Filing a Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) Claim

Last reviewed January 25, 2025

BDD lets separating service members file a VA disability claim 90 to 180 days before separation so a decision can potentially be reached closer to their separation date.

The Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program allows service members to file a VA disability claim between 90 and 180 days before their separation or retirement date, using a required separation-health-assessment exam completed while still in service. Filing under BDD does not guarantee a faster or more favorable rating decision, but it is designed to let the VA begin processing before the member separates, so a determination may be reached sooner after leaving service than filing after separation would allow. Service members outside the 90–180 day BDD window, or without enough time remaining to complete the required exams, generally file a standard disability claim instead through the same VA process.

General educational information only — not financial, legal, tax, medical, or individualized benefits advice. Confirm current details with DFAS, the VA, TRICARE, or your service's official retirement office before making decisions.

Official sources

Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) — U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Benefits information is educational only and does not replace official guidance from your service, DFAS, VA, or TRICARE. Checklists are planning aids and do not replace official service requirements. This platform does not provide tax, investment, legal, medical, or individualized claims advice, and does not predict disability ratings or VA outcomes.