VA Form 20-10206: Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) or Privacy Act (PA) Request
VA Form 20-10206 is how you formally request records from the Veterans Benefits Administration, whether that is your own claims file under the Privacy Act or other VA records under FOIA.
This is the genuine VA PDF, unmodified. Source: VA official page.
What is VA Form 20-10206?
VA Form 20-10206, Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) or Privacy Act (PA) Request, standardizes records requests to VA. Veterans most often use it to get a copy of their claims file (C-file), which contains the service records, medical evidence, rating decisions, and correspondence VA used in deciding their claims.
The form identifies the requester, the records sought, and how the requester wants to receive them. Privacy Act requests cover your own records; FOIA requests cover other releasable VA records. Some records, such as certain military service records, may be faster to get through other channels like milConnect or the National Archives.
Who files VA Form 20-10206?
- Veterans requesting a copy of their VA claims file or other records VA holds about them
- Survivors and family members requesting records they are entitled to receive
- Representatives and accredited agents requesting records for a claimant
- Members of the public making FOIA requests for releasable VBA records
How to fill out VA Form 20-10206
- Enter your name, identifying information, and contact details.
- Indicate whether you are the veteran, a representative, or a third-party requester.
- Describe the records you are requesting as specifically as you can, such as a complete claims file or specific decision documents.
- Sign and date the form to certify the request.
- Submit it online through va.gov, or mail it to the address in the form instructions for the records you are requesting.
Quick fill VA Form 20-10206 on this page
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Frequently asked questions
How do I get my VA claims file (C-file)?
Use this form and request a complete copy of your claims file under the Privacy Act. The file includes your rating decisions, evidence, and correspondence. Processing time varies with the size of the file and pending workload.
Is there a fee for requesting my records?
Requests for your own records are usually free, and FOIA fees depend on the type of requester and the volume of records. VA will notify you if fees apply. Check the current FOIA guidance at va.gov before filing a large request.
Should I use this form to get my DD214?
Not necessarily. Separation documents and other military service records are often faster to obtain through milConnect or the National Archives (using SF-180). Use VA Form 20-10206 for records VBA itself holds, such as your claims file.