If the VA denied your disability claim or gave you a rating you don’t agree with, you have the right to appeal. Don’t settle for a decision that doesn’t reflect your condition or your service. This guide will walk you through how to appeal a denied va claim—from filing a supplemental claim to going before a Veterans Law Judge.
You’ll learn what forms to file, what deadlines to meet, and how to present the strongest case possible. If you’ve received a decision letter and you’re unsure what to do next, this article will help you take the right steps.
What Should You Do if Your VA Disability Claim Was Denied?
First, don’t panic. If your claim was denied, read the VA’s decision letter carefully. This letter explains why the VA denied your claim or gave a lower disability rating than expected. It may cite a lack of evidence or disagree with your VA medical documentation.
You now have options to appeal. But timing matters—you generally have one year from the date on your decision letter to respond.
What Are Your Options in the VA Appeals Process?
The VA offers three main appeal paths:
- Supplemental Claim
- Higher-Level Review
- Board Appeal
These are called “decision review” options. You can only choose one at a time, but you can switch paths later if needed. Each option fits different situations—like submitting new and relevant evidence or asking for a judge to review your appeal.
What Is a Decision Review?
A decision review is how the VA re-examines your claim. It replaces the old legacy appeal process. You start by choosing the type of review you want. Each one uses a specific VA form. Your claim goes to a different VA official or judge depending on the path.
The goal: get a new decision based on a fresh look at your case.
How to File a Supplemental Claim with New Evidence
If you have new and relevant evidence—like a new diagnosis or doctor’s statement—you can file a supplemental claim. Use VA Form 20-0995. Include all documents that weren’t in your initial claim. Submit it to your VA regional office. The new evidence must relate to why your original claim was denied. This is a great option if the VA said your file was missing proof or didn’t include up-to-date medical records.
What Is a Higher-Level Review?
Think the VA made a mistake when reviewing your first claim? Ask for a higher-level review. Use VA Form 20-0996. You won’t submit new evidence, but a more experienced VA employee will review your case. You can request a phone call (called an informal conference) to explain your side. This path is useful if you believe your existing evidence was misread or ignored.
How Do You Request a Board Appeal?
A board appeal sends your case to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. A Veterans Law Judge will review your claim. Use VA Form 10182 to start. You have three options:
- Direct review – No hearing or new evidence
- Evidence submission – New evidence without a hearing
- Hearing – Speak directly to a Veterans Law Judge
Choose the option that fits your case. Board appeals often take longer but offer deeper review.
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What Happens During a Board Appeal Hearing?
If you request a hearing, it can be done by video, phone, or in person. You’ll explain why you disagree with the VA’s decision. You can bring new evidence or witnesses. Everything said is added to your appeal file. After the hearing, the judge will review your appeal and make a decision. This is your chance to tell your full story to someone who can change the outcome.
What Is a Notice of Disagreement?
A Notice of Disagreement (NOD) is used to start a board appeal. Use VA Form 10182. You must file it within one year from the date on your VA decision letter. This form lets you say, “I disagree with the VA’s decision,” and moves your appeal to the Board. Filing this form officially starts your path to a legal review.
What Forms and Deadlines Should You Know?
You must act on time and use the right forms. Here are the most common:
- VA Form 20-0995 – Supplemental claim
- VA Form 20-0996 – Higher-level review
- VA Form 10182 – Board appeal / Notice of disagreement
- VA Form 21-4142 – Medical record release
- VA Form 21-0958 – Legacy notice of disagreement (no longer used)
Keep track of the date on your decision letter. You usually have one year to file an appeal or review request.
Should You Get Help from a Disability Appeals Lawyer?
Some cases are simple, but others get complicated fast. If you’ve had more than one claim denied, or your case involves medical issues that are hard to prove, a disability appeals lawyer may help. They know how to present evidence to support your appeal, file the correct forms, and argue your case in front of a Veterans Law Judge or even the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. You can also get help from a veterans service organization.
Final Thoughts
Facing a denied VA disability claim can be frustrating, but you’re not out of options. The VA’s modern appeals system gives you multiple paths to challenge a decision, whether it’s through a supplemental claim, higher-level review, or board appeal. Each route has its own purpose, timeline, and strategy—and choosing the right one can make all the difference. The key is to act within your timeframe, gather strong evidence, and understand your rights. Don’t let a denial stop you from getting the VA benefits you’ve earned through your service. Whether you move forward on your own or get support from a veterans service organization or legal professional, the appeal process exists to correct mistakes and provide a fair outcome.
