A Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam report, along with any associated test results such as an echocardiogram, becomes part of your official VA claims file (C-file) once it is completed and uploaded by the examiner. You have several ways to obtain a copy.
The simplest method is to log into VA.gov and check your claim status page, where completed exam results and medical evidence are sometimes viewable directly, or you can request your full claims file. To get the complete C-file, including the C&P exam narrative, any Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) forms, and imaging or lab results referenced in the exam, submit a request under the Freedom of Information Act / Privacy Act. This can be done through VA.gov by requesting your claims file electronically, or by mailing a written request to the VA Regional Office handling your claim, or by contacting the National Personnel Records Center if older records are involved. Many veterans also use VA Form 21-0820 or simply a signed letter requesting their C-file under 38 CFR 1.577 and 5 USC 552a.
Official 2026 VA monthly compensation, including the 2.8% COLA increase.
Dependent add-ons start at a 30% rating. Child-only and dependent-parent rates: see the full 2026 pay chart.
| Rating | Monthly (2026, incl. 2.8% COLA) |
|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 |
| 20% | $356.66 |
| 30% | $552.47 |
| 40% | $795.84 |
| 50% | $1,132.90 |
| 60% | $1,435.02 |
| 70% | $1,808.45 |
| 80% | $2,102.15 |
| 90% | $2,362.30 |
| 100% | $3,938.58 |
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Analyze my claim free →If the echocardiogram itself was performed at a VA medical facility or through a VA contracted exam vendor like QTC, LHI, or VES, you can also request those specific diagnostic records directly from that facility's medical records department, since the raw imaging and technician notes are sometimes more detailed than what is summarized in the C&P report. If the exam was done through a private contractor, you may need to submit a signed release of information (ROI) authorization to that contractor to obtain the underlying imaging study.
This matters for your care and your claim because a C&P examiner's diagnosis is a medical opinion added to your file whether or not you agree with it, and it can affect your disability rating. Getting the full report and raw data lets your treating cardiologist independently verify the finding, and it also gives you a basis to submit a Notice of Disagreement (VA Form 10182 for the Board, or VA Form 20-0995/20-0996 for a Higher-Level Review or Supplemental Claim) if you believe the diagnosis is inaccurate or unsupported by the actual test results.
As a next step, request your complete claims file through VA.gov or in writing to your Regional Office, and separately request the raw echocardiogram images and technician report from the facility that performed the test so your cardiologist can compare it against the examiner's written conclusion.
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