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Not sure where to begin? Pick the situation that fits you best. Each path has a short checklist, the exact template you need, and a quick guide or tip so you can move forward today — no fluff, just action.
Filing Your First VA Claim
Do this first: You’re on the clock. Lock in your date now, then stack the deck with clean evidence. Keep it tight and focused — what happened in service, what’s happening now, and how the two connect. No fluff.
- VA: How to File a Disability Claim
- VA: Intent to File — Protect Your Date
- Lay/Buddy Statement Templates
- VA Claim Basics (FAQ)
- Tips: Service connection and evidence
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File a Supplemental Claim (Denied or Low Rating)
Do this first: The letter tells you what sunk your claim. Fix the holes with new and relevant evidence — exactly what they said was missing. Keep your submission laser‑focused on those gaps.
- VA: Supplemental Claim Overview
- VA: File Form 20‑0995 Online
- New Evidence Statement Templates
- Supplemental Claims (FAQ)
- Tips: Evidence gaps and strategy
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Request a Higher‑Level Review (HLR)
Do this first: HLR isn’t for new evidence — it’s for pointing out errors. You’re asking a senior rater to re‑read the file and apply the rules correctly. Tight argument, CFR citations, and an optional informal conference win here.
- VA: Higher‑Level Review Overview
- VA: About Form 20‑0996
- HLR Argument Templates
- Higher‑Level Review (FAQ)
- Tips: HLR vs Supplemental — which to use
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Prepare For Your First C&P Exam
Do this first: Go in honest, prepared, and consistent. Speak to how your bad days really look. Don’t argue with the examiner — describe your limitations and let the record do the heavy lifting.
- VA: VA Claim Exam (C&P)
- C&P Exam Prep (FAQ)
- Tips: Logs, symptom tracking, exam prep
- VA Disability Calculator
- 38 CFR Part 4 — Rating Schedule
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Increase Your VA Rating
Do this first: Compare your symptoms to the actual rating criteria and document how often and how bad things get. Track flare‑ups and function — that’s what moves the needle.
- VA: File for an Increase
- 38 CFR Part 4 — Rating Schedule
- VA Disability Calculator
- Tips: Logs and criteria mapping
- Symptom Log / Statement Templates
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Related Questions
Build a Secondary Condition Claim
Do this first: Map the chain: primary condition → treatment/biomechanics → secondary condition. Get a brief medical note that says “caused by” or “aggravated by” and matches the record.
- 38 CFR §3.310 — Secondary Service Connection
- Nexus & Lay Statement Templates
- VA Claim Basics (FAQ)
- Tips: Causal chains and aggravation
- VA: How to File (Reference)
Related Tips
Related Questions
Tools
- VA Disability Calculator — estimate combined rating + dependent pay.
- Free Templates — lay/buddy statements, logs, and more.
New? Read This
- FAQ — straight answers to common questions.
- Tip Archive — real‑world tactics from veterans.
- Field Manuals — deeper dives on tough topics.