One of the most common reasons VA disability claims are denied—or delayed—is due to incomplete or insufficient evidence. For Veterans, this can be incredibly frustrating, especially when the symptoms are very real and affecting daily life. The VA is required to base its decisions on medical and service-related evidence, and any gaps in that evidence can lead to unfavorable outcomes.
Understanding how the VA evaluates evidence and what you can do to present a complete and convincing case is critical to avoiding delays and denials in 2025 and beyond.
What the VA Looks for in Disability Claims
When reviewing a claim, the VA primarily looks for three key elements:
A current diagnosed condition
An in-service event, injury, or illness
A medical nexus linking the two
If any part of this puzzle is missing or unclear, your claim may be denied or returned for further development.
Why Incomplete Evidence Causes Problems
Missing Medical Records: If you haven’t included current treatment records or the VA cannot locate them, they may decide your condition isn’t severe or ongoing.
No Nexus Letter: Without a professional medical opinion linking your condition to your service, the VA may not see the connection—even if it seems obvious to you.
Inadequate C&P Exam Results: Sometimes the VA relies heavily on Compensation & Pension exams, which may be rushed or fail to consider all symptoms. If you don’t have additional evidence to balance out a weak exam, your claim may suffer.
How This Affects Appeals
If your claim was denied because of missing or weak evidence, and you file a Higher-Level Review or appeal to the Board, the VA will still review the original evidence unless you provide something new. This is why it’s critical to address any gaps before appealing.
How to Strengthen Your Claim or Appeal
Obtain a strong nexus letter from a qualified doctor who understands VA disability standards.
Collect statements from buddies or family members who can verify your condition or symptoms over time (called lay evidence).
Update your medical records and include private treatment notes, not just VA doctor visits.
Consult with an expert who understands how to organize and present evidence the VA can’t ignore.
Veterans Valor: Helping You Get It Right the First Time
At Veterans Valor, we help you gather the exact type of evidence the VA is looking for. We can identify what’s missing, refer you to trusted professionals for nexus letters, and ensure your claim or appeal is supported by strong documentation.
If your claim was denied due to incomplete evidence, don’t give up. You don’t have to figure this out alone—we’re here to help you build a compelling, complete case so you can get the benefits you’ve earned.
