VA Claim Disability Washington DC: 2026 Benefits, Filing & Local Help
Washington DC veterans file VA disability claims using VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, or with free help from the Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs (MOVA) at 202-724-5454. DC veterans receive the same 2026 federal compensation rates as all other states, ranging from $180.42 at 10% to $3,938.58 at 100%. The National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office is at 1722 I St NW.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit | VA disability compensation (monthly tax-free payment) |
| Eligibility | Veterans with service-connected conditions rated 10%–100% |
| Application | VA Form 21-526EZ (disability compensation) |
| Processing Time | 75–80 days average for disability claims (2026) |
| Official Agency | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) |
| Required Forms | VA Form 21-526EZ, DD-214, medical evidence |
| Regional Office | National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office, 1722 I St NW, Washington, DC 20006 |
| Local Claims Help | DC Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs (MOVA): 202-724-5454 |
| VA Medical Center | Washington DC VA Medical Center, 50 Irving St NW, Washington, DC 20422 |
| Updated For | 2026 rates; next COLA due December 1, 2026 |
How to File a VA Disability Claim in Washington DC
You can file a VA disability claim in Washington DC online through VA.gov, by mail to the National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office, or in person with free assistance from MOVA. Filing online is the fastest method.
Online Application
Sign in to VA.gov with your DS Logon, My HealtheVet, or ID.me account.
Complete VA Form 21-526EZ.
Upload your DD-214 and medical evidence.
Submit and track your claim through your VA.gov account.
With Free MOVA Assistance
Call MOVA at 202-724-5454 or email ova@dc.gov.
Schedule an appointment with a District Veterans Service Officer.
A trained representative will help you initiate or reopen a claim on your behalf.
MOVA can advise you on the VA appeals process if your claim is denied.
In Person at the VA Regional Office
Visit the National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office at 1722 I St NW, Washington, DC 20006.
Schedule an appointment through the Visitor Engagement Reporting Application (VERA).
Bring a current, unexpired photo ID, your DD-214, medical records, and direct deposit information.
Benefit counselors can help you understand eligibility, gather required documents, and fill out paperwork.
Required Documents
DD-214 or separation documents
Medical records showing diagnosis of each claimed condition
Evidence of in-service event, injury, or exposure
Dependency records (marriage certificate, birth certificates) if claiming dependents
Prior VA decision letters if refiling or appealing
What Veterans Should Do Next
Gather your DD-214 and medical records before your appointment. If you do not have your DD-214, MOVA or the VA Regional Office can help you request it. File an Intent to File (VA Form 21-0966) immediately to preserve your effective date.
MOVA: Free Claims Assistance for DC Veterans
The Washington DC Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs (MOVA) provides free, trained service representatives who assist veterans, service members, and their families in applying for federal VA benefits. MOVA’s primary service is assisting veterans, veteran spouses, family members, and survivors in applying for benefits from the VA by initiating or reopening claims on their behalf.
Services Provided by MOVA
VA Disability Compensation Claims
VA Healthcare Enrollment
VA Non-Service-Connected Pension Claims
VA Burial and Death Benefit Claims
Appeals Process Guidance
Claim Tracking and Monitoring
Contact Information
Phone: 202-724-5454
District Veterans Service Officer: Robert Pearson, Robert.Pearson@dc.gov, 202-724-7116
Address: 441 4th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Email: ova@dc.gov
Why This Matters
MOVA has assisted and filed claims for over 95 DC veterans. Navigating the VA claims process can be complex, and a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) provides free, expert assistance that improves claim accuracy and speeds up processing.
What Veterans Should Do Next
Call MOVA at 202-724-5454 to schedule an appointment. Bring your DD-214, medical records, and any prior VA decision letters. MOVA staff are accredited to present claims for VA benefit entitlements.
2026 VA Disability Compensation Rates
Washington DC veterans receive the same VA disability compensation rates as all other states. The 2026 rates took effect December 1, 2025, after a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) matching the Social Security adjustment. Rates are set by Public Law 119-42.
Basic Monthly Rates (Veteran Alone)
| 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% | $3,938.58 |
Rates With a Spouse and One Child
| Rating | Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| 30% | $666.47 |
| 40% | $947.84 |
| 50% | $1,319.90 |
| 60% | $1,834.75 |
| 70% | $2,266.45 |
| 80% | $2,608.88 |
| 90% | $2,911.36 |
| 100% | $3,495.06 |
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityImportant: Ratings of 10% and 20% do not include dependent additions. Add-ons begin at 30%.
What Veterans Should Do Next
Compare your monthly payment to these tables. If you believe your payment is incorrect, contact VA at 800-827-1000 or request a review through MOVA.
VA Medical Facilities in Washington DC
The Washington DC VA Medical Center is a teaching hospital providing primary care and specialty health services at 8 locations in the Washington, DC area.
