Ves Veterans Evaluation Services: Complete Guide to VA Claims

VES Veterans Evaluation Services: Complete Guide to VA C&P Exams

VES (Veterans Evaluation Services) is a government contractor that performs medical disability exams, also known as Compensation & Pension (C&P) exams, on behalf of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Since 2008, VES has helped determine if a veteran’s claimed disability is related to their military service or to assess the severity of their condition. With a network of over 6,500 clinicians in more than 3,100 locations, VES conducts exams for veterans across the U.S. and internationally.

Quick Facts

What Is VES and What Does It Do?

VES is a private company contracted by the VA to perform Compensation and Pension (C&P) exams for veterans filing disability claims .

VES does not make decisions on your claim—it provides the medical evidence the VA needs to determine:

• Whether your condition is service-connected

• How severe your disability is (your VA disability rating)

How the VES process works :

1. You file a VA disability claim

2. The VA requests a medical exam if needed

3. VA contracts VES to schedule and conduct the exam

4. A VES clinician examines you and completes a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ)

5. VES sends the exam results to the VA

6. The VA rates your claim using this evidence

Why VES exists: With over 80% of C&P exams now outsourced, contractors like VES help the VA manage claim volumes. The PACT Act created a surge in claims, making contractor support essential to avoid delays .

The VES C&P Exam Process

VES exams follow the same general process as VA-conducted C&P exams .

Step 1: Scheduling

If the VA requests an exam, VES will contact you by phone or mail to schedule an appointment. Be sure to respond promptly.

Step 2: Pre-Exam Review

VES clinicians review your c-file (claims file) to understand your medical and service history before the exam .

Step 3: The Exam Itself

A VES exam typically includes:

• Verbal examination: Questions about your condition and how it relates to military service

• Physical examination: If your claimed condition requires it

• DBQ completion: The clinician fills out the appropriate Disability Benefits Questionnaire

Important: VES examiners do NOT treat you or prescribe medication—their role is strictly evaluation .

Step 4: Report Submission

VES sends the completed DBQ and any medical opinions to the VA. Exams are typically 15 minutes to one hour .

VES vs. VA: What’s the Difference?

Key takeaway: VES and VA exams carry the same weight in the claims process. A VES examiner’s opinion is treated as equally valid as a VA examiner’s opinion .

Common VES Issues and How to Handle Them

“No Show” Errors

Some veterans have reported being incorrectly marked as a “no show” for their VES exam when they attended. This can delay claims. If this happens :

• Contact VES immediately

• Contact the VA (1-800-827-1000)

• File a VA Form 21-4138 explaining the situation

• Check your VES account online to monitor activity

Follow-Up Exams

VA may request a second medical opinion or follow-up exam. This can happen if:

• The first exam didn’t address a needed item

• The exam raised a question needing clarification 

Contacting VES

Common Questions

1. What is VES and what do they do?

VES is a government contractor that performs medical disability exams (C&P exams) on behalf of the VA. They provide the medical evidence VA needs to decide disability claims.

2. Is VES part of the VA?

No. VES is a private company (owned by Maximus) contracted by the VA to perform exams .

3. Does a VES exam carry the same weight as a VA exam?

Yes. VA treats VES examiner opinions as having the same validity as those of VA examiners .

4. How long does a VES exam take?

Most exams last 15 minutes to one hour, though this varies by specialty .

5. How do I schedule a VES exam?

VES contacts you to schedule—you don’t initiate the process. If the VA needs an exam, VES will call or mail you.

6. What is a DBQ (Disability Benefits Questionnaire)?

A DBQ is a standardized form examiners use to document your condition. VES examiners complete DBQs during your exam and submit them to the VA .

7. Can VES examiners treat me?

No. VES examiners are evaluators only—they do not treat or prescribe medication .

8. What other contractors perform C&P exams?

Other VA contractors include OptumServe Health Services (LHI), Leidos QTC Health Services, and Loyal Source Government Services .

