Fully Developed Claims (FDC)
Fully Developed Claims (FDC)
The Fully Developed Claims (FDC) Program is the fastest way of getting your compensation or pension claim processed. Participation in the FDC Program allows for faster claims processing while preserving great quality of service and your right to appeal a decision.
What Makes the FDC Program a Faster Process?
You know exactly what's needed
The FDC Program is unique because you will learn exactly what evidence you need to substantiate an eligible claim when you apply, without having to wait for further instructions.
No more waiting for further instructions
You gather all the evidence required
By participating in the FDC Program, you will send the required evidence with your claim and certify that you have nothing further to provide. By doing this, you dramatically reduce the processing time of your claim.
The application time is reduced
The VA has cleared the way
VA has shortened application forms to reduce paperwork and established priority channels to process your FDC claim. This means we are able to process these claims far more quickly than claims going through the traditional process.
We can process your claim quickly
Lock in an effective date with an Informal Claim
If you need time to gather evidence for your FDC claim, you can get started by locking in an effective date with an Informal Claim.
The Informal Claim includes the following statement in the form of a letter:
I intend to apply for compensation/pension benefits under the FDC Program. This statement is to preserve my effective date for entitlement to benefits. I am in the process of assembling my claim package for submission.
The Informal Claim must also be accompanied by:
- the claimant's name (if other than the Veteran)
- the Veteran's name
- the Veteran's claim number
Step 1: Complete your EZ Form and get it certified
Compensation Claim 21-526EZ form
OR
Non service connected Pension Claim 21-527EZ form
Step 2: Gather the evidence
Step 3: Submit your cliam
Veterans First: The 21st Century VA
The Fully Developed Claims Program is just one of many new ways the VA is ensuring our nation's heroes receive the benefits they deserve through quicker and more accurate decisions.
Click to read more about the VA's Claims Transformation Plan
VA Fact Sheet on FDC: Download PDF Documents
Contains documentation on:
- Compensation FDC Criteria
- Pension FDC Criteria
- Opportunity for "Other" Claims to Receive Expeditious Processing in the FDC Program
- When to Submit an FDC "Informal Claim"
- Information for Veterans Service Officers
