The VA Claim Exam (C&P Exam): What to Expect

What it is

When you file a disability claim, VA usually needs a fresh look at your condition. So it sends you to a claim exam, also called a C&P exam. The examiner may be a VA provider or work for a VA contractor. Current contractors include Leidos QTC, Optum Serve, Veterans Evaluation Services (VES), and Loyal Source.

The examiner doesn't decide your claim and won't treat you. Their job is to answer VA's questions, often using a form called a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ). VA's rater then uses that report, along with your other records, to make a decision.

Who gets one

Most people who file a disability claim, ask for an increase, or file for pension get one. You can't schedule it yourself. VA or the contractor will reach out by letter, phone or email.

Before the exam

1. Confirm the appointment using the number in your letter. Scammers sometimes pose as contractors, so check that the number matches.
2. Update your contact info on VA.gov so you don't miss the call.
3. Send any outside medical records to VA ahead of time. The examiner can review them but can't submit them for you.
4. Write down notes. List your symptoms, how often they flare, your worst days, and how they affect work, sleep, family and daily chores.
5. Plan your ride. Arrive about 15 minutes early. If you're late, they may cancel.

During the exam

The examiner will ask questions and may do a physical check, like measuring how far you can bend a knee. They might order X-rays or blood work at no cost to you. Some exams are by video.

Tips:

• Be honest. Don't exaggerate, and don't tough it out. Many veterans say "I'm fine" out of habit. Describe what a bad day looks like.
• Stop when it hurts. If a movement causes pain, say so. Pain is part of how VA rates many conditions.
• Mention flare-ups. If you're having a good day, explain what flare-ups are like and how often they happen.
• Ask for what you need. You can ask for a male or female examiner for some exams, including those tied to military sexual trauma. You can ask for a chaperone during sensitive exams.

After the exam

The examiner won't tell you results. To see the report, request it with VA Form 20-10206. Reading it can help you spot errors, such as missing symptoms or a wrong history. If the exam was poor, you can tell VA in writing right away, or later use a decision review.

If you can't make it

Call at least 48 hours ahead to reschedule. Contractors may only let you reschedule once. If you miss it without a good reason, VA may decide your claim using only what's already in your file, which often means a denial. Good reasons include a death in the family, a hospital stay, or homelessness.

Travel pay

You can get reimbursed for travel to a claim exam. VA pays for VA facility exams, and contractors pay for theirs.

Mistakes to avoid

• Ignoring calls from unknown numbers while your claim is open.
• Skipping the exam. It's the most common reason claims get denied.
• Bringing a stack of papers and expecting the examiner to file them. Send records to VA first.
• Minimizing your symptoms.

Related benefits

See our guides on filing your claim, decision reviews and appeals, beneficiary travel pay, and secondary service connection.