Why Do I Need to Complete VA Forms 21-4142 and 21-4142a Again? 

Posted by Berry Law on February 21, 2025 in Veterans Appeals

Filing a VA disability claim requires strong medical evidence. While the VA has direct access to medical records from VA facilities, it does not automatically retrieve records from private doctors, specialists, or hospitals. 

That’s where VA Forms 21-4142 (Authorization to Disclose Information) and 21-4142a (General Release for Medical Provider Information) come into play. 

These forms authorize the VA to request medical records from private healthcare providers to support a Veteran’s claim. However, many Veterans find themselves having to resubmit these forms—sometimes multiple times—throughout the claims process. 

This article explains why the VA requires updated forms, how missing or incomplete authorizations can delay claims, and what Veterans can do to avoid unnecessary setbacks. 

What Are VA Forms 21-4142 and 21-4142a? 

VA Form 21-4142 (Authorization to Disclose Information to the VA) 

• This form allows the VA to request medical records, treatment notes, and diagnostic tests from non-VA providers. 

• Veterans must complete one form per healthcare provider to help the VA obtain relevant records. 

VA Form 21-4142a (General Release for Medical Provider Information to the VA) 

• This supplemental form lists all private medical providers from whom the VA should request records. 

• Veterans submit one copy of this form with all providers’ names, alongside individual 21-4142 forms for each provider. 

Key Point: The VA will not process private medical records without these forms, which is why they are essential for a fully developed claim. 

Why Does the VA Request These Forms Multiple Times? 

1. Medical Release Forms Expire After 12 Months 

Under privacy laws, VA Form 21-4142 is only valid for one year from the date of signing. If a claim remains pending beyond that timeframe, the VA will require a new form to continue requesting medical records. 

Solution: If your claim is taking longer than expected, be proactive by submitting an updated 21-4142 before the VA requests it to prevent processing delays. 

2. Missing or Outdated Provider Information 

Sometimes, a Veteran may have new medical providers or previously missing records that were not included in an earlier submission. If the VA identifies gaps in medical history, they will ask for new 21-4142 and 21-4142a forms to collect additional records. 

Solution: Review your medical history carefully and list all treating providers upfront to minimize repeated requests. 

3. Medical Providers May Not Respond to VA Requests 

Even when a Veteran submits the correct forms, private medical providers do not always respond to VA record requests. If the VA cannot obtain records within a reasonable timeframe, they will request another signed authorization to try again. 

Solution: Call your doctor’s office and ask them to respond to the VA request promptly, or obtain copies of your medical records yourself and submit them directly. 

4. The VA Lost or Misfiled the Forms 

Unfortunately, lost paperwork is not uncommon in the VA claims process. Veterans often experience delays due to misfiled or misplaced forms, requiring them to resubmit authorization forms to keep their claim moving. 

Solution: Keep a copy of all submitted forms and track your claim’s progress through VA.gov. 

What Happens If I Don’t Submit These Forms? 

If a Veteran does not complete or update VA Forms 21-4142 and 21-4142a, the VA will not request private medical records—which could weaken the claim. This can lead to: 

• Claim Delays – The VA cannot process the claim without complete medical evidence. 

• Denied Claims – Lack of supporting documentation may result in a denial. 

• Lower Disability Ratings – Missing medical evidence may cause the VA to underestimate the severity of a condition. 

To avoid these issues, stay proactive about submitting the necessary forms as early as possible. 

How to Submit VA Forms 21-4142 and 21-4142a 

Veterans can submit completed forms: 

• Online: Through the VA’s eBenefits or QuickSubmit portal. 

• By Mail: Sent to the VA Evidence Intake Center. 

• In Person: Delivered to a local VA Regional Office. 

• With Help: Through a VA disability attorney. 

If submitting by mail, send the forms to: 

Department of Veterans Affairs 
Claims Intake Center 
PO Box 4444 
Janesville, WI 53547-4444 

Need Help Gathering Medical Records for Your VA Claim? 

Missing medical evidence is one of the biggest reasons VA claims are delayed or denied. If you’re struggling with private medical records requests or repeated VA form submissions, legal representation may help. 

Contact Berry Law today for a free case review. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About VA Forms 21-4142 and 21-4142a 

1. Why does the VA keep asking me for these forms? 

The VA may request updated forms due to expiration, missing provider details, or unresponsive medical offices. 

2. Can I send my private medical records myself instead of completing these forms? 

Yes! If possible, request your records directly from your providers and submit them to the VA to speed up processing. 

3. How long is VA Form 21-4142 valid? 

It is valid for 12 months from the date signed. After that, Veterans must submit a new form for continued records retrieval. 

4. What if my doctor refuses to send records to the VA? 

You can request a copy of your records directly and submit them to the VA yourself. If you need assistance, consider working with a VA disability lawyer. 

5. What happens if I don’t provide these forms? 

The VA will not request private medical records, which may weaken your claim or delay processing.