VA Disability Glossary – Key Terms Every Veteran Should Know
C-File (Claims File)
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A C-File, short for Claims File, is the official record the VA keeps for each veteran who has filed a claim for disability compensation or other benefits. It includes all documents, forms, medical records, service records, correspondence, decisions, and evidence the VA uses to evaluate and decide a veteran’s claim.
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A C-File typically includes:
Application for benefits
DD-214 (Report of Separation from Service)
Medical records (both service treatment records and VA medical records)
Rating decisions
VA denial letters
Appeals documents
Note: Each veteran’s C-File is unique and may contain more or fewer documents depending on their claim history.
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It is the foundation of your VA disability case
Allows your attorney or representative to find errors, missing evidence, or overlooked conditions
Essential for preparing appeals, supplemental claims, or clear and unmistakable error (CUE) requests
May be necessary to challenge past decisions or determine the correct effective date
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Online: Submit a request through the Privacy Act using VA Form 20-10206
In Person: You can request a copy of your C-File in person at your local VA Regional Office
With Assistance: You can request it with the help of a VA-accredited representative or attorney
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At Greene & Marusak, we assist veterans in requesting their complete C-File from the VA and thoroughly reviewing its contents for errors, omissions, or overlooked evidence. Whether you are preparing to file a new claim or appeal a past decision, having your full C-File is a critical first step—and we are here to help you every step of the way.
Give us a call at (844) 483-8737