A strong VA disability claim letter is crucial for receiving the benefits you deserve. This letter serves as your initial introduction to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), outlining your condition, its impact on your life, and connecting it to your military service. It’s your opportunity to clearly communicate your situation and advocate for your rightful compensation. This article will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of how to craft a compelling letter, along with 21 sample letters tailored to various disabilities, to help you navigate the VA claim process effectively.
The following sample letters provide a starting point for crafting your own. Remember to personalize each letter with your specific details, medical history, and service-related experiences. Pay close attention to accurately describing your symptoms, how they affect your daily life, and the nexus (connection) between your current health issues and your time in service. A well-written letter, supplemented by supporting medical documentation, significantly increases your chances of a favorable outcome.
Supporting medical documentation is key to a successful VA disability claim. This includes doctor’s reports, diagnoses, treatment records, and any other evidence that supports your claim. A nexus letter from your doctor specifically connecting your disability to your military service is highly valuable. Make sure to gather all relevant documentation before submitting your claim.
This guide will provide you with 21 sample letters to support your VA disability claim. These samples can assist in properly formatting and expressing your condition in an effective manner to the VA. These letters are designed to cover a wide range of potential disabilities and issues, but make sure to tailor them to your specific situation.
21 VA Disability Claim Letter Samples:
Sample 1: General Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to file a claim for disability compensation for [briefly list your disabilities]. These conditions are a result of my service in the [Branch of Service] from [Start Date] to [End Date].
I am including medical documentation to support my claim. I request that the VA provide me with a disability rating for each of these conditions. I am available for any necessary medical examinations.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 2: PTSD Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – PTSD – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to file a claim for disability compensation for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This condition stems directly from [briefly describe the traumatic event(s) during service, e.g., combat duty in Afghanistan, witnessing a fellow soldier’s injury, etc.].
Since my discharge, I have experienced [list your PTSD symptoms, e.g., nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, social isolation]. These symptoms significantly impair my ability to [explain how PTSD affects your daily life, e.g., maintain employment, have healthy relationships, participate in social activities]. I am including medical documentation from [Dr.’s Name and Clinic] to support this claim.
I request a disability rating for PTSD and am available for any required medical examinations. I appreciate your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 3: Tinnitus Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Tinnitus – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am submitting a claim for disability compensation for Tinnitus. I developed this condition during my service in the [Branch of Service] from [Start Date] to [End Date], most likely due to [Explain the cause such as exposure to loud noises, artillery fire, etc.]
The tinnitus presents as a constant [Describe the sound you hear such as ringing, buzzing, hissing] in my [Left/Right/Both] ear[s]. This condition makes it difficult for me to [explain how the tinnitus affects your daily life such as sleeping, concentrating, hearing conversations]. I have included audiology reports and medical documentation from my doctor to support my claim.
I respectfully request a disability rating for my tinnitus and am available for any medical evaluations required.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 4: Hearing Loss Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Hearing Loss – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to file a claim for disability compensation for hearing loss. I believe this condition developed during my service in the [Branch of Service] from [Start Date] to [End Date], because of frequent exposure to loud noises from [Explain what caused the hearing loss such as: machinery, gunfire, explosions].
I have difficulty hearing [Describe your hearing difficulty such as: in crowded environments, high-pitched sounds, conversations]. This impacts my ability to [Explain how your hearing loss impacts your daily life such as: communicate effectively, enjoy social situations, maintain employment]. I have attached audiograms and medical records from [Doctor’s Name] documenting my hearing loss.
I request a disability rating for my hearing loss and am available for any medical examinations you deem necessary.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 5: Back Pain Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Back Pain – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am submitting a claim for disability compensation due to chronic back pain. This pain originated during my service in the [Branch of Service] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. I sustained this injury while [Explain how you got the injury, such as lifting heavy equipment, during a training exercise, or in combat].
My back pain is [Describe your pain such as: constant, sharp, dull] and radiates to my [mention any areas where pain radiates to, like legs]. This condition makes it difficult for me to [Explain how the back pain affects your daily life such as: stand for long periods, lift objects, perform household chores, and engage in recreational activities]. I have included X-rays, MRI reports, and doctor’s notes from [Doctor’s Name] outlining my diagnosis and treatment.
I respectfully request a disability rating for my back pain and am available for any medical evaluations required.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 6: Knee Pain Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Knee Pain – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to file a claim for disability compensation for pain in my [Left/Right/Both] knee[s]. This issue began during my time in the [Branch of Service] from [Start Date] to [End Date] when I [Describe how the injury happened such as: twisted my knee during a training exercise, sustained an injury during a fall, developed pain from repetitive stress].
My knee pain is characterized by [Describe the pain: constant aching, sharp pain, swelling, stiffness]. It significantly limits my ability to [Explain how the knee pain impacts your life: walk long distances, stand for extended periods, climb stairs, participate in sports]. I am including medical records, including MRI scans and doctor’s reports from [Doctor’s Name], which document the diagnosis of [Diagnosis such as: torn meniscus, osteoarthritis, ligament damage].
