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Evidence Checklist Generator

Know exactly what evidence you need before you file

1. Select Your Claim Type

2. Select Your Condition

0 of 18 items complete0%

3. Your Evidence Checklist

Medical Evidence

Service Treatment Records (STRs)Required
Private Medical RecordsRecommended
VA Treatment RecordsRecommended
Nexus LetterRequired
Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ)Recommended

Service Records

DD-214 (Discharge Papers)Required
Personnel Service RecordsRecommended
Deployment OrdersRequired
Incident Reports / Line of DutyHelpful
Buddy Statements (Lay Evidence)Required

Supporting Documentation

Personal Statement (Statement in Support of Claim)Required
Daily Impact JournalRecommended
Photos / Scans / ImagingHelpful
Employment RecordsHelpful
Independent Medical Exam / Opinion (IME/IMO)Helpful

Condition-Specific Requirements

Stressor StatementRequired
MST Documentation (if applicable)Recommended
Combat Action RecordsHelpful

Pro Tips

The Golden Triangle: STR + Nexus + Buddy Statement

These three documents form the backbone of almost every successful claim. Your service treatment records prove it happened in service, the nexus letter connects it to today, and the buddy statement makes it real.

How to Write a Killer Personal Statement

Focus on daily impact, not diagnosis. Describe what you cannot do, how your worst days look, and how your condition affects work and relationships. Be specific with examples.

Getting the Right Nexus Letter

A strong nexus letter uses the phrase "at least as likely as not" and provides a detailed medical rationale. Avoid one-sentence letters. The doctor should review your full medical history.

When to Get an Independent Medical Opinion

If your C&P exam went poorly or the examiner spent less than 15 minutes, an IMO from a qualified specialist can counter an unfavorable opinion and tip the scales.

Evidence the VA Can't Ignore

Objective medical testing (MRI, X-ray, sleep study, PFT), documented treatment history, and consistent lay statements from multiple sources create an airtight evidence package.

Common Evidence Mistakes

Filing without a nexus letter, submitting generic buddy statements, missing relevant service records, not documenting severity, and failing to show a continuous treatment timeline.

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Start your claim with confidence — you have the evidence to win.

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