9. What if VES lists me as a “no show” incorrectly?

Contact VES and VA immediately. File a VA Form 21-4138 to document what happened .

10. How can I check my VES exam status?

Log in to your VES account online or call VES at (877) 637-8387.

Key Takeaways

• VES is a VA contractor performing C&P medical disability exams since 2008 .

• Over 6,500 clinicians in VES’s network conduct exams at 3,100+ U.S. locations .

• VES exams carry the same weight as exams conducted by VA physicians .

• VES does NOT decide claims—they provide medical evidence to the VA for rating decisions .

• The PACT Act has increased claim volume, making VES’s role critical .

• VES was re-awarded contracts for Regions 1-4 in January 2025 .

• Other VA contractors include OptumServe, Leidos QTC, and Loyal Source .

• If issues arise (e.g., incorrect “no show” status), contact VES and VA immediately .

Official Resources

• VES Official Website: www.ves.com

• VES Veteran Contact: (877) 637-8387

• VA Claims Information: VA.gov/disability

• VA Benefits Help: 1-800-827-1000

• PACT Act Information: VA.gov/PACT

VES Veterans Evaluation Services: What Is It and How Does It Work?

VES (Veterans Evaluation Services) is a private contractor hired by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to conduct medical disability exams, known as Compensation & Pension (C&P) exams, for veterans filing disability claims . Since 2008, VES has been helping the VA determine if a veteran’s claimed condition is service-connected and how severe it is . With a network of over 6,500 clinicians in more than 3,100 U.S. locations and 800 international sites, VES conducts exams that carry the same weight as those performed at a VA facility .

Quick Facts

What Is VES?

VES is a government contractor that performs medical disability exams on behalf of the VA . The company was founded in 2008 and is now owned by Maximus, a publicly traded company .

VES does not make decisions on your disability claim. Instead, it provides the medical evidence the VA needs to decide:

• Whether your condition is service-connected

• The severity of your disability (your VA disability rating)

Why VES exists: Since 2014, the VA has increasingly outsourced C&P exams to contractors like VES to manage growing claim volumes. Today, more than 80% of all C&P exams are performed by contractors rather than VA examiners . The PACT Act created a surge in claims, making contractor support essential to avoid delays.

How VES Fits Into the VA Claims Process

VES is just one of several contractors the VA uses for C&P exams. Other major contractors include OptumServe Health Services (formerly LHI), Leidos QTC Health Services, and Loyal Source Government Services .

The VES Exam Process Step by Step

Step 1: VA Requests an Exam

When you file a VA disability claim, the VA determines if a C&P exam is needed. If so, the VA assigns the exam to a contractor like VES . You cannot start this process yourself—the VA or contractor will contact you .

Step 2: VES Schedules Your Appointment

VES will contact you by phone or mail to schedule your exam . They will try to schedule it as close to your home as possible. The VA considers 50 miles an acceptable travel distance .

Step 3: The Exam

A VES clinician will:

• Review your c-file (claims file) before the exam 

• Ask questions about your condition and how it relates to military service

• Conduct a physical examination if needed

• Complete a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ)

Important: VES examiners do not treat you or prescribe medication—their role is strictly evaluation .

Step 4: Report Submission

VES sends the completed DBQ and medical opinion to the VA. The VA then uses this evidence to make a rating decision .

How VES Exams Compare to VA Exams

Key takeaway: VES and VA exams carry the same weight in the claims process. A VES examiner’s medical opinion is treated as equally valid as a VA examiner’s opinion .

What Veterans Should Know About VES Exams

You Should Never Pay for a VES Exam

All VES exam costs are covered by the VA. If you receive a bill or are asked to pay for any part of your VES examination or diagnostic testing, contact VES immediately at (877) 637-8387 .

