VA Disability Benefits: What Evidence Will I Need?

VA Disability Benefits: What Evidence Will I Need?

If you need to seek benefits for a service-connected condition, you will need to provide sufficient evidence to the VA of your condition and its connections to your service. The evidence you need will depend on your specific situation, and you should never hesitate to seek help from a veteran’s attorney. 

Why Do You Need Evidence?

While the government has the obligation to pay benefits to those who suffer health conditions due to their military service, you cannot expect the government to simply take your word that you are disabled. When you submit your claim, you must also submit documentation and other proof that your condition is diagnosed and stems from your service. You must also submit evidence of how your condition affects your life and work.

Some evidence can include:

• Medical records showing your diagnosis and prognosis
• Records of your service 
• Statements from fellow servicemen or family members about your condition or how your disability happened
• Statements from medical professionals regarding the timeline of your disability and the common effects of your type of condition
• Results of claim exams (also known as compensation and pension or C&P exams)
• Employment records
• Anything else relevant to proving your condition and how it arose from your service

The VA will review all the evidence you submit to determine whether you are eligible for benefits and how much you should receive. 

In the event you have a presumptive condition, such as health issues from Agent Orange exposure, you need to present evidence of your service in a specific area and time, as well as your diagnosis of a presumptive condition. 

Appeals and Presenting New Evidence

If the VA denies a disability benefits claim or assigns you a lower rating than you deserve, you can appeal. Your veterans attorney can help you present new evidence relevant to your claim. This situation is more common than you might think. 

Often a vet will submit a claim without realizing the amount of evidence they need. The VA might deny the claim altogether or only grant minimal benefits. Never accept this type of result. 

Instead, speak with a VA lawyer about your options. They will know the types of evidence that the VA is looking for and what will be most persuasive in getting you full benefits. They can communicate with the VA claim analyst and determine exactly what you need to supplement your claim.

Seek Assistance from a Veterans Attorney for Your Disability Claim

Too many veterans with disabling conditions receive fewer benefits than they deserve due to insufficient evidence provided during the claim process. Whether you are filing an initial claim, appealing a denial, or trying to increase your disability rating and benefits, having the right legal help is essential. 

Dealing with the VA can be stressful, especially if you are concerned about your financial support into the future. Contact The Comerford Law Office to discuss your disability claim. We can help with your VA claim and provide proper evidence.