Veterans Disability Claims Backlog: What Vets Must Know
Important: We updated this article with current backlog numbers from the VA in September 2022. Are you considering applying for veterans benefits from the VA? Maybe you heard there is a veterans disability claims backlog. Don’t let that stop you from applying for benefits! If you need help with your application or appealing a denial, then you may qualify for legal assistance.
Veterans Disability Claims Backlog Peaked in 2013
When it comes to applying for VA benefits, the backlog is a major hurdle for almost every applicant. In March 2013, this hurdle reached an all-time high when the backlog of claims reached of over 611,000. Since this peak in 2013, the VA implemented new strategies to prevent future problems. Solutions include paperless processing and overtime to better cut through the backlog and help veterans get benefits faster. Currently, the VA backlog holds a little more than 152,000 pending claims. While this number may still seem high, the VA’s efforts to streamline the process are working. In February 2019, the VA launched a new appeals process to gradually reduce the veterans disability claims backlog.
While this is a good sign, there are still some issues that hinder the VA when it comes to the benefits application process. The VA also vowed to tackle remaining issues on behalf of veterans and build upon existing improvements.
According to current VBA data for September 2022, here’s how long it takes, on average, to process each claim:
- FDC (Fully Developed Claims) take an average of 124.3 days to complete
- Non-FDC claims (i.e., applications for benefits other than VA disability compensation) take approximately 145 days to complete
You May Qualify for VA-Accredited Legal Assistance
If your application’s stuck in the veterans disability claims backlog, then talk to a VA-accredited lawyer about your case. In recent years, the VA awarded the maximum benefit amount to nearly half of all vets with legal representation. And for appealed cases, 82% of vets with lawyers prevailed against the VA in court!
Ready to see if you may qualify? Click the button below to start your free online benefits evaluation now!
