The C File is the claims file. It contains every piece of paper which the VA has considered on a veteran’s claims since the time he got out of service. It should contain the 201 (Personnel) file; the service medical records and all medical records filed in support of the veterans claim. It also contains all of the decisions made by the VA on all claims that have been filed.
It is our policy that we will review our client’s clients entire C File during our representation of the veteran. This gives us a historical perspective on this case and tells us whether mistakes have been made in the past which would allow our veterans to collect past due benefits.
The C File is not easy to get. We are finding that it takes the Regional Office at least 6 months to provide a copy of the file. We are required to file a Freedom of Information Act request and then, in most cases, file an appeal to get this important piece of evidence.
