Claims Resource Workbook

Underdog Advocacy Group

Veteran Resource Library

At UAG, we believe that knowledge is power, especially when it comes to navigating the complex world of veteran benefits. Our Resource Library is designed to provide you with free, essential tools such as timelines, roadmaps, and worksheets to help you stay organized and on track.

Our templates are ideal for veterans transitioning to civilian life, those seeking to review or enhance their existing benefits, and anyone looking to file an initial or follow-up VA claim. If you’ve felt overwhelmed by paperwork, deadlines, or the complexity of VA regulations, these resources are created specifically for you.

Marco T. Reasco

Founder of Underdog Advocacy Group

This is a headline

The Compensation & Pension (C&P) Exam Guidancehelps veterans navigate their VA disability evaluations by providing clear instructions on preparation, documentation, and symptom reporting. By ensuring veterans understand what to expect and how to communicate their conditions effectively, UAG increases the likelihood of a fair and accurate VA rating decision.

Do

Be Honest & Detailed About Your Symptoms

Bring Relevant Medical Records

Describe Bad Days, Not Just Good Days

Be Prepared for the Examiner’s Questions

Request the Examiner’s Name & Credentials

Follow Up on Your Exam Results

Don't

Don’t Exaggerate or Downplay Symptoms

Don’t Assume the Examiner Has Read Your File

Don’t Skip the Exam or Arrive Unprepared

Don’t Minimize Mental Health Symptoms

Don’t Take Pain Medication Right Before the Exam

Don’t Argue with the Examiner

VA Claim Readiness Checklist

1. Claim Type

Identify if the claim is for:
Service Connection
Increased Rating
Determine if the condition is:
Direct (Condition began during service)
Secondary (Caused by another service-connected condition)
Ensure the claim aligns with VA eligibility requirements

2. Service Connection

Have a formal diagnosis from a medical professional
Have evidence linking the condition to military service:
Service Treatment Records (STRs)
Deployment history (to verify exposure)
Obtain a nexus opinion from a doctor if necessary

3. Medical Evidence

Recent medical records (within the past 12 months)
Diagnostic test results (X-ray, MRI, labs, etc.)
Ongoing treatment records (medications, therapies, etc.)
Supporting Documentation

4. Supporting Documentation

Service Treatment Records (STRs) available and reviewed
Personnel Records proving service locations, deployments, or exposure
Buddy or Lay Statements describing symptoms and impact

Company Name

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Your VA Claim Timeline Worksheet

This worksheet is designed to help you track your VA claim process and stay organized. Use the sections below to insert your dates, deadlines, and forms needed. Staying on top of these details can help you navigate the process more smoothly.

Step 1: Gather and Review Required Documents

Service Treatment Records (STRs)
- Request Date: ___________________
- Received Date: ___________________
- Form Used: ______________________
Personnel Records
- Request Date: ___________________
- Received Date: ___________________
- Form Used: ______________________
Medical Records from VA or Civilian Providers
- Request Date: ___________________
- Received Date: ___________________
- Form Used: ______________________
DD-214 (Certificate of Discharge)
- Verified Date: ___________________

Step 2: File Initial VA Disability Claim

VA Form 21-526EZ (Application for Disability Compensation)
- Submission Date: ___________________
- Method of Submission (Online, Mail, In-Person): ___________________
Confirmation/Tracking Number:___________________

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Step 3: VA Review Process

Claim Received by VA
- Date of VA Acknowledgment: ___________________
C&P Exam (Compensation and Pension Exam)
- Exam Scheduled Date: ___________________
- Exam Completed Date: ___________________
Additional Evidence Requested by VA
- Request Date: ___________________
- Submission Due Date: ___________________
- Submission Completed Date: ___________________

Step 4: Decision Phase

Initial Decision Notification
- Date of Notification: ___________________
Rating Decision/Statement of Case (SOC) Received
- Date: ___________________

Step 5: Appeal Process (If Applicable)

Notice of Disagreement (VA Form 21-0958)
- Submission Date: ___________________
Hearing Requested:Yes / No
- Date Scheduled: ___________________
Board of Veterans' Appeals Decision
- Decision Date: ___________________

Step 6: Ongoing Monitoring and Updates

Follow-Up Appointments and Evidence Submission
- Appointment Date: ___________________
- Evidence Submission Date: ___________________
Claim Status Updates (via eBenefits or VA.gov)
- Date Checked: ___________________
- Status: ___________________

Underdog Advocacy Group Workbook

, Resource designed to empower veterans as they transition from military to civilian life. This workbook provides practical guidance, self-reflection exercises, and action steps to help you navigate career development, financial stability, mental wellness, and personal growth. Whether you're seeking employment, starting a business, or building a new routine, this tool supports your journey toward success and fulfillment.

12 Quality of Life Factors	Interested?
Mental Health Support
Physical Health & Wellness
Career Development & Job Placement
Entrepreneurship & Business Support
Financial Stability
Housing & Homelessness Prevention
Education & Skill Development
Legal & Advocacy Assistance
Community & Social Connection
Family & Relationship Support
Transition Assistance & Reintegration
Leadership & Personal Growth

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