Washington DC VA Medical Center
Address: 50 Irving Street NW, Washington, DC 20422
Main Phone: 202-745-8000
Appointments: 202-745-8577 or 888-553-0242
Services: Primary care, specialty health services, bariatric surgery, emergency department, Women’s Health Clinic (first floor, suite 1E-500)
Southeast Washington VA Clinic
Address: 820 Chesapeake Street SE, Washington, DC 20032
Phone: 202-745-8685
Franklin Street VA Clinic
Address: 1500 Franklin Street NE, Community Resource & Referral Center (CRRC), Washington, DC 20018
Women Veterans Disability Claims Clinic
The VA Washington DC Medical Center hosts a Women Veterans Disability Claims Clinic at the Main Building, Transition and Care Management Center, 50 Irving Street NW. These clinics are free. The weekly VBA Disability Claims Clinics are temporarily cancelled and will resume when government funding has been restored.
Caregiver Support
The Washington DC VA Medical Center offers caregiver support services. Social workers are available to answer questions, provide resources, and connect you with appropriate care. Contact the Caregiver Support Line at 1-855-260-3274.
What Veterans Should Do Next
If you are not enrolled in VA health care, apply using VA Form 10-10EZ. Veterans in Washington DC can access care at the Washington DC VA Medical Center or one of six community-based outpatient clinics.
Agent Orange and PACT Act for DC Veterans
The PACT Act significantly expands VA health care and benefits for Vietnam-era veterans exposed to Agent Orange, Gulf War-era veterans, and post-9/11 veterans exposed to burn pits. The Washington DC VA Medical Center observes Vietnam War Veterans Day and shares information about expanded PACT Act benefits.
What the PACT Act Does for Vietnam Veterans
Expands VA health care eligibility: All veterans who served in the Vietnam War are now eligible for VA health care without needing to apply for disability benefits first.
Adds new Agent Orange presumptive conditions: Includes hypertension and MGUS.
Adds new exposure locations: Expands Agent Orange presumptive locations.
Requires toxic exposure screening: Every veteran enrolled in VA health care receives a screening.
PACT Act Claims in Washington DC
Over 4,025 veterans in the District of Columbia have filed PACT Act claims. Nationwide, over 1.4 million veterans have had their PACT Act claims approved.
Agent Orange Presumptive Conditions
The VA recognizes these conditions as presumptively caused by Agent Orange exposure:
AL amyloidosis
Bladder cancer
Chronic B-cell leukemias
Chloracne
Diabetes mellitus type 2
High blood pressure (hypertension) — effective October 1, 2026
Hodgkin’s disease
Hypothyroidism
Ischemic heart disease
Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS)
Multiple myeloma
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Parkinsonism
Parkinson’s disease
Peripheral neuropathy, early onset
Porphyria cutanea tarda
Prostate cancer
Respiratory cancers
Soft tissue sarcomas
What Veterans Should Do Next
Apply for VA health care using VA Form 10-10EZ, even if you are not filing a disability claim. Contact MOVA at 202-724-5454 for assistance with Agent Orange or PACT Act claims. Veterans who previously filed a claim for hypertension due to Agent Orange exposure and were denied may refile under the PACT Act.
District of Columbia State Benefits for Disabled Veterans
Washington DC offers benefits that supplement federal VA compensation. These are separate programs with separate applications.
Disabled Veterans Homestead Deduction
Effective October 1, 2022, residential real property owned by a veteran classified by the VA as having a total and permanent disability as a result of a service-incurred or service-aggravated condition, or paid at the 100% disability rating level as a result of unemployability, is eligible for a reduction in assessed value of $445,000.
Eligibility Requirements:
The property must be occupied by the disabled veteran and contain no more than five dwelling units
The property must be the principal residence of the disabled veteran
The disabled veteran must have at least 50% ownership as shown by deed
The disabled veteran must be domiciled in the District
Total household income cannot exceed the limit applicable to Senior/Disabled Tax Relief, currently $163,500 for TY 2026
Properties receiving the Disabled Veterans’ Homestead Deduction are not eligible for the Homestead, Senior Citizen/Disabled Tax Relief, or tax cap credit.
Proposed Complete Property Tax Exemption
The “Disabled Veterans Complete Property Tax Exemption Amendment Act of 2025” (Bill 26-476) was introduced in November 2025. This legislation would expand the Homestead Deduction to provide complete residential property tax exemption for all disabled veterans and their surviving spouses.
Key changes proposed:
Eliminate the current household income limit of $159,750
Change from the $445,000 deduction to a complete property tax exemption
Preserve the requirement for 100% service-connected permanent and total disability
Expand eligibility to surviving spouses of eligible disabled veterans and veterans who died in the line of duty
A public hearing on the bill was held July 10, 2026. As of the latest available information, the bill has not been enacted. Veterans should check with MOVA or the DC Office of Tax and Revenue for the current status.
