File a Claim Playbooks

Lock your effective date and submit a claim the VA can decide on the first pass.

Filing a VA claim is straightforward when you have the right evidence staged. These playbooks walk you through every step—from intent to file through final upload—so the VA gets a complete package on day one.

Whether you're filing your first claim, adding a secondary condition, or pursuing TDIU, each playbook shows exactly what documentation you need and when to submit it.

Featured

VA Form 21-10210 Lay Statement Field Manual

Master VA Form 21-10210 with our lay statement guide: step-by-step drafting, witness selection, CFR-aligned language, and submission tactics that pass rater review.

TDIU VA Claim Guide: Get 100% Pay Without a 100% Rating

Qualify for 100% VA compensation without a 100% rating. File VA Form 21-8940, prove unemployability under 38 CFR 4.16, and protect your TDIU award. Start today.

How to File a New VA Disability Claim

Learn how to file a new VA disability claim with our step-by-step guide: intent to file deadlines, VA Form 21-526EZ instructions, evidence checklist, and C&P exam prep.

All File a Claim Playbooks

VA Form 21-10210 Lay Statement Field Manual

Master VA Form 21-10210 with our lay statement guide: step-by-step drafting, witness selection, CFR-aligned language, and submission tactics that pass rater review.

Lay Statement Template

Gather witness statements before you file.

Disability Calculator

See how new ratings will combine with existing ones.

Lay Statement Guide

Write statements that address what VA raters look for.

Should I file as a Fully Developed Claim?

If all your evidence is ready, yes. FDC gets faster processing because the VA won't pause to request more records. Use the Claim Prep Checklist to confirm you have everything before selecting FDC.

What if I find new evidence after filing?

You can upload supplemental evidence, but it may convert your claim to the standard lane. Keep your tracker updated with every upload and save confirmation receipts.

Decision Review Playbooks

VA decision review guides for Supplemental Claims and Higher-Level Reviews. Choose the right lane, gather new evidence, and fix bad decisions.

Evidence & Exams Playbooks

C&P exam prep and rating increase guides for VA disability claims. Document worsening symptoms, prepare for exams, and build evidence that supports accurate ratings.

Mental Health Playbooks

VA disability claim guides for PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Stressor statements, therapy documentation, and C&P exam prep.

Respiratory & Sleep Playbooks

VA disability claim guides for sleep apnea and respiratory conditions. CPAP compliance, secondary connections, and pulmonary evidence strategies.

Pain & Mobility Playbooks

VA disability claim guides for back pain, knee conditions, and joint disabilities. Range of motion documentation, flare-up evidence, and orthopedic C&P exam prep.

Neurological Playbooks

VA disability claim guides for TBI, migraines, and neurological conditions. The 10-facet TBI rating system, prostrating headache documentation, and secondary claims.