What Is a C&P Exam?
After you file a claim, the VA schedules a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam to evaluate your conditions. The examiner — a VA or contract physician — assesses the severity of your condition and whether it's connected to service. Their report is usually the most influential piece of evidence in your claim.
Before the Exam
Review your claim file:
- Re-read your medical records and know your history cold
- Note specific dates of injuries, treatments, and diagnoses
- Review the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) for your condition — this is the exact form the examiner will fill out. DBQs are publicly available at VA.gov.
Document your worst days:
- Create a symptom log for 2-4 weeks before the exam
- Track pain levels, sleep quality, flare-ups, missed activities
- Note specific examples: "I couldn't pick up my child," "I missed work 3 times this month"
Prepare your narrative:
- Write out how each condition affects your daily life, work, and relationships
- Practice describing symptoms honestly without minimizing
- Have specific examples ready — the examiner may only ask general questions
During the Exam
DO:
- Describe your worst days, not your best — the VA rates based on the overall picture including flare-ups
- Be honest and specific: "My knee gives out 2-3 times per week when I go down stairs"
- Mention every symptom, even ones you think are minor
- Tell the examiner about flare-ups and how often they occur
- Bring a written list of symptoms so you don't forget anything under pressure
- Mention if your condition has worsened since your last medical visit
DO NOT:
- Minimize symptoms out of toughness or pride — this is not the time to be stoic
- Exaggerate — experienced examiners can tell, and it hurts your credibility
- Say "I'm fine" or "I can deal with it" — the examiner writes down what you say
- Rush — take your time with each question
- Assume the examiner has read your entire file — many haven't. Bring copies of key records.
After the Exam
- Write down everything you remember about the exam while it's fresh
- Note the examiner's name, time spent, and tests performed
- If the examiner didn't measure range of motion or perform standard tests for your condition, document that
- You can request a copy of the exam report through VA.gov once it's completed
- If the report contains errors, you can submit a rebuttal or request a new exam
Common C&P Exam Mistakes
- Not showing up: Missing a C&P exam usually means an automatic denial. If you must reschedule, call immediately.
- Taking pain medication right before: Your exam should reflect your actual condition, not a medicated version
- Wearing your best outfit and walking in like nothing hurts: The examiner is observing you from the parking lot
- Not mentioning flare-ups: If you have good days and bad days, describe both
- Being too brief: One-word answers give the examiner nothing to document in your favor
Telehealth Exams
The VA now offers telehealth C&P exams for certain conditions (primarily mental health). Ensure you have:
- Stable internet connection
- Quiet, private room
- Camera at eye level
- Same preparation as an in-person exam