C&P Exam Prep Checklist

The Compensation & Pension exam is one of the most important steps in your VA disability claim. Preparation is the difference between an accurate rating and a lowball decision.

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What Is a C&P Exam?

A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam is a medical evaluation ordered by the VA to assess the severity of your claimed conditions. The examiner already has your file — they are evaluating how bad your conditions are, not diagnosing you.

The exam directly determines your disability rating percentage. A poorly described condition leads to a lower rating. A well-documented worst-day description leads to an accurate one.

The #1 Mistake Veterans Make

Never say "I'm doing fine" or "It's not that bad" at a C&P exam. The examiner is evaluating severity. If you minimize your symptoms, your rating will reflect the minimized version — not reality. Always describe your worst days.

How to Prepare

DO:

Describe your worst days — not your average or good days
Mention every flare-up — how often, how long, what triggers them
Explain how conditions affect your work and daily life — cooking, dressing, driving, sleeping
Bring documentation — buddy letters, medical records, personal notes
Mention if you use assistive devices — braces, canes, CPAP, hearing aids
Be specific about pain levels, range of motion limitations, and frequency
Mention if conditions have gotten worse since your last exam

DON'T:

Don't say "It's fine" or "I deal with it" — this minimizes your rating
Don't dress up or try to look healthy for the exam
Don't let pride prevent you from describing your actual limitations
Don't answer questions with just "yes" or "no" — explain and give examples
Don't skip the exam — a no-show means your claim gets denied

What Vet100's C&P Prep Tool Does

Condition-specific questions — PTSD prep is different from back pain prep. Vet100 gives you the right questions for each condition.
Worst-day prompts — guided questions that help you articulate your limitations accurately
Flare-up documentation — record frequency, duration, and triggers before your exam
Functional impact statements — describe how conditions affect work, daily activities, and relationships
Print-ready summary — bring your prep notes to the exam as a reference

Common Conditions — What the Examiner Evaluates

PTSD / Mental Health (DC 9411)

Frequency of symptoms, social impairment, occupational impact, sleep disturbance, hypervigilance, avoidance behaviors, suicidal ideation history. The examiner uses a structured interview — describe your worst episodes, not your coping mechanisms.

Back / Spine Conditions (DC 5242, 5243)

Range of motion testing (forward flexion, extension, lateral), pain on motion, flare-ups and their frequency, use of assistive devices, impact on ability to sit/stand/walk for work. Mention your worst days — not the day of the exam.

Knee Conditions (DC 5260, 5261)

Flexion and extension measurements, instability testing, pain on movement, swelling, locking episodes, use of braces. Bilateral knee conditions qualify for the bilateral factor — extra percentage points.

Tinnitus (DC 6260)

Rated at 10% if present. Describe when it started, whether it's constant or intermittent, and how it affects concentration and sleep.

Sleep Apnea (DC 6847)

Rated based on treatment: 50% with CPAP, 30% with hypersomnolence. Bring your sleep study results and CPAP compliance data.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I record my C&P exam?: In most cases, yes — but you must request permission in advance from the VA regional office. Check your state's recording consent laws.
What if the examiner seems rushed?: Stay focused on describing your worst symptoms clearly. Don't let a short exam cause you to skip important details. If the exam feels inadequate, note the time and request a new exam through your VSO.
What if my condition is worse some days?: Tell the examiner. Say "On my worst days, I can't..." and describe specifically. The VA rates based on functional impairment during flare-ups, not just the exam-day snapshot.
Should I bring someone with me?: Yes, if possible. A spouse or buddy who witnesses your daily limitations can provide context. They typically wait in the lobby but their presence shows support.

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