How does the VA effective date work?
Last verified July 15, 2026 · Reviewed by Esteban Magallon, VA-Accredited Claims Agent
Details
- Filing an Intent to File (VA Form 21-0966) protects the effective date for up to 12 months.
- For increases, the effective date is the earliest date it is factually ascertainable the disability increased — up to one year before the claim (§ 3.400(o)(2)).
- Effective-date disputes are one of the most common issues on Higher-Level Review.
Related
This is general educational information about VA claims — not legal or medical advice. Individual outcomes depend on the record. Oakridge Claims is a private VA-Accredited Claims Agent practice and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.