VA decision reviews and appeals
When the VA's answer doesn't match your record
A denial, a low rating or a late effective date isn't the end. Since 2019 there are three roads after a VA decision, and each has its own deadline and its own kind of evidence.
We read the decision letter line by line, find what the rater missed or misread, and pick the road with the best chance of fixing it.
One year from the decision to choose a review
Effective dates protected when you file on time
Board hearings in person or by video
The three roads after a VA decision
Higher-level review
A senior reviewer takes a fresh look at the same evidence, with no new records added.
Supplemental claim
New and relevant evidence, such as a doctor's opinion or buddy statements, goes in with the claim.
Board of Veterans' Appeals
A veterans law judge decides the appeal, with or without a hearing and new evidence.
Questions about VA appeals
How long do I have to challenge a VA decision?
Usually one year from the date on the decision letter. Filing within that year protects the date your benefits would start.
Which road should I take?
It depends on what went wrong. A misread record often fits a higher-level review; a missing medical opinion fits a supplemental claim. We'll explain our pick before you sign anything.
Can you take a case to the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims?
Yes. If the Board denies the appeal, we can take it to the federal court that hears veterans' cases.
Got a decision you think is wrong?
Tell us the date on the letter. That date sets the deadline, so it's the first thing we look at.
Fees are set by law and paid only from back pay you win. You may still owe out-of-pocket costs, such as copies of medical records or an outside doctor's opinion; we ask before we spend any.