← All guides

What to bring to a first meeting with a representative

Documents VA says support a disability claim, and what to discuss before you hire anyone.

VA doesn't publish a checklist for a first meeting, but it does list the documents it needs for disability claims. Bringing them can make the first conversation more useful.

Documents VA says it needs

• Your DD214 or other separation documents
• Your service treatment records
• Any medical evidence related to your illness or injury (like doctors' reports, X-rays and medical test results)
• For a claim for an increase: current evidence from a medical professional that shows your disability has gotten worse

You can also bring lay evidence: written statements from you or people who know about your condition, for example a Lay or Witness Statement (VA Form 21-10210) or a Statement in Support of Claim (VA Form 21-4138).

Source: VA: evidence needed for your disability claim

Before the meeting

• Make sure the person is accredited: VA's accreditation search.
• Contact them first to ask whether they're available to help. For a VSO representative, ask which organization to name on your form.
• With an attorney or claims agent, discuss the fee amount, how it will be paid, and what happens if you discharge them or they withdraw before benefits are awarded.
• Ask how you'll communicate about the claim, and how often.

Sources: VA: get help from an accredited representative; VA accredited representative FAQs; VA OGC: tips on fee agreements

Checked November 9, 2026.