intent date as your effective date. If you miss the deadline, your effective date resets to the date you eventually file.

When should I use it?

Any time you’re preparing a claim and need more time to gather evidence—medical records, buddy letters, private doctor statements, or nexus opinions. It’s also useful when switching VSOs, considering secondary conditions, or reopening/appealing claims.

How do I file an Intent-to-File?

Start a new claim on VA.gov (intent is recorded automatically), call 800-827-1000 and request to submit an intent-to-file, or submit VA Form 21-0966 by mail.

Intent-to-File VA Claims: Protect Your Backpay with This Simple Step

Intent-to-File for VA Claims: What It Means and Why It Matters

Don’t miss out on months—or even years—of backpay.

🧭 What Is an Intent-to-File?

The Intent-to-File process lets you tell the VA, “I’m planning to file a claim, but I’m not ready yet.”

Why does this matter? Because the day you submit your intent becomes your effective date—and that’s the key to getting backpay. If you submit a full claim within 1 year, you can receive benefits dating back to your intent date, not the date your full claim was received.

✅ Filing early protects your compensation. Waiting could cost you thousands.

🕰️ When Should You Use It?

Any time you’re preparing a claim and need more time to gather:

Medical records
Buddy letters
Private doctor statements
Nexus opinions

You can also use it if you’re:

Switching VSOs
Considering secondary conditions
Appealing or reopening old claims

Don’t wait until everything is perfect. File the intent first.

📅 How Long Does It Last?

An Intent-to-File gives you 1 full year to submit your completed claim.

Submit your full claim within that time, and your effective date = your intent date.
Miss the deadline? Your effective date resets to when you eventually file the claim—not the intent.

💻 How to File an Intent-to-File

Here are 3 ways to start:

Online: Start a new claim on VA.gov. When you begin, your intent is automatically recorded.
By Phone: Call 800-827-1000 and ask to submit an intent-to-file.
By Form (VA Form 21-0966): Download and mail the PDF to your VA Regional Office.

🧠 Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Forgetting to file the full claim within 1 year
❌ Assuming your VSO submitted it — get confirmation
❌ Thinking you filed, but never received a confirmation
❌ Not realizing Intent-to-File also applies to pensions and survivors’ benefits

🔗 Helpful Resources

✍️ Final Thought

If you’re even thinking about filing a VA claim, don’t wait.

Submit your intent-to-file today. You’ll give yourself time to get it right—and protect every dollar you’ve earned.

Theresa "Tbird" Aldrich

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