How to Prepare for a VA Disability Examination for PTSD 

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

Understanding the VA PTSD Exam and Its Importance 

A VA disability examination for PTSD—also known as a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam—is a critical step in determining whether a Veteran qualifies for VA disability benefits for PTSD and what disability rating they receive. 

The purpose of the exam is to: 

• Evaluate the severity of PTSD symptoms. 

• Confirm the service connection of PTSD. 

• Determine how PTSD affects daily life and employment. 

Since PTSD claims are often scrutinized, preparing for the exam can make a significant difference in the outcome of a Veteran’s VA disability rating. 

How to Prepare for Your VA PTSD Exam 

1. Understand What the VA Evaluates 

The VA follows the DSM-5 criteria for PTSD, assessing symptoms such as: 

• Intrusive thoughts or flashbacks of traumatic events. 

• Avoidance behaviors, such as staying away from reminders of trauma. 

• Negative mood changes, including depression, isolation, or loss of interest. 

• Hyperarousal symptoms, such as irritability, anger, and difficulty sleeping. 

The VA rates PTSD from 0% to 100% based on the severity of symptoms and their impact on daily functioning. 

Tip: Review the VA PTSD rating criteria before your exam so you understand how symptoms are evaluated. 

2. Be Honest About Symptoms Without Downplaying or Exaggerating 

During the evaluation, the examiner will ask about: 

• Frequency and severity of PTSD symptoms. 

• How PTSD affects relationships and employment. 

• Any history of suicidal thoughts or self-harm. 

Veterans should describe their real, day-to-day experiences with PTSD, avoiding vague responses. 

What to Avoid: 

• Saying “I’m fine” if PTSD symptoms impact daily life. 

• Overstating or underreporting symptoms—VA examiners look for credibility. 

Tip: Keeping a symptom journal leading up to the exam can help Veterans recall key details about how PTSD affects them. 

3. Bring Key Medical Records & Statements 

VA examiners review medical and service records, but it’s always helpful to bring additional documentation, including: 

• VA and private medical records documenting PTSD treatment. 

• Statements from mental health providers diagnosing and treating PTSD. 

• Buddy statements from family, friends, or fellow service members confirming symptoms. 

• A personal statement (VA Form 21-4138) detailing PTSD symptoms and their impact. 

Why This Matters: If records don’t clearly link PTSD to military service, the VA may deny the claim or assign a low disability rating. 

4. Understand the Role of VA Forms 21-4142 and 21-4142a 

As part of the claims process, the VA may request private medical records from civilian doctors, therapists, or hospitals. 

• VA Form 21-4142 (Authorization to Disclose Information to the VA): Allows the VA to request medical records from private providers. 

• VA Form 21-4142a (General Release for Medical Provider Information): Lists all providers that have treated the Veteran for PTSD. 

Why Are These Forms Important? 

• The VA cannot access private medical records without these forms. 

• If a provider does not send records, the claim may be delayed or denied. 

• Veterans may need to submit these forms multiple times if new providers are involved. 

Tip: If your private doctor or therapist has records supporting your PTSD diagnosis, you can also request copies and submit them directly to the VA. 

5. Know What to Expect on the Day of the Exam 

The C&P exam for PTSD is usually conducted by a VA-contracted psychologist or psychiatrist. 

Here’s what to expect: 

• The examiner will review your medical and service records. 

• You will discuss traumatic events, PTSD symptoms, and their impact. 

• The examiner may administer mental health tests to assess severity. 

Exam Length: PTSD exams typically last 60-90 minutes, but times may vary. 

Warning: The examiner does not make the final rating decision—their role is to evaluate symptoms and report findings to the VA. 

Tip: Be prepared to discuss real-life examples of how PTSD affects daily activities, work, and relationships. 

What Happens After the VA PTSD Exam? 

Following the exam: 

• The VA examiner submits a report with findings. 

• The VA reviews the report and assigns a disability rating (or denies the claim). 

• A decision letter is sent to the Veteran. 

Timeline: VA claims decisions can take months, depending on workload and additional evidence requests. 

Tip: Veterans can check the status of their claim on VA.gov. 

Need Help With Your PTSD Claim? Contact Berry Law Today 

A VA PTSD claim denial or low rating can prevent Veterans from getting the benefits they have earned. If you need help filing an appeal or gathering strong medical evidence, Berry Law’s VA disability attorneys are ready to fight for you. Call us today for a free case review. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About VA PTSD Exams 

1. What happens if I miss my VA PTSD exam? 

Missing the exam can result in claim denial unless the Veteran provides a valid reason (e.g., illness, emergency). 

2. Can I bring someone with me to the exam? 

Yes, but the examiner may not allow them in the room unless they provide relevant information about the Veteran’s PTSD symptoms. 

3. What if I disagree with the PTSD rating I receive? 

Veterans can: 

• File an appeal (Higher-Level Review or Board Appeal). 

• Submit new evidence (Supplemental Claim). 

• Request a rating increase if symptoms worsen. 

4. Do I need an attorney for a PTSD claim? 

While not required, a VA disability attorney can strengthen a claim, especially for appeals, low ratings, or denials. 

5. Can I still get VA PTSD benefits if I didn’t seek treatment while in service? 

Yes, but Veterans must provide evidence linking PTSD to military service, such as buddy statements, post-service medical records, or even a Nexus letter in some cases.