VES Does Not Have Your Power of Attorney

VES does not hold any POA documents or authority. If your VSO or representative needs to communicate with VES on your behalf, you must provide the official POA document to VES .

Records VES Has on File

The VA provides VES with all records that are part of your claim file. If you have medical records that you’ve never submitted to the VA, send them to the VA first—VES can only review records already in your claim file .

92% Satisfaction Rating

VES reports a 92% satisfaction rating from veterans who have gone through their exam process .

Common Issues and How to Handle Them

Incorrect “No Show” Status

Some veterans have been incorrectly marked as a “no show” for their VES exam even though they attended. If this happens:

1. Contact VES immediately

2. Contact the VA (1-800-827-1000)

3. File a VA Form 21-4138 explaining the situation

Follow-Up Exams

The VA may request a follow-up exam if:

• The first exam didn’t address a needed item

• The exam raised questions needing clarification 

Contacting VES

Common Questions

1. What is VES and what do they do?

VES is a government contractor that performs medical disability exams (C&P exams) for the VA. They provide the medical evidence VA needs to decide disability claims .

2. Is VES part of the VA?

No. VES is a private company contracted by the VA to perform exams. It is owned by Maximus .

3. Does a VES exam carry the same weight as a VA exam?

Yes. The VA treats VES examiner opinions as having the same validity as those of VA examiners .

4. How long does a VES exam take?

Most exams last 15 minutes to one hour, though this varies by specialty .

5. How do I schedule a VES exam?

VES contacts you—you don’t initiate the process. If the VA needs an exam, VES will call or mail you .

6. What is a DBQ (Disability Benefits Questionnaire)?

A DBQ is a standardized form examiners use to document your condition. VES examiners complete DBQs during your exam and submit them to the VA .

7. Can VES examiners treat me?

No. VES examiners are evaluators only—they do not treat or prescribe medication .

8. What other contractors perform C&P exams?

Other VA contractors include OptumServe Health Services (LHI), Leidos QTC Health Services, and Loyal Source Government Services .

9. Do I have to pay for a VES exam?

No. All VES exams and diagnostic testing are covered by the VA. Contact VES immediately if you receive a bill .

10. How can I check my VES exam status?

Log in to your VES account online or call VES at (877) 637-8387.

Key Takeaways

• VES is a VA contractor performing C&P medical disability exams since 2008 .

• VES exams carry the same weight as exams conducted by VA physicians .

• VES does NOT decide claims—they provide medical evidence to the VA for rating decisions .

• Over 6,500 clinicians in VES’s network conduct exams at 3,100+ U.S. locations .

• You should never pay for a VES exam—costs are covered by the VA .

• The VA assigns the exam—you cannot initiate the scheduling yourself .

• Other VA contractors include OptumServe, Leidos QTC, and Loyal Source .

Official Resources

• VES Official Website: www.ves.com

• VES Veteran Contact: (877) 637-8387

• VA Claims Information: VA.gov/disability

• VA Benefits Help: 1-800-827-1000

• PACT Act Information: VA.gov/PACT

What Happens at a VES VA Disability Exam?

A VES VA disability exam (Compensation & Pension or C&P exam) is a medical evaluation conducted by a contracted clinician to gather evidence for your VA disability claim. The exam typically lasts 15 minutes to one hour and involves a verbal interview about your condition, a physical examination if applicable, and completion of a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ). The clinician does not treat you or prescribe medication—they only document your condition for the VA to make a rating decision.

Quick Facts

What Is a VES C&P Exam?

A VES C&P exam is a medical evaluation ordered by the VA and performed by a VES clinician to help determine your disability rating.

Since 2014, the VA has increasingly outsourced C&P exams to contractors like VES. Today, more than 80% of C&P exams are performed by contractors rather than VA examiners . VES was founded in 2008 and has conducted exams for hundreds of thousands of veterans .

