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Topic hub · Updated weekly

VA claims statistics, each number with its source.

The claims system produces a stream of numbers: pending inventory, the backlog, wait times, grant and denial rates. This hub organizes every statistic the Desk tracks, from live weekly trackers to original FOIA datasets, so you can find the figure, see where it comes from, and cite it.

This week's key numbers

Claims pending
652,228
Rating claims as of 2026-09-05
Backlog (>125 days)
71,493
11% of pending claims
Avg days pending
61.9
Average wait of a pending claim
DIC denial share
32.4%
Survivor claims, FY 2025, up from 23.1% in FY 2023

Sources: VBA Monday Morning Workload Report (weekly, auto ingested) and VA records released under FOIA 26-23676-F. Full series and downloads on the linked trackers.

Live trackers

Refreshed automatically from official VA publications; each tracker states its source and cadence.

Periodic data reports

Longer looks at the same numbers: what moved, why, and what it means for claims in progress.

Original statistics from FOIA records

Numbers VA does not publish anywhere, obtained through the Freedom of Information Act and released here with the underlying records.

Downloads and everything else

Citing these figures: every tracker and report on this hub carries a Cite this page block with a suggested citation and a permanent URL. Press and researchers can reach the desk through the Research and Partnerships page.

This is an educational estimate and not a guarantee of benefits, ratings, or back pay. VA makes all final determinations. We are not a law firm, VSO, accredited claims agent, or VA representative. We provide educational information only and encourage veterans to seek accredited help for individual claim advice. The Veteran Benefit Desk™ is a veteran founded independent digital publication and education platform that helps veterans understand VA disability claims, ratings, evidence, and appeals using clear explanations, original research, and cited public sources.
Printed from The Veteran Benefit Desk, https://veteranbenefitdesk.com/va-claims-statistics. Figures reflect this page as published. Rates change each December; confirm current amounts at veteranbenefitdesk.com before relying on them.
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