What Is DAV
DAV (Disabled American Veterans) is a congressionally chartered Veterans Service Organization with over 1 million members that provides free VA disability claims assistance, representation before the VA, and advocacy for disabled veterans and their families. Unlike some VSOs that charge fees, DAV operates entirely on a non-profit basis and accepts no payment for claims help or representation.
DAV's Role in Your VA Disability Claim
When you file a VA disability claim, DAV representatives can gather your service records, work with you to develop your claim narrative, identify supporting medical evidence, and help you request C&P (Compensation and Pension) exams. They understand how the VA rating schedule assigns percentages for specific conditions and can advise whether your claimed conditions align with the evidence you're gathering.
If the VA denies your claim or rates you lower than expected, DAV can represent you through the appeals process at all levels, including the Appeals Board and the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. As of 2024, DAV has accredited representatives in every state plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico.
What DAV Representation Covers
- Initial claim filing and development before decision
- Representation during Higher-Level Review or Supplemental Claim filing
- Appeals Board hearings and written arguments
- Coordination with VA medical facilities for C&P exam scheduling
- Preparation of nexus letters and lay statements when needed
- Help obtaining private medical records to strengthen your claim
How to Engage DAV
You can contact your local DAV office directly or authorize DAV representation by submitting VA Form 21-22 (Appointment of Representative). This form grants DAV power of attorney to act on your behalf with the VA. There is no cost for this representation and no fee if you win your claim. You can work with DAV from the initial claim stage or bring them in at any point during appeals.
DAV also operates a national office that tracks legislation affecting VA benefits and files amicus briefs in significant court cases involving veteran rights.
Common Questions
- Can I switch to DAV after working with another VSO? Yes. You can submit a new Form 21-22 naming DAV as your representative at any time, which automatically revokes prior representation.
- What happens if DAV disagrees with my claim goals? DAV represents your interests, not theirs. If disagreement occurs, you can always terminate representation and pursue the claim yourself or with another representative.
- Does DAV help with dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC)? Yes. DAV assists surviving spouses and children filing DIC claims after a veteran's service-connected death.