How do I file a VA disability claim?

File VA Form 21-526EZ — Application for Disability Compensation.

How long does a VA disability claim take?

4-6 months on average for an initial decision; longer for complex or appealed claims.

A DD-214 is the federal Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty issued to every U.S. servicemember leaving active service.

Veteran Q&A

What is HUD-VASH?

HUD-VASH is a joint HUD/VA program providing rental vouchers + clinical case management for homeless veterans.

HUD-VASH (HUD–VA Supportive Housing) is the federal program for chronically homeless veterans, combining a Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8 rental subsidy) from HUD with VA clinical case management — primary care, mental health, substance use treatment. Apply through your local VA Medical Center's homeless coordinator or by calling the VA Homeless Hotline.

Detail

Eligibility: a veteran (any character of service except dishonorable) who is homeless or imminently at risk of homelessness, and who needs supportive case-management services.
Two parts: HUD voucher (rental subsidy paid to landlord, you pay 30% of income) + VA case management (medical, behavioral health, employment).
Apply: contact your nearest VA Medical Center and ask for the Homeless Coordinator, or call the VA Homeless Hotline 1-877-4AID-VET (1-877-424-3838).
No income cap, but income-based voucher allocation. Veterans with $0 income are typically given priority.
Once placed, the voucher is portable — you can move within the same metropolitan area or transfer to a new HUD-VASH program in another city.
Adjacent: SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) is short-term financial assistance to PREVENT homelessness; GPD (Grant and Per Diem) funds transitional housing operated by community providers.

In crisis? Call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line — 24/7 confidential, federally-operated. Text 838255. Chat at veteranscrisisline.net.

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What is HUD-VASH?

Detail

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