Filing your first VA disability claim can feel overwhelming. With unfamiliar terms, complex requirements, and a lot on the line, it’s easy to make missteps that slow down — or even derail — your claim.
The good news? Most of the common mistakes are totally avoidable once you know what to watch for. Here’s a guide to the biggest pitfalls first-time applicants run into, and how to steer clear of them.
Mistake #1: Not Showing Proof of Service Connection
To qualify for VA disability benefits, your condition must be service-connected — meaning it was caused or worsened by your military service.
A lot of veterans know they’re struggling with a condition, but they don’t include the documentation that connects it to their time in uniform.
How to avoid it:
- Include service medical records or incident reports
- Submit a Nexus letter when needed (a doctor’s statement connecting your condition to service)
- Use Woobie’s Nexus Letter Guide to understand how to get one right
Mistake #2: Underreporting Symptoms
Some veterans downplay their symptoms out of habit or pride — but the VA can’t rate what you don’t disclose.
If you say, “It’s not that bad” or fail to mention how your condition affects daily life, you may end up with a lower rating than you deserve.
How to avoid it:
- Be honest and specific during your exam and on your application
- Share real-life examples: missed work, disrupted sleep, chronic pain, etc.
- Don’t assume the evaluator “knows what you mean” — spell it out
Mistake #3: Skipping the C&P Exam
The Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam is a crucial part of your claim. Missing it or rescheduling too late can result in denial for insufficient evidence.
How to avoid it:
- Prioritize the C&P exam like you would a court date — it’s that important
- Prepare ahead: know your conditions, bring notes if needed
- Show up on time, be honest, and explain how the condition affects your daily life
Mistake #4: Filing Without Enough Evidence
Submitting a claim without medical records, doctor opinions, or service history can lead to quick rejections or extremely low ratings.
How to avoid it:
- Gather treatment notes from both military and civilian providers
- Ask doctors to write statements if they’ve seen your condition worsen
- Consider using Woobie’s VA Benefits Guide to see what’s typically needed
Mistake #5: Giving Up After a Denial
Many veterans stop after their first claim is denied — not realizing that appeals and rating increases are a normal part of the process.
A denial doesn’t mean you don’t qualify. It often means something was missing or unclear.
How to avoid it:
- Don’t give up — ask what was missing
- You can file a supplemental claim or request a higher-level review
- If you’re overwhelmed, Woobie’s team can walk you through next steps with a free consult
Bonus: Relying on “Barracks Advice”
While fellow vets can offer great encouragement, not all advice is accurate — especially when it comes to the VA’s rating system.
How to avoid it:
- Double-check advice from online forums or buddies
- Use verified sources, like Woobie’s resources or official VA.gov guidance
- When in doubt, ask a professional
Filing Smart from the Start
Getting your VA claim right the first time can save you months — even years — of frustration. And while the process can feel daunting, you don’t have to do it alone.
Start by using tools like the VA Disability Calculator, learn the basics, and build your case with the right documentation.
If you’re ready to take the next step, check out the Claims Accelerator — designed to help veterans file smarter, faster, and with confidence.
Every mistake on this list is fixable. And every successful claim starts with one thing: clarity.
Let’s make sure you get what you’ve earned — without the detours.