How to apply for Arizona Veteran Benefits Counselors (Free VA Claims Help)

Who it's for

Arizona's Veteran Benefits Counselors give free help to veterans, their dependents, and survivors with federal and state benefits — preparing and filing VA disability compensation and pension claims, appealing VA decisions, representing claimants at VA hearings, filing survivor benefits, requesting military records, applying for discharge upgrades, and certifying DD-214 discharge paperwork. All counselors are accredited by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Getting the VA rating right matters twice in Arizona: the rating drives federal compensation AND the state property tax exemption, which is prorated by the disability percentage. Counselors work in person, by phone, or virtually across Arizona, including at the State Veteran Homes in Flagstaff, Phoenix, Tucson, and Yuma. No one needs to pay a private company to file a VA claim.

What you'll need

• DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork
• Any existing VA correspondence or award letters
• Medical records related to the claim

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Arizona Veteran Benefits Counselors (Free VA Claims Help). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need dD-214 or other military discharge paperwork, any existing VA correspondence or award letters, medical records related to the claim — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Gather your DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork, any VA letters or award notices, and medical records related to the claim.
2. Decide how to get help: apply online or call 1-602-535-1215 or 1-602-255-3373.
3. Ask to work with an Arizona Veteran Benefits Counselor for free claims help.
4. Share your documents and explain the benefit or appeal you need help with, such as a VA disability claim, pension claim, survivor benefit, or appeal.
5. Complete the claim or appeal forms with the counselor and submit them through the counselor's process.
6. Keep copies of the papers you submit and any notices you get back from VA.

What to expect: After you apply, a VA-accredited counselor can help prepare and file your claim or appeal and may help with follow-up. Processing times vary, so ask for an estimate when you apply. This help is free for veterans, dependents, and survivors, and there is no charge to file claims and appeals with these counselors. There is no renewal schedule listed here.