Filing a disability claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) involves gathering important supporting documents.
The VA.gov provides online tools to make submitting this evidence easier. This post will guide you through the process of uploading documents to VA.gov to support your disability claim. Note that while the older term “eBenefits” may still be used colloquially, the current system uses the claim status tool on VA.gov.
How to Upload Evidence for Your Disability Claim on VA.gov
If you’ve already filed a disability claim, you have up to a year from the date the VA received your claim to submit additional supporting documentation. This evidence can include things like medical records, test results, and doctor’s reports.
You can upload these documents through the claim status tool on VA.gov. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
- Access VA.gov: Navigate to the official VA.gov website.
- Login: Log in using your Login.gov or ID.me credentials. If you do not have an account, you will need to create one.
- Locate your claim: Under “Check your claim or appeal status,” find your specific disability claim.
- Upload documents section: Locate the “Upload Documents” section or a similarly titled section.
- Document type: Select the appropriate document type (e.g., medical records, service records).
- File selection: Select the relevant file from your computer.
- Review and submit: Review the document carefully before submitting it.
- Confirmation: Upon successful upload, you should receive a confirmation message. Save this confirmation for your records.
Timing of Evidence Submission
It’s best to upload your evidence as soon as possible after filing your claim. While you have a full year to submit documents, providing information within the first 30 days is highly recommended.
If you initially file a Fully Developed Claim and later upload more evidence, it will be moved to the standard claim process. This means it might take longer to process, but it ensures all your evidence is considered.
If you delay, the VA may make a decision on your claim without your additional evidence. However, even if a decision is made early, you still have the remainder of the year to submit further documentation.
Types of Supporting Documents:
The documents you submit depend on the specifics of your claim. Generally, they fall into a few categories:
- Federal and state records: These include military medical and personnel records, Social Security Administration records, and any relevant records from your National Guard or Reserve service. If you don’t have copies of these, the VA can assist in acquiring them.
- Private medical records: If you’ve received treatment outside the VA system, these records are crucial. Include doctor’s reports, X-rays, lab results, and any other relevant medical documentation.
- Supporting statements: These are statements from people who can attest to your disability, especially if it’s not clearly documented in your military records. These statements can come from fellow service members, family, friends, clergy, or law enforcement officers. It is also known as Lay/Witness or Buddy Statements (VA Form 21-10210).
- Additional forms: Depending on your situation, there might be specific forms required. For instance, service members filing through the Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) program need to submit a Separation Health Assessment.
For appeals and decision reviews, evidence is submitted through the QuickSubmit tool on AccessVA.
Have you been denied? Cameron Firm, PC, can help.
If you’ve received a denial or are struggling with your appeal, the experienced legal team at Cameron Firm, PC, is here to help. We’re a veteran-owned law firm dedicated to fighting for the benefits you deserve. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your case.
