A Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) is a standardized form used to collect medical information for VA disability claims and claim exams.

Does VA pay for a private doctor to complete a DBQ?

No. VA does not pay or reimburse costs for DBQs completed by private health care providers.

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DBQ vs C&P Exam: What's the Difference and What VA Actually Uses

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DBQ vs C&P exam

A form vs. an appointment

Topic	DBQ	C&P (VA claim) exam
What it is	A standardized questionnaire/form used to capture medical info	An appointment VA may schedule after you file a claim
Who completes	Your provider (VA or non-VA) completes it as medical evidence	VA provider or VA contract provider performs the exam
Cost to you	VA does not reimburse private DBQ costs	VA says claim exams by VA/contract examiners are free
Can VA still order more?	Yes—VA may still need an exam if evidence isn't adequate	Yes—VA may schedule multiple exams depending on conditions

Key timing note

Scheduling and rescheduling

VA explains you can't start the scheduling process for claim exams yourself; VA or a contractor will contact you to schedule. Rescheduling may delay your claim.