How to check the status of a VA disability or benefits claim
4 ways to check VA claim status: VA.gov online, VA mobile app, calling 1-800-827-1000, or asking your CVSO/representative. Includes what each status code means and how to respond to "Evidence Gathering" / "Decision Letter Sent" / "Closed" status.
What you'll need
- VA.gov account (or sign-in via ID.me / Login.gov / DS Logon)
- Phone
- Optional: VA mobile app
Step-by-step
Step 1: Online via VA.gov (fastest)
Go to va.gov/claim-or-appeal-status/. Sign in with ID.me, Login.gov, or DS Logon. View all open claims, status codes, and any document requests from the VA. This is the same interface VA examiners use, so what you see is what they see.
Step 2: VA mobile app (push notifications)
Download the official VA mobile app (iOS / Android). Same data as VA.gov but with push notifications when status changes. Useful if you're waiting on a decision letter and want real-time alerts.
Step 3: Call 1-800-827-1000 (general VA)
If you can't access online: call 1-800-827-1000 (Mon-Fri 8am-9pm ET). Have your file number or SSN ready. Wait times average 15-30 minutes. The agent can read claim status, see document requests, and confirm receipt of mailed evidence.
Step 4: Ask your CVSO or accredited representative
If you filed via a CVSO / VFW / American Legion / DAV / AMVETS, they have direct VA system access for any claim they filed. They can pull status faster than you can call, and they can interpret status codes (Pending Decision Approval, Evidence Gathering, etc.) in plain English.
Critical tips
- Status "Pending Decision Approval" means the rater has decided and your claim is in final review — typically 2-6 weeks before decision letter. Don't panic at this stage; just wait.
- Status "Evidence Gathering" + a request for additional records = respond within 30 days. Missing the deadline can result in a denial that's harder to appeal.
- Status "Closed" without a decision usually means a procedural problem (you missed an exam, didn't respond to evidence request, or the VA lost track). Call your CVSO immediately to reopen.
- If denied, you have 1 year to file a Notice of Disagreement (NOD) or Higher-Level Review. After 1 year, you must file a new claim.