Fully Developed Claim (FDC) Playbook: Get a Clean Decision Without Chasing Records

You can get a faster VA decision — but only if you package the claim the VA trusts. In this 10‑minute kitchen‑table briefing Gary walks you through the Fully Developed Claim (FDC) lane step‑by‑step: who qualifies, the exact forms to use (VA Form 21‑526EZ plus the FDC checklist), what evidence MUST be attached, how to pull or flag service treatment records, when to include DBQs, nexus letters or buddy statements, and the common mistakes that force your file back into the standard queue and cost you weeks or months. This episode gives practical wording, where to check the FDC box, how to submit via VA.gov or mail, and when you should NOT use FDC because it can lock you out of later evidence. By the end you’ll know the one thing to do today to file an FDC correctly and protect your effective date.