What Are Buddy Statements?

When you’re dealing with the VA for disability benefits, you need to show them how your service-connected condition affects your life. Doctors’ notes are important, but they don’t always tell the whole story. That’s where “buddy statements” — officially, VA Form 21-10210 — come in.

Buddy statements are written accounts from individuals (e.g., friends, co-workers, family members) who’ve seen how your disability affects your everyday life first-hand. They serve as real-life examples that support your claim. These statements are submitted using VA Form 21-10210 to document their observations.

Why These Statements Matter for Your VA Claim

The VA needs to understand how your disability impacts your life beyond medical terms. Buddy statements help them see that.

Here’s why they’re so important:

They provide a clearer picture: Medical records list diagnoses; buddy statements show how those diagnoses affect your daily activities.
They add credibility: When someone else confirms your experiences, it strengthens your case.
They describe daily challenges: Buddy statements offer specific examples of how your disability limits your activities.
They show consistency: Multiple statements can prove that your condition isn’t just a temporary issue.
They fill in gaps: They can provide details that might be missing from your medical records.

Where to Find VA Form 21-10210

Download VA Form 21-10210: Lay/Witness Statement (VA Form 21-10210)
Find other VA forms: VA forms
Learn about VA disability claims: How to file a VA disability claim

Answers to Commonly Asked Questions about VA Form 21-10210

What's a good example of a buddy statement?

Instead of saying, “He has a bad back,” a better statement would be, “I’ve seen him struggle to bend down to pick things up. He often winces in pain and has to take breaks when doing simple tasks.”

Do buddy statements have to be notarized?

No, they don’t. Just make sure the statements are honest and accurate.

Can I write my own buddy statement?

Yes, you can. It’s helpful to include your own perspective, but statements from others often carry more weight.

How many buddy statements do I need for a VA claim?

There’s no set number. Focus on quality over quantity. A few strong statements can be very effective.

How Cameron Firm, PC Can Help

This process can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry! We’re here to help you every step of the way.

Here’s how we can make things easier for you:

Find supportive people: We can assist you in identifying friends, family members, or coworkers who can provide valuable statements about your situation, helping to strengthen your claim.
Fill out VA Form 21-10210 together: We’ll walk you through the process of completing VA Form 21-10210, making sure you have all the details needed so that it’s filled out correctly and completely.
Ensure proper submission: We’ll help you make sure your statements and other documents are submitted correctly and on time so you don’t have to stress about any potential issues.
Build a strong case: Together, we’ll gather and organize everything you need to create a solid case for your claim, boosting your chances of success.