VA Form 20-572
Request for Change of Address / Cancellation of Direct Deposit
You moved and need to update your VA mailing address, OR you want to cancel direct deposit and receive paper checks.
- 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.
Official VA form page: https://www.va.gov/find-forms/about-form-20-572/
Gather before you start
- ▸New mailing address
- ▸VA File Number
- ▸New bank information if changing direct deposit
Attach with the form
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.).
(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 VA uses the address on file for critical mail including C&P exam scheduling - an outdated address means missed appointments.
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).
(signature/date)
Common mistakes
- ×Using paper form when online or phone updates would be processed the same day.
Statutory and 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- VA contact information requirement - VA is required by law to deliver timely notices to benefit recipients; outdated addresses cause missed C&P exams and denied claims.