Where Can Veterans in Klamath Falls Get VA Disability Help?
Veterans in Klamath Falls can file VA disability claims with free assistance from the Klamath County Veterans Service Office at (541) 883-4274, located at 3328 Vandenberg Road. The Klamath Falls VA Clinic at 2225 North Eldorado Boulevard provides primary care and mental health services. The DAV Dewey Powell Chapter 12 also offers claims assistance and hosts visiting national service officers.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit | VA disability compensation, health care, free claims assistance |
| Eligibility | Veterans with service-connected conditions; honorable discharge |
| Application | VA Form 21-526EZ; file online at VA.gov or with Klamath County VSO |
| Processing Time | 90–150 days median for disability claims |
| Official Agency | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs + Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs |
| Required Forms | DD Form 214, VA Form 21-526EZ, medical evidence |
| Updated For | 2026 |
VA Disability Compensation: 2026 Rates
VA disability compensation is a tax-free monthly payment for veterans who became sick or injured during military service. For 2026, rates range from $180.42** per month at 10% disability to **$3,938.58 per month at 100% disability for a veteran alone.
2026 VA Disability Rates (Veteran Alone)
| VA Rating | Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 |
| 20% | $356.66 |
| 30% | $552.47 |
| 40% | $795.84 |
| 50% | $1,132.90 |
| 60% | $1,435.02 |
| 70% | $1,808.45 |
| 80% | $2,102.15 |
| 90% | $2,362.30 |
| 100% (or TDIU) | $3,938.58 |
Source: 2026 VA disability rates, effective December 1, 2025
Veterans with a 30% or higher rating may receive additional compensation for dependents. For example, a veteran at 100% with a spouse receives $4,158.17 monthly.
How to File a VA Disability Claim in Klamath Falls
Step 1: Gather Your Evidence
Collect your DD Form 214, service treatment records, medical records, and buddy statements.
Step 2: File an Intent to File
Submit VA Form 21-0966 to lock in your effective date and preserve potential back pay. This gives you up to one year to gather evidence.
Step 3: Complete VA Form 21-526EZ
This is the Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits. File online at VA.gov or get free help from the Klamath County VSO.
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityStep 4: Attend Your C&P Exam
VA may schedule a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam. Missing this exam can delay or result in denial of your claim.
Step 5: Track Your Claim
Check status at VA.gov/claim-or-appeal-status or call 800-827-1000.
Oregon-Specific Tip
Oregon has county veterans service officers in all 36 counties who provide free claims assistance. Filing with a VSO is almost always faster and more accurate than filing alone — and it costs nothing.
Klamath County Veterans Service Office
The Klamath County Veterans Service Office provides free, accredited claims assistance to veterans, spouses, and surviving family members in Klamath Falls.
Contact Information
| Contact Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 3328 Vandenberg Road (lower level), Klamath Falls, OR 97603 |
| Main Phone | (541) 883-4274 |
| Toll-Free | 800-382-9296 |
| Fax | (541) 885-2440 |
| Hours | Monday–Thursday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (by appointment only) |
| Veterans Service Officer | Kathy Pierce |
| Veterans Service Officer | Teri Gentry |
Services Provided
The Klamath County VSO assists with:
VA disability claims — Initial claims, increased rating claims, and secondary condition claims
Benefits counseling — Explanation of federal and state benefits
Survivor benefits — DIC and pension applications for surviving spouses
Burial benefits — Assistance with burial allowance and headstone claims
Educational benefit claims — GI Bill and dependent education benefits
Advocacy — Representation throughout the claims process
There is no charge to the veteran or their family for these services.
Why Work With a County VSO
County Veterans Service Officers are trained and accredited to practice VA law. They attend state accreditation training twice yearly and national service officer training yearly to maintain their credentials. This training allows them to stay informed about laws and regulations that affect the claims process.
DAV Dewey Powell Chapter 12
The DAV Dewey Powell Chapter 12 is an all-volunteer nonprofit made up of disabled veterans who assist fellow veterans and their families throughout the Klamath Basin.
Contact Information
Address: 2809 Avalon St., Klamath Falls, OR 97603
Services Provided
Information about VA benefits
Service-connected disability filing assistance
Veteran news and counseling
Emergency financial assistance and food boxes
Transportation to VA medical appointments
The chapter receives no federal or state funding and relies on donations and fundraising.
Visiting National Service Officers
The Portland DAV Regional Office sends national service officers to Klamath Falls periodically to provide individualized claims assistance. During these visits, the service officer:
Begins with an information seminar on VA disability claims
Covers new and supplemental claims, rating increases, appeals, and survivor benefits
Provides one-on-one claims assistance afterward
Veterans planning to attend should bring:
Government-issued photo ID
DD Form 214 or other discharge papers
Relevant medical records or physician statements
Recent VA decision letters or correspondence
Klamath Falls VA Clinic
The Klamath Falls VA Clinic is an outpatient clinic providing primary care to veterans in Klamath County.
