Free Tool

Personal Statement Builder

Your own first-person statement in support of your claim — VA Form 21-4138. Answer the prompts and we'll assemble a clear, VA-ready statement you can print, download, or email to yourself.

Tip: VA gives the most weight to specifics — dates, what happened, and how it affects you. Describe your worst days, not your average day.

Your full name

Condition(s) you're claiming

e.g., "PTSD," "lower back pain," "sleep apnea, secondary to PTSD"

What happened in service that started or caused it?

The in-service event, injury, exposure, or when symptoms began. Include approximate dates and where you were.

How have the symptoms continued since then?

This is "continuity." When did you first notice it, and how has it persisted or worsened over the years?

Your worst symptoms — and how often

Be honest about bad days: frequency, severity, what it stops you from doing.

How it affects your work and daily life

Missed work, relationships, sleep, hobbies, things you can no longer do.

Treatment you've had (optional)

Doctors, medications, therapy, ER visits, VA or private care.

Educational tool — not legal advice. Attach your finished statement to VA Form 21-4138 (or upload via VA.gov). Sign and date it. An accredited VSO can review it for free.