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Evidence checklist

Superficial Scars — Nonlinear (Not of Head, Face, or Neck)

DC 780238 CFR § 4.118Skin

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 2 collected
Nexus opinion linking scars to serviceCritical

A medical opinion stating it is "at least as likely as not" that your scars are connected to injuries or events during military service.

Private provider · independent opinion
Photographs showing all scar locations

Photos of every scar, with a ruler or tape measure for scale. Make sure no scars are missed.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

C&P examination

0 of 2 collected
Total area measurement of all superficial scarsCritical

A doctor should measure every superficial scar and add up the total area. You need at least 144 square inches (929 sq cm) combined to qualify for a 10% rating.

VA-scheduled · request a copy on VA.govHow to get this →
Documentation that scars are superficial (not adherent to tissue)Critical

The examiner must confirm the scar does not stick to the tissue underneath. If it does, it may qualify as a deep scar with a lower area threshold for compensation.

VA-scheduled · request a copy on VA.govHow to get this →
03

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
04

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Scars/DisfigurementCritical

A standardized VA form that records each scar's type, location, area, and whether it is painful or unstable.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
05

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180

What you mark here is saved in this browser, on this device only — not to an account. Changing the target rating shows different items, but never loses what you have already marked.