What is the Statement in Support of Claim?
The Statement in Support of Claim (also known as form VA 21-4138) is used to support a claim for benefits from the Veterans Affairs department. It provides necessary personal claim to the department while they are evaluate your claim. This personal claim statement supports the veteran’s story, and gives the department an idea of any special case situations.
In one sentence, what is the purpose of submitting this form?
Veterans submit form VA 21-4138 to support their claim for veteran’s benefits.
What information do you need in order to complete this form?
Form VA 21-4138 is very straightforward -- it almost looks like a blank piece of paper. All you need to fill out the form is…
- The first, middle, and last name of the veteran applying for benefits
- The veteran’s social security number
- The veteran’s VA file number
- A handwritten statement in support of the particular claim the veteran is making
- The veteran’s signature, and the date the document was signed
- The veteran’s full address and daytime/evening phone numbers
The statement section is the most important part of your VA Form 21-4138. It must include a well written and thought out statement that supports ALL your claims. It’s a good idea to write a draft of your statement, and then go back to ensure that it includes a very detailed explanation, that it addresses all of the required additional information the Department of Veteran's Affairs requires, and that it covers all of your claims. Once you’ve completed a first draft on scratch paper, you can either handwrite your explanation in the box or fill it out online.
Who is the intended recipient of this form?
This form is intended to be received by the Department of Veteran’s Affairs.
