What evidence do I need to submit to prove a service-connected disability?
When applying for veterans disability benefits for a service-connected disability in Florida, there are certain types of evidence you need to provide to support your claim. This evidence needs to prove that you have a current disability caused by an injury or illness that was incurred or aggravated during active military service. To do this, you must provide evidence to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs of your diagnosis or medical condition, the date or period of time when it became apparent, and any treatment you have received. This evidence can include: service medical records, private medical records, physicians’ statements, and statements from family members, friends, or coworkers who can confirm your diagnosis or symptoms. You may also be asked to provide other evidence such as copies of discharge papers, current fact sheets or reports from the Veterans Health Administration, and relevant documents from other military services. If you are filing a claim for benefits due to a traumatic brain injury (TBI), you must also provide a TBI evaluation or any other medical or psychological evidence that may support your claim. In some cases, you may be asked to provide evidence of a service-connected disability by requesting an examination from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or another evaluating agency. This examination is referred to as a “Compensation and Pension Exam” and must be taken within a set time frame. The exam results will be used to determine if the disability you are claiming is service-connected.
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