Pre-Discharge
Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES)
The Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) is a joint DoD and VA disability evaluation process. Under this system, VA helps DoD determine if wounded, ill, or injured Service members are fit for continued Military service and provide disability benefits to Service members and Veterans, if appropriate. IDES allows VA and DoD to share information and to complete each agency’s respective process simultaneously, without the need for duplicative exams and ratings.
IDES participants do not apply or elect to participate in IDES. Upon referral into IDES by their branch of service, each Service member is assigned a dedicated military Physical Evaluation Board Liaison Officer (PEBLO) and a VA Military Services Coordinator (MSC) to assist and advise.
Any Service member who participates in IDES can file a VA claim for disability compensation through their MSC. Service members determined to be unfit for duty receive a single set of disability ratings to determine the appropriate level of DoD and VA disability benefits. IDES participants found fit for duty continue their military service.
Please see our Fact Sheets library, which provides great information on various VA benefits and programs, to include VA Benefits for Service Members Considered for Medical Discharge.