I request a disability rating for my knee pain and am available for any necessary medical examinations.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 7: Migraine Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Migraines – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to file a claim for disability compensation for chronic migraines. I started experiencing these migraines during my service in the [Branch of Service] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. I believe the cause of my headaches are linked to [Explain potential causes such as stress, sleep deprivation, exposure to loud noises, head trauma].
My migraines are characterized by [Describe your migraine symptoms such as: intense throbbing pain, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, visual disturbances]. These migraines significantly interfere with my ability to [Explain how the migraines impact your life such as: work, concentrate, sleep, and perform daily tasks]. I have included medical records from [Doctor’s Name] documenting the frequency and severity of my migraines.
I request a disability rating for my migraines and am available for any necessary medical examinations.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 8: Sleep Apnea Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Sleep Apnea – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to file a claim for disability compensation for sleep apnea. I was diagnosed with sleep apnea [When were you diagnosed such as: shortly after my discharge, several years after service] but I believe it is connected to my service in the [Branch of Service] from [Start Date] to [End Date] due to [Explain the possible connection such as: weight gain during service, exposure to environmental toxins, pre-existing respiratory issues aggravated by service].
My sleep apnea causes me to experience [Describe your symptoms such as: loud snoring, frequent awakenings during the night, excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating]. This significantly impacts my ability to [Explain how the sleep apnea impacts your life such as: work effectively, drive safely, maintain a healthy lifestyle]. I have included a sleep study report and medical records from [Doctor’s Name] to support my diagnosis.
I request a disability rating for my sleep apnea and am available for any required medical examinations.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 9: Scars Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Scars – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to file a claim for disability compensation for scars I sustained during my service in the [Branch of Service] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. These scars resulted from [Explain how you got the scars such as: injuries sustained during combat, surgical procedures, accidents during training].
I have scars located on my [Describe the location of your scars: face, arms, legs, torso]. These scars are [Describe the scars such as: disfiguring, painful, sensitive to touch, limit my range of motion]. I am self-conscious about the appearance of these scars, which impacts my [Explain how the scars impact your life: social interactions, self-esteem, ability to find employment]. I have attached photographs and medical records documenting the size, location, and characteristics of my scars.
I request a disability rating for my scars and am available for a medical examination.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 10: Radiculopathy Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Radiculopathy – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am submitting a claim for disability compensation for radiculopathy. I developed this condition during my service in the [Branch of Service] from [Start Date] to [End Date], most likely due to [Explain the likely cause such as repetitive heavy lifting, back injury during training, compression from wearing heavy gear].
The radiculopathy causes [Describe your pain, numbness, tingling, weakness] in my [Describe the location, such as my right arm, left leg, lower back]. This condition significantly limits my ability to [Explain how radiculopathy affects your life, such as lift objects, stand for long periods, perform fine motor tasks, walk long distances]. I have included nerve conduction studies, MRI reports, and doctor’s notes from [Doctor’s Name] to support my claim.
I respectfully request a disability rating for my radiculopathy and am available for any medical evaluations required.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 11: Arthritis Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Arthritis – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to file a claim for disability compensation for arthritis. I believe this condition developed during my service in the [Branch of Service] from [Start Date] to [End Date] because of [Explain how your service relates to the arthritis, such as repetitive motions, injuries, exposure to cold weather].
I experience arthritis in my [List specific joints affected, e.g., hands, knees, back]. My arthritis causes [Describe the symptoms, e.g., pain, stiffness, swelling, limited range of motion]. This impacts my ability to [Explain how the arthritis impacts your daily activities, e.g., perform work tasks, engage in hobbies, perform household chores]. I have attached medical records and x-rays from [Doctor’s Name] confirming my diagnosis.
I request a disability rating for my arthritis and am available for any necessary medical examinations.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 12: Diabetes Claim Letter (Secondary to Agent Orange Exposure)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Diabetes Mellitus (Secondary to Agent Orange Exposure) – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to file a claim for disability compensation for Diabetes Mellitus, which I believe is a secondary condition resulting from my exposure to Agent Orange during my service in Vietnam from [Start Date] to [End Date] with the [Branch of Service].
I was diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus on [Date of Diagnosis] by [Doctor’s Name]. I am experiencing [List your diabetes symptoms, e.g., increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision]. This significantly impacts my ability to [Explain how diabetes impacts your life, e.g., maintain employment, manage my health, participate in activities]. I am including medical documentation confirming my diagnosis and ongoing treatment.
Given my service in Vietnam and the presumptive condition related to Agent Orange exposure, I request a disability rating for Diabetes Mellitus. I am available for any necessary medical examinations.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 13: Eczema/Dermatitis Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Eczema/Dermatitis – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am submitting a claim for disability compensation for eczema/dermatitis. This condition began during my service in the [Branch of Service] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. I believe it was caused by [Explain the likely cause, such as exposure to chemicals, harsh weather conditions, irritants in uniforms].
