How to apply for Tennessee Department of Veterans Services Claims Assistance (Free VA Claims Help)

Who it's for

Tennessee Department of Veterans Services officers help veterans and their families file claims for federal VA benefits — disability compensation, pension, Aid and Attendance, and survivor benefits — at no cost. TDVS operates State Veterans Services Offices across the state, from Memphis and Jackson to Nashville, Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Mountain Home, and also trains County Service Officers who file claims in counties statewide. Getting the VA rating right matters twice in Tennessee: the rating drives federal compensation AND state benefits like the disabled veteran property tax relief. 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 Tennessee Department of Veterans Services 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.