When filing a VA disability claim, your personal statement, officially called a Statement in Support of Claim (VA Form 21-4138), can make all the difference. It’s your opportunity to explain, in your own words, how your service-connected condition affects your daily life and why you deserve VA benefits.
A well-written personal statement can help VA reviewers understand the context behind your medical evidence, connect the dots between your service and your current disability, and support your credibility as a veteran.
This guide breaks down how to write a powerful VA personal statement in 2026, complete with structure tips, real examples, and expert insights to help your claim stand out.
Overview of VA Personal Statement
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To provide a personal account supporting your VA disability claim. |
| Form Used | VA Form 21-4138 – Statement in Support of Claim. |
| Length | Typically 1–2 pages; concise but detailed. |
| Tone | Honest, factual, and personal (avoid exaggeration). |
| Impact | Can strengthen nexus and service-connection evidence for your claim. |
| Used For | Disability Compensation, PTSD, secondary conditions, and more. |
What Is a VA Personal Statement?
A VA personal statement is a written narrative that helps the VA understand the real-world impact of your disability. It complements your medical records, service documents, and any supporting evidence submitted with your claim.
“The personal statement gives your claim a human voice. It tells the VA not just what happened, but how it changed your life,” says Daniel Price, accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) with Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
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Your statement can help:
- Establish continuity of symptoms from service to the present.
- Support lay evidence (non-medical testimony).
- Explain gaps in records or inconsistencies.
- Strengthen a secondary service connection claim.
How to Write a VA Personal Statement?
Writing an effective statement doesn’t require legal language; it requires honesty, clarity, and structure.
1. Start With Identifying Information
At the top, include:
- Your full name
- VA file number or Social Security Number
- The specific condition or issue you’re addressing
Example:
“I, John Doe, am submitting this statement in support of my claim for service connection for lower back pain resulting from injuries sustained during active duty in 2007.”
2. Describe What Happened in Service
Explain when and how your condition began or worsened. Use specific dates, locations, and duties when possible.
Example:
“During my deployment to Afghanistan in 2007, I was assigned to load and transport heavy equipment daily. In March 2007, I slipped while carrying a generator and injured my lower back. Although I received brief treatment in the field, I continued working through the pain.”
3. Explain the Current Impact
Describe how the condition affects your daily activities, work, or quality of life. Be detailed and specific.
Example:
“Since discharge, my back pain has worsened. I struggle to sit or stand for long periods, and I’ve had to leave two jobs because of physical limitations. I can’t play with my kids or help with household chores like I used to.”
“Pain affects my sleep every night, and I take prescribed medication daily. Even walking short distances causes discomfort.”
4. Include Supporting Observations (Lay Statements)
If relevant, mention what others have noticed, such as family, friends, or coworkers.
Example:
“My wife has seen how much my condition affects my mobility and mood. She often helps me with daily activities like dressing and lifting groceries.”
“My supervisor noted I miss work frequently due to pain flare-ups.”
5. End With Gratitude and Request for Consideration
Finish your statement by thanking the VA and reaffirming your request for fair review.
Example:
“I appreciate the VA taking the time to review my claim and respectfully request consideration for my service-connected lower back condition. Thank you for your service to veterans.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It Hurts Your Claim |
|---|---|
| Being vague (“I have pain sometimes”) | The VA needs clear, consistent examples. |
| Using overly emotional language | Focus on facts, not frustration. |
| Forgetting to include service dates or incidents | Makes it harder for VA to verify events. |
| Submitting a statement without your signature/date | May cause claim delays or rejections. |
Sample VA Personal Statement Example (Template)
VA Form 21-4138 – Statement in Support of Claim
Name: John Doe
VA File Number: 123-45-6789
Claim Type: Service Connection for PTSD
Statement:
I am submitting this statement in support of my claim for service connection for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
I served as a convoy driver in Iraq from March 2006 to February 2007. During that deployment, our unit came under multiple IED attacks. On June 18, 2006, my vehicle was struck by an explosive device. Although I was not physically injured, I witnessed the death of a fellow soldier.
Since that event, I have experienced recurring nightmares, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating. Loud noises and crowded places trigger flashbacks. I avoid social gatherings and have trouble sleeping more than three hours a night.
My symptoms have affected my marriage and work performance. I see a VA mental health provider monthly and take prescribed medication.
I appreciate the VA’s attention to my claim and respectfully request a fair evaluation of my service-connected PTSD.
Signature: John Doe
Date: January 12, 2026
Tips for Strengthening Your Statement
- Attach medical evidence or buddy statements (VA Form 21-10210) for added credibility.
- Be consistent with your C&P exam responses and medical records.
- Keep your statement under two pages but detailed enough to tell your story.
- Use chronological order for clarity.
Final Thoughts
A strong VA personal statement can be the bridge between your evidence and the decision you deserve. It allows you to speak directly to the VA, not just through paperwork, but through your own experience.
Focus on clarity, consistency, and honesty. Whether you’re claiming PTSD, back pain, tinnitus, or any other service-connected condition, a clear, factual statement helps the VA understand your journey as a veteran.
“When veterans tell their story clearly and truthfully, it often turns the tide of a claim,” says Daniel Price, DAV VSO. “Your voice matters, use it.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is VA Form 21-4138 used for?
It’s used to provide a personal or witness statement to support your VA claim or appeal.
Do I need a lawyer to write a personal statement?
No. It’s a personal document meant to come directly from you. However, a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can review it before submission.
Can I submit more than one statement?
Yes. You can submit multiple statements for different conditions or incidents.
How long should my statement be?
1–2 pages is ideal, short enough to stay focused but detailed enough to be informative.
Where do I submit my statement?
You can upload it directly through your VA.gov account, mail it to your VA regional office, or submit it via your VSO representative.
