Understand the VA Appeals Process — and File Correctly at Every Level
This page explains decision review options under the Appeals Modernization Act (AMA): Supplemental Claim, Higher‑Level Review, and Board Appeal. You’ll also find your rights, filing steps, and the exact VA forms you need.
3 Paths to Disagree with a VA Decision
- Supplemental Claim — add new and relevant evidence.
- Higher‑Level Review — a senior reviewer re‑examines the file; no new evidence.
- Board Appeal — a Veterans Law Judge reviews your case (3 dockets).
General Deadline
To keep your effective date, submit your chosen review option within 1 year of the decision letter (unless noted otherwise).
Get Representation
You may appoint an accredited VSO, attorney, or claims agent at any time. Representation is optional but can help you choose the best lane and gather evidence.
Veterans’ Rights During Decision Reviews
- Right to choose any of the three AMA options and to change options after a new decision (e.g., move from HLR to Board Appeal or file a Supplemental Claim).
- Right to representation by an accredited VSO, attorney, or agent.
- Right to a hearing before a Veterans Law Judge when you select the Board’s Hearing docket.
- Right to submit evidence in lanes that allow it: Supplemental Claim: New & relevant evidence required Board: Evidence window varies by docket
- Right to VA’s duty to assist in gathering federal and private records in the Supplemental Claim lane (duty to assist doesn’t apply in HLR or at the Board).
- Right to written notice explaining decisions and how to continue your review.
Compare Your Options
| Option | Use When… | Evidence Rules | Key Features | Form |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplemental Claim | You have new and relevant evidence the VA didn’t consider before. | Submit new & relevant evidence with your request (or identify it so VA can help obtain it). | Duty to assist applies Can be re‑filed with new evidence | VA Form 20‑0995 |
| Higher‑Level Review (HLR) | You think VA made an error evaluating existing evidence. | No new evidence allowed. Optional informal conference to discuss errors. | De novo review by senior reviewer Can switch to Supplemental Claim or Board afterward | VA Form 20‑0996 |
| Board Appeal | You want a Veterans Law Judge to review your case. | 3 dockets: Direct Review (no new evidence) Evidence Submission (90‑day window) Hearing + 90‑day evidence window | Choose one docket Can later file a Supplemental Claim with new evidence | VA Form 10182 |
How to File — Step by Step
1) Read your decision letter and pick one option
Decide between Supplemental Claim, HLR, or Board Appeal. Filing more than one at the same time for the same issue can delay your case.
2) Gather evidence (if your option allows or requires it)
- Supplemental Claim: collect new and relevant records (private treatment, lay statements, new medical opinions). You may authorize VA to request private records.
- HLR: no new evidence. Focus on identifying errors.
- Board Appeal: if you choose the Evidence or Hearing docket, plan what you’ll submit within the 90‑day window.
3) Complete the correct VA form
- VA Form 20‑0995 — Decision Review Request: Supplemental Claim.
- VA Form 20‑0996 — Decision Review Request: Higher‑Level Review (ask for an optional informal conference if desired).
- VA Form 10182 — Decision Review Request: Board Appeal (select Direct, Evidence, or Hearing docket).
4) File online, by mail, or in person
Use the official online forms when available, or mail to the addresses on the form instructions. You can also get help from an accredited VSO.
File Online
File by Mail or In Person
Download and complete the PDF versions and follow the mailing instructions in each form. You can also bring non‑health‑care claims to a regional office.
Authorize VA to Request Private Records (optional)
If you want VA to request records from private providers for a Supplemental Claim, include authorization.
5) Track your status
Use your VA.gov account to check claim or appeal status, or contact your representative.
Forms You’ll Use
VA Form 20‑0995 — Supplemental Claim
Use when you have new and relevant evidence.
VA Form 20‑0996 — Higher‑Level Review
Use when you believe VA made an error based on the existing record.
VA Form 10182 — Board Appeal
Use to appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals and select your docket.
Legacy Appeals (Before Feb 19, 2019)
If your Statement of the Case (SOC) is dated before Feb 19, 2019, you may still be in the legacy system.
- Continue legacy by returning VA Form 9 within 60 days of the SOC date, or as directed in your letter.
- Or opt in to the AMA decision review options (where eligible).
Check your SOC date and follow the instructions carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to choose an option?
Generally, you have 1 year from the date on your decision letter to submit a Supplemental Claim, request HLR, or file a Board Appeal. Follow any shorter timelines specified in your notice (for example, some legacy steps use 60 days).
Can I change lanes later?
Yes. After VA issues a new decision in one lane, you can choose a different option (e.g., file a Supplemental Claim with new evidence after HLR or after a Board decision).
Will VA help gather evidence?
VA’s duty to assist applies in the Supplemental Claim lane when you identify or provide new and relevant evidence. It doesn’t apply in HLR or at the Board.
Can I have a hearing?
Yes, if you select the Board Appeal’s Hearing docket. You’ll have a 90‑day window after the hearing to submit additional evidence.
Is there an appeal for VA health care (clinical) decisions?
Yes. VA also provides clinical appeals for certain health‑care decisions. These are separate from benefits decision reviews. Check your care team’s notice for steps.