How to file pre-discharge (BDD)
Benefits Delivery at Discharge — file 180–90 days from ETS/retirement so VA processes while you're still in.
Why BDD matters
- Decision before you finish out-processing. VA targets a decision within 30 days of discharge.
- Effective date is day after discharge — if approved, back pay starts immediately.
- You're still in uniform for C&P exams — easier scheduling, no civilian medical lag.
- You can file BDD and add more conditions within a year of discharge under the 1-year post-discharge window.
Eligibility checklist
- You have a confirmed separation date.
- You are 180–90 days from that date (for BDD) or 1–89 days (for Quick Start).
- You can attend any VA exams scheduled before your separation date.
- You have at least the basics: DD-214 (or projected separation orders), STRs accessible, and at least one condition to claim.
Step by step
- Pull your STRs from milConnect ↗. Don't rely on VA to gather them.
- Run the Symptom Wizard to surface every condition worth claiming. File comprehensively now.
- Get any specialist evaluations you've been putting off. Sleep study, mental health eval, audiology, ortho.
- Line up nexus letters for conditions that aren't presumptive and aren't documented in STRs.
- Cross-check PACT Act eligibility. If you served in qualifying Gulf War or post-9/11 locations, presumptions cover ~300 conditions. See PACT Act.
- File the 21-526EZ online at VA.gov — see the first-claim walkthrough for section-by-section guidance.
- In Section II, check the BDD/Quick Start option if available. Otherwise indicate in your statement that you are filing pre-discharge.
- Attend every C&P exam VA schedules. They may be scheduled before separation — coordinate with your unit for time off.
BDD vs. Quick Start vs. file-after-discharge
| Program | When to file | Decision target | Effective date |
|---|---|---|---|
| BDD | 180–90 days pre-separation | ~30 days after discharge | Day after discharge |
| Quick Start | 1–89 days pre-separation | Standard timeline (~130 days) | Day after discharge |
| File after discharge (within 1 year) | Days 1–365 post-discharge | Standard timeline | Day after discharge |
| File after 1 year | Day 366+ | Standard timeline | Date claim received (lost effective date) |