Guide
How to organize your evidence
Good preparation starts with knowing what you have. This guide explains the kinds of records veterans commonly gather and how to keep them organized so nothing gets lost.
Start with what you already have
Most people already have more than they think — discharge paperwork, old appointment notes, prescriptions, or messages that mention a symptom. Gather everything in one place first, then sort it.
You do not need to have everything before you begin. Organizing as you go is often easier than waiting until the end.
Three kinds of records people gather
Service records
Documents from your time in service that show roles, events, and locations.
Medical records
Notes, tests, and prescriptions from the VA or private providers.
Personal statements
Your own account, plus buddy statements from people who know your story.
A simple way to stay organized
- Keep one folder per condition
- Name files by date and type
- Write a short note about what each record shows
- Keep a running list of records you still want to find
Take your time
Frequently asked questions
What if I am missing records?
How should I store everything?
Bring your records together
Create a private workspace and organize your evidence one folder at a time.