Contact Information
| Contact Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 2225 North Eldorado Boulevard, Klamath Falls, OR 97601-6417 |
| Main Phone | (541) 273-6206 |
| Hours | Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. |
| Closed | Saturday, Sunday, Federal Holidays |
Health Services Offered
Primary Care — Routine checkups, chronic disease management, immunizations, preventive screenings
Mental Health Care — Individual and group counseling
Laboratory Services — Blood work and diagnostic testing
Telehealth — Virtual appointments for primary care and mental health
Social Services — Connection to community resources
Appointments
Contact the clinic to schedule, reschedule, or cancel an appointment. If a referral is required, you will need to contact your primary care provider first.
DAV Van Services
The clinic works with Disabled American Veterans and county Veterans Affairs directors to provide transportation for veterans and authorized caregivers to get to scheduled medical appointments. Individual van schedules vary.
Beneficiary Travel
Beneficiary travel benefits include round-trip transportation from your home to the medical center, mileage reimbursement, or special mode transport.
Oregon Veterans Benefits for Disabled Veterans
Oregon Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans
Oregon offers property tax exemptions for disabled veterans on their homestead or personal property. A 2025 bill (SB 387) proposes significant increases to these exemption amounts.
Current Exemption Amounts (2024-25 Tax Year):
| Qualifying Status | Exemption Amount |
|---|---|
| 40%+ VA disability rating | $25,537 of assessed value |
| 40%+ service-connected VA rating | $30,464 of assessed value |
Proposed Increases (SB 387, effective 2026-27):
| Qualifying Status | Proposed Exemption |
|---|---|
| 40%+ VA disability rating | $60,000 of assessed value |
| 40%+ service-connected VA rating | $65,000 of assessed value |
| Certain disabled veterans | $150,000 of assessed value |
| Certain disabled veterans | 90% of assessed value |
The bill also adds income limits: $120,000 or less** for separate filers or **$240,000 or less for joint filers.
Surviving Spouse Exemption: The unremarried surviving spouse of a veteran may qualify for the lower exemption amount. For the higher amount, the veteran must have died from a service-connected injury or illness or qualified for the higher exemption for at least one year.
How to Apply: Contact the Klamath County Assessor’s Office for application forms and deadlines.
Oregon Income Tax Treatment of Military Retirement
Both active-duty non-disability and reserve retirement income are generally subject to Oregon income tax. However, retirement income may be exempt depending on qualifying factors.
Legislation that would have exempted military retirement pay for 100% disabled veterans and reserve/National Guard members was not enacted in the 2025 session.
Oregon Claims Assistance Protection
Oregon law prohibits charging fees for services that veterans can receive for free through the USDVA or its designees. The ODVA conducts outreach to educate veterans about “claim sharks” — third-party companies that charge for claims help that accredited VSOs provide at no cost.
Protect yourself: Work only with VA-accredited representatives. The Klamath County VSO and DAV provide free, accredited claims assistance.
How to Appeal a VA Decision in Klamath Falls
If you disagree with a VA decision, you have three options under the Appeals Modernization Act (AMA). You must file your request within one year of the decision letter.
| Review Option | Form | When to Use | Average Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supplemental Claim | VA Form 20-0995 | New and relevant evidence | ~125 days |
| Higher-Level Review | VA Form 20-0996 | No new evidence; error in prior decision | ~125 days |
| Board Appeal | VA Form 10182 | Want a Veterans Law Judge to review | 12–24 months |
Supplemental Claim: Use this option if you have new and relevant evidence that was not part of your original claim.
Higher-Level Review: Request a review by a more senior adjudicator. No new evidence can be submitted.
Board Appeal: Appeal directly to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. You can choose from three dockets: Direct Review, Evidence Submission, or Hearing with a Veterans Law Judge.
Free Appeals Assistance
The Klamath County VSO at (541) 883-4274 can help you file appeals and decision review requests at no cost.
Other VA Resources for Klamath Falls Veterans
VA Southern Oregon Rehabilitation Center and Clinics (SORCC)
The VA SORCC in White City is the primary VA facility serving southern Oregon veterans. It provides:
Primary care
Mental health and substance abuse treatment
Residential care programs
Homeless programs
Address: 8495 Crater Lake Hwy, White City, OR 97503
VA Portland Regional Benefit Office
The Portland Regional Office processes disability compensation claims for Oregon veterans.
Phone: 800-827-1000
Online: VA.gov/claim-or-appeal-status
Veterans Crisis Line
Dial 988, then press 1. You can also text 838255 or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat. Available 24/7.
Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA)
Phone: 1-800-828-8801
Website: oregon.gov/odva
ODVA provides claims assistance, home loans, and coordinates benefits programs across Oregon.
2026 ODVA Veterans Benefit Magazine
The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs publishes an annual free benefit magazine. The 2026 edition includes:
Updated contact information for all 36 county VSOs
Veteran license plate information
Behavioral health and suicide prevention resources
VA Medical Center and clinic locations
State and federal resources for health care, transportation, employment, and education
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Paying for claims assistance. Free, accredited help is available through the Klamath County VSO and DAV. Oregon law prohibits charging fees for services veterans can get for free.
