Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD)
BDD allows a Servicemember to submit a claim for disability compensation 60 to 180 days prior to separation, retirement, or release from active duty or demobilization. BDD can help you receive VA disability benefits sooner, with a goal of within 60 days after release or discharge.
BDD requires a minimum of 60 days to allow sufficient time to complete the medical examination process (which may involve multiple specialty clinics) prior to separation from service. If you are closer than 60 days to separation from service, you can submit a Quick Start claim. BDD is available nationwide and open to all Servicemembers on full time active duty, including members of the National Guard and Reserve. Members of the Coast Guard may also participate.
Requirements To Participate | BDD Program |
---|---|
Do I have a known separation date? | Yes |
How far away is my known separation date? | 60 – 180 days |
When must I submit my service treatment records to VA? | At the time claim is submitted |
When and where must I complete all phases of my VA/DoD medical separation examination process? | At your point of separation, prior to release from the military |
When may I apply? | If you meet all of the BDD requirements above, you may apply for BDD 60-180 days prior to separation. |
To file a pre-discharge claim under BDD, do one of the following:
If you are on a military installation, contact your local Transition Assistance Office or ACAP Center (Army only) to schedule appointments to attend VA benefits briefings and learn how to initiate your claim. You can also call the VA toll-free at 1-800-827-1000.