For those who served
Medical evidence for your VA claim.
Start with an independent assessment of your records. We explain whether the evidence supports a medical opinion, what may need clarification, and the cost of any additional work.
How you typically reach us
Most common
Through your attorney
If you work with a VA-accredited attorney, they refer your case and send us your records. Our fee is billed to you rather than to the firm, and it is due on receipt. Your attorney will tell you what to expect before anything is sent.
Also common
Through your VSO
A VSO files and argues your claim for free, but service organizations carry no budget for private medical opinions. Your representative can send us the file and stay in the loop, and the fee for the medical work is yours. Many of our veterans come this way.
On your own
LOD Access
Limited free case screens and a small pro bono capacity each month for veterans who cannot afford representation. We cannot take every case, but we do not turn away merit for lack of means when capacity allows.
Access program →Do you need a lawyer?
No. You can file on your own, and many veterans do. If you do want help, who to ask depends on where your claim stands. We are physicians and cannot represent you before the VA, so this is offered as orientation, not as legal advice.
Not filed yet, or waiting on a first decision
A VSO or a county service officer
Free, always
VFW, DAV, the American Legion, AMVETS, PVA, and state and county veterans service officers file claims at no charge. An accredited attorney cannot charge you at this stage anyway, so this is where to start. Appointed with VA Form 21-22.
Denied, or appealing a decision
A VA-accredited attorney or claims agent
Typically a share of past-due benefits, nothing up front
Once VA has issued a decision, an accredited attorney or agent may charge, usually as a percentage of back pay paid directly by VA. This is the stage where representation is worth seeking out. Appointed with VA Form 21-22a.
Any stage, with or without a representative
Us, for the medical evidence
Flat fees, quoted in advance
An independent medical opinion is evidence you submit with your claim. Nothing about who represents you changes whether you can obtain one, and we work with veterans who are unrepresented, VSO-represented, and attorney-represented alike.
Only VA-accredited attorneys, claims agents, and service organizations may charge to prepare or prosecute a claim (38 U.S.C. 5901 and 5904). Anyone else who asks you for a fee to file is not permitted to do so. Our fees are for medical services and are never a share of your benefits. You can verify any representative on VA's accreditation search, or find a local officer through LOD Access if cost is the obstacle.
What an IMO is — and isn't
- Is: A physician's written opinion on whether your condition is connected to service, based on medical records and VA standards.
- Is not: Legal advice, claim filing, or a guarantee of rating or approval.
- Is not: A treating relationship — we review records at your attorney's request.
Ready to move?
Send a request and we'll tell you honestly whether an IMO can strengthen your claim — before you commit to anything.