Wolf,
The 'intent to file' as your refered to is called an "Informal Claim." This is some type of comunication to the VA stating you intend to file for such and such a disablity. This is just a simple letter to your Regional Office as there isn't any specific form. Just make sure you be specific as to what disability(ies) you are intending to claim. Once you submit your "informal" claim, you have one year from the date of your Informal claim to submit your "Formal" claim, which is the the VA Form 21-526. If your claim for disability benefits are approved and you submit your Formal claim within one year of your Informal claim, the effective date would be the date of your Informal claim.
Make sure you send the Informal claim per certified Mail with return receipt. Once the VA receives your Informal claim, you'll probably receive a letter from your regional office acknowledging the receipt of the Informal claim and a VA form 21-526 should also be enclosed.
Hope this helps!
Vike 17
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