My eczema/dermatitis presents as [Describe the symptoms: itchy, red, inflamed, dry skin] on my [Specify the location on your body]. The constant itching and discomfort significantly interfere with my ability to [Explain how the skin condition affects your life: sleep, concentrate, perform work tasks, wear certain clothing]. I have included medical records and photographs from [Doctor’s Name] documenting the condition.
I respectfully request a disability rating for my eczema/dermatitis and am available for any medical evaluations required.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 14: Peripheral Neuropathy Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Peripheral Neuropathy – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to file a claim for disability compensation for peripheral neuropathy. I believe this condition is related to my service in the [Branch of Service] from [Start Date] to [End Date] due to [Explain potential connection, e.g., exposure to chemicals, diabetes secondary to Agent Orange, injuries].
My peripheral neuropathy causes [Describe your symptoms: numbness, tingling, burning pain, weakness] in my [Specify the affected areas, e.g., feet, hands]. This significantly impairs my ability to [Explain how peripheral neuropathy affects your daily life, e.g., walk, stand, grip objects, perform fine motor tasks]. I have included nerve conduction studies and medical records from [Doctor’s Name] confirming the diagnosis.
I request a disability rating for my peripheral neuropathy and am available for any required medical examinations.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 15: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am submitting a claim for disability compensation for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). The symptoms began during my service in the [Branch of Service] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. I believe the IBS developed due to [Explain the potential connection to service, such as stress, exposure to contaminated food or water, parasitic infections].
My IBS causes [Describe your symptoms: abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation]. These symptoms significantly interfere with my ability to [Explain how IBS affects your life: work, travel, participate in social activities, maintain a regular routine]. I have included medical records from [Doctor’s Name] documenting my diagnosis and treatment.
I respectfully request a disability rating for my IBS and am available for any medical evaluations required.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 16: Depression Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Depression – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to file a claim for disability compensation for depression. This condition began during/after my service in the [Branch of Service] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. I believe my depression stems from [Explain how the service relates to depression, such as traumatic experiences, stress, difficult living conditions].
I experience symptoms of [Describe the symptoms of depression, such as: persistent sadness, loss of interest, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, suicidal thoughts]. This impacts my ability to [Explain how depression impacts your daily activities, such as: maintain relationships, perform work tasks, take care of myself, engage in social activities]. I have attached medical records from [Doctor’s Name or Mental Health Professional’s Name] confirming my diagnosis and treatment plan.
I request a disability rating for my depression and am available for any necessary medical examinations.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 17: Anxiety Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Anxiety – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am submitting a claim for disability compensation for anxiety. I started experiencing anxiety symptoms during/after my service in the [Branch of Service] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. I believe my anxiety is a direct result of [Explain the possible connection to service: traumatic event, stressful environment, constant pressure].
My anxiety manifests as [Describe your specific anxiety symptoms: panic attacks, excessive worry, difficulty sleeping, social anxiety, restlessness]. This significantly impacts my ability to [Explain how anxiety affects your life: maintain employment, build relationships, leave my home, perform daily tasks]. I have included medical records and therapy notes from [Doctor’s Name or Therapist’s Name] documenting my diagnosis and treatment.
I respectfully request a disability rating for my anxiety and am available for any medical evaluations required.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 18: Shoulder Pain Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Shoulder Pain – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to file a claim for disability compensation for pain in my [Left/Right/Both] shoulder[s]. The problem began during my service in the [Branch of Service] from [Start Date] to [End Date] when I [Describe how the injury happened such as: lifted heavy equipment, fell during training, experienced repetitive stress].
My shoulder pain is characterized by [Describe the pain: sharp pain, aching, stiffness, limited range of motion]. It significantly limits my ability to [Explain how the shoulder pain impacts your life: lift objects, reach overhead, perform work tasks, participate in recreational activities]. I am including medical records, including MRI scans and doctor’s reports from [Doctor’s Name], documenting the diagnosis of [Diagnosis such as: rotator cuff tear, impingement, bursitis].
I request a disability rating for my shoulder pain and am available for any necessary medical examinations.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 19: Headaches (Other than Migraines) Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Chronic Headaches – [Your Name], [Your VA File Number]
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to file a claim for disability compensation for chronic headaches. I began experiencing these headaches during my service in the [Branch of Service] from [Start Date] to [End Date]. I believe they are linked to [Explain potential causes such as: head trauma, stress, sleep deprivation, exposure to certain chemicals].
My headaches are characterized by [Describe the type of headaches: tension headaches, cluster headaches, etc., including location, intensity, and frequency]. These headaches significantly interfere with my ability to [Explain how headaches impact your life: concentrate, work, sleep, and perform daily tasks]. I have included medical records from [Doctor’s Name] documenting the frequency and severity of my headaches.
I request a disability rating for my chronic headaches and am available for any necessary medical examinations.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Sample 20: Limited Range of Motion Claim Letter
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
Department of Veterans Affairs
Claims Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444
Subject: Disability Claim – Limited Range of Motion (Specify Joint) – [Your Name], [
