How to request your C-File
Your VA Claims File contains everything VA has on you. Request a complete copy before any appeal.
Method 1: Online via VA.gov
- Sign in to va.gov ↗
- Go to Records → Get medical records or use the FOIA/Privacy Act request system.
- Specify you want a complete copy of your VA Claims File (C-File).
- Provide your contact info and preferred delivery method (digital CD or paper copy).
Method 2: Paper FOIA / Privacy Act request
- Download VA Form 20-10206 (Privacy Act / FOIA Request) ↗.
- Check the box for "Complete claims file (C-File)".
- Sign and date.
- Mail to your VA Regional Office (find yours ↗) or to: Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Privacy and Records Management (005R1B), 810 Vermont Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20420.
Method 3: Through your VSO or attorney
If you have a VSO or accredited attorney representing you (Form 21-22 or 21-22a on file), they can request and receive your C-File on your behalf — often faster than going through you directly.
What to expect
- Timeline: 4 weeks to several months depending on file size and current VA backlog.
- Format: Usually delivered as a CD/DVD with PDFs, or as paper if the file is small.
- Size: Active-duty veterans' files can be 200–500+ pages. Long-rated veterans can have files of thousands of pages.
- Cost: Free for your own records.
What to look for in your C-File
What to do with what you find
- Inaccurate C&P exam? → File a Supplemental Claim with a rebuttal statement and (ideally) a private DBQ or IMO.
- VA missed evidence in the record? → File a Higher-Level Review pointing to the missed evidence and the specific error.
- Wrong effective date? → HLR or Supplemental Claim citing the correct date (ITF, 1-year post-discharge, etc.).
- Suspect Clear and Unmistakable Error? → CUE motion (consult an attorney — hard to win pro se).