Insurance claims
If you disagree with a VA decision on an insurance claim, you can choose from 3 decision review options. You can file a Supplemental Claim, ask for a Higher-Level Review, or request a Board Appeal.
Mark your calendar
You have one year from the date on your decision to request a decision review.
Decision review options
Add new and relevant evidence with a Supplemental Claim
Fill out a Decision Review Request: Supplemental Claim (VA Form 20-0995).
Get VA Form 20-0995 to download
When you choose to file a Supplemental Claim, you’re adding new evidence that supports your case or identifying evidence for review. A reviewer will determine whether the new evidence changes the decision.
Learn how to file a Supplemental Claim
Note: You must add evidence that VA didn’t have before that supports your case.
How long does it take VA to make a decision?
Our goal for completing Supplemental Claims is 125 days.
Ask for a Higher-Level Review
You can request a Higher-Level Review online right now.
You can also request a Higher-Level Review by filling out a Decision Review Request: Higher-Level Review (VA Form 20-0996).
Get VA Form 20-0996 to download
When you choose to request a Higher-Level Review, you’re asking for another review of the same evidence. A higher-level reviewer will review your case and determine whether the decision can be changed based on a difference of opinion or an error.
Learn more about how to request a Higher-Level Review
Note:
- You can’t submit any evidence.
- You and/or your representative can speak with the reviewer on the phone. You can tell them why you think the decision should be changed and identify errors.
How long does it take VA to make a decision?
Our goal for completing Higher-Level Reviews is 125 days. A review may take longer if we need to get records or schedule a new exam to correct an error.
Can I request a Higher-Level Review?
You can request a Higher-Level Review of an initial claim or Supplemental Claim decision. This option isn’t available after a Higher-Level Review or Board decision.
Appeal to a Veterans Law Judge by requesting a Board Appeal
You can request a Board Appeal online right now.
You can also request a Board Appeal by filling out Decision Review Request: Board Appeal (Notice of Disagreement) (VA Form 10182).
When you request a Board Appeal, a judge at the Board of Veterans’ Appeals will review your case.
Learn more about how to request a Board Appeal
How long does it take VA to make a decision?
The Board’s goal for deciding appeals with no new evidence and no hearing is about a year.
Note:
- You have the option to add new evidence that will be reviewed by a judge.
- You have the option to request a hearing with a Veterans Law Judge.
How long does it take VA to make a decision?
The Board will take longer to decide your appeal if you add new evidence or request a hearing.
Can I request a Board Appeal?
You can request a Board Appeal after an initial claim, Supplemental Claim, or Higher-Level Review decision. You can’t request 2 Board Appeals in a row.
Bring an action in district court
You also have the option to bring an action in a United States district court. You have 6 years to bring such an action after accrual of the right for which the claim is made. You may want to speak with an attorney about this option.
After a Board decision
If you disagree with the Board’s decision and have new and relevant evidence that supports your case, you can file a Supplemental Claim. You can also appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims.
Learn more about your options after a Board decision
What happens next?
Find out what happens after you request a decision review
You don’t need to do anything while you wait unless VA sends you a letter asking for more information. If VA schedules exams for you, be sure not to miss them.
Track the status of your appeal
What if I need help?
A Veterans Service Organization or VA-accredited attorney or agent can help you request a decision review.
Get help requesting a decision review
What if I have more questions?
Get answers to frequently asked questions about decision reviews.