Question 1

What the hell is a VA claim, anyway?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

It's you asking the government to recognize how service affected you and to compensate you. The more evidence, the better. It’s a lot of paperwork, but this site walks you through it.

Question 2

Do I need a lawyer or VSO?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

No. You can use a VSO if you want, but you don’t have to. You can handle it solo or use a VSO more effectively with the right prep.

Question 3

How long will my claim take?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

Expect roughly 3–12 months for most claims, sometimes longer. Submitting strong evidence and responding quickly helps.

Question 4

Do I need to submit medical records?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

Yes. If it isn't written down, the VA often treats it like it didn't happen. Medical records are your ammo.

Question 5

Can I file a VA claim online, or do I have to go to an office?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

You can file online at VA.gov. Most veterans don’t need to visit an office. If you get stuck, a VSO can help, but online is usually faster.

Question 6

What happens after I submit my claim?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

You’ll get a confirmation. Then the VA gathers and reviews evidence and may schedule a C&P exam. Check status at VA.gov and reply to any VA requests promptly.

Question 7

Do I have to go to the C&P exam?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

Yes. Skipping a C&P exam can lead to denial. Attend the exam to keep your claim moving.

Question 8

What if my C&P examiner was a jerk?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

Document what happened and file a complaint. Write a lay statement to rebut errors or omissions in the report.

Question 9

Can I record my C&P exam?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

Only with permission. Many sites say no. If you can’t record, take notes right after.

Question 10

What should I bring to my C&P exam?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

Bring ID, relevant medical records, and a concise list of symptoms and functional limits. If you have a symptom journal or buddy statements, bring copies.

Question 11

What if I miss my C&P exam?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

Call the number on your appointment letter immediately. Missing an exam can hurt your claim, but you can usually reschedule if you act fast and document the reason.

Question 12

What’s a lay statement, and do I need one?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

A lay statement explains how your service-connected condition affects your life. Yes, you should include one for every claim.

Question 13

Who can write a lay statement for me?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

You, your spouse or partner, friends, coworkers, or battle buddies—anyone with first-hand knowledge of your symptoms and daily impact.

Question 14

What makes a good lay statement?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

Be specific and time-anchored. Describe symptoms, frequency, severity, and how they limit daily life. Tie them directly to service.

Question 15

Why don’t my ratings add up the way I expect?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

The VA uses ‘VA math.’ Percentages are applied to the remaining ‘unrated’ portion, so 50% + 50% becomes 75% (often rounded), not 100%. A bilateral factor can change combined values for paired limbs.

Question 16

How do I get to 100%?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

Only claim conditions that are truly service-connected, submit strong medical evidence and lay statements, and don’t give up. Understand VA math and consider secondary conditions when appropriate.

Question 17

Can I appeal my VA rating if I think it’s wrong?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

Yes. You can file a Supplemental Claim with new evidence, request a Higher-Level Review, or appeal to the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Choose the lane that fits your situation and evidence.

Question 18

How much are your eBooks?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

Most are $0.99 each, with discounted bundles.

Question 19

Do you make money off this?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

A little. The goal is to help veterans first; any income is secondary.

Question 20

Are your eBooks updated for the latest VA rules?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

Yes. They’re updated as rules change. If you spot something outdated, reach out and it will be fixed.

Question 21

Is this legal advice?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

No. This is veteran-to-veteran guidance based on experience. Use your own judgment and consult professionals as needed.

Question 22

Are you a lawyer or VSO?

VA Claim Helper · Accepted Answer

No. I’m a veteran sharing real-world experience and practical tips. Use a VSO or attorney if that’s right for you.

Frequently Asked VA Disability Claim Questions

Questions From Fellow Veterans

General VA Disability FAQs

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