A Compensation & Pension Examination (also known as a VA Claim Exam) is a medical evaluation performed by the VA or a contracted provider to assess a veteran’s service-connected disability claim. It is a very significant part of the VA disability claim process as it helps determine whether a condition is connected to service and how severe it is.

The C&P Exam is used solely to gather evidence for the VA to decide a veteran’s claim. Depending on the condition being reviewed, the exam may involve a physical examination, a mental health evaluation, or both. The examiner may ask questions about military service, symptoms, medical history, daily functioning, and work limitations.

Not every claim will require a C&P exam, but if one is scheduled, it is critical to attend. Missing an exam without a good reason can result in a denial of the claim. After the exam, the examiner writes a report (called a Disability Benefits Questionnaire, or DBQ), which is sent back to the VA to use in making the claim decision.

The results of a C&P exam can heavily influence the outcome of a veteran’s claim—whether it’s approved, denied, or what rating percentage is assigned. If the examiner gives an unfavorable opinion or overlooks key symptoms, it can hurt the case. That is why it is often helpful to prepare beforehand or consider working with a VA-accredited representative who can help understand what to expect, respond to unfavorable exams, or submit rebuttal evidence if needed.

We have attorney’s and representatives here at Greene & Marusak that can help you prepare for your C&P examination.

Give us a call at (844) 483-8737

1. Attend the examination and be on time

2. Be honest about your symptoms

   • Don’t lie or exaggerate to try and get a higher rating, the examiner will see right through it

3. Don’t downplay your symptoms

   • If your symptoms are not as severe on the exam day, describe how you feel on your worst days

4. Keep and bring a record of symptoms: frequency, severity, examples where they affected your life

5. Bring support: a close relative, significant other, or trusted friend