What VA claim readiness means
A VA disability claim is closer to ready when the evidence tells a complete story: a current diagnosed condition, an in-service event or exposure, a medical link connecting the two, and records that show how severe the condition is. The free Claim Readiness Checker walks through those pieces and gives you a personalized readiness breakdown, with educational suggestions of areas to review with an accredited representative.
Who this helps
Veterans getting ready to file who want to know what is still missing before they submit. Veterans who were denied and want to see which gap to close first. Anyone preparing for an increase who wants to focus on the evidence that matters most.
When to use it
Use it before you file, so you can get organized before you submit. Use it again after a denial to find the weak spot, or before an increase to confirm your severity is well documented. It is an educational starting point, not a decision.
The evidence VA looks for
Most claims rise or fall on four things: a current diagnosis from a qualified provider, an in-service event, injury, or exposure, a nexus that links the condition to service, and documentation of how often and how badly the condition affects you. Supporting buddy or lay statements can corroborate the parts your records do not capture. Presumptive conditions, such as those under the PACT Act or Agent Orange, can satisfy the service-connection link automatically.
Common gaps veterans miss
Filing with symptoms but no formal diagnosis. Having an in-service event that was never documented. Skipping the nexus, which is the single most common reason claims are denied. Under-documenting severity, which drives the rating percentage. Forgetting that lay and buddy statements can fill gaps your medical records do not. Treating any readiness estimate, including this one, as a guarantee of the outcome.
Related Vet Claims Guide tools
Find what is missing and your appeal options with the Appeal & Next-Steps Finder. Prepare for your exam with C&P Exam Prep, organize records with the Condition Evidence Builder, add a Buddy Statement, and hand your doctor a Nexus Letter template.
Frequently asked questions
A claim is closer to ready when you can show a current diagnosis, an in-service event or exposure, and a medical link connecting them, plus records that document how severe the condition is. This free checker reviews those pieces and flags what is still missing.
A current diagnosed condition, an in-service event, injury, or exposure, and a medical nexus linking the two. Presumptive conditions can satisfy the link automatically.
The most common reason is a missing or weak nexus, the medical opinion connecting the condition to service. Insufficient evidence of severity and undocumented in-service events are also frequent causes.
Generally no. If your condition falls under a presumptive category such as the PACT Act or Agent Orange, VA presumes the connection to service, so a separate nexus letter is usually not required.
No. It is a free educational estimate to help you organize your claim. It does not predict or guarantee a VA decision. Confirm everything at VA.gov or with an accredited representative.