How do I write a supporting claim for the VA?
How to write your claim:
- List the Name of the VA Disability You’re Claiming in the First Section of the VA Form 21-4138.
- Explain the Approximate Timeframe Your VA Disability Began Along with Why It Should Be Service Connected (or Why Your VA Rating Should Be Increased for Conditions Already Service Connected)
Can I still use VA form 21-4138?
You can also use VA 21-4138 to either establish initial service connection for a condition OR in a claim requesting an increase in rating (due to the progression or increased severity of a service-connected condition).
Who can fill out a VA form 21-4138?
former military service members
When filing a VA disability claim, former military service members can fill out the VA Form 21-4138, also known as the Statement in Support of Claim. This is a multi-purpose form that has been used by the VA for many years, on which veterans are able to write any information that they would like the VA to know.
Where do I submit my VA form 21-4138?
After completing the form, mail to: Department of Veterans Affairs, Evidence Intake Center, P.O. Box 4444, Janesville, WI 53547-4444.
Does a VA Buddy statement need to be notarized?
Buddy statements can be submitted on VA Form 21-4138 (Statement in Support of Claim). If the statement is not written on this form, it must be notarized and include this sentence at the end of the letter: “I certify that my statements are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.”
How do I write a VA disability support letter?
Here are some tips to help you write the letter:
- Be clear about your relationship with the veteran. In the first section of the buddy letter, state your name and how you know the veteran.
- Include as many details as possible.
- Include only the information you know.
- Remember to sign and date the letter.
Can I write my own lay statement?
You can also submit a statement yourself. A well-written lay statement can have a significant impact on whether a claim is approved. Lay statements are also helpful during the VA disability appeal process to give more detailed information that may have been missing from the initial packet.
Do buddy statements help VA claim?
A VA buddy letter, or lay statement, can be used to help support a veteran’s claim and provide insight into how a veteran’s condition affects their daily life.
How do I upload supporting documents to eBenefits?
Fully Developed Claims
- Step 1: Log on to eBenefits.va.gov. Click “Apply for Benefits”.
- Step 2: Tell us about your Federal/State records:
- Step 3: Gather non-Federal records (as applicable):
- Step 4: Choose Your Type of Claim:
- Step 5: Upload the documents:
Does the VA check Buddy letters?
Veterans may consider including buddy letters in their claim when they are missing key evidence like medical records. However, veterans can also include these statements as additional evidence to support existing medical records.
Do buddy letters help VA claim?
Do VA Buddy letters need to be notarized?
How do I electronically submit a VA Form?
Appoint or contact your Veterans Service Officer for help filing an eClaim, or visit www.eBenefits.va.gov to start filing today. You may also call 1-800-827-1000, Option 7 for assistance. Log into eBenefits, select Apply for Benefits, then click Apply for Disability Compensation to start a new application.
Can you submit VA forms online?
The best way to file for Veteran Readiness and Employment services is to apply online at va.gov/careers-employment. To submit a paper application, download and complete a VA Form 28-1900, “Disabled Veterans Application for Vocational Rehabilitation” and mail it to your local regional office.
How do I prove sleep apnea was service connected?
Veterans can also prove service connection for sleep apnea by showing that their sleep apnea began in service using service medical records, or by providing a nexus opinion from a medical professional that links their current diagnosis of sleep apnea to signs or symptoms they experienced in service.
Will Buddy statements help VA claim?
What VA form is used for Buddy statement?
VA Form 21-4138
Use VA Form 21-4138 when you want to submit a VA “buddy statement” or other statement from someone with firsthand knowledge of information you believe will help support your request for VA benefits.
Can I fax forms to the VA?
If you want the VA to process VA Form 21-0845 or VA Form 21-22a within 72 hours, you can fax those forms to 215.991. 1470. The VA is actually quite efficient at uploading those two forms to their online databases.