What is the definition of a Veteran for VA disability?

Under Title 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), a veteran is generally defined as a person who served in the active military, naval, air, or space service and was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. This definition includes specific rules for Reservists and National Guard members and certain deaths occurring during service for benefits such as compensation and pension. The core definition is found in 38 CFR § 3.1(d), based on 38 U.S.C. § 101(2), and applies to service in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard, with variations depending on benefit eligibility.