The VA C&P exam: what to expect and how to prepare

The C&P (Compensation & Pension) exam is a medical appointment VA schedules to evaluate your claimed condition. The examiner documents how severe it is and whether it's connected to service — they don't treat you. Not every claim needs one; strong evidence you already submitted can make it unnecessary.

How to prepare

• Re-read your own claim and the conditions you listed.
• Review your service treatment records and private records ahead of time.
• Write down your symptoms, medications, and treatments tried.
• Make notes on how the condition limits your work and daily life.
• Arrive 15 minutes early with a photo ID and your confirmation.
• Keep the appointment — a no-show can hurt your claim; reschedule if you truly can't make it.

Do

• Describe your WORST days, not your average or best — flare-ups matter to your rating.
• Be completely honest and consistent with your records.
• Explain the real impact on your job, sleep, relationships, and daily tasks.
• Use concrete examples ('I can't lift my grandchild,' 'I miss X days a month').
• Tell the examiner about pain, and mention it during range-of-motion testing.
• Answer every question, even if it feels repetitive.

Don't

• Don't minimize or 'tough it out' by saying you're fine when you're not.
• Don't exaggerate or invent symptoms — inconsistencies sink credibility.
• Don't reflexively answer 'I'm okay' out of habit or pride.
• Don't downplay how it affects your work and home life.
• Don't assume the examiner read your whole file — state your history.
• Don't push through a movement without saying it causes pain.