How to get a copy of your VA claims file (C-file)

What it is

Your claims file, often called your C-file, is VA's record of your claim: what you sent, what VA collected, exam findings and the decisions. Reading it shows what VA had in front of it, so you can spot errors and missing evidence before you file an appeal or a Supplemental Claim.

How to ask for it, step by step

1. Fill out VA Form 20-10206, the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) or Privacy Act (PA) Request. VA says a Privacy Act request is made by completing the entire form.
2. Put in your identifying details. VA says your Social Security number or C-file number may help it find your records.
3. Submit it online, or mail it to: Department of Veterans Affairs, Evidence Intake Center, PO Box 4444, Janesville, WI 53547-4444.

What to do with it

• Read the exam reports and the decision letter for facts that are wrong or missing.
• Look for evidence you sent that the decision never mentions.
• A free accredited representative can read it with you. Link below.

Traps

• VA's Privacy Act page does not give a processing time, so do not count on a date.
• Use your own details on the form so VA can match the file to you.

Where to call and where to go

Phone

• VA questions about records: 1-800-827-1000 (TTY: 711). VA lists hours as Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. ET. Sources: va.gov/contact-us and Helpful VA phone numbers
• Veterans Crisis Line, 24/7: 988, then select 1. Source: Helpful VA phone numbers

Official pages

• Request personal records online (VA Form 20-10206)
• VA Form 20-10206 (print and mail)
• VA Privacy Act requests

Free accredited help

• Find an accredited representative (attorney, claims agent or Veterans Service Organization representative). VA says help from an accredited VSO representative is always free.