Slow is smooth and smooth is fast. That military mantra couldn’t be truer when filing claims through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Over the past several years, the VA has made strides in how quickly it processes disability claims. As of 2025, the number of backlogged claims—those pending more than 125 days—has fallen significantly from 264,000 claims to 112,300, according to the VA. That 57% reduction is more than a number on a spreadsheet, it represents the recognition and justice veterans have already earned.

Faster decisions are most welcome, as veterans deserve timely answers. But speed alone does not make a claims system work. What matters most is getting it right from the very beginning—that’s where DAV steps in.

DAV’s accredited service officers are the difference between a claim that moves forward and one that becomes stalled, denied or delayed. They understand not only VA law and regulations, but also how those rules are applied in practice.

By working with veterans from the outset, service officers help ensure claims are fully developed, properly framed and supported by the right evidence—giving VA what it needs to make an accurate decision the first time.

In a faster claims environment, that expertise is more important than ever. A claim decided quickly, but incorrectly, is a denial of justice. It often leads to confusion, frustration and distrust of the very institution charged with veteran care. For those with complex conditions or ailments that were difficult to document in service, an incomplete or poorly developed claim can set the entire process off course.

Today, the VA benefits system is more complicated than ever. Veterans are filing claims that involve multiple conditions, secondary service connections, toxic exposures and evolving medical evidence. That makes accuracy essential.

From the first conversation, our accredited representatives help veterans identify the benefits they are entitled to, gather the proper evidence and present claims in a way that gives VA the best opportunity to make a correct decision the first time.

DAV has always believed that progress should be measured in outcomes, not just numbers. Faster processing is welcome, but it must be paired with thorough development, careful review and a full understanding of the veteran’s service and health history. As VA modernizes and moves more quickly, the role of trained, experienced advocacy becomes even more important.

Our mission remains the same: ensuring veterans receive the benefits they earned—accurately, completely and without unnecessary delay.

Getting it right the first time is not just more efficient, it’s the right thing to do for those who have served.

For claims assistance, find a DAV benefits advocate at BenefitsQuestions.org.