Filing for VA disability compensation can be a long and arduous journey for veterans, and may often end in denied claims and having to file for appeal.
One critical step in the claims process that veterans often underestimate the importance of is VA Form 21-120210. Statement in Support of a Claim.
This piece of vital information can provide the VA with valuable insights to a veterans situation.
They are often personal narratives that other evidence and supportive documentation alone cannot replicate, because they allow for greater understanding of the impact of a veteran’s disability on his/her life.
The importance of this information cannot be understated and is why we created an attorney-approved guide on crafting compelling statements to strengthen your VA disability claim.
There are a variety of reasons why VA Statements in Support of Your Claim can be beneficial to your case.
We mentioned some at the beginning of this article, but it’s important to understand many of the reasons why.
Here’s a few more to consider:
Crafting a Statement in Support of a Claim is a lot more than just filling out a form.
It’s an opportunity for a veteran to tell their story, to share the realities of how your disability impacts your day-to-day life.
It can be a critical component to your claim.
In this section, we offer a handful of helpful tips from our team, designed to help you make the best use of this powerful tool.
Start with a clear purpose for your statement. Are you discussing one specific claim or multiple? Focus on making your statement clear and to the point.
Example: “I am submitting this statement to support my claim for service connection for a knee injury sustained during combat operations in Afghanistan in March 2015. This injury has significantly reduced my mobility and continues to affect my daily life.”
Whether it’s for the purposes of service-connection or an increased rating, tailor your statement to address the claim you’re filing. Describe events, symptoms and impacts with as much detail as possible, but avoid unnecessary information.
Example: “During a patrol in Kandahar, Afghanistan, on March 22, 2015, I was injured when our vehicle was struck by an IED. The blast resulted in severe trauma to my right knee, necessitating multiple surgeries. Despite medical interventions, I experience chronic pain and instability that impacts my ability to work and engage in physical activities with my children.”
Concrete, specific examples of how your disability impacts your life can be powerful. Mention dates, locations and any changes to your personal or professional life.
Example: “Since my knee injury in March 2015, I have faced daily challenges. For instance, on April 10, 2021, I was unable to climb the stairs at my son’s school for his award ceremony, a moment I missed and cannot get back. This is one of many instances where my injury has limited my participation in family and social events.”
Statements from your family, friends and fellow service-members can reinforce your claim. These testimonials can provide additional perspectives on your condition and its effects.
Example: Testimonial from Spouse: “Since my partner returned from service with a knee injury, I’ve seen a drastic change in their ability to engage in everyday activities. Simple tasks like grocery shopping or playing with our kids in the yard are now difficult and often painful for them.”
Want to learn more about what it takes to get winning lay statements from family, friends and service-members?
Before submitting, review your statement for clarity and completeness. Consider having someone else read it to ensure it’s understandable and covers all the necessary points.
Example before review: “I got hurt in service, and it’s bad. I can’t do things like before, and it’s hard on my family.”
Example after review: “I sustained a significant injury during my service, which has profoundly impacted my quality of life. Activities I once took for granted, such as walking without pain and participating in family outings, have become challenging, deeply affecting my family’s well-being.”
Statements in Support of a Claim are an invaluable piece of the VA disability claims process.
They allow a veteran to share their experiences, detail the impacts of their disability on their life and provide a personal touch that other evidence and paperwork just won’t have.
Spend quality time ensuring you have the best statement you can give the VA before you submit your claim.
Remember, your voice matters substantially in this process, and a well-crafted statement can potentially make a significant difference.
Let our team review your case today!
Cassandra Crosby, an Accredited Agent and claims advocate for Matthew Hill & Shelly Mark’s teams, reviewed the information provided in this post.
Amy Mallette is a Claims Advocate for Hill and Ponton. She is a proud University of Central Florida alumnus, graduating in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in Legal Studies. During her time at UCF, she interned with the Public Defender’s Office and the Florida House of Representatives, desiring to use her education to fight for others. Amy joined Hill & Ponton in June of 2019 with that same goal. As a Claims Advocate, she works with attorneys and peers to review and gather evidence to help veterans receive the benefits they so deserve.
