Important Evidence to Include in a VA Disability Claim
November 11, 2020
Evidence is a critical part of a VA disability claim. Without it, there will be no way to establish a connection between service and the disability and benefits will not be awarded. The VA will review all submitted evidence before deciding on the claim, so it is important to gather the necessary information and supporting documentation.
Evidence must establish a nexus between a veteran’s condition and their time in the military. There is a service connection when the burden of proof shows that the condition is “at least as likely as not,” related to military service.
Service Records
Service records can be helpful to a disability claim and potentially provide an official record of an injury, illness or onset of symptoms while serving in the military.
Examples include:
- DD 214 — The DD 214 establishes a few things, such as dates of service, discharge status (and therefore eligibility for VA benefits) and awards and commendations. It will sometimes include a list of locations where service occurred, which can prove that the veteran was indeed at a specific location.
- In-Service Medical Records — Any records from the veteran’s time in the service, such as those from a clinic on base, a hospital stay or a civilian doctor can show that they were treated for injuries or illness while enlisted. These also include physical examinations performed upon enlistment and at discharge. This can be an easy way to establish a nexus.
- Performance Records — Performance records from a veteran’s time in the military can demonstrate things such as missed workdays or other inconsistencies in performance caused by being hurt or sick.
Medical Records
Current medical records will establish a diagnosis or other proof of disability. They also can support an increased rating claim by showing the service-connected condition has gotten worse. These include:
- Private medical records
- VA medical records
- C&P Exams—A compensation and pension exam is usually ordered after a VA Disability claim is made.
- Medical opinions—A veteran’s treating physician can give a report on their own judgment of the disability in question. This might help substantiate a claim when other efforts have been weak.
Employment Records
Employment records can come in handy in a VA claim because they often show a pattern of missed work or negative performance issues caused by the service-connected condition. Information from employers could show a worsening condition too.
Lay Reports
Lay reports are perhaps the least official of evidence types but are still valuable because they can support a claim. Family members, friends, coworkers and others can send a written lay statement directly to the VA regarding the veteran’s claim. Other service members who served alongside the claimant can make a “buddy statement” to corroborate a story of an event or injury experienced in the military.