This tool provides estimates for educational purposes only. We are not accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs and do not file claims, provide legal advice, or represent veterans before the VA (38 U.S.C. § 5904). For official assistance, contact a VSO, CVSO, or VA-accredited attorney.
Scenario walkthroughs
Each scenario follows a representative veteran through the VA benefits system end to end. They are illustrative, not individualized advice. Use them to see how the VBN tools fit together for a given situation, then work with a CVSO or VSO to apply the path to your own case.
First-time filer with PTSD
Recently separated veteran filing for PTSD for the first time
A path for a veteran who has never filed a VA disability claim and is starting with PTSD. The steps lock in an effective date, gather the evidence VA actually reads, and prepare for the C&P exam without overstating the case.
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Vietnam-era veteran who never filed
Vietnam-era veteran exploring a first claim decades after service
A path for a veteran who served during the Vietnam era and never filed for VA disability. Agent Orange and other presumptive conditions can apply even decades later, and there is no time bar on filing for service connection.
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Post-9/11 veteran transitioning with PACT exposure
Service member separating with documented burn-pit or other PACT-listed exposure
A path for a Post-9/11 service member who is still in uniform and may have qualifying exposure under the PACT Act. The Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program may allow filing before separation, with a faster turnaround.
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Surviving spouse navigating DIC and CHAMPVA
Surviving spouse of a veteran whose death may meet DIC eligibility
A path for a surviving spouse exploring Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) and CHAMPVA healthcare. Both programs are administered by VA and have specific eligibility tied to the veteran’s service connection or cause of death.
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