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Priority Processing

Do you need the VA to process things in a hurry? As luck would have it, the VA does have a process for you to be put into the fast lane!

Requesting your C-File (Claims File)

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The C-file is one of the most important things for a Veteran to have if they are planning to Appeal a claim decision. Even if you are not appealing a claim the C-file contains the Veteran's code sheet which contains very important information.

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Contents of a C-File.

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A Veteran's C-file contains everything the Veteran has sent to the VA, as well as everything the VA has generated or gathered to help decide the Veteran's claim. Here is a list of a few of the major things contained within:

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IMPORTANT NOTE:

  • You CANNOT use this method to obtain records THE VA HAS YET TO OBTAIN!

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Code Sheet

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Contains:

  • Effective dates for disabilities (what disabilities are active/inactive).

  • Current and historical disability percentage ratings for each disability.

  • Which disabilities are static.

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Alternative Methods to Obtain Exam Reports/DBQs

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There are a few different ways to get these hot ticket items that can save you from having to request your C-File:

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  • Ask your Veterans Service Officer (VSO).

  • If your Exam was conducted by a VA examiner you can access your exam report 30 days after the examiner finishes their report. It will be available on MyHealtheVet's blue button report generator.

  • Active Duty service members who have filed a BDD claim ARE be able to access their Compensation & Pension Examiner Reports' via the Tricare Patient Portal.

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How to Request your C-File

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There are a few different methods to request your C-File:

  • VSO

  • FOIA/PA

  • In-person

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VSO

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The quickest/most convenient way to obtain your C-File is to reach out to your VSO. However, some VSOs are unwilling to do this, or at best are only willing to provide certain sections of the file, like exam reports or code sheets.

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) or Privacy Act Request (PA)

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  1. Fill out VA Form 20-10206.

  2. Print and sign.

  3. Scan and email the form to: FOIA.vbarmc@va.gov or alternatively VEOFOIAOFFICER@VA.GOV

  4. Wait (5-8 months).

  5. The VA will snail mail you a physical CD.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

  • You MUST sign with a 'wet signature', NOT typed! If you are unable to print the form to manually sign the form then you may sign a piece of paper, take a picture of it, and then put the image onto the pdf file of the form.

  • If you really just want your exam reports/DBQs, requesting just them will allow your request to be completed faster!

  • It is possible the Veteran's request for their C-File will be refused till after a decision has been made.

    • With regard to releases, there is an exception in the FOIA/PA that says that an 'official record that is created for the purpose of making some kind of decision does NOT have to be released until AFTER the decision has been made'. This applies to ALL US government agencies, not just VA.

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In-person

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If you live near a VA Regional Office (VARO) you may be able to walk in and request your records from the records department in-person and get them same day.

  • Finding your nearest VARO - Click HERE.

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IMPORTANT NOTE:

  • Some Regional Offices WILL REFUSE to do this! So it would behoove you to call ahead to ensure your office will allow you to obtain your file.

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FAQ

Section V of the VA Form 20-10206 asks about willingness to pay. What do I put here?

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  • For the sake of completeness you can put like $20.00 or whatever. I have not heard of a Veteran being charged to obtain a copy of their own records.

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