✍️Write Your Personal Statement

What It Is

A personal statement (also called a "Statement in Support of Claim") is a written account in your own words explaining:

1. How your condition began or was caused by military service
2. How it has progressed since service
3. How it currently affects your daily life, work, and relationships

Format

Use VA Form 21-4138 (Statement in Support of Claim) or write a separate letter.

What to Include

Section 1 — In-Service Event/Cause

• What happened during service that caused or contributed to your condition
• Specific dates, locations, units if you remember
• What your duties were and how they exposed you to the condition
• Any treatment you received in service

Section 2 — Continuity of Symptoms

• How symptoms continued after service
• When you first sought treatment after discharge
• How symptoms have worsened over time

Section 3 — Current Impact

• How the condition affects your DAILY LIFE (be specific!)
• Work limitations — missed days, reduced performance, jobs you can't do
• Relationship impact — marriage, friendships, social isolation
• Physical limitations — what you can't do anymore
• Mental health impact — sleep, mood, concentration, motivation
• Medications and side effects

Writing Tips

• Be HONEST and SPECIFIC — not "my back hurts" but "I cannot sit for more than 20 minutes without severe pain that forces me to stand and stretch"
• Describe your WORST days, not your best
• Use specific examples: "Last month I had to leave work 3 times because of migraines"
• Don't use medical jargon — write in plain language
• Don't minimize: "It's not that bad" will HURT your claim
• Focus on FUNCTION — what can't you do because of this condition?
• Include frequency: "I have panic attacks 3-4 times per week"