VA compensation: condition, service and supporting evidence

VA compensation: condition, service and supporting evidence Qualifications and requirements: VA screens for a current illness or injury, qualifying service and a connection through service onset, aggravation or a later service-related condition. Supporting evidence can include separation records, service treatment records, medical evidence and lay statements; VA can obtain authorized records. Documents to prepare (confirm what is required): Separation records; Available service and medical records; Private condition and service-event timeline; Relevant witness statements and prior decisions Exceptions and checks: For a qualifying presumptive condition, the ordinary causal link need not be proven, but the applicable condition and service requirements must still be met. Questions to ask: Is the claim original, increased, secondary or review of a prior decision?; What condition and service event, exposure or aggravation are involved? Next steps: Identify the claim type and current VA evidence instructions.; Seek an accredited representative for evidence and service questions.; File through VA and preserve receipts and decision notices. Limits: This does not diagnose a condition or predict a rating, payment or effective date. Federal claim routes apply in every county. Prepare evidence privately; VA determines actual required proof.