VA Appeals Process

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There have been some changes within the VA appeals process. It is no longer referred to as such; it has undergone a significant transformation and is now known as the decision review process. This change was implemented to make the process more efficient and effective for those involved.

Suppose you disagree with a VA decision made on or after February 19, 2019. In that case, rest assured that you have multiple options available! The decision review process has been designed to provide three distinct avenues (Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or Board Appeal) for you to continue pursuing your case.

Each option provides different advantages, and you can select the one that best aligns with your specific circumstances and needs. And the best part? If you choose an option and find that the result doesn't meet your satisfaction, you're not stuck with that outcome. You are fully entitled to try out another eligible option.

Remember, the process may seem daunting, but you are not alone. Continue to persevere and advocate for the benefits you deserve. Keep going. You got this!

From VA.gov VA decision reviews and appeals

 

Request a decision review

• Decision review option: Supplemental Claim

You can file a Supplemental Claim if you have new and relevant evidence that we didn't have when we reviewed your case before.

• Decision review option: Higher-Level Review

  Ask for a higher-level reviewer to review your case. You can’t submit new evidence with a Higher-Level Review.

• Decision review option: Board Appeal

  You can appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals and have a Veterans Law Judge review your case.

• After you request a decision review

  Find out what happens after you request a decision review.

• Contested claims

  If you’re one of multiple people claiming a benefit that only one party has a right to, find out how to request a decision review.

• Insurance claims

  If you have an insurance claim, find out how to request a decision review.

• Fiduciary claims

  If you have a fiduciary claim, find out how to request a decision review.

Manage your decision reviews and appeals

• Check your VA claim status

  If you have already requested a decision review or filed a legacy VA appeal, sign in or create an account to check your status.

• Manage your legacy VA appeal

  If you filed a Notice of Disagreement for a decision dated before February 19, 2019, learn about the legacy VA appeal process.

More information and resources

• Choosing a decision review option

  Find out which decision review option is right for you.

• Frequently asked questions

  Get answers to frequently asked questions about decision reviews.

• Get help requesting a decision review

  A Veterans Service Organization or VA-accredited attorney or agent can help you request a decision review.

• Manage your VA debt

  Check the status of debt related to VA disability compensation, non-service-connected pension, or education benefits. You can also make payments or request help.

• The Appeals Modernization Act

  Learn more about how this law improves the claims and appeals process.

View full record