Did you know you may be able to lock in an earlier start date for your VA benefits? For example, if you submit an intent to file in January, file your claim in June, and your claim is approved in September, you may be eligible for payment for the time in between. Submitting an intent to file — or ITF— gives you one year to submit your claim and keep the date you submitted an ITF as the effective date for your benefits. For more information, visit www.va.gov/resources/your-intent-to-file-a-va-claim/