VA Form 20-572
Request for Change of Address / Cancellation of Direct Deposit
Who fills it
veteran
Journey phase
Keeping Your Award Current
Estimated time
5-10 minutes.
When to file
Immediately when you move. Missed VA mail (especially C&P exam notices) can derail an active claim.
You moved and need to update your VA mailing address, OR you want to cancel direct deposit and receive paper checks.
Gather before you start
—New mailing address
—VA File Number
—New bank information if changing direct deposit
Section I - Veteran Identification
Blocks 1-4Name, SSN, VA File NumberPII
Your identifying information. The VA File Number ensures the address change reaches all your VA benefit records (compensation, pension, etc.).
Example
(legal name, SSN, VA file number)
Common mistakes
- Not knowing VA.gov online address change is faster than paper form.
- Updating address in one VA system (MyHealtheVet) without updating VBA records - compensation and pension mail still goes to the old address.
Section II - New Address
Blocks 5-8Complete new mailing address
Full new address including apartment/unit number, city, state, and ZIP+4. If you have a new phone number, include that too. VA uses the address on file for critical mail including C&P exam scheduling - an outdated address means missed appointments.
Example
e.g., 456 Oak Ave, Apt 3B, Tucson AZ 85701-1234
Common mistakes
- Using a temporary address during a move - if you are between addresses, use the most reliable one.
- Not updating during an active claim - missed C&P exam notices cause denial without your input.
Section III - Certification
Blocks 9-10Veteran signature and datePII
Sign and date. Alternatively, update online at va.gov/change-address or by calling 1-800-827-1000 (faster than paper).
Example
(signature/date)
Common mistakes
- Using paper form when online or phone updates would be processed the same day.
Statutory & regulatory authority
VA contact information requirement - VA is required by law to deliver timely notices to benefit recipients; outdated addresses cause missed C&P exams and denied claims.