What Is a DBQ?

A Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) is a standardized VA form completed by a licensed healthcare provider to document the nature and severity of a veteran's disability for a VA disability claim.

For mental health conditions, the evaluator must be a board-certified psychiatrist or licensed doctorate-level psychologist. Our team meets and exceeds these requirements.

The VA uses DBQ information to assign a disability rating from 0–100%, which determines your monthly benefits and healthcare eligibility.

VA Disability Ratings

Ratings are assigned in 10% increments. Higher ratings mean significantly higher monthly benefits and broader healthcare access.

10–20%
Monthly benefit
30–40%
+ Dependent add-ons
50–60%
Full VA healthcare
70–90%
Expanded benefits
100%
Up to $3,831+/mo

Amounts are approximate and subject to annual VA adjustment.

FAQ

Common Veteran Questions

A DBQ is a standardized VA form completed by a licensed healthcare provider to document the severity of a veteran's disability for their VA disability claim. There are more than 70 DBQ types. For mental health conditions, the examiner must be a board-certified psychiatrist or licensed doctorate-level psychologist.
No — a DBQ is not required for a claim to succeed. The VA will often schedule their own C&P exam. However, a thorough independent DBQ from a licensed psychologist can significantly strengthen your claim, ensure your symptoms are fully documented, and potentially expedite processing.
A C&P exam is scheduled by the VA and conducted by a VA or contracted examiner. A private DBQ is completed by an independent licensed provider of your choosing. Both can be submitted as evidence. Having a private DBQ can supplement the VA exam — especially if your C&P was incomplete or didn't fully capture your symptoms.
Yes. We offer secure telehealth evaluations via video. These are particularly helpful for veterans in rural areas, out of state, or with mobility challenges. Telehealth evaluations meet VA requirements when properly documented. We serve veterans throughout California — contact us for out-of-state availability.
We complete DBQs for depression, anxiety disorders, adjustment disorders, and related psychiatric diagnoses. Note: PTSD initial evaluations require a separate VA form (VA Form 21-0960P-4) and specific qualifications. Please contact us to discuss your specific conditions and situation.
The VA does not pay or reimburse the cost of private DBQ evaluations — the veteran is responsible for the full cost. Fees vary by case complexity. Call us at (916) 202-0558 for a free consultation — we'll explain fees transparently with no obligation.
Helpful records include: your DD-214, VA and private medical records, military service treatment records, prior C&P evaluations, and any lay statements from family or fellow service members. More complete records allow for a more thorough and credible evaluation.
The evaluation itself typically takes 2–4 hours. Total turnaround from consultation to completed report depends on case complexity and records availability. We're committed to efficient turnaround — contact us to discuss your timeline and any upcoming claim deadlines.

Still Have Questions?

Our team is ready to walk you through the entire process. Call for a free consultation today.

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