C&P Exam Prep Guide

What is a C&P Exam?

A Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam is a medical examination ordered by the VA to evaluate the severity of your claimed conditions. The examiner's report directly determines your disability rating, so proper preparation is crucial.

C&P exams are typically conducted by VA doctors or contracted healthcare providers (QTC, LHI, VES). The examiner will review your records, ask questions about your symptoms, and perform a physical or mental status examination.

Common C&P Exam Mistakes to Avoid

• Describing your "average" day: The VA rates you on your worst days. Be honest about your limitations at their worst.
• Being stoic: Don't minimize symptoms out of pride. If you're in pain, say so.
• Forgetting to mention symptoms: Bring a written list so you don't forget anything.
• Not bringing documents: Bring copies of medical records and buddy letters.
• Rushing through questions: Take your time. This exam determines your rating.

Tips for a Successful C&P Exam

• Be specific: Instead of "my back hurts," say "I can't bend forward more than 30 degrees without severe pain."
• Describe functional impact: Explain how symptoms affect work, sleep, and daily activities.
• Don't exaggerate: Examiners are trained to detect inconsistencies. Be truthful.
• Mention flare-ups: If your condition varies, describe your worst episodes in detail.
• Request a copy: You can request a copy of the Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) used.

What to Bring to Your C&P Exam

• Photo ID and VA appointment letter
• List of all medications and dosages
• Written list of symptoms (especially for mental health)
• Copies of relevant medical records
• Buddy letters or personal statements
• Notes about your worst days and flare-ups

Our Condition-Specific Guides Include

Our prep guides go beyond generic advice. For each condition, we provide:

• Examiner questions: Exact questions you'll likely be asked
• Rating criteria: What symptoms qualify for each rating level
• What to say (and not say): Language that matches rating criteria
• Physical exam expectations: What tests and measurements to expect
• Red flags: Behaviors or statements that may hurt your claim
• Day-of checklist: Everything you need before walking in