Effective Date Calculator
Estimate your VA disability claim effective date and potential retroactive pay. Based on 38 CFR § 3.400 rules — no AI needed.
The date you filed (or plan to file) your VA disability claim.
If you submitted an Intent to File (ITF) before the full claim, enter that date. This can preserve an earlier effective date.
Claims filed within one year of separation may get the day after discharge as the effective date.
When the condition was first diagnosed or symptoms started.
Common Effective Date Rules
Intent to File (ITF)
38 CFR § 3.155
Filing an Intent to File establishes an earlier effective date, giving you up to one year to submit the full claim.
Original Claim
38 CFR § 3.400(b)(2)
For original claims, the effective date is generally the date the claim was received or the date entitlement arose, whichever is later.
Claim for Increase
38 CFR § 3.400(o)(2)
For increased ratings, the effective date is usually the date the claim was received, or up to one year prior if evidence shows the increase happened within that period.
Supplemental Claim
38 CFR § 3.2501
For supplemental claims with new and relevant evidence, the effective date is the date the prior claim was received (if continuous pursuit).
Liberalizing Law or VA Issue
38 CFR § 3.114
When a new law or VA regulation creates a new basis for entitlement, the effective date may be the date the law took effect.
Filed Within One Year of Separation
38 CFR § 3.400(b)(2)(i)
Claims filed within one year of separation from service may receive an effective date of the day after discharge.