Identity and service records
- DD214 or other separation documents that apply to the period of service
- Service treatment records you already have
- Names, units, locations, and approximate dates that help identify relevant service events or records
Private, practical organization
VA Disability Evidence Checklist
Use this checklist to identify evidence you may need to discuss or submit. It reflects general VA guidance, not a promise that every item is required or sufficient for a particular claim.
General organizer
Evidence to identify and organize
VA describes different evidence needs for original, increased, secondary, and Supplemental Claims. Start with the items that match your filing situation.
Medical evidence
- Current diagnosis, symptoms, treatment, and functional impact documented in relevant records
- VA medical records and the VA facilities where you received care
- Private medical records, provider names, addresses, and treatment dates
- Evidence showing how an already service-connected disability has worsened, when filing for an increase
Statements and supporting evidence
- Your own statement describing observable events, symptoms, timing, and impact
- Statements from people with firsthand knowledge, sometimes called lay or buddy statements
- Records or opinions relevant to a claimed connection between a current condition and service or another service-connected disability
- New and relevant evidence that addresses the issue in a prior decision, when using a Supplemental Claim
Official VA references
Verify what applies before you submit.
VA's evidence page explains claim-specific examples. VA Form 21-10210 is a lay or witness statement form. Forms 21-4142 and 21-4142a authorize and identify private medical records for VA to request.
Before filing
- Match the evidence list to the type of claim you are filing.
- Keep dates, provider names, and record locations consistent.
- Check whether VA already has federal or VA treatment records.
- Confirm every form revision on VA.gov before signing.
After filing
- Watch for VA requests and respond by the stated deadline.
- Attend any scheduled claim examination.
- Use VA.gov to track the claim and submit requested evidence.
- Keep copies of what you submit and confirmation details.
Get individual help
A VA-accredited representative can help evaluate the evidence and filing path for an individual claim. VetComp Planner does not provide legal or medical advice.
Find accredited help through VA