How to apply for Georgia Department of Veterans Service Claims Assistance (Free VA Claims Help)

Who it's for

The Georgia Department of Veterans Service helps veterans, their families, caregivers, and survivors file VA claims at no cost. VA-accredited Veterans Service Officers at field offices across Georgia assist with disability compensation, pension, Aid and Attendance, and survivor benefits, and support appeals when a claim is denied. Getting the VA rating right matters twice in Georgia: the rating drives federal compensation AND the state's disabled-veteran property and vehicle tax exemptions. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are accepted. 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 Georgia Department of Veterans Service Claims Assistance (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 existing VA correspondence or award letters, and medical records related to your claim.
2. Contact the Georgia Department of Veterans Service (GDVS) to set up an appointment at a field office near you. Call 404-656-2300 or apply online. Walk-ins are also accepted.
3. Find the nearest GDVS field office by calling 404-656-2300 or using the GDVS locations page.
4. Meet with a VA-accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) at the field office. The VSO will review your documents and help you file your claim at no cost.
5. Work with the VSO to complete and submit your VA claim for disability compensation, pension, Aid and Attendance, or survivor benefits — whichever applies to your situation.
6. If your claim is denied, contact your GDVS VSO for free help filing an appeal. You do not need to hire a private company at any stage.

What to expect: After your claim is submitted, the VA will review it and send a decision letter to your address on file. Processing times vary, so ask your GDVS Veterans Service Officer for an estimate based on your claim type. If your claim is approved, your VA disability rating will affect both your federal compensation and Georgia's disabled-veteran property and vehicle tax exemptions, so it is important to get the rating right. If your claim is denied, your GDVS VSO can help you appeal at no charge. There is no set renewal deadline for claims assistance — you can return to a GDVS field office or call 404-656-2300 any time your situation changes or you need further help.