Overview of the VA Decision Review Process
The VA appeals process has been replaced by the Decision Review process, which offers veterans three main options if they disagree with a VA benefit or claim decision. You can choose from a Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or Board Appeal to challenge the decision. If you’re not satisfied with the outcome of one option, you can try another. If your issue is related to medical decisions, you can file a Clinical Appeal for review.
Decision Review Options
Supplemental Claims
If you have new and relevant evidence that was not considered in the initial review, you can file a Supplemental Claim to present this information and request a re-evaluation.
Higher-Level Reviews
You can request a Higher-Level Review, where a more experienced reviewer will reexamine your case. Note that no new evidence can be submitted during this process.
Board Appeals
If you’re still dissatisfied with the result, you can appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, where a Veterans Law Judge will review your case.
Clinical Appeals
For medical-related decisions made by your VA care team, you can file a Clinical Appeal to request a re-evaluation of your treatment or care decision.
Special Appeal Categories
Family Caregiver Program Appeals
If you disagree with a decision related to the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers, you can request a review or appeal.
Contested Claims
If multiple people are claiming the same benefit, you can file a decision review to resolve the dispute.
Insurance Claims
For issues related to VA insurance claims, a decision review option is available.
Fiduciary Claims
If you have a fiduciary claim, you can also request a decision review.
Managing Your Reviews & Appeals
Check Your Claim Status
If you’ve already requested a decision review or filed a legacy appeal, you can sign in to track your claim status. However, this tool does not support health care benefit decision reviews or appeals.
Manage Your Legacy VA Appeal
For decisions made before February 19, 2019, you can learn more about the legacy VA appeal process if you filed a Notice of Disagreement.
Additional Resources
Get Help Requesting a Review
An accredited attorney, claims agent, or Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representative can assist you with requesting a decision review.
Choosing the Right Review Option
Explore which decision review option is best suited for your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about the decision review process.
After You Request a Review
Learn what happens after you request a decision review and the steps that follow.
Managing Your VA Debt
Track your VA-related debts, including disability compensation, pension, or education benefits. You can also make payments or request assistance.
The Appeals Modernization Act
This act has modernized the claims and appeals process to improve efficiency and reduce delays, helping veterans get quicker resolutions.
