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VA Appeal Checklist

Steps for Appealing a VA Decision

A checklist helps you prepare. It does not submit anything to VA.

Open printable version →

Initial Steps

Act within the deadline

  • Note Your Decision Date

    You have 1 year from the decision date to file most appeals

  • Review the Decision Letter

    Understand exactly what was denied and why

  • Choose Your Appeal Lane

    Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or Board Appeal

Gather New Evidence

For Supplemental Claims

  • Identify Evidence Gaps

    What was missing that led to the denial?

  • Obtain New Medical Evidence

    Updated records, new diagnoses, or medical opinions

  • Get Nexus Letter

    Medical opinion linking condition to service

  • Collect Buddy Statements

    Lay evidence supporting your claim

Submit Your Appeal

File correctly

  • Use Correct Form

    VA Form 20-0995 (Supplemental), 20-0996 (HLR), or 10182 (Board)

  • Include All New Evidence

    Submit everything with your appeal form

  • Keep Copies

    Retain copies of everything you submit

  • Track Your Appeal

    Monitor status on VA.gov or through your VSO