Intent to File
A formal notice submitted to the VA indicating that a veteran intends to file a disability claim, which preserves an earlier effective date and potential retroactive payments while the veteran gathers evidence.
An ITF holds your effective date for up to one year from submission. Can be filed online via VA.gov, by phone, or in person at a VA regional office.
Especially important if you are preparing a complex or multi-condition claim.
→ BenefitKarma's Intent to File guide explains how and when to use this tool.
Also known as
Related terms
- Back Pay
The retroactive disability benefits owed to an approved SSDI claimant, covering the period from the established onset date (minus the 5-month waiting period) through the month of approval.
- Effective Date
The date from which a VA disability rating or benefit is effective, determining how far back retroactive payments go. Generally, this is the date the VA received the original claim.
- VA Disability Compensation
Tax-free monthly payments made by the VA to veterans who have a service-connected disability . a physical or mental condition incurred or aggravated during active military service.
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Frequently asked questions about Intent to File
What does 'Intent to File' mean for VA claims?+
An Intent to File (ITF) tells the VA you plan to file a disability claim. It sets an earlier date for your claim, which helps you get more money back if your claim is approved. You then have one year to submit your full claim with all your evidence.
Who can make an Intent to File?+
Any veteran who is planning to file a new VA disability claim or reopen an old one can use an Intent to File. It helps protect the earliest possible date for when you could start getting benefits if your claim is approved. This is a very smart move for all veterans.
How do I submit an Intent to File?+
You can submit an Intent to File (ITF) online through the VA website, by mail, by calling the VA, or by telling a VA employee in person. Once you submit it, you have one year to give the VA all the paperwork for your disability claim.
How does Intent to File affect my back pay?+
An Intent to File (ITF) can help you get more back pay. When your claim is approved, the VA will pay you starting from your ITF date, not just the date you submitted your full claim. This means you can get paid for a longer period of time.