Fully Developed Claim (FDC)
A Fully Developed Claim means you submit ALL evidence with your initial claim. You're telling the VA: "Everything you need is here — decide now."
Pros:
- Faster processing (average 30-60 days faster)
- You control the evidence package
- Claims tend to have higher approval rates because evidence is complete
Cons:
- You must have all evidence ready before filing
- If you miss something, you may need to file a supplemental claim later
- Requires more upfront work
Use FDC when:
- You have all medical records, nexus letters, and buddy statements ready
- Your conditions are well-documented in service records
- You're organized and confident in your evidence package
- You're filing a BDD claim (all BDD claims are essentially FDCs)
Standard Claim
A Standard Claim means you submit what you have and the VA assists in gathering additional evidence (their "duty to assist" under 38 CFR § 3.159).
Pros:
- VA will request your military records, VA medical records, and relevant federal records
- Less upfront preparation required
- VA will schedule C&P exams to develop evidence
Cons:
- Significantly longer processing time
- VA may not gather everything you need
- You have less control over the evidence in your file
Use Standard when:
- Your service records are incomplete or lost
- You need the VA to obtain records from federal agencies
- You're unsure what evidence you need
- You have a complex claim involving multiple conditions
Our Recommendation
File a Fully Developed Claim whenever possible. The faster processing and higher control over your evidence package almost always leads to better outcomes. Use the Standard claim only when you genuinely need the VA's help obtaining records you can't get yourself.
Either Way, Do This First
- Submit an Intent to File to protect your effective date
- Get current diagnoses for all conditions
- Request your complete STRs
- Get nexus letters for non-presumptive conditions
- Collect buddy statements
- THEN file your claim with everything attached