A DBQ (Disability Benefits Questionnaire) is a standardized VA form that a medical provider uses to record your diagnosis and symptoms in the same terms VA uses to rate them. Your health care provider fills it out, not you. VA examiners use DBQs during claim exams, and many are also available to the public so your own doctor can complete one.
What a DBQ does
VA rates disabilities using a detailed schedule of symptoms and measurements. A DBQ walks the provider through those exact points, such as range of motion, frequency of flare-ups, or how symptoms affect work.
That makes the evidence easy for VA to use. A regular doctor's note might say “patient has knee pain.” A knee DBQ records the measured range of motion, pain on movement, instability and use of assistive devices, which is what the rater needs.
Who fills it out
A licensed health care provider fills it out. VA's DBQ page says the clinician must complete all the clinician sections and sign and date the form. That provider can be:
- A VA examiner during your claim exam (C&P exam).
- Your own doctor, whether at VA or in private practice, using a public DBQ.
- An independent medical provider you choose to see for an evaluation.
You should never fill out the medical sections yourself. VA reserves the right to verify every DBQ, and a form that wasn't really completed by a provider can hurt your claim and your credibility.
Public and non-public DBQs
Most DBQs are posted on VA's public DBQ page for providers to download. A few are not available for public use because of regulations or special training requirements. According to VA, these include:
- Initial PTSD
- Hearing loss and tinnitus
- Initial and review evaluations of traumatic brain injury (TBI) residuals
- Medical opinion
- General medical and several other specialized exams
For those, VA will generally use its own examiners. Check VA's page for the current list, since it can change.
How to use a DBQ with your claim
- Find the right form. Pick the DBQ for your condition from VA's page. Some conditions involve more than one.
- Talk to your provider. Ask whether they're willing to complete it. Bring relevant records so they can answer accurately.
- Check that it's complete. Blank fields and missing signatures are common reasons VA gives a DBQ less weight.
- Save it as a PDF and upload it. VA asks that you print the completed form to PDF before uploading it with your claim or as evidence.
Tips for an accurate DBQ
- Describe your worst days, honestly. Many conditions flare up. Tell your provider how often flare-ups happen, how long they last and what you can't do during them.
- Bring a symptom log. A few weeks of notes on pain, sleep, missed work or episodes gives your provider facts to record.
- Make sure every section is answered. If a question doesn't apply, the provider should say so rather than leave it blank.
- Check the dates and signature. An unsigned or undated DBQ may not be accepted as evidence.
- Keep a copy. Save the signed PDF for your records before you upload it.
Does a DBQ replace a VA exam?
Sometimes. If your private DBQ is complete and consistent with your records, VA may be able to rate you without another exam. But VA can still schedule its own exam, especially when it needs a medical opinion or the evidence conflicts. Always go to any exam VA schedules. If you can't make it, call to reschedule. Missing an exam without a good reason can lead to a denial based only on the evidence already in your file.
DBQs and nexus opinions are different
A DBQ describes your current condition and how severe it is. It usually doesn't answer whether the condition was caused by service. If you need that link, you may also need a separate medical opinion, often called a nexus letter.
How Love4Vets can help
We help you figure out which DBQs match your conditions, what your provider will need to see, and how to check a completed form before you submit it. Learn more about our DBQ support.
Frequently asked questions
Can I fill out my own DBQ?
No. A licensed health care provider must complete, sign and date the medical sections. VA can verify any DBQ it receives.
Does VA still accept private DBQs?
Yes. VA's DBQ page says you can use the public forms to submit medical evidence from your health care providers. A few DBQs, such as initial PTSD and hearing loss, aren't available for public use.
Will a private DBQ stop VA from ordering an exam?
Not always. A complete DBQ may let VA rate you without another exam, but VA can still schedule one. Attend any exam VA schedules.
This article is general information, not legal advice. VA rules and timelines change, so check the linked VA.gov pages for the latest details.