VA Form 21-4138 — the “Statement in Support of Claim” — is one of the most flexible forms in the VA claims process. It is how veterans, family members, and friends add written evidence to a VA disability claim. In 2026, it remains the standard form for buddy statements and lay evidence.
What is VA Form 21-4138?
VA Form 21-4138 lets anyone make a written statement supporting a VA claim. You use it to add new facts, explain symptoms, submit a buddy statement, withdraw a claim, or clarify any other claim detail.
When to use VA Form 21-4138
- Buddy statements from fellow service members who saw an injury or event.
- Lay statements from a spouse or family member describing symptoms over time.
- Personal statements from the veteran explaining how a condition affects daily life.
- Withdrawing or amending a pending VA claim.
- Clarifying conflicting evidence in the file.
How to write a strong buddy statement
A strong buddy statement is specific, signed, and credible. Use these rules:
- Pick the right writer. The person should have seen the event, injury, or symptoms in person.
- Include names and contact info. Start with the writer's full name, address, and phone number. Add the veteran's full name.
- Be specific. Use real dates, places, units, and observations. Avoid generic language.
- Stick to 3–4 paragraphs. Focus on either the in-service event or how symptoms progressed.
- Sign and date. Unsigned statements carry no weight in a VA decision.
VA Form 21-4138 example structure
A useful buddy statement usually follows this structure:
- Paragraph 1 — who you are and your relationship to the veteran.
- Paragraph 2 — what you saw, when, and where.
- Paragraph 3 — how the veteran's condition changed or worsened over time.
- Paragraph 4 — affirmation that the statement is true, signed and dated.
Tips for stronger 21-4138 statements
- Quote specific events. “In April 2010 at FOB Sharana, I saw John take a fall from a Humvee” beats “He hurt his back overseas.”
- Attach proof when possible. Photos, deployment orders, or unit memos can back up the statement.
- Use the writer's own words. Templates feel canned and hurt credibility.
- Submit multiple statements if more than one person witnessed the event.
Related VA forms and guides
- VA Form 21-526EZ — Disability claim application
- VA Form 21-0781 — PTSD stressor statement
- How to write a strong buddy statement
- How to file a VA disability claim
Download the latest VA Form 21-4138 at VA.gov.