The exam serves two purposes:

• Confirm or deny service connection—whether your condition is related to military service

• Establish the severity of your disability—how much your condition affects your daily life 

What VES exams are not: VES clinicians do not provide treatment, prescribe medication, or make decisions about your claim . They also do not know the ultimate rating decision for your claim—that is determined by a VA rater after reviewing all evidence .

How a VES Exam Is Scheduled

You cannot initiate a VES exam yourself—the VA or VES will contact you.

The scheduling process works as follows:

1. VA requests an exam. After you file a disability claim, the VA determines if a C&P exam is needed .

2. VES contacts you. A VES scheduler will call or mail you to schedule the exam . They will try to schedule it as close to your home as possible—the VA considers 50 miles an acceptable travel distance .

3. You confirm your appointment. Call the number on your appointment letter to confirm the place and time. You can request help with transportation or other accommodations at this time .

4. You receive an appointment packet. VES sends a packet with the date, time, address, and map with turn-by-turn directions .

5. Reminder calls are made. VES makes reminder calls and gets verbal confirmation that you plan to attend .

Rescheduling: If you need to reschedule, tell VES at least 48 hours in advance . You can only reschedule once per exam, and the new appointment must be within 5 days of the original .

What to Bring to Your VES Exam

You don’t need to bring anything to your exam—but there are some important things to know.

• You do not need to bring medical records. The VA provides VES with all records that are part of your claim file (your c-file) .

• If you have new non-VA medical records, submit them to the VA before your exam—VES can only review records already in your claim file .

• You should never pay for any part of your VES examination or diagnostic testing. If you receive a bill, contact VES immediately at (877) 637-8387 .

• You do not need to provide private insurance information to the examiner .

What Happens During the Exam

A VES exam typically involves four main components: verbal questions, a physical exam, completion of a DBQ, and a report.

Verbal Examination

The clinician will ask questions about your condition and how it relates to military service . They may ask:

• When your condition began

• How it has evolved since it began

• Your current level of symptoms

• Questions based on the DBQ for your claimed condition 

Important: The examiner cannot review new information during the exam. Any evidence you want the examiner to consider must be submitted to the VA prior to the exam .

Physical Examination

The exam may include a physical component depending on your condition. For example, if you’re claiming a knee condition, the examiner may measure the degree of flexion . The physical exam may or may not include physical contact .

Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ)

The clinician will complete a DBQ—a standardized form created by the VA to capture all rating criteria . The DBQ includes specific questions designed to collect all information the VA considers necessary for evaluating each condition .

Medical Opinion

If the exam is for service connection, the clinician will provide a medical opinion stating one of two things:

• It is “at least as likely as not” (50% or greater chance) that the disability was incurred in or aggravated by service

• It is “less likely than not” (less than 50% chance) that the disability was incurred in or aggravated by service 

After the Exam: What Happens Next

The clinician submits a report to VES, which reviews it and sends it to the VA.

VES Quality Review

Before being submitted to the VA, VES quality analysts review each report to ensure it will not be returned by the VA for clarification or correction . Quality analysts are trained in the VA’s rating criteria .

Report Submission Timeline

Examiners are expected to submit reports within 48 hours (2 business days) following the examination . If diagnostic results are pending, the report is submitted when complete .

VA Decision

Once VES submits the report to the VA, it becomes part of your claims file. A VA rater reviews all evidence—including your exam report—and makes a decision on your claim . VES does not know the ultimate rating decision .

How VES Exams Compare to VA Exams

Key takeaway: VES and VA exams carry the same weight in the claims process. A VES examiner’s opinion is treated as having the same validity as a VA examiner’s opinion .

Common Issues and How to Handle Them

Incorrect “No Show” Status

Some veterans have been incorrectly marked as a “no show.” If this happens:

1. Contact VES immediately at (877) 637-8387

2. Contact the VA at 1-800-827-1000

3. File a VA Form 21-4138 explaining the situation

Billing Issues

You should never receive a bill. If you do, contact VES immediately .

