Fill out VA 21-4138 (Statement in Support of Claim) online
VA Form 21-4138 (Statement in Support of Claim) provides veterans and claimants a way to submit a written statement to the VA in connection with a benefits claim. It is used to add context, explanations, or additional information that supports a pending or future claim for VA benefits.
How to fill out VA 21-4138 (Statement in Support of Claim)
Enter claimant identification
Provide your name, Social Security number, and VA file number (if known) at the top of the form so the VA can associate the statement with your claim.
Write your statement
In the statement section, provide a clear, detailed account of the information you want the VA to consider. Be specific about dates, events, locations, and people involved. If describing a disability, explain how it occurred, when it began, and how it affects your daily life and ability to work.
Reference your claim
Identify the specific claim or condition your statement supports. Reference any relevant claim numbers, conditions, or prior correspondence with the VA.
Sign and submit
Sign and date the statement. Submit it to the VA along with any supporting documentation you have (medical records, service records, buddy statements, photographs, etc.).
About VA 21-4138 (Statement in Support of Claim)
Who needs this form
Veterans, dependents, or survivors who need to provide the VA with additional information or a personal statement in support of a benefits claim. Commonly used to describe how a condition occurred during service, to explain gaps in treatment, or to provide a personal account of symptoms and their impact on daily life.
Where to submit
Submit to the VA regional office handling your claim by mail, fax, or through your VSO. You can submit multiple statements as needed throughout the claims process.
Source and content freshness
- Reviewed: 2026-02-16
- Filing deadlines may shift for weekends and holidays. Verify due dates with official instructions.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not including the VA file number or Social Security number (makes it hard to associate with your claim)
- Being too vague or general (specific dates, events, and details strengthen the statement)
- Not connecting the statement to a specific claim or condition
- Submitting a statement without also submitting any available supporting evidence (medical records, buddy statements)
Frequently asked questions
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How detailed should my statement be?
As detailed as possible. Include specific dates, locations, and names when you can. Describe the event or condition, when and how it started, how it has progressed, and how it affects your daily activities and work. Concrete details are more persuasive than general statements. If you have supporting evidence (buddy statements, medical records), reference or attach them.
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