Leverage Your SSA Disability File to Strengthen Your VA Claim Today

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Filed under:Claim Evidence & Filing Essentials

Got SSDI? Drop your full SSA file into your VA claim today. If Social Security found you disabled, don’t wait for VA to chase those records—upload the SSA decision, the exhibit list, and the medical evidence packet to your claim on VA.gov, then add a short VA Form 21-4138 explaining how it shows severity and work impact tied to your service-connected issues. This can speed decisions and strengthen ratings. If you’re unsure where to get the file, request it from SSA or check VA.gov.

Disclaimer and Official Resources

VA Claim Helper is an independent, veteran-run resource. We’re not affiliated with the VA and don’t provide legal representation. This information is educational only.

For official claim assistance, please find an accredited representative (VSO, attorney, or claims agent) .

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About VA Claim Helper

VA Claim Helper is led by a U.S. Navy submariner (ET2/SS, USS Pittsburgh 1995–2005) translating VA law into plain-English claim strategy so veterans can document service connection, prep for C&P exams, and win ratings without guesswork.

We publish daily VA disability tips, evidence checklists, and field manuals that walk you from Intent to File through appeals. Every guide is battle-tested with the veteran community and refreshed when VA policy shifts so the intel stays mission ready.

Service: U.S. Navy • 1995–2005 • USS Pittsburgh (SSN 720), ET2/SS

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  • Templates Hub — ready-to-copy letters, logs, and worksheets to support your claim.
  • Start Here — pick your path and follow the step-by-step game plan.
  • FAQ — clear answers to the most frequent VA claim questions.

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