Not Receiving Travel Pay

If you don’t receive travel payment from VES within 14 days after your appointment, call VES at (877) 637-8387 .

Common Questions

1. What is a VES C&P exam?

A VES C&P exam is a medical evaluation performed by a VES clinician on behalf of the VA to gather evidence for your disability claim. The exam helps determine service connection and the severity of your condition .

2. How long does a VES exam take?

Most exams last 15 minutes to one hour, though this varies by condition and specialty .

3. Do I need to bring anything to my VES exam?

No. You don’t need to bring anything. VES receives your claims file from the VA. If you have new records, submit them to the VA before your exam .

4. Does a VES exam carry the same weight as a VA exam?

Yes. VES examiner opinions are treated as having the same validity as VA examiner opinions .

5. Can VES examiners treat me?

No. VES examiners only evaluate your condition—they do not treat or prescribe medication .

6. How is my exam scheduled?

The VA requests the exam, and VES contacts you by phone or mail to schedule it. You cannot initiate the process yourself .

7. Is there a cost for a VES exam?

No. All exams and diagnostic testing are covered by the VA. Contact VES immediately if you receive a bill .

8. What is a DBQ?

A DBQ (Disability Benefits Questionnaire) is a standardized form the clinician completes during your exam. It captures the VA’s rating criteria for your claimed condition .

9. What happens after my exam?

The clinician submits a report to VES, which reviews it and sends it to the VA. A VA rater then uses this evidence to make a decision on your claim .

10. What if I miss my exam?

Contact VES immediately. You may be able to reschedule if you have “good cause.” Rescheduling may delay your claim .

Key Takeaways

• VES C&P exams are medical evaluations performed on behalf of the VA to determine service connection and disability severity .

• Exams typically last 15 minutes to one hour and include verbal questions, a physical exam, and completion of a DBQ .

• You cannot schedule the exam yourself—the VA or VES contacts you .

• VES exams carry the same weight as exams conducted at VA facilities .

• You should never pay for any part of a VES exam or diagnostic testing .

• Submit any new medical records to the VA before your exam—VES can only review records already in your claim file .

• The clinician submits a report within 48 hours of the exam, which is then reviewed by VES quality analysts .

• VES clinicians do not treat you or make rating decisions—they provide evidence for the VA rater .

Official Resources

• VES Official Website: www.ves.com

• VES Veteran Contact: (877) 637-8387

• VA Claims Information: VA.gov/disability

• VA Benefits Help: 1-800-827-1000

• PACT Act Information: VA.gov/PACT

How to Prepare for Your VES Exam

To prepare for your VES exam, gather your medical records and military service evidence, create a written timeline of your condition, make a list of all medications, and prepare a personal statement describing how your condition affects your worst days. Bring a photo ID and your exam letter. Arrive 15 minutes early, dress comfortably, and be ready to describe your symptoms honestly and completely—including how they impact your daily life and ability to work.

Quick Facts

Before Your VES Exam

Scheduling Your Appointment

You cannot schedule a VES exam yourself—the VA or VES will contact you . VES schedulers will reach out by phone or mail to arrange your appointment. When they call:

• Confirm the appointment by calling the number on your letter or confirming during the phone call 

• Provide your date of birth for identity verification 

• Request help with transportation or other accommodations if needed 

If you need to reschedule, call VES at 1-877-637-8387 at least 48 hours in advance. You can only reschedule once per exam, and the new appointment must be within 5 days of the original .

What to Bring to Your VES Exam

You don’t need to bring much, but a few items will help your exam go smoothly.

Essential items to bring :

• A photo ID

• A list of any current medications you’re taking (include dosages)

• A copy of your VES exam letter

What you do NOT need to bring :

• Medical records—the VA provides VES with all records in your claim file

• Private insurance information

Important: If you have medical records you’ve never submitted to the VA, send them to the VA before your exam—the examiner can only review records already in your claim file .

