Evidence Checklist

Strong evidence is the foundation of a successful VA claim. This checklist helps you gather the documents and information that can support your case.

Service Records

These documents prove your military service and can show in-service events:

• DD-214: Your discharge document showing dates and type of service
• Service Treatment Records (STRs): Medical records from during your service
• Personnel records: Can show deployments, duty stations, and assignments
• Performance reports: May document changes related to your condition
• Incident reports: Documentation of injuries or accidents

Medical Evidence

Current medical records are essential for showing you have a diagnosis:

• VA medical records: If you receive care at a VA facility
• Private medical records: Records from civilian doctors
• Diagnostic test results: X-rays, MRIs, blood tests, hearing tests, etc.
• Treatment notes: Show ongoing care and symptoms over time
• Prescription records: Document medications for your condition
• Hospital records: Admissions, surgeries, emergency visits

Nexus Evidence

A nexus links your current condition to your military service. This is often the most important evidence:

• Medical opinion letter: A doctor's statement that your condition is related to service
• Independent Medical Opinion (IMO): A detailed opinion from a medical expert
• C&P exam results: The VA's own medical examination

Lay Evidence

Statements from you and others who know your condition:

• Personal statement (21-4138): Your own description of symptoms and impact
• Buddy letters: Statements from fellow service members, family, or friends
• Spouse or family statements: Descriptions of daily limitations they observe
• Employer statements: Documentation of work limitations or accommodations

Supporting Documents

Additional evidence that may strengthen your claim:

• Photographs: Before/after photos showing physical changes
• Award letters: Documentation of disability-related awards (Purple Heart, Combat Action Badge, etc.)
• Unit histories: Can document deployments or environmental exposures
• News articles or reports: Documentation of events related to your service
• Training records: May show exposure to hazards

Condition-Specific Evidence

Mental Health Conditions (PTSD, Depression, Anxiety)

• Stressor statements describing traumatic events
• Mental health treatment records
• Statements about behavior changes from family
• Documentation of combat service or traumatic events

Hearing Loss and Tinnitus

• Audiogram results (current and from service if available)
• Documentation of noise exposure (MOS, duty stations)
• Statements about when symptoms started

Musculoskeletal Conditions

• Imaging studies (X-rays, MRIs)
• Physical therapy records
• Documentation of physical demands during service
• Range of motion measurements

Organizing Your Evidence

Tips for keeping your evidence organized:

• Create a folder for each condition you are claiming
• Keep digital copies of all documents
• Label documents clearly with dates
• Create a summary sheet listing what you have
• Note any gaps in your records

What If You Are Missing Records?

Missing records are common. You can:

• Request records from the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC)
• Contact VA medical facilities for copies
• Use buddy letters to fill gaps
• Write a detailed personal statement about undocumented events

Quick Checklist

Before submitting, confirm you have:

• DD-214 or equivalent discharge document
• Current diagnosis for each condition
• Evidence of in-service event or occurrence
• Personal statement describing impact on your life
• Supporting statements from witnesses (if available)