Request a Higher-Level Review 


Can I request a Higher-Level Review? 
You can request a Higher - Level Review of an initial claim or Supplemental Claimdecision. This option isn t available after a Higher - Level Review or Board Appeal. It s also not available if you re one of multiple people claiming the same benefit this is rare. 

How long does it take VA to make a decision? 


What should I expect if I request a call with a senior reviewer? 
If you request an informal conference with a senior reviewer , they ll call the phone number that you or your representative provided on the Higher - Level Review form to schedule a time to discuss your case with you. The senior reviewer will try to reach you or your representative by phone twice. If no one answers , they ll leave a voice mail. During the call , you and/or your representative can talk about why you think the decision should be changed and identify errors. There won t be transcripts of this call. 

How do I request a Higher-Level Review? 
To request a Higher - Level Review , fill out the Decision Review Request: Higher - Level Review VA Form 20 - 0996. Download VA Form 20 - 0996 PDF 

Select a benefit type in Part I of the form 
The most common benefit type is compensation , but if you re unsure, check your VA decision. You can t select multiple benefit types. You have to complete a separate form for each type. Optional : Request a call informal conference with the reviewerYou and/or your representative can speak with the reviewer on the phone. You can tell them why you think the decision should be changed and identify errors. To schedule an informal conference, select times and list a phone number in Part II of the form. A reviewer will call 2 - 4 weeks after VA processes your request. 

List the issue(s) you want reviewed in Part III of the form 
You can include all or just some of the issues VA has decided. You ll need to list the issue you disagree with and the VA decision date for each. What if I have 

user: Hello, I was wondering what the next steps are now that I requested a review of a decision.

assistant: Of course. You can find out what happens after you request a decision review on our page.

assistant: Does VA schedule exams for you?

user: Yes, we made an appointment for an examination.

assistant: In that case be sure not to miss them.

user: Yeah, I don't plan to. *not possible to ask a question*

assistant: *not possible to reply*

user: How much time do I have to file a higher level review?

assistant: You have 1 year from the date on your decision to file a higher-level review.

user: I won't need that long. So, is it possible for me to file a higher level review to begin with?

assistant: Yes, you can request a higher-level review of an initial claim or supplemental claim decision. This option isn't available after a higher-level review or board appeal. It's also not available if you're one of multiple people claiming the same benefit, this is rare.

user: I've read some details about this on your page. If I call with a senior review, what do I have to expect?

assistant: During the call, you and/or your representative can talk about why you think the decision should be changed and identify errors. 

user: Say, can I also apply by mail?

assistant: Yes, you can apply by mail.