How To Apply For A VAC Disability Benefit

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Here are some pointers to better understand the disability benefits application process and help you apply.

Step 1 - Get an application

You can get an application one of four ways:

1. Download an application on-line at www.veterans.gc.ca.;
2. Call us toll-free at 1-866-522-2122;
3. Visit one of our district offices across the country; or
4. Visit your local Legion and a Royal Canadian Legion service officer can help you.

Step 2 - It’s all in the details . . .

You know the old saying, make sure the "I"s are dotted and the "T"s are crossed? Well, for your application to be complete, that means we need the following items:

1. A completed medical form from your doctor or base surgeon. This must include a medical diagnosis of your disability. We will give you the form with your application for your doctor to complete; and
2. Any reports on your military or RCMP file that would help make the connection between your service and your disability.

Remember, although you are responsible for getting the medical information and any other information that would seem important to your claim, we can help—just ask to speak to a pension officer at your local district office or a Royal Canadian Legion service officer.

Step 3 - Your application arrives at Veterans Affairs Canada

We want to process your claim as quickly as possible, but we can’t do so without your help. So, please make sure you have all the information listed above before putting your application in the mail. If we don’t have all of this information, then the decision-making process will take longer.

Once you mail or drop off your completed application form and medical documentation, a pension officer will:

1. order your service records;
2. review your application, medical reports and service documents; and
3. let you know if there is anything else is required to complete your claim.

Step 4 - Who makes the decision on your claim

Your claim is then sent to VAC’s head office located in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. There, it is reviewed by an adjudicator who independently examines the medical and service information and other evidence you submitted for your claim. A few questions the adjudicator needs to answer in order to reach a decision include:

1. Is there a disability?
2. Is your disability the result of or partially related to your service with DND or the RCMP?
3. What is the extent of the disability?
4. How has the disability affected your quality of life?

Step 5 - And the decision is . . .

Once the adjudicator reaches a decision on your claim, you will receive a letter in the mail. The letter will explain in simple terms what the decision is, what evidence was used to reach the decision, the level of your entitlement and your assessment. Sometimes, we’ll need additional information, all of which will be explained in your letter.

Step 6 - If you’re not happy . . .

If you get an unfavourable decision, that means your claim did not meet the requirements of our legislation. Your decision letter will explain the reasons why and you will be given appeal rights. In some instances, you may have additional information that was not submitted the first time so you’ll have the opportunity to send this to us for a review by a different adjudicator. In all instances though, you are entitled to free legal advice from the Bureau of Pensions Advocates who can best guide you if you wish to have your claim reviewed or appealed.

• Important Notices