Step 1 of 7
📋Gather Your Evidence
Collect all medical records, service records, and supporting documents before you file.
📋
Claim Builder
1
Gather Your Evidence
2
File an Intent to File
3
Write Your Personal Statement
4
Get Buddy Letters
5
Get a Nexus Letter
6
File Your Claim
7
Attend Your C&P Exam
What You Need
Medical Evidence
- Current diagnosis from a doctor (this is REQUIRED)
- Treatment records showing ongoing care
- Prescription records
- Lab results, imaging (MRI, X-ray, CT scan)
- Mental health treatment records (therapy notes, medication history)
- Private medical records (bring these — the VA may not have them)
Service Records
- DD-214 (discharge papers)
- Service Treatment Records (STRs) — your military medical records
- Personnel records showing duty assignments, deployments, MOS
- Incident reports, line of duty determinations
- Awards/decorations that indicate combat or hazardous duty
Supporting Evidence
- Buddy letters / lay statements from fellow service members
- Spouse/family statements about how condition affects daily life
- Employment records showing missed work or reduced performance
- Photos of injuries or conditions (if applicable)
Pro Tips
- Request your service records from the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) EARLY — it can take months
- Get your STRs from the VA or request through eBenefits
- Don't wait for every document — file your Intent to File (VA Form 21-0966) NOW to protect your effective date, then gather evidence
- Keep copies of EVERYTHING you submit