Your Data. Your Control.

Your Health History.
In Your Hands.

Learn how to use the VA Blue Button to request a downloadable copy of available health-record information. Content and availability depend on the connected VA systems and your record.

Start Guide See What's Inside
Reviewed by TYFYS Editorial Team Updated June 2, 2026 National VA claim strategy and evidence guidance

What is the "Blue Button"?

It is a universal symbol for "Download My Data". When you click it on VA.gov, it generates a single PDF or Text file containing your selected medical history.

Why Veterans Use It:

  • • Sharing blood work trends with a private cardiologist.
  • • Keeping a backup copy for emergencies.
  • • Reviewing doctor's notes (Clinical Notes) for accuracy.

What a report may include

  • Clinical notes and visit information
  • Lab results and medication information
  • Vitals, history, and other available data

The categories and date ranges available in your account can vary. Review the report before relying on it as a complete record.

The Process

3 Steps to Download

1

Sign in to VA.gov

Use your Login.gov or ID.me account. Navigate to the "Health Care" section.

2

Select "Blue Button Report"

Look for the link that says "VA Blue Button Report" (often under "Health Records"). It may redirect you to the My HealtheVet portal.

3

Customize & Download

Crucial Step: You must select a Date Range (e.g., "Last 3 Months") and check the boxes for the data you want (e.g., "VA Lab Results"). Then click Download PDF.

Why It Matters

Choose the appropriate records path

A downloadable report and a formal records request serve different purposes. Current VA instructions should control the method you use.

Timing varies

A report already available in an online account may be downloadable immediately. A formal request can take longer depending on the custodian, record type, and current workload. TYFYS does not publish an estimated turnaround.

Formal release requests

A Release of Information office may be the appropriate route when the online report does not include the required record or when a formal copy is needed.

Verify the requirement

Ask the receiving organization what format it accepts, and follow the current VA records instructions. This page does not determine whether a report is complete or legally sufficient.

Method Comparison

Which Method is Right for You?

Blue Button (DIY)

May be useful for personal review or sharing available account information. Confirm that the report includes the dates and record types you need.

Official Request (ROI)

May be appropriate when the online report is incomplete or a receiving organization requires a formal copy.

Decision check

  • Record scope: Does the online report include the needed date and record type?
  • Receiving rule: Does the recipient require a formal or certified copy?
  • Current instructions: Verify the submission method on VA.gov.
Turn records into evidence

Where Blue Button records fit next

After you download VA treatment notes, match them to the claim question instead of uploading a loose PDF. Orthopedic claims may need range-of-motion notes, flare-up history, imaging, and functional loss. Review-lane claims need records that answer the exact denial reason.

Orthopedic VA Ankle Rating Evidence Checklist Orthopedic VA Hip Pain Rating Evidence Checklist Review lane Higher-Level Review Evidence Checklist Review lane Supplemental Claim Evidence Checklist

Related next steps

Official references