Overview

Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) are downloadable forms for Veterans to use in the disability evaluation process. DBQs can help speed the processing of compensation and pension claims.

DBQs allow Veterans and Servicemembers to have more control over their disability claims process by giving them the option of completing an examination with their own healthcare provider instead of at a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facility.

DBQs enable private healthcare providers to capture important information needed by VA to accurately evaluate and promptly decide Veterans’ claims for benefits.

More than 70 DBQs are available that use check boxes and standardized language to streamline the process. DBQs average about five pages in length. Veterans are responsible for any fees their private provider may charge for completing a DBQ.

How to Find and Submit a DBQ

The DBQ process involves four steps:

1. Access the form online and download it;
2. Have your healthcare provider complete the form;
3. Save a copy for your records; and
4. Submit the form to VA.

The DBQ forms are available on our "List by DBQ Form Name" page.

VBA Transformation

DBQs are an important example of the initiatives the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) is implementing under its Transformation Plan. The goals of VBA’s Transformation are:

• eliminate the backlog in disability claims;
• increase access to services and benefits; and
• end Veteran homelessness

VBA is committed to providing world-class service by transforming the way it does business. People, process, and technology changes will help VBA reach its goal of increasing efficiency and engaging Veterans, Servicemembers, their families, and survivors’ when, where, and how they desire.

Veterans Benefits Administration

VBA serves as a leading advocate for Veterans, Servicemembers, and their families. VBA’s mission is to deliver with excellence benefits and services that honors their military service, assist them in their readjustment, enhance their lives, and engender their full trust.

VBA is responsible for:

• compensation and pension programs for Veterans and their survivors;
• education programs for Veterans, Servicemembers, and certain Veterans’ dependents, and survivors;
• the home loan guaranty program for Veterans, certain spouses, and Servicemembers;
• life insurance programs for Servicemembers and Veterans; and
• the vocational rehabilitation and employment programs for Veterans and Servicemembers with service-connected disabilities who want help preparing for, finding, and keeping suitable jobs.