If a veteran sustains a disability due to their military service, they may be eligible to receive disability compensation from the VA. To receive this, the Veteran must accurately and honestly report this disability to the VA. One method that can help support the Veteran’s claim is to have a friend, peer, relative, or colleague write a lay statement. Buddy statements written by a fellow service member can also prove to be a powerful asset for the Veteran.
The men and women who serve our country deserve the highest level of care possible when they are injured or become ill as a result of their service, as well as any VA disability benefits they’re entitled to. Contact us at Marc Whitehead & Associates for any questions you have concerning a lay statement in support of your claim.
The Four Sections of a Lay Statement for the VA
A lay statement for the VA should follow this format:
- The first section should include the name of the Veteran you are writing the letter for, your name, contact information, and your relationship with them. Next, include relevant information about your relationship with them, such as how you met, how long you have known each other, and how frequently you see or communicate with them.
- In section two, compare how the Veteran acted and behaved before their disability to how they act and behave now. It is your opportunity to document all the physical, mental, emotional, personal and social changes you have observed. If you served alongside them and they are using your lay statement to corroborate an in-service stressor, include a detailed account of the event.
- The third section is where you will discuss the knowledge you have of the current symptoms that the Veteran is experiencing. Again, be as specific as possible in describing any pain or other issues they are experiencing, including tasks that have become more challenging for them to complete due to their disability.
- The fourth and final section of the lay statement is where you will put your name, date, and the following phrase: “I certify that the statements on this form are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.”Please note that you must sign the lay statement, or the VA will not consider it.
Contact Us for Compassionate and Experienced Counsel
For a free legal consultation, call 800-562-9830
If you’d like more information about how to write a lay statement for the VA, call us at Marc Whitehead & Associates for a free consultation with an experienced veteran’s claim attorney. We represent Veterans at all levels within the VA disability system, including claims before the VA Regional Office, the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. Your letter may make a significant difference in the life of the disabled Veteran and their family for years.
Call or text 800-562-9830 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
