How to Prepare for Your C&P Exam (And What to Avoid)

CMTJ, LLC
Jun 11
3 min read

If you’ve filed a claim for VA disability compensation, chances are you’ll be scheduled for a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam. This is a critical step in the process—your exam results play a big role in whether your claim is approved, denied, or under-rated.

Even if you’ve submitted solid paperwork and medical records, how you show up to this exam can impact the outcome. So let’s break down what it is, how to prepare, and what to avoid.

Blood pressure cuff with a black bulb and gauge on a light surface. The cuff is blue, and the gauge displays pressure numbers.

What Is a C&P Exam?

The C&P exam is not a typical medical appointment. It’s a VA-ordered evaluation performed by a VA or contracted doctor to determine:

Whether your condition is connected to your service
How severe your symptoms are
How your condition impacts your daily life and ability to work

The examiner is not there to treat you—they’re there to document your condition for the VA's review.

How to Prepare for Your C&P Exam

✅ 1. Know Your Claim

Review the conditions you’re being evaluated for. If you’ve filed for PTSD, back pain, or hearing loss, make sure you understand what symptoms you’ve reported and how they affect your life.

✅ 2. Be Honest—Not Humble

Veterans often downplay their symptoms out of habit or pride. This is not the time to “tough it out.” Be clear and honest about your worst days—not just your best ones.

✅ 3. Describe Functionality, Not Just Pain

Instead of saying “My knee hurts,” explain:

“I can’t walk more than 10 minutes without needing to sit.”
“I have to use a cane daily.”
“I can’t lift more than 10 pounds anymore.”

The VA rates based on functionality, so explain how your condition limits your daily activities.

✅ 4. Bring a List of Symptoms and Events

It helps to jot down a short list of:

Your current symptoms (physical, mental, emotional)
When the condition started or worsened
How it affects your work, sleep, relationships, and mobility

✅ 5. Mention Secondary Conditions

If your back pain causes sleep issues, or your PTSD causes migraines, mention it. The VA may consider secondary service-connected conditions if documented properly.

Stethoscope, clipboard with medical report titled "Medical Report," and pen on a white desk. Blue tones create a professional vibe.

What NOT to Do During Your C&P Exam

🚫 Don’t Exaggerate

The VA and examiners are trained to spot inconsistencies. Be honest, not dramatic.

🚫 Don’t Withhold Information

If you're embarrassed about symptoms (like depression, incontinence, panic attacks), don’t hide them. These issues matter—and your benefits depend on full disclosure.

🚫 Don’t Go Alone if You’re Nervous

You may bring someone with you to take notes or help you remember details. This can be especially helpful for mental health evaluations.

🚫 Don’t Assume the Doctor Is on Your Side

Some examiners are excellent. Others… not so much. Stay calm, factual, and stick to the truth—even if the examiner seems disinterested or dismissive.

What Happens After the C&P Exam?

After the exam, the doctor will submit their report to the VA. This becomes part of your claim file and can heavily influence your disability rating.

You won’t get your results right away, but you can request a copy of the C&P exam report through your VA health portal or by calling the VA.