Special exam considerations :

Creating Your “Exam Preparation Packet”

Being thoroughly prepared for your exam may lead to a favorable disability rating decision and possibly avoid the need to appeal . Veterans who arrive well-prepared tend to have better outcomes. Prudent veterans actively manage their claims throughout the entire process, especially C&P exams .

Create a packet with the following documents:

1. Your Medical History Summary

Write a brief summary with important points and dates for each medical issue . Include:

• When and where you had an injury or first had symptoms (onset)

• When and where you were first diagnosed by a doctor

• When and where you had tests, treatment, or surgery

• How the condition limits your ability to work and perform daily activities

Why this matters: The summary you prepare may be the difference between claim grant and denial, or a 30% rating versus 10% . Use bullet points with brief explanations of each treatment and symptom.

2. Medication List

Prepare and bring a detailed list of your prescription and over-the-counter medications for each medical issue, including dosages, how you take them, and any side effects .

3. Personal Statement

Draft a personal statement describing your condition and how it connects to military service . This statement should:

• Be short and to the point

• Explain how your condition started and how it connects to military service

• Describe how it affects you day to day (work, relationships, daily activities)

• Include specific examples: “My depression has caused me to lose three jobs in the past year. I can’t get out of bed most days.”

4. Nexus Letter (if you have one)

Bring a copy of any nexus letter from your doctor establishing that your condition is “at least as likely as not” related to military service .

What to Expect During the Exam

On Exam Day

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early . Wear comfortable clothes so you can move freely . Being on time shows that you take the exam seriously and reduces your stress .

The Exam Itself

A VES exam is not like a normal medical exam. The provider is there to evaluate, not treat . They will not prescribe medication or give referrals . The purpose is to gather information for the VA claims decision .

During the exam, the clinician may :

• Ask questions based on the medical records in your claim file

• Perform a basic physical exam (may or may not involve physical contact)

• Request additional tests like X-rays or blood work at no cost to you

How Long the Exam Takes

The exam duration depends on the number of conditions being evaluated .

Source: VES clinician guidance 

Key Tips for a Successful Exam

1. Be Honest About Your Worst Days

This is the most important advice: Don’t pretend your symptoms aren’t challenging or act tough . The VA needs to understand the full impact of your condition—talk about how you function on your worst days, not your best days . This includes symptoms you may find embarrassing, like anger issues, relationship problems, or difficulty with hygiene .

2. Don’t Minimize Your Symptoms

Many veterans downplay their symptoms out of pride or fear of appearing weak. This can result in an inaccurate rating that doesn’t reflect the true severity of your condition .

3. Don’t Assume the Examiner Knows Your File

Even though the examiner should review your file beforehand, be prepared to direct their attention to key evidence if they seem unfamiliar with your case . C-files are disorganized and can be thousands of pages—telling the examiner “the VA has a copy of all that stuff” is unwise .

4. Bring a Helper (If Permitted)

Family members, significant others, and caregivers are permitted to accompany you to the exam . A helper can:

• Provide their perspective on how your condition affects you

• Help you remember important details

• Offer emotional support

Note: If you are bringing a service animal, let VES know ahead of time . Some providers and clinic staff may have allergies. For sensitive parts of the exam, the provider may ask your companion to wait outside .

5. Stick to the Facts

Do not try to argue your claim to your examiner. Your examiner only needs the relevant facts that will help them determine the severity of your condition and potential link to military service . Stay on point and avoid irrelevancies.

6. Be Truthful

It’s important that you don’t exaggerate or lie about your condition. If a C&P examiner detects inconsistencies, they are required to record these on the exam results. If you’re caught in a lie, expect an unfavorable rating decision .

After the Exam

What Happens Next

After the exam, the clinician writes a report and sends it to the VA . The report includes:

• The Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) with the examiner’s findings

• A medical opinion on service connection (if applicable)

A VES quality analyst reviews each report before submission to ensure it will not be returned by the VA for clarification or correction . The VA then reviews all evidence and makes a decision on your claim .

