Each VSO shall perform the following in processing each initial claim: (a) Receiving the claim form, which a veteran can submit to the veterans claims assistance program staff in person, through a KCVA field office, or through the mail;

1. (b) date-stamping the claim upon receipt;
2. (c) establishing the claim by entering basic information about the veteran and the claim into a computer system and setting up a claim file folder;
3. (d) checking the claim to ensure that all information needed as part of a claim for USDVA benefits is included and that all forms are completed as required;
4. (e) developing the claim by reviewing the claim file folder for military service and medical information, requesting and obtaining any missing information, and reviewing all pertinent information to determine eligibility;
5. (f) completing any additional claim improvement actions, as necessary; and
6. (g) submitting the claim to the VARO for processing.

(Authorized by and implementing L. 2006, ch. 153, sec. 1; effective April 27, 2007.)