05/10/2026
LETS GET STARTED SOMEWHERE VETERANS
First, the VA rating code sheet. Another way is to request it as part of your full claims file through FOIA, but that takes longer. You can also ask during a VERA appointment, but results vary depending on who you speak with.
To schedule a VERA appointment:
https://va.my.site.com/VAVERA/s/
To find a VSO:
https://www.va.gov/get-help-from-accredited-representative/
Second, your C-file,This is your entire VA claims history. It can include your decision letters, C&P exams, medical opinions, DBQs, and other documents the VA used to make decisions. The formal way to request this is through a FOIA/Privacy Act request.
To request your VA claims file/C-file:
https://www.va.gov/find-forms/about-form-20-10206/
VA Form 20-10206:
https://www.va.gov/vaforms/medical/pdf/VA%20Form%2020-10206.pdf
QuickSubmit upload portal, if you are submitting the FOIA form electronically:
https://eauth.va.gov/accessva/?cspSelectFor=quicksubmit
Third, your military records, A good way to request these is through the National Archives system, often referred to as eVetRecs. When you submit that request, make sure you are asking for your complete service treatment records and your complete Official Military Personnel File, not just a summary. Be specific.
To request military records through the National Archives/eVetRecs:
https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
Direct eVetRecs request page:
https://vetrecs.archives.gov/s/
If you are trying to get VA medical records, including doctor notes, labs, imaging, problem lists, medications, and visit summaries, those are different, too. Those can often be pulled much faster through your VA health portal or Blue Button report.
To access VA health records:
https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-medical-records/
VA.gov sign in:
https://www.va.gov/sign-in/
Here is the key point. These are different buckets of records. Your rating code sheet, your VA claims file, your military records, and your VA medical records do not all come from the same place. @
If you have been waiting on a FOIA request, you are not alone. Stay on it. Follow up when needed. And if you can get pieces of your file along the way through a VSO or VERA, that can help bridge the gap while you wait for the full file.
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