What is the purpose of VA Form 21-0966?

The purpose of VA Form 21-0966 is to serve as the Intent to File a Claim for VA benefits. This form is crucial because it allows veterans or their dependents to express a desire to apply for benefits under the VA’s various programs without submitting a full application immediately. By filing this form, individuals reserve an effective date for their benefits, which can be critical in the evaluation process and can potentially lead to earlier access to payments.

This is particularly helpful for veterans who may need time to gather the necessary documentation for their full application but want to ensure that they retain their eligibility for benefits from the moment they express their intent to file. Filing this form does not require a full claim or extensive supporting documents at the outset, making it a convenient first step for many.

Understanding this form is essential for veterans and their representatives, as it also provides a protective measure in terms of timing and benefits while they prepare their complete claims.