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Claim Clarity Ep 1 – Buddy Letters help VA claims get approved
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Claim Clarity: Buddy Letters | Episode #1

At VETCOMM US, we know that navigating the VA claims process can feel overwhelming—especially when a claim gets denied. That’s why we created Claim Clarity, a series dedicated to breaking down essential tools and strategies that can make a real difference in a veteran’s claim journey.

In our very first episode, we sat down with Hailey Cook, VETCOMM’s Claims Director, to discuss an often-overlooked but powerful tool: the Buddy Letter.

What Are Buddy Letters?

Buddy Letters are wonderful tools when going through claim filing, especially during denials. A Buddy Letter is a statement made by someone close to the veteran—a friend or family member—who knows their story. It’s their recounting of what they witnessed or heard during the veteran’s time in service. These statements serve as support, backing up what the veteran is saying as true.

Do All Veterans Need a Buddy Letter?

Supplemental evidence like Buddy Letters is always useful, even at the beginning of filing. But where we see Buddy Letters being most impactful is during a denial. When a claim is denied, having someone recount and solidify the veteran’s story can be a powerful piece of evidence for the VA.

How does the VA determine whether a Buddy Letter is credible?

The VA looks for details—events, dates, times, and places—that connect the Buddy Letter to the veteran’s statement. Buddy Letters act as witness statements. When those puzzle pieces match up with the veteran’s own account, the VA views the claim as more credible because it has validation from a second source.

What would make a Buddy Letter ineffective—or even harmful?

Vague or inconsistent Buddy Letters can actually hurt a claim. If the details don’t line up with the veteran’s original statement, or if the letter introduces unrelated issues (like attributing PTSD to a divorce instead of service), the VA could use that against the veteran.

That’s why at VETCOMM, we carefully review Buddy Letters with our clients. We also provide templates and examples to ensure the letter strengthens the claim rather than weakening it.

How Do Veterans Get a Buddy Letter?

The best Buddy Letters usually come from someone who was there, who understands what the veteran went through, or who witnessed the impact of their disability. Asking a fellow service member, a close friend or even a family member who saw the effects firsthand is usually the best approach.

Can Buddy Letters make or break a claim?

They don’t necessarily make or break a claim—but they’re especially important for denials. In fact, more than half the time when we’re helping a veteran with a denied condition, we talk about adding a Buddy Letter or personal statement. They bring that personal, human element to the claim that the VA often needs to see.

VETCOMM’s Support for Veterans

How does VETCOMM support veterans with Buddy Letters?

VETCOMM US looks at the bigger picture—what conditions the veteran has, what’s already been claimed and what they want to claim moving forward. From there, we advise if a Buddy Letter is needed and when to submit it. We also give our clients templates and review their letters to ensure they align with VA standards and don’t unintentionally hurt the claim.

If you could give one piece of advice about Buddy Letters, what would it be?

Never be afraid to ask for one. I know it can be tough—many veterans feel like they shouldn’t talk about certain experiences. But those events deserve to be acknowledged. A Buddy Letter from someone who saw how it affected you can be the difference between a denial and getting the disability rating you deserve.

How VETCOMM US helps

Buddy Letters are more than just written statements—they’re a way for veterans to have their truth backed up by those who know them best. When used strategically, they can be a powerful piece of evidence, especially in cases of denial.

At VETCOMM US, we help veterans understand when and how to use Buddy Letters and carefully review them to ensure they align with the claim.

If you’ve been denied by the VA or need guidance on strengthening your claim, schedule a free strategy session with VETCOMM US today. Our team is here to help you gain the rating and benefits you’re owed.

VETCOMM offers a Money-Back Guarantee for veterans who follow the full process as outlined. When you sign up, you agree to allow us two attempts to help you secure at least a 10% VA rating. To remain eligible for a refund, you must attend all scheduled appointments with our team and complete your VA-requested C&P exams.

If your first VETCOMM-assisted claim results in a total VA rating increase of 10% or more, the goal of the course has been achieved and the guarantee is fulfilled. No refund is issued.

If your first claim does not lead to a 10% total increase, VETCOMM will assist you in filing a second claim.
If the second claim results in a 10% or greater increase, the goal has been achieved and the guarantee is fulfilled.

If your second claim also does not result in a 10% total increase, you have two options:

  1. Request a full refund

  2. Proceed with a third filing and waive your right to a refund

Filing a third claim fulfills the guarantee obligation, regardless of outcome. Many veterans require multiple filings due to documentation challenges or individual circumstances that affect how the VA awards ratings. While we assist in the process, approval decisions are made solely by the VA.

There are a few situations where the Guarantee Refund Policy does not apply:

  • Veterans with a 90% Total Disability Rating:
    Due to how the VA calculates ratings, increasing from 90% to 100% is very difficult. VETCOMM will still assist with up to three (3) VETCOMM-assisted claims, but no refund will be issued if a 10% total increase is not awarded.

  • Veterans with an Other Than Honorable (OTH) Discharge:
    Veterans with an OTH discharge can still file claims with VETCOMM. However, because of additional VA restrictions, we will assist with up to two (2) VETCOMM-assisted claims, and no refund will be issued if a 10% total increase is not awarded.