If you’ve ever watched a courtroom drama or true crime doc, you’ve heard the question: Where’s the body? It’s the make-or-break moment of many real investigations. Without solid proof, even a strong case can fall apart.
The same holds true for your BDD (Benefits Delivery at Discharge) claim.
When it comes to VA disability, you need more than symptoms—you need evidence. And the best time to gather it is while you’re still in uniform.
Think of your BDD claim as your case file. The VA needs documentation to verify what happened, when it happened, and how it continues to affect you now. Without that paper trail, decisions can be delayed, downgraded, or denied.
So how do you start building a solid file?
- Track it while it’s happening. If you had a rolled ankle, back pain, sleep issues, or headaches—make sure it’s in your medical records. If it’s not written, it didn’t happen.
- Push for formal diagnosis. Subjective symptoms (like “My shoulder hurts”) matter—but they don’t carry the same weight as an official diagnosis from a provider.
- Document frequency and patterns. Chronicity is a big factor. One ER visit five years ago won’t do much—but repeated care for the same issue paints a clear picture.
And don’t forget outside records. If you got care off base (civilian urgent care, chiropractor, mental health), request those documents now. Waiting until you’re out can make it harder to retrieve them.
Bottom line: Your story matters. But your story needs backup.
You wouldn’t expect a court to convict someone without a smoking gun. So don’t expect the VA to grant your claim without the right proof.
Start building your case now—while the evidence is still fresh.
