> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.valaclaims.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Add Your First Client > Create a Client record and begin the appropriate client workflow. ## Overview Create a Client record to begin organized claim-preparation work for a veteran. Start in **Contacts**, confirm that the Client does not already exist, then add the information presented in the Client form. The Add Client dialog in the Clients view. *Add the information shown in the form, then open the new Client record to continue the workflow.* ## Before you begin * Confirm you are working in the correct organization. * Gather only the information your organization is authorized to process. * Check for an existing Client to avoid creating a duplicate. ## Add a Client Select Contacts in the global navigation. Select Clients, which is the default Contacts view. Search for the veteran and review possible matches before creating a new record. Select Add Client. Enter the Client information currently presented. First name and last name are required. Email and phone are optional. Select Add Client to save the record. Open the Client record and continue with the appropriate workflow, often Documents or other intake work. Vala can surface possible matching Clients while you add a Client. Review those matches before continuing. Use Add Anyway only when you have confirmed that this should be a separate Client. ## Best practices * Verify names and contact information against an approved source. * Add information incrementally if your organization does not yet have every detail. * Review the Client record after saving to make sure you are in the correct matter. ## Related pages Understand the Client record tabs. Continue with records and supporting material.