2. Not filing an Intent to File. VA Form 21-0966 locks in your effective date and preserves potential back pay while you gather evidence.
3. Missing the C&P exam. Missing a Compensation and Pension exam can delay or result in denial of your claim.
4. Not bringing required documents. When meeting with a VSO or DAV service officer, bring your DD Form 214, medical records, and any VA decision letters.
5. Waiting past the appeal deadline. Most VA appeals must be filed within one year of the decision letter.
6. Not adding dependents. If your combined rating is 30% or higher, you may qualify for additional compensation for dependents.
7. Overlooking state benefits. Oregon offers property tax exemptions for disabled veterans and their surviving spouses. Apply through the Klamath County Assessor’s Office.
Common Questions
Where is the VA clinic in Klamath Falls?
The Klamath Falls VA Clinic is at 2225 North Eldorado Boulevard, Klamath Falls, OR 97601. The main phone number is (541) 273-6206. Hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m..
How do I contact the Klamath County Veterans Service Office?
Call (541) 883-4274 or visit 3328 Vandenberg Road (lower level), Klamath Falls, OR 97603. The office is open Monday–Thursday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. by appointment only.
How do I file a VA disability claim in Klamath Falls?
File VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov or get free assistance from the Klamath County VSO at (541) 883-4274. First file VA Form 21-0966 (Intent to File) to lock in your effective date.
What are the 2026 VA disability rates?
For 2026, VA disability compensation ranges from $180.42** monthly at 10% to **$3,938.58 monthly at 100% for a veteran alone. Rates increased 2.8% effective December 1, 2025.
Does the DAV help with VA claims in Klamath Falls?
Yes. The DAV Dewey Powell Chapter 12 at 2809 Avalon St. provides information about benefits, service-connected disability filing assistance, and counseling. The Portland DAV Regional Office also sends national service officers to Klamath Falls periodically for claims assistance.
What Oregon property tax exemptions are available for disabled veterans?
Oregon offers property tax exemptions of $25,537** to **$30,464 of assessed value for veterans with 40%+ disability ratings (2024-25). Proposed legislation would increase these to $60,000–$65,000 and create new exemptions up to 90% of assessed value.
What is the number for the Veterans Crisis Line?
Dial 988, then press 1. You can also text 838255 or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat. Available 24/7.
How do I get a DAV van ride to my VA appointment?
Contact the Klamath Falls VA Clinic or the DAV Dewey Powell Chapter 12. DAV vans provide transportation for veterans and authorized caregivers to scheduled medical appointments. Individual van schedules vary.
What should I bring to a VSO appointment?
Bring a government-issued photo ID, DD Form 214 or other discharge papers, relevant medical records or physician statements, and any recent VA decision letters or correspondence.
Are there free claims assistance options in Klamath Falls?
Yes. The Klamath County VSO at (541) 883-4274 and the DAV Dewey Powell Chapter 12 both provide free claims assistance. Oregon law prohibits charging fees for services veterans can receive for free through accredited representatives.
What is the VA SORCC and where is it?
The VA Southern Oregon Rehabilitation Center and Clinics (SORCC) is in White City, Oregon. It provides primary care, mental health treatment, residential care, and vocational rehabilitation for southern Oregon veterans.
How do I check the status of my VA claim?
Check online at VA.gov/claim-or-appeal-status, use the VA mobile app, or call 800-827-1000. You can also ask your VSO to check the status on your behalf.
Key Takeaways
The Klamath County VSO at (541) 883-4274 provides free, accredited claims assistance.
The Klamath Falls VA Clinic at (541) 273-6206 provides primary care and mental health services.
2026 VA disability rates range from $180.42 (10%) to $3,938.58 (100%) monthly for a veteran alone.
File VA Form 21-0966 (Intent to File) to lock in your effective date and protect back pay.
The DAV Dewey Powell Chapter 12 provides claims assistance and hosts visiting national service officers.
Oregon law prohibits charging fees for claims help that veterans can receive free through accredited VSOs.
Oregon offers property tax exemptions of $25,537–$30,464 for disabled veterans (proposed increases to $60,000–$65,000).
The Veterans Crisis Line is 988 (press 1) — available 24/7.
Official Resources
VA.gov — Disability Compensation: va.gov/disability
VA.gov — Klamath Falls VA Clinic: va.gov/southern-oregon-health-care/locations/klamath-falls-va-clinic
VA.gov — Health Care Enrollment: va.gov/health-care/apply
VA.gov — Decision Reviews and Appeals: va.gov/decision-reviews
VA.gov — PACT Act: va.gov/pact
Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs: oregon.gov/odva
Klamath County Veterans Service Office: klamathcounty.org
Veterans Crisis Line: veteranscrisisline.net
VA Facility Locator: va.gov/find-locations
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📌 Information provided as of June 2026. Always verify current eligibility and rules with official .gov sources.
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