A DBQ (Disability Benefits Questionnaire) is an official VA examination template used to document the nature and severity of a specific medical condition. It's completed by a licensed provider and translates a Veteran's symptoms and medical history into the exact language and format the VA requires to evaluate a disability claim.
Why It Matters
A well-prepared DBQ can make the difference between an approved and a denied claim. The VA relies heavily on these forms to determine service connection and disability rating. Incomplete or vague documentation is one of the most common reasons claims get delayed or denied — a thorough, accurate DBQ helps ensure your condition is represented clearly and completely.
Conditions We Currently Cover
Our providers offer DBQs via telehealth for the following conditions:
- Migraine Headaches
- Sinusitis
- Sleep Apnea
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
Additional conditions may be considered on a case-by-case basis — reach out to discuss your specific needs. Not all DBQs can be completed through a virtual appointment; eligibility will be confirmed on a case-by-case basis and may be recommended to support Nexus statements instead.
For the complete list of VA DBQs, visit benefits.va.gov/compensation/dbq_publicdbqs.asp.
DBQ vs. Nexus Letter — What's the Difference?
DBQ
A structured, VA-formatted questionnaire that documents current symptoms, severity, and functional impact of a diagnosed condition. It's used to support a rating decision.
Nexus Letter
A narrative statement from a provider linking a condition to military service ("as likely as not" caused by or aggravated by service). It's used to establish service connection.
Many claims benefit from both — a Nexus Letter to establish the connection, and a DBQ to document severity for rating purposes.
Important Disclaimer
A completed DBQ documents your symptoms and their severity, but it may not always be sufficient on its own to fully support a diagnosis. Depending on your condition, the VA or your provider may require additional testing (such as bloodwork, imaging, a sleep study, or specialist evaluation) to complete the record. We'll let you know if additional testing is recommended for your specific condition.
How Veterans Submit a DBQ to the VA
Once completed, your DBQ can be:
- 1Uploaded directly through your VA.gov claim
- 2Submitted by mail or fax with your claim file
- 3Provided to your VSO (Veterans Service Officer) to include in your claim package
We provide you with a signed, completed copy ready to submit through whichever method you're using.
Ready to Get Started?
If you have a condition listed above — or think you may need a DBQ for something not listed — reach out today.