What Evidence Do I Need to Support My VA Claim?

What Evidence Do I Need to Support My VA Claim?

If you’re a Veteran filing a VA claim for disability compensation, having the right evidence can make or break your case. The VA doesn’t just want to hear your story — they need proof that your condition is service-connected and serious enough to warrant compensation.

At Increase Your VA Benefits, we work with Veterans every day to strengthen their claims with credible, compelling evidence. Here’s a breakdown of the essential documents and supporting materials that can help get your claim approved faster—and for the full amount you deserve.

✅ 1. Your Service Treatment Records (STRs)

Why they matter: These are the medical records created during your active duty service. If you were treated for or diagnosed with an injury, illness, or mental health condition during service, these records are your first line of proof.

What to look for:

• Diagnoses or notes about symptoms that began in service

• Prescriptions or referrals related to your claimed condition

• Documentation of injuries (including those from training, not just combat)

✅ 2. Your VA and Private Medical Records

Why they matter: Ongoing medical treatment shows that your condition is chronic or worsening. Whether you go to a VA facility or private doctor, the VA wants to see current medical evidence.

What to include:

• Doctor’s notes and diagnoses

• Test results (X-rays, MRIs, labs)

• Treatment plans and medications

• Mental health counseling records

💡 Pro Tip: Make sure your providers use language that links your current condition to your service, when appropriate.

✅ 3. A Nexus Letter from a Medical Provider

Why it matters: A nexus letter is a written medical opinion that directly connects your current diagnosis to your military service. It’s one of the most powerful forms of evidence you can submit.

What it should say:

• The provider has reviewed your records

• A clear medical opinion on whether your condition is “at least as likely as not” related to your service

• A rationale based on medical science and your history

✅ 4. Buddy Letters (Lay Statements)

Why they matter: A buddy letter is a statement from someone who served with you or knows you well. These letters help support your claim by describing:

• How the injury or event happened

• Changes in your health or behavior over time

• Symptoms they’ve personally witnessed

This is especially helpful when your medical records are incomplete or when the incident wasn’t formally reported.

✅ 5. Personal Statement (Your Own Lay Evidence)

Why it matters: You have the right to tell your side of the story. A personal statement can explain:

• How your condition affects your daily life

• What symptoms you experience

• When you first noticed them

• Why there may be gaps in your records

📄 Keep it honest, clear, and consistent with your other evidence.

✅ 6. Service Records (DD214 & Beyond)

Why they matter: These verify your time in service and can provide key details like:

• Dates of deployment

• Units and assignments

• Awards or combat badges

• Disciplinary actions or performance reports

Your DD214 is essential, but additional personnel files can also support your case, especially if you're applying for conditions like PTSD tied to specific incidents.

✅ 7. C&P Exam Results (Compensation & Pension Exams)

Why they matter: The VA often schedules a C&P exam to evaluate your condition. While you don’t submit this yourself, the results can heavily influence your rating.

Tip: Prepare thoroughly and describe your worst days. Don’t minimize your symptoms during the exam—be factual and clear.

✅ Bonus: Evidence for Secondary Conditions

Claiming a condition that developed because of another service-connected disability (like sleep apnea caused by PTSD)? You’ll need:

• Medical records linking the conditions

• A nexus letter or specialist opinion confirming the connection

🟦 Take the Guesswork Out of Filing

Most Veterans don’t get denied because they don’t qualify—they get denied because they didn’t include the right evidence.

At Increase Your VA Benefits, we:

• Help you gather strong medical and service documentation

• Write persuasive personal statements

• Connect you with professionals for credible nexus letters

• Guide you through appeals and C&P exam prep

➡️ Ready to strengthen your VA claim and get the compensation you’ve earned? Book a free strategy call now or visit our Resources page to find PDFs you can download for more info.