The Fully Developed Claim (FDC) program can speed up your VA decision. What it is, what evidence you submit, the certification risk, and when to use it.

A VA Intent to File locks in your effective date and protects months of back pay. How to file one, how long it lasts, and why it matters before you claim.

How to write a VA buddy statement (lay statement) that strengthens your claim — what to include, who can write one, VA Form 21-10210, and a simple template.

Supplemental Claim vs Higher-Level Review vs Board Appeal: how the three VA decision-review lanes work under the AMA, and how to choose the right one after a denial.

What not to say at a VA C&P exam — the phrases that quietly hurt your claim, why honesty about your worst days matters, and how to describe symptoms accurately.

Sciatica and radiculopathy from a service-connected back injury can be rated separately, in each leg. Learn the rating levels under code 8520 and how to claim it.

Sleep apnea secondary to PTSD can add a 50 percent rating. Learn the medical link, the three things you must prove, and step-by-step how to file the claim.

The VA rates GERD by analogy under code 7346. Learn the rating levels, why acid reflux is a common secondary claim to medication, and how to document your symptoms.

The VA rates high blood pressure under code 7101. Learn the rating levels, the diagnostic numbers, and how to connect hypertension directly, presumptively, or secondary to PTSD.

A secondary condition is a disability caused or worsened by a service-connected one. Here is how they work, common examples, the evidence you need, and how to file.