How do I file a claim for post-traumatic stress disorder?

If you are a veteran in California who believes you are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), you can begin filing a disability claim with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). There are multiple ways to file a claim, depending on how comfortable you are filing electronically or through the mail. If you would like to file online, you can do so through the eBenefits portal. You will need to create a login with your or your spouse’s Social Security number and enter some personal information. You should make sure to include all relevant medical evidence, such as documents from your mental health provider, in your claim. If you would prefer to file your claim through the mail, you will also need to provide documents along with your application. Your claim should include a completed VA form 21-526, a copy of your military discharge papers (DD214 or equivalent), and evidence of your PTSD diagnosis. Once you have completed the form, you can mail it to the VA Regional Office in Los Angeles. The VA Regional Office in Los Angeles will review your claim and assign it an adjudication date. At this point, you may need to speak with a VA representative or submit more medical evidence before they can make a determination. The VA will then determine which disability rate you qualify for and send you a decision. If you need assistance with filing your claim, you can speak with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO). They can help you with gathering evidence, filing your claim, and understanding the appeals process if you do not receive an adequate rating.

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How do I file a claim for post-traumatic stress disorder?

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