Wondering How to Get Your VA C File Fast?

Thanks to the new VA Form 20-10206, Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), or Privacy Act (PA Request Form), it is now easier than ever to get a copy of your VA C File fast.

Alright fellow veterans, let’s talk about the often confusing “VA C File” and why you should get your file, regardless of where you are in the VA disability claim process.

What is a VA C File?

Your VA C File contains all the supporting evidence considered and rating decisions made by the VA for every VA claim you’ve filed.

If you think about a large filing cabinet with multiple drawers, an individual VA claim you’ve filed would be one drawer in the cabinet, whereas your VA C File IS THE entire cabinet (all drawers and files).

While an individual claim might be hundreds of pages, a veteran’s C File is usually thousands of pages or more.

Why should I request my VA Claims File (C-File)?

You should get a copy of your C File because you’ll want to review previous evidence considered by the VA to ensure accuracy of prior VA rating decisions.

If you’ve had a VA claim denied, it is critical to know what evidence was reviewed and considered by the VA in the denial.  

View the evidence carefully, as it will help you form a better VA claim strategy if you disagree with the VA’s rationale for denial.

What documents are in my C File VA?

There are many different documents in your C File, including but not limited to:

• VA Form 21-526EZ, Application for VA Disability Compensation Benefits
• DD 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty
• Service Treatment Records
• VA Medical Records
• Private Medical Records
• Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs)
• Nexus Letters
• Statements in Support of a Claim
• VA Buddy Letters
• C&P Exam Results (to include private contractor C&P exam results)
• Rating Decision Letters
• Appeals (prior Notice of Disagreements, Higher Level Reviews, Supplemental Claims, Board Appeals)
• Internal VA Correspondence

How long does it take to get C File from VA?

Due to the current VA Claims Backlog, if you request your C File from the Department of Veterans Affairs Evidence Intake Center, you can expect to get your VA C File in as early as 10 weeks. Keep in mind that it can take up to 12 months as it greatly varies depending on factors like where the records are stored (digital, non-digital), etc.

Turnaround time of C-file request is generally 12-18 weeks depending on multiple factors such as where the records are stored, digital or non-digital, etc.

Can I submit an online request for VA C File?

You can submit the accomplished form via the VA’s QuickSubmit tool.

These are the other options to request as well:

How to Check Status of Your VA C File Request

Once you’ve completed your C File Request Form, you’ll want to log in to VA.gov to check the status of your FOIA request.

It will show up in your VA.gov account as an open claim for “Freedom of Information Act / Privacy Act Request” within 7-14 days of submission.

You can continue to monitor the status just like any other claim or appeal. As per the VA, “If you are checking the status of a request for records, please note you have the option to call 1-800-827-1000, or you can submit your inquiry via https://ask.va.gov.”

How to Get Your VA C File (3-Step Process)

Request for VA C File in 3 Steps

Step #1: Download the VA Form 20-10206 and save it to your computer

You can complete the form electronically or by hand, but it must have a ‘wet’ signature.

If completed by hand, print the information requested in ink neatly and legibly, and completely fill in each applicable section to help expedite the processing of the form.

Step #2: Fill out the form, paying close attention to Sections I, III, V, and VI

In Section III, Records You Are Seeking, click the radio button for “Claims File (C-File).”

You can click multiple radio buttons if you’d like any additional documents and records.

Complete Section IV, if applicable.

In Section VII, Willingness to Pay Fees, enter a nominal amount such as “$50.00.” I’ve never had to pay a fee, even though I said I’d be willing to.

Be sure to sign and date Section VIII.

Step #3: How to Get Your C File Fast

Turnaround times vary greatly depending upon multiple factors like where records are stored and whether or not they are digital, etc.

The VA will also mail you a CD copy of your entire VA C File.

You can check the status of your FOIA request just like any other claim or appeal at VA.gov.

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About the Author

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Brian Reese

Brian Reese is a world-renowned VA disability benefits expert and the #1 bestselling author of VA Claim Secrets and You Deserve It. Motivated by his own frustration with the VA claim process, Brian founded VA Claims Insider to help disabled veterans secure their VA disability compensation faster, regardless of their past struggles with the VA. Since 2013, he has positively impacted the lives of over 10 million military, veterans, and their families.

A former active-duty Air Force officer, Brian has extensive experience leading diverse teams in challenging international environments, including a combat tour in Afghanistan in 2011 supporting Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.

Brian is a Distinguished Graduate of Management from the United States Air Force Academy and earned his MBA from Oklahoma State University’s Spears School of Business, where he was a National Honor Scholar, ranking in the top 1% of his class.