VA Form FL70-2: Request for Veteran Identifying Information – VA Form FL70-2: Request to Correspondent for Identifying Information Regarding Veteran is a simple but important tool used by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to process correspondence efficiently.
If you’ve received this form in the mail or need to respond to a VA inquiry, understanding it helps avoid delays in your benefits or claims. This guide covers everything you need to know, from its purpose to how to complete and return it.
What Is VA Form FL70-2?
VA Form FL70-2, titled “Request to Correspondent for Identifying Information Regarding Veteran”, is a one-page form letter issued by the VA. Its revision date is July 2002, and it remains in active use.
The VA sends this form when incoming correspondence (such as inquiries, claims updates, or appeals) lacks sufficient details to locate the correct veteran’s record. It requests key identifying information to match the letter to the right file quickly.
Key details on the form include:
- Claim File Number (with prefix)
- Insurance File Number (if applicable)
- Veteran’s full name
- Social Security Number
- Service Number
- Dates of service entry and separation
- Date of birth
- Date of death (if deceased)
- Requestor’s signature and phone number
It is authorized under Title 38, United States Code, with an OMB Control Number 2900-0028 and an estimated respondent burden of just 5 minutes.
Why Does the VA Send FL70-2?
The VA handles millions of pieces of correspondence annually. Incomplete identifying details slow processing for disability compensation, pension, education benefits, insurance, or other services.
This form allows the VA to act promptly once you provide the missing data. Without it, further action on your original correspondence may be delayed or impossible. Disclosure is voluntary, but failing to respond means the VA cannot proceed.
How to Fill Out and Return VA Form FL70-2?
Filling out FL70-2 is straightforward:
- Gather Information — Collect the veteran’s full name, SSN, service details, dates, and any known claim or file numbers.
- Complete the Fields — Fill in as many items as possible. Print clearly.
- Sign and Date — The requestor (veteran, representative, or family member) must sign.
- Return It Promptly — Send the completed form back with your original correspondence to the address provided by the VA.
Pro Tip: Keep a copy for your records and consider submitting via certified mail or uploading documents through VA.gov if possible for faster tracking.
Where to Download VA Form FL70-2?
You can download the official PDF directly from the VA website:
Download VA Form FL70-2 (PDF)
Visit the official form page for more context:
VA Form FL70-2 Overview
Tips for Faster VA Correspondence Processing
- Use VA.gov — Log in to your account to check claim status, upload documents, and communicate securely.
- Provide Complete Info Upfront — Include SSN, claim number, and service details in all future letters.
- Contact the VA — Call 1-800-827-1000 or use Ask VA for questions.
- Work with a VSO — Accredited Veterans Service Officers can help ensure proper documentation.
Accurate information prevents requests like FL70-2 and speeds up benefits decisions.
Common Questions About VA Form FL70-2
Who should complete it?
The veteran, surviving spouse, next of kin, or authorized representative.
What if I don’t have all the information?
Provide what you can. Partial details often suffice for the VA to locate the record.
Is this form related to claims or insurance?
It applies broadly to any VA correspondence needing record identification, including benefits and insurance matters.
Conclusion: Streamline Your VA Interactions
VA Form FL70-2 helps the Department of Veterans Affairs serve veterans more efficiently by resolving identification issues quickly. Responding promptly keeps your benefits process on track.
For the most current guidance, always refer to official VA resources. Stay proactive with your VA records and correspondence to minimize delays in receiving the benefits you’ve earned.