A Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) is a standardized medical form used by the VA—or a private medical provider—to document the severity, symptoms, and impact of a veteran’s service-connected condition. It is designed to provide the VA with consistent and detailed medical evidence that supports disability claims or appeals.

DBQs can streamline the claims process, potentially leading to faster decisions on disability compensation. They also allow veterans to have more control over the medical evidence used in their claim.

DBQs are tailored to specific conditions (e.g., PTSD, back pain, migraines) and follow the VA’s rating criteria to help ensure accurate evaluations.

A healthcare provider completes a DBQ, providing information about the veteran's condition and its impact on their daily life. This information is then submitted to the VA as part of the disability claim.

• VA medical professionals can fill out a DBQ during a Compensation & Pension exam

• Veterans can bring a DBQ to their private doctor or specialist to fill out

Private DBQs can be submitted by the veteran as medical evidence in support of:

• Initial claims

• Increased rating claims

• Supplemental claims

• Appeals

You can find DBQs on the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) website

A well-completed DBQ can strengthen your case, especially when it clearly aligns with the VA’s rating standards. It helps the VA make quicker and more accurate decisions—sometimes even avoiding the need for a C&P exam.

Having a VA-accredited representative review or help obtain a DBQ ensures it addresses the most important criteria and is submitted correctly with your claim.

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