ITF (Intent to File)
VA Terminology Definition
Plain English Definition
A notice to the VA that you plan to file a claim. It 'saves' your effective date for up to one year while you gather evidence.
Why This Matters
Filing an ITF immediately protects your effective date. You then have 12 months to submit your full claim. This can mean thousands of dollars in additional back pay.
Example
You decide to file for PTSD but don't have all your evidence yet. File an ITF today, then take 6 months to get buddy statements and a nexus letter. Your effective date is still today, not 6 months from now.