Which information must a claimant provide regarding service in a VA benefit application?

In a VA benefit application, it is essential for a claimant to provide sufficient service information to verify their claimed service. This includes details such as the dates of active duty, branch of service, and other pertinent service records that can confirm their eligibility for benefits. The VA needs this information to assess the claimant's military service accurately and determine their entitlement to various benefits. Verification of service is a critical first step in the claims process and affects the processing of all subsequent claims.

Providing evidence of all prior injuries, detailed health records from childhood, or identification of all past claims filed may be relevant in certain contexts but are not mandatory for verifying service information essential for the initial steps of the VA benefits application. The focus on sufficient service information ensures the department can quickly validate and process the application, guiding veterans toward the support they need promptly.