Pre-Discharge Program
The Pre-Discharge Program is a joint Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Department of Defense (DoD) program that affords service members the opportunity to file claims for disability compensation up to 180 days prior to separation or retirement from active duty or full time National Guard or Reserve duty (Titles 10 and 32).
The four components of the Pre-Discharge Program are:
- Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD)
- Quick Start
- Disability Evaluation System (Pilot program)
- Seriously Injured/Very Seriously Injured (SI/VSI)
We have made it easier for you to file a Pre-discharge claim. Complete the VA Form 526c, Pre-Discharge Compensation Claim, and submit it with your service treatment records (originals or copies) to the VA location nearest you.
While in the Pre-Discharge Program, members may also apply for other VA benefits, such as Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, Education, and Loan Guaranty.
BDD and Quick Start are available nationwide and open to all service members on full time, active duty to include members of the National Guard and Reserves. Members of the Coast Guard may also participate. The process can begin at a military installation/intake site or VA Regional Office.
Two overseas military installations have processes in place to accept BDD claims: Germany and South Korea.
Click here to apply for BDD or Quick Start electronically. In order to expedite processing of your claim, call the toll-free number, 1-800-827-1000, to obtain the address to send a copy or original of service treatment records.
Visit VA Returning Service Members (OEF/OIF) for additional information, including resources for family and outreach activities for returning service members.
VA Benefits in Brief is a printable document that provides an at-a-glance description of VA benefits, as well as contact phone numbers and locations.
Visit TurboTAP and MilitaryOneSource for 24/7 access to helpful guides on pre-separation and transition, information on employment, education, relocation, benefits, and more.
