VA offers two programs for separating military personnel

The BDD program allows a service member to file a VA disability claim while still on active duty and without the completed DD-214 (Record of Separation) paperwork.  The service member may file a claim not more than 180 days and not less than 60 days from their date of discharge.  The VA in turn will process the claim and will be prepared to provide a decision on the claim within 30 to 45 days after separation and receipt of the DD-214.  Currently in California, claims for disability once filed, will normally take anywhere from 3 to 5 months to process and to adjudicate a decision.  This program allows for a much faster response time.

The Quick Start program allows a service member to submit a claim for disability compensation 1 to 59 days prior to separation, retirement, or release from active duty or demobilization. Submitting your disability compensation claim before discharge makes it possible to receive VA disability benefits as soon as possible after separation, retirement, or demobilization. 

Service members with 1-59 days remaining on active duty or full time Reserve or National Guard (Title 10 or Title 32) service, or Service members who do not meet the Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) criteria requiring availability for all examinations prior to discharge, may apply through Quick Start. The program is available nationwide and open to all Service members on full time active duty, including members of the National Guard and Reserves.

The Kings County Veterans Service Office (KCVSO) can file your claim for you. You will need to bring the original Service Medical Record or a copy, and dependents supporting documentation (i.e. marriage certificates, divorce decrees, children’s birth certificates and all family social security numbers) to the appointment.  If you would like to participate in this new program, or if you have additional questions, contact the Kings County Veterans Service Office today.

The Kings County Veterans Service Office can complete the DMV Veteran Status Verification Form for the new California Veteran Designation on your driver’s license and issues Veteran I.D. cards to honorably discharged veterans. Contact Scott Holwell if you would like to receive periodic veteran’s information by email.    There are many state and federal benefits and programs available to veterans and their dependents.  To determine if you are eligible for any of these benefits, call or visit our office.  We can and will assist you in completing all required application forms.  You can get information on the Web from the Kings County Veterans Service Office webpage at www.countyofkings.com/vets.

 Scott Holwell, retired Navy Master Chief Petty Officer, is the Veterans Service Officer for Kings County. Send your questions to the Veterans Service Office, 1400 W. Lacey Blvd, Hanford, CA 93230; call (559)852-2669; or e-mail scott.holwell@co.kings.ca.us.