How the VA Manages Claims and Getting Access to Your Records
The VA now tracks and manages all claims on a computerized system, the Veterans Benefits Management System (“VBMS”). The VBMS system stores the veteran’s service records, C&P Exams, VA medical records, copies of decisions, and any other evidence the veteran has previously submitted.
As an accredited representative, we have real time access to these files. We can see copies of decisions as they are created, obtain copies of C&P exams instantly, and ensure the VA has received any evidence in support of your claim. Our clients to not wait weeks to get copies of new VA decisions. We send copies of decisions the same day they are decided. It is important to note that not every accredited representative has access to VBMS. Getting access is very time consuming, requires an additional background check, as well as other annual certifications to maintain access. You should never hire a representative without VBMS access.
Seeing the actual evidence the VA used to decide your claim is extremally important. Veterans are forced to wait months of even years to obtain copies of C&P exams that were used to deny claims. Thankfully for our clients, we are able to send them any evidence the day it is received.
Veterans seeking to obtain copies of their records should complete VA Form 20-10206. In item 17, select that you want a copy of your Claims File, commonly referred to as the C-File. This amounts to the same information we have real time access to, without waiting months or years.
It is important to review your VA records before appealing so you will have a better understanding of what you will need to show the VA incorrectly decided your decision. Sometimes, that will include pointing out a piece of evidence the VA overlooked. Other times, it will be getting medical evidence to refute something a VA official has stated.
Need help obtaining your records? Contact us today!
Obtaining Your VA Records Without a Representative
Obtaining Military Records
Often times, the VA makes minimal efforts to obtain your complete service records. Other times, records are lost or destroyed. The VA will also often omit performance reports, which we find to be valuable, since they discuss the job you were actually doing on active-duty and can help tend the likelihood of an injury. Veterans can obtain copies of their Official Military Personnel File (“OMPF”) directly from the National Archives, online. If you are dealing with a lost or destroyed records case, our experience can help guide you through this process. The VA has a heightened duty to assist you if your records are unavailable for review.