VA Forms for Disability Claims: A Comprehensive Guide

Purpose: To submit new and relevant evidence using VA Form 20-0995 after the VA has denied your claim. When to Use: Within one year of a denial if you have additional proof to strengthen your case. For further evidence submission, consider using VA Form 21-4138 for better clarity and support in your VA claim tips.

Purpose: Requests a more experienced VA reviewer to re-examine your case regarding your VA claim. 

When to Use: When you believe a decision was made in error, but you do not have new evidence. In such situations, you may want to consider submitting a VA Form 20-0995 for a higher-level review or a VA Form 21-4138 to provide additional statements that support your claim.

Purpose: A personal statement or 'buddy statement' describing your condition or circumstances, which can be crucial for your VA claim tips. When to Use: This statement is essential to provide context, details, or statements from others that support your claim, especially when submitting VA Form 21-4138 or VA Form 20-0995.

Purpose: To apply for benefits if you are unable to work due to service-connected disabilities. For effective submissions, consider using VA Form 20-0995 when filing your claim. When to Use: If your disabilities prevent substantially gainful employment, remember to include VA Form 21-4138 for additional support.

Purpose: This section details your in-service stressor(s) — the traumatic event(s) that led to your PTSD, which is crucial for your VA claim. Use: Required for most PTSD claims, this information includes dates, locations, unit info, and event details. Remember to refer to VA Claim Tips and consider using VA Form 21-4138 to support your statement, or VA Form 20-0995 for additional claims.

Purpose: Allows you or others (often referred to as 'buddy statements') to explain symptoms, incidents, or service impacts related to your VA claim. Utilizing VA Form 21-4138 can help in providing these personal accounts. Use: Strengthens credibility by offering detailed personal accounts from you or witnesses, which is essential when filing your VA Form 20-0995.

Find all official VA claim forms conveniently in one location, including the VA Form 21-526EZ for initial claims, VA Form 20-0995 for supplemental claims, and VA Form 20-0996 for Higher-Level Reviews. For additional insights, check out our VA claim tips to streamline your process.