Upload records once and reuse them inside one Pathfinder claim workspace
A supported file added through Records Check-In remains in the same Pathfinder claim workspace and can appear on the Records Dashboard after upload. Processing, identity, and type review still control whether it is ready, and linking it to a later task is an explicit veteran action rather than automatic reuse.
Overview
When you add a supported file through Records Check-In, Claim Raven places it in the claim workspace attached to the current Pathfinder enrollment. The same record can appear on the Records Dashboard as processing changes. That continuity avoids a second upload for the same workspace, but it does not automatically attach the file to every task or submit it to VA. Same workspace does not mean automatic use A record must remain in the same Pathfinder claim workspace, finish processing, clear any identity review, and have its type confirmed when required. A later evidence task receives a link only when you choose the offered link action. Linking does not mark the task complete or prove the record answers it.
A safe upload and reuse sequence
Use a working copy Keep the original record unchanged in your private archive. Upload a readable working copy with a neutral filename that does not expose unnecessary personal information. Your controlling source remains separate from the product copy. Choose a supported file Records Check-In accepts PDF, Word .docx, JPG, PNG, WebP, and plain-text files. The upload service applies the current size, content, and security checks and may reject a file even when its extension appears supported. The file reaches the intended claim workspace or returns a visible error. Wait for the displayed state Analyzing means processing is still underway. Needs your review means identity or classification requires a decision. Partially ready means only limited content was retained for quick review. Ready means processing finished under the displayed limits. A failed or no-readable-text state is not ready. A status is read as product processing, not evidence sufficiency. Confirm the record Compare the displayed filename, type, summary, page coverage, and identity prompts with the source. Correct or remove the record when it does not belong to this workspace. Only a record you recognize and review is eligible for later linking. Link only when useful If an Evidence Builder task offers a record-link control, select the reviewed record yourself. Pathfinder checks account ownership and workspace scope before saving the link. The task references the chosen record without changing its veteran-controlled status. What follows the record and what does not Item Current contract Limit File record Remains in the same Pathfinder claim workspace until removed under the product controls Not a VA submission receipt or permanent personal archive Processing state Appears on Records Check-In and Records Dashboard Does not establish completeness, accuracy, or legal weight Summary and observations Appear only from successfully processed content May be partial or mistaken and require source review Evidence-task link Saved only after an explicit link action for an owned, reviewed same-workspace record Does not mark the task complete or prove the question is resolved Preserve official submission proof separately Uploading to Pathfinder does not send a file to VA. Follow the current official route and controlling notice yourself, then save the exact submitted file, attachment list, date, route, and confirmation outside Pathfinder.
Related guidance
Related guidance Review records in Pathfinder /help-center/claims-and-appeals/static-review-pathfinder-records Organize evidence without renaming everything /help-center/claims-and-appeals/static-evidence-organization Use the Evidence Dashboard without mistaking workflow for proof /help-center/claims-and-appeals/static-use-evidence-dashboard
More information
Return to your saved Pathfinder step Open Pathfinder and resume the step saved for your account. The public Help Center does not deep-link into a protected exact screen. Return to Pathfinder /guided-program