How do I deal with an unfair VA decision?

In This Edition

• How long is the wait for an appeal?

• How do I deal with an unfair VA decision?

• H&P Disability Law Trivia

• One Veterans life-changing battle with VA

This week, we're explaining all the details about how to appeal a denied claim.

Let’s tell you what you need to know!

How long is the wait for an appeal?

It’s actually a common question that many veterans wonder about.

Our team talks about the waiting game for appeals in this YouTube video. What should you expect? How can you help the process?

We’ve got what you need to know. Check it out below.

How do I deal with an unfair VA decision?

Have you received a VA decision that left you feeling underserved or overlooked?

Whether it's a denied claim or a rating that doesn't truly reflect your service-connected injuries or conditions, there's a pathway to justice: the VA Disability Appeal.

Here's a concise guide to empower you with the knowledge and steps necessary to challenge and potentially overturn your VA decision.

Understanding VA Disability Compensation 

VA disability benefits are designed to offer monthly financial support to veterans who suffer from illnesses or injuries acquired or exacerbated by their military service.

However, navigating the VA's decision process can sometimes lead to disappointing outcomes, such as claim denials or insufficient disability ratings.

Why Claims Get Denied 

Denials often stem from inadequate evidence linking your condition to service, insufficient medical documentation, or missed filing deadlines.

Recognizing the root cause of a denial is your first step towards a successful appeal.

Your Appeal Options 

The VA Appeals Modernization Act offers three distinct avenues for contesting a decision: Higher-Level Review, Supplemental Claim, and Board Appeal.

Choosing the right path depends on your specific situation, such as the need for submitting new evidence or seeking a more senior review of your existing claim.

1. Higher-Level Review involves a senior VA official reassessing your claim.

2. Supplemental Claim allows you to introduce new and relevant evidence.

3. Board Appeal takes your claim to a Veterans Law Judge at the Board of Veterans’ Appeals.

Filing Your Appeal 

Initiating an appeal starts with understanding your VA decision letter.

This document details why and how the decision was made, guiding you on what evidence you might need to gather or what aspects of the decision to contest.

Filling out and submitting a Notice of Disagreement (NOD) is your formal way of indicating your intent to appeal.

This crucial step requires precision and clarity about why you believe the decision is incorrect, backed by any additional evidence that supports your claim.

The Waiting Game 

After submitting your appeal, patience becomes key.

VA appeal times vary widely based on the complexity of your appeal, the type of review you've requested, and the VA's current workload.

While waiting may be challenging, remember that this process is about securing the benefits that rightfully acknowledge your service and sacrifice.

Next Steps After Submission 

Once you've submitted your appeal, you can track its status through the VA's official channels.

Eventually, you'll receive a decision letter outlining the outcome.

If favorable, it will adjust your benefits accordingly. If not, you have the option to pursue further appeals through the available channels.

Need help with your appeal claim? Call us at (855) 494-1298.

H&P Disability Law Trivia

Great job on the quiz question last week! About 40% of our readers got this one right! Here’s a recap:

Here’s this weeks question.

One Veterans life-changing battle with VA

We have another great video this week from Marine Corps veteran Al Haslam who talks about his “life-changing” journey to VA benefits. He also brought a special guest, so be sure to check it out!