Travel Reimbursement

If you don’t receive travel payment within 14 days of your appointment, call VES at 1-877-637-8387 . Mileage reimbursement is $0.415 per mile for veterans residing in the U.S. and requires no voucher submission . Veterans residing overseas are not eligible for travel reimbursement .

Coordinated Transportation

With advanced approval from the VA, VES arranges transportation for veterans who are wheelchair or scooter bound, amputees, or blind . Email the VES Transportation Team at VESTransportationrequests@vesservices.com with a detailed description of your transportation need .

What If You Miss Your Exam?

Missing your C&P exam will delay your claim and may result in denial:

• For original claims: VA may decide your claim based on existing evidence alone

• For claims for increase or supplemental claims: The claim will likely be denied

• If VA proposed reducing your rating: Missing the exam may allow the reduction to proceed 

If you miss the exam, call the VA or VES immediately to explain and request a new appointment. “Good cause” exceptions include hospitalization, death in the immediate family, homelessness, or terminal illness .

Common Questions

1. Do I need to bring my medical records to my VES exam?

No. The VA provides VES with all records in your claim file. However, if you have new records not yet submitted to the VA, send them to the VA before your exam .

2. What should I bring to my VES exam?

Bring a photo ID, a list of your current medications, and your VES exam letter. If you’re having an eye exam, bring your glasses and sunglasses .

3. Can I bring someone with me to my exam?

Yes. Family members, significant others, and caregivers are permitted to accompany you. For sensitive parts of the exam, the provider may ask them to wait outside .

4. How long does a VES exam take?

Exams typically take 15 minutes to one hour, depending on how many conditions are being evaluated . An experienced provider plans on spending 30 minutes for every three DBQs .

5. What happens if I miss my VES exam?

Missing your exam can result in claim denial or a proposed reduction in benefits. Call VES or the VA immediately to explain and request a new appointment .

6. Can I reschedule my VES exam?

Yes, but you must give at least 48 hours notice. Call VES at 1-877-637-8387. You can only reschedule once per exam, and the new appointment must be within 5 days of the original .

7. Do I get paid for travel to my VES exam?

Yes. Veterans residing in the U.S. receive $0.415 per mile. If you don’t receive payment within 14 days, call VES. Veterans residing overseas are not eligible .

8. What should I do if I’m having a hearing or eye exam?

For hearing exams, ensure your ears are clean. For eye exams, bring all prescribed glasses and sunglasses—pupil dilation may be required, so bring someone to drive you home .

9. Can I take my medication before a fasting diagnostic appointment?

Yes. You may take regularly prescribed medications. Do not avoid taking critical prescriptions. You may drink water and sips of black coffee before a fasting appointment .

10. Can I bring my service animal to my VES exam?

Yes. Veterans with certified service animals are welcome. Let VES know ahead of time so they can confirm with the provider and facility .

Key Takeaways

• Prepare a packet with your medical history summary, medication list, personal statement, and any nexus letters .

• Bring only the essentials: photo ID, medication list, and your VES exam letter .

• Arrive 15 minutes early to reduce stress and allow time for parking .

• Don’t minimize your symptoms—describe your worst days, not your best .

• Bring a helper—family or caregivers can provide perspective and emotional support .

• Submit new medical records to the VA before your exam—the examiner can only review what’s in your claim file .

• Contact VES at least 48 hours in advance to reschedule if needed .

• You’ll receive travel reimbursement at $0.415/mile; contact VES if not received within 14 days .

