How to apply for Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs Claims Assistance (Free VA Claims Help)

Who it's for

Florida law directs the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs to help veterans, their spouses, and their dependents prepare and file claims for VA benefits — disability compensation, pension, Aid and Attendance, survivor benefits — at no charge. FDVA claims examiners work alongside County Veteran Service Officers available in counties across the state. Getting the VA rating right matters twice in Florida: the rating drives federal compensation AND unlocks state benefits like the disabled-veteran property tax exemptions and free licenses. 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

Step by step

1. Gather your DD-214 or other military discharge paperwork, any existing VA correspondence or award letters, and medical records related to your claim.
2. Contact your local County Veteran Service Office — this is the usual first stop. Find the office through your county government or the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs.
3. Apply online through the Florida Department of Veterans' Affairs to connect with a claims examiner if you prefer to start that way.
4. Work with your FDVA claims examiner or County Veteran Service Officer to prepare your claim — they will review your documents and help you file for the right VA benefits, such as disability compensation, pension, Aid and Attendance, or survivor benefits.
5. Submit your completed claim with the help of your examiner or officer — no private company is needed, and this service is free by law.

What to expect: After your claim is submitted, the VA will process it and notify you of its decision by mail. Processing times vary, so ask your FDVA claims examiner or County Veteran Service Officer for an estimate and to check on your claim's status. If the VA denies your claim or rates it lower than expected, your FDVA examiner or officer can also help you file an appeal — again at no charge. Keep in mind that your VA rating matters beyond federal compensation: in Florida, it can also unlock state benefits such as disabled-veteran property tax exemptions and free licenses, so getting the rating right is important.