Pulling your C-File

Once you have any interaction with VA — even just enrollment in VA health care — they begin assembling a C-File on you. This is the master file that contains everything VA has on you: STRs, medical records, prior decisions, exam reports, all correspondence. Before filing or appealing, request a complete copy.

How to request

Submit VA Form 20-10206 (FOIA/Privacy Act Request). You can also call your Regional Office. The C-File is free to you. Allow several weeks to a few months for delivery.

Strategy

Before filing any appeal, get your current C-File. Many denials are based on documents the veteran has never seen — including unfavorable C&P exam reports. You cannot effectively rebut what you have not read.

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