If your VA disability claim was denied or received a lower rating than expected, you have the right to appeal the decision. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers multiple appeal options under the Appeals Modernization Act (AMA). Knowing how the process works—and what steps to take—can significantly improve your chances of a successful outcome.
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1. Understand the Reasons for Denial or Low Rating
Before appealing, carefully review the decision letter you received from the VA. It outlines:
- The conditions denied or underrated
- The reasons for the decision
- The evidence considered
- Your appeal options and deadlines
Understanding the VA’s rationale is critical to identifying what additional information you may need to strengthen your case.
2. Choose Your Appeal Option
Under the AMA system, you can pursue one of three appeal lanes:
A. Higher-Level Review
- A senior VA claims adjudicator reviews your file.
- No new evidence is allowed.
- Best if you believe a clear error was made.
B. Supplemental Claim
- You submit new and relevant evidence.
- Ideal if you have updated medical records or additional documentation.
- Often used when new diagnoses or service connections emerge.
C. Board Appeal
- Your case is reviewed by a Veterans Law Judge at the Board of Veterans’ Appeals.
- You can choose:
- A Direct Review (no new evidence, no hearing),
- Evidence Submission (submit new evidence),
- Or request a hearing with a judge.
Each lane has its pros and cons based on your situation. You may switch lanes if one option doesn't resolve your claim.
3. Submit the Correct VA Appeal Forms
Depending on the path you choose:
- VA Form 20-0996 – For Higher-Level Review
- VA Form 20-0995 – For a Supplemental Claim
- VA Form 10182 – For a Board Appeal
You can file online, by mail, or in person at a VA office. Ensure you meet the one-year deadline from the date on your decision letter.
4. Gather Strong Supporting Evidence
To strengthen your appeal, include:
- Updated medical records
- Nexus letters from your doctors tying your condition to service
- Lay statements from family or colleagues
- VA C&P exam results (if applicable)
- Any new diagnostic tests or specialist reports
Make sure any new documents are relevant and clearly explained.
5. Track the Status and Be Patient
VA appeals take time—especially Board reviews. Use your VA.gov account to track your case. Stay responsive to any requests for additional information, and keep copies of all communications.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
Filing a VA disability appeal can feel overwhelming, especially when you're facing delays, complex paperwork, or missing evidence. That’s where Hogan Smith steps in.
We help veterans:
- Choose the best appeal path for their case
- Gather and submit powerful evidence
- File accurate appeal forms before deadlines
- Represent them during hearings with a VA judge
Contact Hogan Smith Today
Don’t navigate the VA appeals process alone. If your disability claim was denied or underrated, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your options, build a stronger case, and fight for the benefits you’ve earned.
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