VA Form 21-4138 PDF: Official Fillable, Printable & Download Guide (2026 Update)

VA Form 21-4138 PDF – If you’re a U.S. veteran or family member filing a VA disability claim, pension application, or other benefits request, you may need to submit extra details to strengthen your case. VA Form 21-4138 (Statement in Support of Claim) is the official form for providing that additional information.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what VA Form 21-4138 is, when to use it, how to get the latest fillable PDF, step-by-step filling instructions, and where to mail it — all from trusted VA sources. We only reference official U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs pages so you stay safe and avoid scams.

What Is VA Form 21-4138?

VA Form 21-4138 is the official “Statement in Support of Claim” used by the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA). It lets you add free-form remarks, explanations, or supporting details that don’t fit on your main claim form (such as VA Form 21-526EZ).

  • Current revision: July 2024 (supersedes June 2021 version)
  • Expiration date: July 31, 2027
  • OMB Control Number: 2900-0075
  • Time to complete: About 15 minutes

The form is fully fillable online (type directly into the PDF) or printable for hand-writing.

When Should You Use VA Form 21-4138?

Use this form whenever the VA or another VA form instructs you to provide more information. Common situations include:

  • Adding details about your disabilities, symptoms, or daily life impacts
  • Explaining family situation or finances for pension, Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), or accrued benefits claims
  • Reporting reimbursement you received after submitting medical expenses
  • Supplying extra evidence that won’t fit on your original claim form

Note: For third-party “buddy statements” or lay/witness statements from someone else (often called a “buddy statement”), use the newer VA Form 21-10210 instead.

How to Download the Official VA Form 21-4138 PDF (Free & Safe)

Always download directly from VA.gov to ensure you get the most current, virus-free version.

  1. Go to the official page: VA Form 21-4138
  2. Click “Download VA Form 21-4138 (PDF)”
  3. The file opens instantly in your browser or downloads automatically

Direct PDF link (official): vba-21-4138-are.pdf

Warning: Never use third-party sites that charge fees or ask for personal information. The VA provides this form 100% free.

Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out VA Form 21-4138

The form is simple and designed for quick completion:

Section I – Veteran/Beneficiary Identification

  • Full name, Social Security number, VA file number (if known)
  • Date of birth, service number (if applicable)
  • Phone number (include area code; international OK)
  • Email (optional)
  • Complete mailing address

Section II – Remarks
This is the main free-text area. Clearly state:

  • “The following statement is made in connection with a claim for benefits in the case of the above-named veteran/beneficiary.”
  • Add your detailed explanation or supporting facts. Use additional sheets if needed and attach them.

Section III – Declaration & Signature

  • Sign and date the form (required)

Pro tips for fastest processing:

  • Use the fillable PDF and type wherever possible
  • If handwriting, print neatly in black ink, one character per box
  • Do not write in the “VA DATE STAMP” box

How to Submit VA Form 21-4138?

Mail the completed form to:
Department of Veterans Affairs
Evidence Intake Center
P.O. Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444

You can also upload supporting documents through your VA.gov claim status tool if you already have a claim open.

For questions:

Printable & Fillable Features

  • Fillable: Yes – open in Adobe Reader or any modern PDF viewer and type
  • Printable: Yes – perfect for hand completion or records
  • Digital signature supported: You can sign electronically before printing or mailing

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. Is VA Form 21-4138 still required in 2026?
    Yes. The July 2024 version remains the current official form with no planned replacement.
  2. Can I submit it online?
    No direct online filing portal for this specific form, but you may upload it via your existing VA claim on VA.gov.
  3. What’s the difference between VA Form 21-4138 and 21-10210?
    21-4138 is your own statement in support of your claim. 21-10210 is for lay/witness statements written by someone else on your behalf.
  4. Do I need to notarize it?
    No. Your signature is sufficient.

Final Tips for U.S. Veterans

  • Keep a copy of everything you submit
  • Reference your claim number in your remarks section
  • Submit as soon as possible — it can help speed up your decision

Ready to get started?
Download the official VA Form 21-4138 PDF now and strengthen your VA claim today.

All information in this article is taken directly from current VA.gov and VBA sources (last updated December 2025). For the absolute latest version, always check VA.gov before downloading. If your situation is complex, consider contacting a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or accredited attorney for free assistance.