Official Resources

• VES Official Website: www.ves.com

• VES Contact Center: 1-877-637-8387

• VES Transportation Requests: VESTransportationrequests@vesservices.com

• VA Claims Information: VA.gov/disability

• VA Benefits Help: 1-800-827-1000

VES Veterans Portal Login: Check Your Exam Status and Appointment

There is no single, universal VES Veterans Portal login. Access depends on your case number. To check your exam status, you must first identify which VES portal is right for you using your case number, as different portals serve different groups.

Quick Facts

How to Access the Correct VES Portal

VES uses different login portals depending on your case number and role. You cannot access all VES services through a single login page . This is different from many other VA systems, so it’s important to check which portal you need.

To find the right portal:

1. Locate your VES case number from any correspondence VES sent you

2. Look at the first two digits of that number

3. Visit the VES website at www.ves.com to select the appropriate portal button for your case number 

If you don’t have a case number or are unsure which portal to use, contact VES directly at 1-877-637-8387 for assistance.

What to Do If You Can’t Log In

If you experience issues accessing your portal account:

Check your credentials: Ensure your username and password are entered correctly—passwords are case-sensitive . Use the “Forgot Password” link if needed.

Technical troubleshooting:

• Verify you have a stable internet connection

• Clear your browser’s cache and cookies

• Try using a different web browser

Still having problems? Contact VES at 1-877-637-8387. Their trained representatives can provide fast answers to questions about exam services .

What to Expect After Your Exam

After your VES exam, the report goes through a quality review before being sent to the VA.

Step 1: Provider submits report – The clinician who examined you submits the report to VES .

Step 2: VES quality review – VES reviews the report to ensure completeness before submitting it to the VA . VES examiners do not provide treatment or know the final VA rating decision .

Step 3: VA makes decision – The VA uses the report to determine your disability rating. VES’s goal is to expedite the C&P process to get your claim resolved promptly .

If the VA needs additional information or exams, VES will contact you. Otherwise, VES sends the completed report to the VA for rating determination .

How to Get a Copy of Your Exam Report

VES cannot release exam results directly to veterans. You must request copies through the VA.

If you need a copy of your VES exam report or diagnostic results:

• Call the VA at 1-800-827-1000 to request an appointment to view your file

• Contact your local VA regional office

• Have your VSO representative request a copy from the VA

• Request through VA.gov for diagnostic results 

The only exception: VES may directly notify you about critical or abnormal diagnostic results .

Common Questions

1. Is there a single VES login for veterans?

No. VES uses multiple portals based on your case number. Check your case number and use the correct portal at www.ves.com .

2. What is my VES case number?

Your case number appears on any VES correspondence you’ve received, including appointment letters and scheduling communications.

3. How do I check my exam status online?

First, determine which portal matches your case number. Then log in through the VES website. If you cannot access your status, call VES at 1-877-637-8387.

4. Can I see my VES exam results online?

Not directly through VES. Request copies through the VA at 1-800-827-1000, your local VA regional office, or VA.gov .

5. How long after my exam will the VA make a decision?

After VES reviews and submits your report to the VA, processing times vary by claim type and VA workload. VES’s goal is to expedite the process, but the VA makes the final rating decision .

6. What if I can’t log in to my VES portal?

Check your case number is correct, verify your password, clear your browser cache, or contact VES at 1-877-637-8387 .

7. Can I reschedule my VES exam through the portal?

Contact VES directly at 1-877-637-8387 to reschedule. Provide at least 48 hours’ notice if possible.

Key Takeaways

• No single VES portal exists – access depends on your case number .

• Check the first two digits of your case number to find the correct portal on the VES website.

• VES does not release exam results directly – request copies through the VA at 1-800-827-1000 or VA.gov .

• After your exam, VES reviews the report, then sends it to the VA for a final rating decision .

• Login issues? Contact VES at 1-877-637-8387 for support.

• VES clinicians do not treat or know the final VA rating decision .

Official Resources

• VES Official Website: www.ves.com

• VES Contact: 1-877-637-8387

• VA Benefits Help: 1-800-827-1000

• VA.gov: www.va.gov