What Veterans Should Do Next
Apply for the Disabled Veterans Homestead Deduction through MyTax.DC.gov. Contact the DC Office of Tax and Revenue for current application forms and deadlines. Monitor the status of Bill 26-476 through the DC Council website.
DC Veterans Employment Preference
The District of Columbia government provides veterans’ preference in hiring. A person entitled to preference points receives an additional 5 points on their examination score.
Eligibility for Preference
Persons who have served on active duty in the armed forces of the United States for more than 180 consecutive days
Disabled veterans who have a compensable service-connected disability of 10% or more, in order of their ratings
Priority of Service
The DC Department of Employment Services (DOES) requires that Priority of Service be given to veterans and eligible spouses who meet eligibility criteria. Veterans receive:
A 24-hour “Veterans Only” hold on all new job orders
Placement of qualified veterans’ résumés before non-veterans’ résumés
Priority over non-covered persons for the full array of services at American Job Centers (AJC)
Vietnam Veteran Preference
An eligible veteran or Vietnam veteran receives 5 preference points. A disabled Vietnam veteran or 30% disabled other veteran receives 10 points.
What Veterans Should Do Next
Contact the DC Department of Employment Services at 202-724-7000 or visit an American Job Center to learn about veterans’ priority of service. Bring your DD-214 and any documentation of your disability rating.
DC Veterans Education Benefits
Washington DC offers education benefits for veterans and their families through several programs.
Major General David F. Wherley Jr. DC National Guard Retention and College Access Program (DCTA)
The DCTA is offered to Washington DC National Guard members. It pays up to $20,000 per fiscal year** towards tuition and up to **$500 for authorized fees. Payment goes directly to the institution. Eligibility runs from enlistment; the member must be in good standing with at least two years of service remaining from the last day of the funded course.
Veterans Appreciation Scholarship Fund
The Veterans Appreciation Scholarship Fund provides reimbursement of tuition, fees, books, and other materials for undergraduate and graduate courses at the University of the District of Columbia. Eligibility is available to DC residents for a period of 4 years after their return from active duty.
Yellow Ribbon Program
The Yellow Ribbon Program is an agreement between participating institutions and the VA to help close the gap in the cost of education. The George Washington University participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program. YRP does not cover housing, meal plans, or other non-billable fees.
What Veterans Should Do Next
Contact the DC Office of Veterans Affairs or the University of the District of Columbia for information on education benefits. For GI Bill benefits, apply through VA.gov.
Appeals Process for DC Veterans
If the VA denies your claim or assigns a lower rating than expected, you have three appeal options: a supplemental claim, a higher-level review, or a Board appeal. The Board of Veterans’ Appeals is located in Washington, DC.
Supplemental Claim
File VA Form 20-0995 with new and relevant evidence. The VA will reconsider your claim based on the new information.
Higher-Level Review
File VA Form 20-0996 for a senior reviewer to examine your claim for errors. No new evidence is allowed at this level.
Board Appeal
File VA Form 10182 to have the Board of Veterans’ Appeals review your case. The Board is located in Washington, DC. You can choose a direct review, evidence submission, or hearing.
| Appeal Type | Form | New Evidence? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supplemental Claim | VA Form 20-0995 | Yes | New medical evidence or records |
| Higher-Level Review | VA Form 20-0996 | No | VA error in the original decision |
| Board Appeal | VA Form 10182 | Optional | Full review by the Board of Veterans’ Appeals |
Deadline
You have one year from the date of your VA decision letter to file an appeal. Missing the deadline can cost you back pay and, in some cases, the ability to appeal.
What Veterans Should Do Next
Contact MOVA at 202-724-5454 before filing an appeal. A District Veterans Service Officer can help you select the correct appeal lane. The Board of Veterans’ Appeals mailing address is P.O. Box 27063, Washington, DC 20038. Fax: 844-678-8979.
Common Questions
Q: How do I file a VA disability claim in Washington DC?
File online at VA.gov using VA Form 21-526EZ, by mail to the National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office at 1722 I St NW, or with free help from MOVA at 202-724-5454. Bring your DD-214 and medical records.
Q: What is MOVA?
The Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs (MOVA) provides free claims assistance to DC veterans, service members, and their families. MOVA’s trained representatives help initiate or reopen VA claims, advise on the appeals process, and assist with VA healthcare enrollment. Call 202-724-5454.
Q: What are the 2026 VA disability rates?
The 2026 COLA is 2.8%, effective December 1, 2025. Rates range from $180.42 at 10% to $3,938.58 at 100% for a veteran alone. Rates with dependents are higher, starting at the 30% rating level.
Q: Where is the VA Regional Office in Washington DC?
The National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office is at 1722 I St NW, Washington, DC 20006. Hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Schedule appointments through VERA.
