The Fully Developed Claims

(FDC) Program

Fully Developed Claims Topics

1. Definition of a Fully Developed Claim.

2. Advantages of Filing an FDC Claim.

3. How to File an FDC Claim.

Definition of a Fully Developed Claim

A Fully Developed Claim (FDC) is a claim submitted with all available evidence.

An FDC claim requires no additional development.

The only exceptions are VA development to obtain service treatment records and VA treatment records.

Advantages of Filing an FDC Claim

The processing time for a typical VA claim takes 12 to 18 months or more.

FDC claims are typically being processed in 90 to 140 days.

How to File an FDC Claim

The following VA Forms are required:

VA Form 21-526EZ for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits.

VA Form 21-534EZ for DIC, Death Pension, and/or Accrued Benefits.

VA Form 21-527EZ for Pension.

How to File an FDC Claim

If additional development is needed before the EZ form can be filed, an Informal FDC claim can be presented to protect the effective date of the claim.

When an Informal FDC is filed, the claimant has 12 months to present a formal FDC with all necessary evidence.

How to File an FDC Claim

The claimant may file an Informal FDC by submitting the following statement:

“I intend to apply for compensation (or pension) benefits under the FDC Program. This statement is submitted to preserve my effective date for entitlement to benefits. I am in the process of assembling my claim package for submission.”

Again, If the claimant uses the Informal FDC option, they have 1 year from that date to present a formal FDC to protect the effective date.

How to File an FDC Claim

In order for an FDC to be successful, the following is needed:

•An FDC must be submitted using the most up-to-date EZ form.

•All evidence in support of the claim must be presented with the formal FDC claim.

•Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs) are very helpful.

How to File an FDC Claim

What are Disability Benefit Questionnaires (DBQs)?

DBQs are questionnaires a veteran may provide to a local VA or non-VA physician.

If completed properly, VA can utilize the DBQ in lieu of a VA compensation and pension examination.

How to File an FDC Claim

The submission of a proper and complete DBQ with the FDC will contribute to a quicker decision.

The time for an average C&P exam to be scheduled can be 45 days or more.

Make sure you are using the correct DBQ.

You may need to delay filing the FDC in order to obtain a DBQ.

How to File an FDC Claim

A claim will be removed from the FDC process and adjudicated through the traditional claims process if:

The VA determines that additional supporting documents or records are required for development.

The claimant submits any additional evidence after the FDC is filed.

The veteran fails to appear for a scheduled VA examination.

How to File an FDC Claim

If the VA removes an FDC from the program, it will be processed traditionally based on the original date of claim.

The VA will notify the claimant indicating the reason it does not qualify for the FDC program.

A claimant may not file an FDC while there is a separate pending claim or appeal at the Board of Veterans Appeals (BVA).

The best time to file an FDC is when no other claim is pending with the VA.

How to File an FDC Claim

Common FDC Mistakes!

1.Inadequate identification of claimed disabilities.

2.Failure to disclose all sources of medical treatment.

3.Failure to provide all treatment records.

4.Incomplete EZ or DBQ forms.

How to File an FDC Claim

Remember three things:

1.File the informal FDC claim.2.Fully develop the FDC.3.Formalize and submit the formal FDC.

The sole purpose of filing a FDC claim is to reduce processing time. Currently 27% of all claims presented by DAV are Fully Developed Claims

This is a cooperative effort between NSO’s, DSO’s, CSO’s, and VA.

How to File an FDC Claim

Questions?

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