VA Form 3288
Request for and Consent to Release of Information from Claimant's Records (Legacy)
Who fills it
veteran
Journey phase
Before You File
Estimated time
10-15 minutes.
When to file
Anytime. Consider using VA Form 20-10206 instead for new requests.
You or your representative needs to release your VA records to a third party, or you are familiar with this older form.
Gather before you start
—VA File Number
—Who the records are being released to (name and address of recipient)
—Specific records being released
Section I - Veteran Identification
Blocks 1-3Name, SSN, VA File NumberPII
Your identifying information as the record subject.
Example
(legal name, SSN, VA file number)
Common mistakes
- Using this legacy form when VA Form 20-10206 would be more current - both are accepted.
Section II - Records Being Released
Blocks 4-7Specific records and recipient
Identify the specific records to release (C-File, medical records, rating decisions) and the entity to receive them (VSO, attorney, medical provider). Limit the scope to protect your privacy.
Example
e.g., Rating decisions and C&P exam reports to be released to Disabled American Veterans (DAV), 3725 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring KY 41076.
Common mistakes
- Blanket releases of all records without limiting scope - a specific scope provides better privacy protection.
Authority
38 USC 5701 - Privacy protections for VA beneficiary information; authority for controlled disclosures to third parties.
Section III - Claimant Signature
Blocks 8-9Claimant signature and datePII
Sign and date. For new requests, consider using VA Form 20-10206 instead.
Example
(signature/date)
Common mistakes
- Not knowing VA Form 20-10206 is the more current form for Privacy Act/FOIA requests.
Statutory & regulatory authority
38 USC 5701 - Privacy protections for VA beneficiary information; authority for controlled disclosures to third parties.