How Long Can We Safely Wait To File A Nod?

[kate7772]

My husband's claim year for filing a NOD is up on Sept. 19th. He currently has a reopen/reconsideration with new evidence in ( I know, that was likely a wrong move but we didn't know better and it is in now) and we would like to ride that out as long as possible to hopefully get a rating before the deadline. How long can we safely wait before filing the NOD? If we file the NOD now, it will stop the reconsideration process, right?

Two of my husband's contentions are listed on eBenefits as reopen and two they are considering new even though they were originally denied.

Can we do a NOD online? Is it just a simple form and is it possible to print off proof of it being filed (for when VA later says it was not filed in time?)

Thanks,

Kate

[Notorious Kelly]

Great link, Carlie - thank you!