Free guide
The records that make or break a nexus letter.
A medical opinion is only as strong as the evidence behind it. Here is exactly what to gather — and where to get it.
Checklist
Gather these before your evaluation.
DD-214 (Member 4 copy)
Establishes service dates, character of service, decorations and occupational specialty.
Service treatment records (STRs)
In-service sick call notes, exams, injuries and complaints. This is where an in-service event is usually documented.
Personnel records
Deployment history, duty assignments and performance records that can corroborate an exposure or event.
VA decision and rating letters
Shows what has already been granted, denied or deferred and the reasoning the VA used.
Current medical records
Recent treatment notes, imaging, sleep studies, audiograms, pulmonary testing or mental-health notes confirming a current diagnosis.
Lay and buddy statements
Written statements from you, family or people you served with describing onset, symptoms and continuity over time.
Private specialist records
Anything from non-VA providers, including prescriptions, that documents severity and treatment history.
Prior C&P exam results
Helps a reviewing provider address anything an examiner concluded or overlooked.
Where to find them
Four places your evidence lives.
Service treatment and personnel records
Request them through the National Archives (NPRC) or download what the VA already has in your claims file.
VA treatment records
Available through your VA health portal, or by submitting a records request to your VA medical center's release of information office.
Private provider records
Ask each clinic's medical records department for the last two to five years of notes, imaging and testing.
Decision letters and C&P exams
Your prior rating decisions and exam reports show exactly what the VA already believes about your condition.
Next step
Missing something? Send what you have.
You do not need a perfect file to start. Upload what you have through our secure portal and we will tell you what is still needed before any provider time is billed.
Find out which of your conditions a medical opinion can support.
Answer eight plain-English questions. No cost, no obligation, and a real person follows up.