Supporting forms for VA claims
When you file a claim for some VA benefits, you’ll need to submit additional forms to support your claim. Use this page to find the forms you need.
Authorize the release of non-VA medical information to VA (VA Form 21-4142)
When to use this form
Use this form if you want to give us permission to request your medical records and information from non-VA sources to support your benefit claim.
You can also use this form to authorize the release of information on behalf of a Veteran you support.
How to submit this form
You can submit this form online or by mail.
Submit an authorization to release medical information online
Submit a lay witness statement to support a VA claim (VA Form 21-10210)
When to use this form
Use this form to submit a formal statement to support your VA claim—or the claim of another Veteran or eligible family member. People also sometimes call this statement a “buddy statement.”
How to submit this form
You can submit this form online or by mail.
Authorize VA to release your information to a third-party source (VA Form 21-0845)
When to use this form
Use this form to authorize VA to share your personal information with a non-VA (third-party) individual or organization.
How to submit this form
You can submit this form by mail.
Get certified as an alternate signer for VA claim forms (VA Form 21-0972)
When to use this form
Use this form if you’re signing an application form for benefits on behalf of a Veteran or non-Veteran.
How to submit this form
You can submit this form by mail.
Submit an intent to file (VA Form 21-0966)
When to use this form
Use this form if you’re still gathering information to support your claim, and you want to start the filing process. When you notify us of your intent to file, you may be able to get retroactive payments (payments for the time between when you submitted your intent to file and when we approved your claim).
How to submit this form
You can submit this form by mail.
Request to be a substitute for a deceased claimant (VA Form 21P-0847)
When to use this form
Use this form if someone you’re connected to dies before we finish processing their VA claim, decision review, or appeal—and you want to continue their claim.
How to submit this form
More helpful information
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File additional forms for your disability claim
You may need additional forms for some disability claims.