Advice for Appealing a VA Disability Denial
A denied VA disability claim can feel discouraging, but you may have options to request another review. Understanding the reasons for the decision and the requirements for each review option can help you plan your next step.
Georgia Veteran Disability provides general information and helps veterans across Georgia connect with independent professionals who can review their situation.
Read Your Decision Letter Carefully
Start by identifying which conditions were denied and the reasons the VA gave. Make a list of the findings you disagree with and questions you want to discuss with a representative.
Keep your decision letter, previously submitted documents, and related correspondence together so they are easy to reference.
Understand Your Review Options
Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for:
- Supplemental Claim: Submit or identify new and relevant evidence.
- Higher-Level Review: Request another review using the existing evidence. You cannot submit new evidence through this option.
- Board Appeal: Ask a Veterans Law Judge at the Board of Veterans’ Appeals to review your case.
The appropriate option depends on your claim history, available evidence, and filing dates.
Match Your Evidence to the Reason for Denial
Before gathering additional documents, consider what issue the decision identified. Relevant evidence may include medical records, medical opinions, service records, or statements from people familiar with your condition.
For a Supplemental Claim, additional evidence must be new and relevant to the issue being reviewed. Repeating information already considered may not address the reason for the denial.
Pay Attention to Deadlines
Higher-Level Reviews and Board Appeals generally must be requested within one year of the date on the applicable decision letter. Exceptions and restrictions apply, so review your letter promptly and confirm the deadline for your situation.
Do not assume that submitting an inquiry through this website protects a deadline. Our form does not file a claim, request a review, or submit an appeal to the VA.
Consider Help From an Accredited Representative
A VA-accredited attorney, claims agent, or Veterans Service Organization representative can help you understand your review options and request further review.
Prepare questions about the proposed approach, evidence requirements, deadlines, and any applicable fees before agreeing to services.
Explore Your Next Step
Have questions about a denied VA disability claim? Share a brief description of your situation to request a connection with an independent professional.
Georgia Veteran Disability is a lead-generation service, not a law firm. We do not provide legal advice, submit appeals, or represent veterans before the VA. We are not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
