Spoke With the VA! What is the BEST way to file for your Disability Increase for VA Benefits

Veterans can file for an increase in VA disability compensation using VA Form 21-526EZ, Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits. This form can be used to request a reconsideration of a disability rating, or if a veteran's service-connected condition has worsened.

Veterans can file for a VA disability increase using VA Form 21-526EZ by:

Filling out and mailing the form
Veterans can print and fill out the form, and then mail it to the Department of Veterans Affairs, Claims Intake Center, PO Box 4444, Janesville, WI 53547-4444.

Applying online
Veterans can apply online at va.gov, where they can sign in or create an account to prefill parts of the application. They can also upload supporting documents and track the status of their claim online.

When filing a claim for an increase in disability compensation, veterans may need to:

Provide medical evidence that their condition has worsened

Write a letter explaining why their rating should be increased

Attend a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam

Submit private medical exam results or records

Before filing a claim, veterans can check if they are already receiving the maximum disability rating for their condition.