VA Updates Forms for Veteran Compensation Claims Processing
Published Date: 12/16/2025
Notice
Summary
The VA wants your thoughts on updating the form veterans use to say they plan to file for benefits like compensation, pension, or survivor payments. This update aims to make the form clearer and easier to use, helping veterans get their benefits faster. If you have ideas or concerns, speak up by February 17, 2026—your input could save time and hassle for many veterans!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Form locks benefit effective date
If you file VA Form 21-0966, it is used to set the effective date for an award if you file a complete claim within one year of the form. The form also serves as a request for an application and VA will mail you a receipt and the appropriate application forms.
Time burden to complete the form
VA estimates the form takes about 5 minutes per respondent. VA estimates 701,272 respondents per year, for a total annual respondent burden of 58,439 hours and a one-time frequency of response.
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Key Dates
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