If you received a VA disability compensation decision you believe is wrong, you can request the VA to take another look. This is commonly called a reconsideration, but under the current VA system, it actually takes the form of one of three review options: a Supplemental Claim, a Higher-Level Review, or an appeal to the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Knowing which path fits your situation can save months of waiting and prevent unnecessary denials.

What does reconsideration mean for VA disability compensation?

When veterans say "reconsideration," they usually mean asking the VA to review a rating decision they disagree with. Since the Appeals Modernization Act (AMA) took effect in February 2019, the VA replaced the old appeals system with three distinct lanes. Each one serves a different purpose, and choosing the right one depends on your specific circumstances.

A Supplemental Claim is used when you have new and relevant evidence the VA hasn't seen before. A Higher-Level Review asks a more senior VA reviewer to look at the same evidence already on file. A Board Appeal sends your case to a Veterans Law Judge at the Board of Veterans' Appeals in Washington, D.C.

There is no single form or process called "reconsideration" at the VA. Understanding the distinction between these three lanes is the first step toward getting the outcome you deserve.

When should I request a review of my VA decision?

You should consider requesting a review if any of the following apply:

  • The VA denied your claim and you believe the evidence supports service connection.
  • Your disability rating seems too low based on the severity of your condition.
  • The VA missed or overlooked medical evidence in your file.
  • Your effective date is wrong, and you're owed back pay.
  • Your condition has worsened since the original decision.

For example, a veteran with a respiratory condition linked to service might receive a 0% rating when their breathing problems clearly interfere with daily life. That veteran would benefit from filing a review to get a more accurate rating.

Similarly, veterans dealing with cancer connected to military service sometimes receive denials because the VA doesn't recognize the connection to toxic exposure. A review with the right medical evidence can change that outcome.

What is the difference between a Supplemental Claim and a Higher-Level Review?

This is one of the most common points of confusion, and the answer matters because picking the wrong lane wastes time.

Supplemental Claim

  • You submit new and relevant evidence that the VA hasn't reviewed.
  • There is no time limit to file, though acting within one year of the decision preserves your effective date.
  • The VA will assist you in gathering evidence if needed (duty to assist).
  • Use this when you have medical records, buddy statements, or a nexus letter the VA hasn't seen.

Higher-Level Review

  • A senior claims examiner reviews the same evidence already in your file.
  • You cannot submit new evidence with this option.
  • You must file within one year of the VA's decision.
  • You can request an informal conference to explain your case directly to the reviewer.
  • Use this when you believe the VA made a legal or factual error with the evidence it already had.

If you're unsure which lane to choose, the full VA appeal process covers additional details on each option.

How do I file for reconsideration with the VA?

The specific steps depend on which review lane you choose. Here's the process for each:

Filing a Supplemental Claim

  1. Gather new medical evidence, service records, or lay statements supporting your claim.
  2. Complete VA Form 20-0995 (Decision Review Request: Supplemental Claim).
  3. Submit the form and your evidence by mail to the appropriate VA regional office, in person at a VA office, or online through VA.gov.
  4. Wait for the VA to review your submission and issue a new decision.

Filing a Higher-Level Review

  1. Complete VA Form 20-0996 (Decision Review Request: Higher-Level Review).
  2. Indicate whether you want an informal conference with the reviewer.
  3. Submit within one year of the rating decision.
  4. Wait for the senior reviewer's decision, which may overturn, modify, or uphold the original.

Appealing to the Board

  1. Complete VA Form 10182 (Decision Review Request: Board of Veterans' Appeals).
  2. Choose a direct review, evidence submission, or hearing lane.
  3. Submit within one year of the decision.
  4. Wait for a Veterans Law Judge to issue a decision.

What evidence helps the most in a reconsideration request?

Strong evidence is the backbone of any successful review. The VA needs specific, well-documented proof. Here's what tends to carry the most weight:

  • Nexus letters from a medical professional connecting your condition to military service.
  • Updated medical records showing the current severity of your disability.
  • Service treatment records documenting the injury or illness during your time in the military.
  • Buddy statements from fellow service members who witnessed the event or can describe how your condition has affected you.
  • Independent medical opinions that address and counter the VA's reasoning for denial or a low rating.

For veterans with diabetes related to military service, a detailed medical opinion linking the condition to in-service factors like Agent Orange exposure or medication side effects can make or break the case.

What are the most common mistakes veterans make during reconsideration?

Avoiding these errors can prevent further delays or another denial:

  • Filing the wrong lane. Submitting a Higher-Level Review when you actually have new evidence, or filing a Supplemental Claim without any new evidence, wastes time. Choose the lane that matches your situation.
  • Missing the one-year deadline. While Supplemental Claims have no filing deadline, acting within one year preserves your original effective date for back pay purposes.
  • Submitting weak or irrelevant evidence. Not all medical records help. The evidence must be "new and relevant," meaning it addresses the specific reason the VA denied or underrated your claim.
  • Not reading the rating decision carefully. Your decision letter explains exactly why the VA ruled the way it did. Your review needs to directly address those reasons.
  • Going it alone when the case is complex. Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) like the DAV, VFW, and American Legion offer free claims assistance. Accredited claims agents and VA-accredited attorneys can also help.

How long does the reconsideration process take?

Timelines vary depending on the lane and regional workload. As of recent VA data:

  • Supplemental Claims average around 100 to 150 days.
  • Higher-Level Reviews average around 125 to 175 days.
  • Board Appeals can take over a year, sometimes significantly longer depending on the docket and whether a hearing is requested.

These are averages. Some cases move faster, and others take longer. Checking your claim status regularly on VA.gov helps you stay informed.

What happens after the VA makes a decision on my review?

If the review goes in your favor, the VA will grant or increase your disability rating and may assign a new effective date for back pay. If the review is denied, you still have options. You can file another Supplemental Claim with new evidence, appeal to the Board, or seek help from an accredited attorney.

Some veterans also find that their situation connects to broader programs. If you're experiencing housing instability, there are disability programs available for homeless veterans that may provide additional support while your claim is being processed.

Can I request reconsideration for a claim that was denied years ago?

Yes. If your claim was denied under the old appeals system before February 2019, you can still file a Supplemental Claim with new and relevant evidence under the current AMA system. There is no time limit on Supplemental Claims. However, the longer you wait, the more back pay you may lose if you didn't act within the original one-year appeal window.

If your claim was denied under the current system and you never appealed, you can still file a Supplemental Claim at any time. The key requirement is that you must include new evidence the VA hasn't already reviewed.

Practical checklist before filing your reconsideration

  • Read your rating decision letter carefully. Identify the exact reason for denial or the low rating.
  • Choose the right review lane. New evidence? File a Supplemental Claim. Same evidence, possible error? Request a Higher-Level Review.
  • Gather strong, relevant evidence. Focus on nexus letters, updated medical records, and statements that directly address the VA's reasoning.
  • File within one year of the original decision to protect your effective date and potential back pay.
  • Use the correct VA form. 20-0995 for Supplemental Claims, 20-0996 for Higher-Level Reviews, 10182 for Board Appeals.
  • Get help from a VSO or accredited representative if your case involves complex medical or legal issues.
  • Keep copies of everything you submit and note the date you filed.
  • Check your claim status on VA.gov regularly and respond promptly to any VA requests for information.

Acting on these steps gives your reconsideration request the best chance of success. Don't let a denial be the final word on your claim.