You Earned It. File Before You Separate.BDD Is the Fastest Path to Benefits After Discharge.
Benefits Delivery at Discharge lets you file your VA disability claim 180–90 days before separation so your rating is effective day one.
What Is a BDD Claim?
Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) is a VA program that lets active duty service members file their disability claim 180 to 90 days before separating from the military. Instead of waiting months after discharge to start the process, BDD lets the VA begin reviewing your claim while you're still serving—so your rating and benefits can be effective the day after separation.
Missed the BDD window? You can still file after separation—but BDD gives you the fastest path to benefits with no gap in coverage.
The BDD Timeline
Here's what your BDD journey looks like from start to finish.
Gather Your Records
Request your service treatment records and start identifying conditions you want to claim. Document everything—even conditions you think are minor.
Build Your Evidence
Use VeteranAI's self-service tools to generate your own personal statements and nexus letters for each condition. Our AI cites medical research so you can clearly articulate how service caused or worsened your conditions.
Submit Your BDD Claim
File your claim on VA.gov with all supporting evidence attached. The earlier you submit within the window, the more time the VA has to process before your separation date.
Attend C&P Exams
The VA will schedule Compensation & Pension exams to evaluate your conditions. Be thorough and honest—describe your worst days, not your best.
Rating Effective Day One
If your claim is processed in time, your disability rating—and benefits—are effective the day after you separate. No gap in coverage.
Ask Six—our AI assistant trained on VA claims—any question about BDD, evidence requirements, or your specific situation.
What You Need to File
A strong BDD claim needs the right evidence. Here's what to prepare—and how to use VeteranAI for each piece.
Service Treatment Records
Your in-service medical records documenting injuries, illnesses, and treatments during your time in the military.
Personal Statements
Detailed narratives describing how each condition affects your daily life. You create these using VeteranAI's AI tools.
VeteranAI generates theseNexus Letters
Medical opinion letters connecting your conditions to military service with cited research. VeteranAI generates these.
VeteranAI generates theseBuddy / Lay Statements
Statements from fellow service members, family, or friends who witnessed your conditions or their impact. Use VeteranAI to generate a draft they can review.
Generate drafts with AIGot Questions? Ask Six.
Six is our AI chat assistant trained specifically on VA disability claims. Ask about BDD timelines, evidence requirements, secondary conditions, C&P exams—anything about your claim.
Don't Wait Until You're Out
The BDD window is your best shot at benefits from day one. Use VeteranAI to build a strong claim while you still have access to military medical records and facilities.