Q: What is the Washington DC VA Medical Center address?
The Washington DC VA Medical Center is at 50 Irving Street NW, Washington, DC 20422. Main phone: 202-745-8000. Appointments: 202-745-8577 or 888-553-0242.
Q: What is the Disabled Veterans Homestead Deduction in DC?
DC offers a $445,000 reduction in assessed value for homes owned by veterans with total and permanent disability from service or 100% disability rating via unemployability. The household income limit is $163,500 for TY 2026.
Q: Is there a complete property tax exemption for disabled veterans in DC?
A bill was introduced in November 2025 (Bill 26-476) to provide a complete property tax exemption for all disabled veterans and their surviving spouses. A public hearing was held July 10, 2026. The bill has not been enacted as of the latest available information.
Q: Do DC veterans receive the same VA disability rates as other states?
Yes. VA disability compensation is a federal benefit. Washington DC veterans receive the same monthly rates as all other states.
Q: How do I appeal a VA decision in Washington DC?
You have three appeal options: supplemental claim (VA Form 20-0995), higher-level review (VA Form 20-0996), or Board appeal (VA Form 10182). The Board of Veterans’ Appeals is in Washington, DC. You have one year to appeal.
Q: What PACT Act benefits are available to DC veterans?
The PACT Act expands VA health care eligibility for Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 veterans. It adds hypertension and MGUS to the Agent Orange presumptive list. Over 4,025 DC veterans have filed PACT Act claims.
Q: What education benefits are available for DC veterans?
The DCTA program pays up to $20,000 per fiscal year for DC National Guard members. The Veterans Appreciation Scholarship Fund provides tuition reimbursement at the University of the District of Columbia. The Yellow Ribbon Program is available at participating institutions like George Washington University.
Q: What employment preference do DC veterans receive?
Eligible veterans receive 5 preference points on DC government examinations. Disabled Vietnam veterans or 30% disabled other veterans receive 10 points. DOES provides Priority of Service for veterans at American Job Centers.
Q: How long does a VA disability claim take?
The average processing time is 75 to 80 days in 2026. Claims requiring additional evidence or medical exams may take longer.
Q: Where can I get free help filing a claim in Washington DC?
Call MOVA at 202-724-5454. The office is at 441 4th St NW, Washington, DC 20001. You can also contact the National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office or a Veterans Service Organization like the American Legion, VFW, or DAV.
Q: What is the Caregiver Support Line number?
The VA Caregiver Support Line is available at 1-855-260-3274. The Washington DC VA Medical Center also offers caregiver support services through its Social Work department.
Key Takeaways
Washington DC veterans file VA disability claims using VA Form 21-526EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, or with free help from MOVA at 202-724-5454.
DC veterans receive the same 2026 federal compensation rates as all other states, ranging from $180.42 at 10% to $3,938.58 at 100%.
The 2026 COLA is 2.8%, effective December 1, 2025.
The National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office is at 1722 I St NW, Washington, DC 20006.
The Washington DC VA Medical Center is at 50 Irving Street NW and serves veterans at 8 locations in the DC area.
DC offers a Disabled Veterans Homestead Deduction of $445,000; a bill to provide a complete property tax exemption is pending.
Over 4,025 DC veterans have filed PACT Act claims, which expand health care and benefits for toxic-exposed veterans.
DC provides veterans’ preference in government hiring (5–10 points) and Priority of Service at American Job Centers.
Average claim processing time is 75 to 80 days in 2026.
You have one year from the decision date to appeal a VA decision. The Board of Veterans’ Appeals is in Washington, DC.
Official Resources
VA.gov: Current Veterans disability compensation rates — https://www.va.gov/disability/compensation-rates/veteran-rates/
VA.gov: How to file a VA disability claim — https://www.va.gov/disability/how-to-file-claim/
VA.gov: National Capital Region VA Regional Benefit Office — https://www.va.gov/national-capital-region-va-regional-benefit-office/
VA.gov: Washington DC VA Medical Center — https://www.va.gov/washington-dc-health-care/locations/washington-va-medical-center/
VA.gov: Decision reviews and appeals — https://www.va.gov/decision-reviews/
VA.gov: The PACT Act and your VA benefits — https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/
DC MOVA: Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs — https://communityaffairs.dc.gov/mova
DC OTR: Disabled Veterans Homestead Deduction — https://communityaffairs.dc.gov/page/disabled-veterans-homestead-deduction
USA.gov: Veterans benefits — https://www.usa.gov/veterans-benefits
🇺🇸 IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER – Veterans Benefits Information
This site provides general information about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits for educational and informational purposes only.
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📌 Information provided as of June 2026. Always verify current eligibility and rules with official .gov sources.
This site is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency. All information is for educational purposes only. Please visit VA.gov for official information.
