C&P Exam Prep Kit

The C&P exam is often the critical turning point in your VA claims journey. This is where the examiner determines whether your condition is accurately diagnosed, whether it is service-connected, and the overall impact of the disability. Those decisions play a major role in whether your claim is approved and how your condition is rated (0%, 10%, etc.). The uncertainty of not knowing what to expect at the exam can make the entire experience very stressful. This tool and guide are designed to help you walk into your Compensation & Pension exam organized, confident, and informed. Fill out this form and save it after adding information specific to the condition you are being examined for. On this page, you can view the relevant diagnostic and ICD codes, what the examiner typically records on the DBQ, and what they review in your file. You can compile your symptoms, records, and history into one packet, print it, and bring it with you to the exam.

The examiner and rater follow a checklist; this tool is intended to ensure you provide the information they need to accurately evaluate and rate your condition.

Your packet stays on this device. Nothing you type into your packet is ever sent to or saved on our servers. Your identifier and date of birth are not saved at all: they are used for this visit and for the copy you choose to make. To keep a copy, use Print or Save. On a shared or public computer, use when you're done. This covers your packet; the Ask the Guide box on this page does send your question to us.

On by default. Includes notes, name, and service details. Never the identifier or date of birth. This computer or phone only, never our servers. Untick it and your notes are kept for this visit only: they will be gone the next time you open this page.

Records and codes for this packet

Your record findings stay in My Preparation. Open them beside this page and copy only what you want into your notes. A code cross-reference or a request marked Received is not a confirmed diagnosis.

Review my record findings ICD Code Extractor ICD code lookup

Your information

The identifier and date of birth are used for this visit only. They will not be remembered. You can leave every box blank and write the details in by hand after you print.

If you include these details, they will be in your downloaded or printed copy. Store and share that copy carefully.

What this copy will show

IdentifierBlank

Date of birthNot included

Preview shows the actual wording before you download or print.

No conditions added yet. Search above to add the conditions you're being examined for.

Finished? Preview your packet, then print or save it.

Related Tools and Guides

What to Expect at a C&P Exam
The full guide: how the exam works, what regulations require examiners to record, what to bring, and the examiner's role.
Which DBQ the Examiner Uses
Look up the Disability Benefits Questionnaire and exam tips for your specific condition.
ICD-10 to VA Code Lookup
Translate the diagnosis codes in your records into the VA diagnostic codes they map to.
How the VA Decides
Why the rater follows a checklist, and how to build a file that matches your reality.

This page is educational and is not legal or medical advice. It helps you organize your own information; it does not prepare, present, or prosecute a claim. For help with a specific claim, work with a VA-accredited representative.