How to Get Your VA Medical Records

Last updated: April 2026

You can access your VA medical records online through the VA's My HealtheVet portal or request them by mail. Medical records are essential for your VA disability claim as they document your service-connected conditions and treatment history.

Three Ways to Get Your VA Medical Records

1. Online via My HealtheVet (Fastest)

Access and download your records immediately through the VA's secure online portal. This is the quickest method and gives you instant access to your complete medical history.

Get Records Online →

Having trouble signing in to Login.gov or ID.me? See our Account Recovery Guide for step-by-step help regaining access.

2. Download Full Record Review

Request a comprehensive copy of all your VA medical records. This includes all visits, procedures, medications, and test results from any VA facility.

Request Full Records →

3. Mail Request (VA Form 10-5345)

Download and mail VA Form 10-5345 to request records by post. This method typically takes 2-4 weeks to receive your records.

Download Form 10-5345 (PDF) →

What Records Do You Need for Your Claim?

VA Medical Records

All treatment records from VA facilities, including doctor visits, procedures, medications, and test results.

Service Treatment Records

Medical records from your time in service, documenting any injuries or illnesses that occurred during military duty.

Private Medical Records

Treatment records from non-VA doctors, specialists, hospitals, or clinics where you received care.

Lay Statements

Written accounts from you, family members, or fellow service members describing your conditions and how they affect your daily life.

How AIVA Helps with Medical Records

Once you upload your medical records to AIVA, our AI scans them at 100+ pages per minute to identify every potential disability condition. We find conditions you might have missed and generate the supporting documentation you need.

Upload Records to AIVA →

Medical Records FAQs

How do I get my VA medical records online?

You can access your VA medical records through the My HealtheVet portal at va.gov/health-care/get-medical-records/. Sign in with your ID.me, Login.gov, or DS Logon credentials to view and download your records immediately.

How long does it take to receive VA medical records by mail?

When requesting records by mail using VA Form 10-5345, it typically takes 2-4 weeks to receive your complete medical records. For faster access, use the online My HealtheVet portal.

What medical records do I need for my VA disability claim?

You'll need your VA medical records, service treatment records from your time in the military, and any private medical records from non-VA doctors. These records document your conditions and their connection to your military service.

Are VA medical records free?

Yes. The VA does not charge veterans to access or download their own medical records, whether you request them online or by mail.

Ready to File Your VA Claim?

AIVA reviews your medical records and helps you prepare your VA disability claim package for YOUR review and submission. As an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit program, our support is donor-funded for veterans.

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AIVA Claims Assistant is an independent service and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.