How to Request Your C-File (Claims File)
Overview
The C-File contains everything a veteran has submitted to the VA plus all VA-generated documents used to decide claims. It's essential for appeals and contains your code sheet with critical disability information.
Pro Tip: Your C-File is everything the VA has on you. Before you appeal or file for increase, request it. It's free, takes forever, and contains the exact evidence (or lack thereof) the VA used against you.
What's Included in a C-File
Your C-File typically contains:
- Compensation & Pension examiner reports (contractor and VA)
- Code sheet showing effective dates and disability ratings
- Private and VA medical records
- Past rating decision letters
- Service treatment records
- Disability Benefit Questionnaires (DBQs)
- Nexus letters and buddy letters
- Personal statements
- Military personnel file
- DD-214 documentation
Code Sheet Importance
The code sheet specifically provides:
- "Effective dates for disabilities (what disabilities are active/inactive)"
- Historical and current disability percentage ratings for each condition
- Which conditions have bilateral factors applied
- Which disabilities are marked as static
Four Request Methods
1. Online FOIA/Privacy Act Request
Submit your request through the VA's online portal at their official form submission site.
2. Veteran Service Officer (VSO)
VSOs may assist, though most are reluctant. Some will provide specific sections like exam reports or code sheets.
3. Paper FOIA/PA Request
- Complete VA Form 20-10206
- Sign with wet signature (not typed)
- Submit via upload portal, mail, or fax to (844) 531-7818
- Mail address: Evidence Intake Center, PO Box 4444, Janesville, WI 53547-4444
- Processing time: 5-8 months
4. In-Person Request
Visit your nearest VA Regional Office records department for same-day retrieval. Call ahead to confirm availability.
Important Limitations
- "You CANNOT use this method to obtain records THE VA HAS YET TO OBTAIN!"
- Requesting only specific documents (exam reports) expedites processing
- A tracking "claim" is established but doesn't trigger file review
Accessing Your Records
Once processed, you can access records at https://www.vba-records.va.gov/ or receive a physical CD by mail.
Why Request Your C-File
- Appeal Preparation: Understand exactly what evidence the VA used in your decision
- Identify Errors: Find mistakes in how your claim was processed
- Secondary Claims: Discover connections between conditions
- Rating Verification: Confirm your disabilities and effective dates are correct
- Historical Record: Maintain a complete copy of your VA record
Tips for C-File Review
- Look for missed issues: Conditions mentioned in records but never claimed
- Check exam adequacy: Did examiners review your file and provide rationale?
- Verify effective dates: Ensure they match your intent to file dates
- Review denial rationale: Understand exactly why claims were denied
- Note all secondary connections: Identify potential secondary claims