April 21, 2025

The 4 BEST Ways to Check the Status of a VA Claim!

Last updated on September 17, 2025

I hope you enjoy reading this blog post.

If you want to learn how to implement these strategies to get the VA benefits you deserve, click here to speak with a VA claim expert.


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You’ve filed your VA claim—now comes the hard part: the hurry up and wait!

But you don’t have to sit in the dark wondering what’s happening.

The VA gives you several ways to track your claim status and get real-time updates—whether online, by phone, or in person.

Not sure which option is best for you?

Let’s break it down.

Summary of Key Points

  • Understand the 8-Step VA Claim Process: The VA disability claim process includes eight distinct stages: Claim Received, Initial Review, Evidence Gathering, Evidence Review, Rating, Preparing the Decision Letter, Final Review, and Claim Decision. Each phase marks critical progress toward receiving your final disability decision.
  • Track Your Claim Status Online via VA.gov: The VA Claim Tracker on VA.gov is the most direct way to check your claim status. After signing in with your DS Logon, My HealtheVet, or ID.me, you can view your claims, appeals, and decision letters as they progress through the system.
  • Use VA Mobile Tools and Browser Extensions: Veterans can track their claim status using the VA mobile app, which also lets you manage appointments and communicate with VA providers. Browser extensions offer added convenience by providing instant access to updates without repeated logins.
  • Alternative Methods: Phone and In-Person Assistance: You can call the VA at 1-800-827-1000 for personalized updates or visit a local VA Regional Office with valid ID and claim info. These options are useful if you lack internet access or need help understanding your claim status.

What is the VA Claim Process?

The VA disability claim process consists of eight steps, each designed to ensure a thorough and fair evaluation of your evidence, taking your claim from submission to completion. 

The following are the 8 steps of the VA claim process: 

  • Claim Received 
  • Initial Review 
  • Evidence Gathering 
  • Evidence Review 
  • Rating 
  • Preparing Decision Letter 
  • Final Review 
  • Claim Decision 

See More: The 8-Step VA Claim Process with Timelines 

How Can I Check the Status of a VA Claim?

There are several different ways to check your claim status. Below are four of the best ways, including the VA’s claim tracker, tracker app, tracker browser extension, in-person, or by phone. Let’s take a closer look!

The 4 BEST Ways to Check Your VA Claim Status

#1. Use the VA Claim Tracker

The easiest way to check your VA claim status is through the VA claim tracker on the VA.gov website.  

Follow these steps: 

  1. Visit VA.gov 
  1. Sign in using your DS Logon, My HealtheVet, or ID.me 
  1. Navigate to the “Check your claim or appeal status” section 

Once signed in, you’ll see a list of your claims, decision reviews, and appeals. Select any item to view its full details. 

No account? No worries! You can create a free Login.gov or ID.me account now. 

See More: How Long Do VA Claims Take 

#2. Use the VA Claim Tracker App & Extension

The VA claim tracker app allows you to check your claim’s progress from your mobile device. 

You can also schedule VA appointments, message your VA health care providers, and access additional benefits information. 

Additionally, some web browsers offer a VA claim tracker extension, which provides quick access to claim status updates without logging in every time. 

The status tool won’t show the exact decision date, but if your status is “complete,” the VA has already mailed your letter. 

For some types of claims, decision reviews, and appeals, you can also download your decision letter in the tool as soon as it’s ready.

Download VA Claim Tracker Extension

VA Mobile Apps

#3. Check My VA Claim via Phone

You can also call the VA for information about your claim status. This option is helpful if you need detailed clarification on your claim. 

Call 1-800-827-1000 and follow the recorded instructions to speak with a VA representative. Their hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8 A.M. to 9 P.M. Eastern Time.  

It’s highly recommended that you call early in the morning, as you could be waiting 30 minutes or more when calling during peak times. 

Note: If you haven’t received your decision letter within 10 business days of the “decision notification sent” stage, you can call the VA for assistance, though it may take longer due to mail delays, holidays, or rural delivery times. 

#4. Visit a VA Regional Office

Another method to check the status of your VA claim is to visit a VA regional office in person.  

It’s best to search for the closest VA regional office to find the hours of operation because they will differ for every office. 

You’ll need to bring a valid photo ID, social security number, or your VA claim number. 

FAQs

How can I check my VA claim?

You can check on VA claim status online, via telephone, on the VA mobile app, or in person. You can also download a VA claim tracker extension on your computer to easily access benefits information.  

How often does the VA update claim status? 

Generally, the VA updates claim statuses regularly, especially when your claim moves to a new phase, like Review of evidence, Preparation for Decision Letter, and Final Review.   

How do I know if my VA claim was approved?

You can check the VA claim tracker on VA.gov to determine if your claim was approved. Once the VA preparation for notification phase is complete, you should receive a decision letter via mail or electronic notification.

Can I check my claim status without internet access?

Yes, you can check your claim status by calling the VA benefits hotline at 1-800-827-1000, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET. You can also visit a local VA regional office.

Conclusion and Wrap-Up

Waiting on a VA claim can feel like being stuck in limbo—but you don’t have to stay in the dark.

The VA gives you multiple ways to stay informed: from the VA.gov claim tracker, mobile apps, and browser extensions to calling the VA directly or visiting your local regional office.

The key takeaway?

STAY PROACTIVE!

The more you know about where your claim stands, the better prepared you’ll be for what comes next.

And remember, you don’t have to go through the frustrating VA claim process alone.

At VA Claims Insider, we’ve supported 25,000+ veterans just like you to get unstuck and win the VA disability benefits you’ve earned for serving our country.

With one-on-one coaching, proven strategies, and unmatched trust, we’re here to fight for you until the mission is complete.

If you’re stuck, frustrated, or tired of fighting alone, we have your six!

📞 Call Us Right Now: (737) 295-2226

Want the VA Disability Benefits You’ve Earned? WE GOT YOUR SIX!

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  • The World’s #1 MOST TRUSTED name in VA disability claims since 2016.
  • One-On-One Expert Coaching: Get matched with a VA Claims Insider Coach who educates and empowers you every step of the way toward VA claim success.
  • 25,000+ Veterans Served: Proven results for warriors like you. Real life change.
  • Proven Outcomes: Veterans who complete our #1 rated Elite program see an average VA disability rating increase of 30%.

✅ STOP the struggle. START winning faster. Your path to VA claim VICTORY begins now ⬇️

About the Author

Kelly Olone

Kelly Olone

Kelly Olone is a military spouse who earned her degree in Psychology from Florida International University. After working in the non-profit sector for several years, she turned to her passion for writing. She aims to contribute to a better understanding of the valuable benefits that veterans deserve. As a mom, Kelly navigates the delicate balance between deadlines and bedtime stories with finesse. 

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