Too many service members wait until they’re already out to start thinking about their VA claim. And by then, the best window for early action has closed.
The Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program exists for one reason: to help you file your claim while you’re still on active duty. But to use it effectively, you’ve got to plan ahead.
Here are a few steps you can take right now to get ahead of the game:
1. Know your separation date—and your deadlines.
You must submit your BDD application between 180 and 90 days before discharge. Miss that window, and you’re back to the standard claims route.
2. Request a full physical.
Even if you feel “mostly fine,” your separation health exam is a critical checkpoint. Don’t skip it or rush it. Use it to document anything you’ve dealt with—minor or major.
3. Get your off-base records.
Did you get civilian mental health care, chiropractic treatment, or urgent care while on active duty? Those records matter—and they can take time to collect. Request them now so they’re ready to submit.
4. Start tracking symptoms.
Keep a short log of recurring symptoms, especially those that impact your sleep, work, mobility, or mental focus. This shows consistency and chronicity—two things the VA looks for.
5. Talk to a VSO early.
You don’t have to do this alone. Veteran Service Officers are trained to help you prepare your claim before you exit. The earlier you link up with one, the better your claim prep will be.
Your time in uniform is winding down—but the decisions you make now can affect your future compensation, care, and peace of mind for years to come.
Start preparing early. You won’t regret it.
