What constitutes primary evidence in VA claims?

In the context of VA claims, primary evidence refers to documentation that directly supports a veteran’s claim for benefits. This includes concrete evidence such as service records and medical records, which serve as official records of a veteran's military service and health history. Service records provide verification of a veteran's service duration, discharge status, and any recognized injuries or conditions sustained during service. Medical records, on the other hand, document the diagnosis and treatment of conditions that may be service-connected, forming a vital part of establishing entitlement to benefits.

Other types of evidence, while potentially relevant, do not hold the same weight as primary evidence. Lay statements from friends or testimonies from family members can offer additional context or support but are considered secondary and subjective. Letters from government officials may provide some official context but do not typically constitute primary evidence relating directly to an individual's service or health status. Thus, service records and medical records are the most authoritative forms of evidence in VA claims.