This page includes commonly used VA resources that many veterans need when preparing to understand or navigate the VA benefits process. These links are provided for general educational purposes only.

Valor Veteran Benefits is not affiliated with the Department of Veterans Affairs and does not provide legal advice or file claims.

Create or Access Your VA.gov Account

A VA.gov account allows you to:
• View claims and decision letters
• Access VA medical records
• Send secure messages
• Manage appointments

Most veterans will need a VA.gov account before taking next steps in the VA benefits process.

Create or sign in here:
https://www.va.gov/sign-in/

Tip: If you have trouble logging in, try all sign-in options (ID.me, Login.gov, DS Logon). Many veterans already have one without realizing it.

Access Your VA Medical Records

VA medical records are often an important part of understanding past treatment and documentation.

You can request or download your VA medical records here:
https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-medical-records/

Records may include:
• Treatment notes
• Diagnoses
• Appointment history
• Test results

Availability depends on how long ago care was received.

Access Your VA Medical Records

VA medical records are often an important part of understanding past treatment and documentation.

You can request or download your VA medical records here:
https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-medical-records/

Records may include:
• Treatment notes
• Diagnoses
• Appointment history
• Test results

Availability depends on how long ago care was received.

Understanding VA Decision Letters (High Level)

VA decision letters can be difficult to interpret at first glance.

Most decision letters include:
• Conditions reviewed
• Decisions (approved, denied, deferred)
• Reasons for each decision
• Evidence considered

Understanding the structure of the letter can help clarify what happened and why.

This page does not interpret individual decisions or provide appeals guidance.

Common VA Acronyms

Veterans often encounter unfamiliar terms. Here are a few common ones:

C&P Exam
Compensation & Pension exam used to evaluate claimed conditions.

STRs
Service Treatment Records.

VAMC
VA Medical Center.

Rating Decision
The official VA decision outlining claim outcomes.

Important Note

These resources are provided to help veterans become more informed and prepared. Accessing these links does not require working with Valor Veteran Benefits.

If you want personalized educational and organizational guidance based on your individual situation, you may choose to begin with the intake form.

Start With Clarity

Not sure where to start?

Begin with a simple intake so we can understand your situation and guide you to the right next step.