The Importance of Documentation: Gathering Evidence for a PTSD VA Disability Claim

Post-traumatic stress disorder is one of the most common reasons veterans receive VA disability benefits. In 2022, 1,343,669 veterans were receiving benefits for service-connected PTSD. Despite the wide range of traumatic events common to military service and the vast number of veterans who suffer from this condition, is not presumed service-connected in any circumstances. That means it’s up to the veteran to prove that they suffer from Post-traumatic stress disorder and that the PTSD was more likely than not caused by an in-service event.

Proving Your PTSD Claim

PTSD Diagnosis

One reason securing veterans disability benefits for PTSD can be challenging is that there’s no diagnostic test for PTSD. The condition is diagnosed based largely on reported symptoms. Since you can’t provide the VA with test results showing conclusively that you suffer from PTSD and they can’t order such testing themselves, you’ll need more extensive documentation of your condition.

This may include: 

• Doctor’s notes
• Records of treatment, such as medication, and to what extent it mitigated symptoms
• The doctor’s grounds for the diagnosis
• “Buddy letters” from people in your life who have observed the limitations you face in daily life

You will also be asked to complete a PCL-5 form, which asks about the impact of various symptoms over the past month, And, you will likely be scheduled for a P & C exam. This information will be used to confirm your diagnosis and assign a disability rating. 

Service Connection for PTSD

When you apply for veterans disability benefits for PTSD, you’ll be expected to identify a particular event that caused your condition. Depending on the incident, you may be able to document it with military records. Otherwise, you may need to gather other documentation, such as statements from other service members who were present. You will also need a nexus letter from a qualified medical professional, tying your condition to the event. 

A VA Disability Benefits Advocate Can Help

Ensuring that you have sufficient documentation for your diagnosis, the severity of your condition, and the service connection can be challenging. The experienced advocates at Veterans Help Group have a thorough knowledge of the required evidence types. We can help you gather the documentation you need to put forth the strongest claim possible or to appeal a veterans disability benefit denial. 

To learn more about how we can help, call 855-855-8992 or click here to contact us now!