VA Basics
What does VA stand for?
Department of Veterans Affairs
What does AMA stand for?
Appeals Modernization Act
What is “backpay”?
Money the VA owes from the effective date to when the claim is granted
True or False: The VA always gets the effective date right.
False
According to SOP, what’s the naming format for documents saved to OneDrive?
Veteran FN, LN – Document Type – MM.DD.YYYY
What does the VA give to veterans with service-connected disabilities?
Disability compensation
How long does a veteran have to appeal after a decision?
1 year
What rule helps veterans keep the earliest possible effective date?
Continuous Pursuit Rule
The VA uses the exam date instead of claim date — what’s wrong?
It shortens backpay
What board is used to manage pending DBQs and medical evidence requests?
DBQs in Process Board
What is the name of the form used to start a new claim?
VA Form 21-526EZ
What appeal lane allows new evidence?
Supplemental Claim
What form can a veteran use to write a statement about their claim?
VA Form 21-4138
A veteran filed a claim twice for the same condition — what might exist?
A pending or unadjudicated claim
What’s the first form veterans sign to allow representation?
VA Form 21-22a (Appointment of Attorney/Agent)
What does DBQ stand for?
Disability Benefits Questionnaire
What form is used for a Higher-Level Review?
VA Form 20-0996
What can make the effective date earlier — an ITF or a later claim?
An ITF (Intent to File)
The veteran withdrew one issue, and the VA closed all of them. What’s that?
Improper withdrawal
What is the penalty for late attorney fee payment?
$50 per day after 5 days
What does “RDL” stand for?
Rating Decision Letter
What appeal goes directly to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals?
VA Form 10182
What should you always double-check on every RDL?
The effective date
What should you do when a veteran receives a grant?
Verify the effective date and rating
What does “VBMS” stand for?
Veterans Benefits Management System