What are my options if my VA disability claim is denied?

Last Updated: 10/14/2025

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A denial can be frustrating, but it does not mean the process is over. It can be the starting point for an appeal. By understanding the common reasons claims are denied, reviewing the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) decision letter and learning about appeal options, you can see a clearer picture of what comes next.

Why are VA disability claims commonly denied?

VA decisions are based on both paperwork and medical evidence. Claims are often denied when certain requirements are not fully met. 
Some of the most common reasons include:

• Incomplete or incorrect forms: Errors in the application or missing information can lead to a denial.
• Missed deadlines: Filing too late can stop a claim from moving forward.
• Lack of a clear diagnosis: Without a medical diagnosis, the VA may decide there is no disability to provide benefits for.
• Weak service connection evidence: If the VA does not see enough proof that the condition is linked to military service, the claim may be denied.
• Pre-existing conditions: If a condition existed before service and the VA does not find proof that service made it worse, compensation may not be awarded.
• Low severity: Some claims are denied if the evidence does not show the condition is severe enough for compensation.
• Problems with the C&P exam: An incomplete or insufficient Compensation and Pension exam can also result in denial.

These reasons highlight why many claims do not succeed the first time, even when the veteran’s condition is real and significant.

How can reviewing the VA decision letter help?

After a denial, the VA sends a decision letter. This document is more than a simple notice—it explains the reasoning behind the decision. The letter describes the evidence the VA reviewed, the medical or service information considered and the specific reasons the claim did not get approved.

For many veterans, the decision letter can be a roadmap. By studying it, you can see where the VA found gaps in the case. For example, the letter may show that service records were missing or that the medical evidence did not fully connect the disability to service. This information helps you understand what issues may need to be fixed in an appeal.

What appeal options are available after a denial?

If a claim is denied, you have the right to challenge the decision. The VA offers three main appeal paths.

Supplemental Claim

A Supplemental Claim allows you to submit new and relevant evidence that was not part of the original review. Examples include updated medical records, new diagnoses or documents that were overlooked. The VA looks at the new evidence and decides if there is a change in the decision. This option is useful when more information is now available to support the claim.

Higher-Level Review

A Higher-Level Review is performed by a VA Decision Review Officer who reviews your existing records and evidence for any errors or mistakes. No new evidence is added in this appeal step. This path may be best when you believe the VA had all the right information but made the wrong decision.

Board Appeal

A Board Appeal involves appealing directly to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA) and choosing from three options: Direct Review, Evidence Submission or Hearing. A Veterans Law Judge reviews the claim in detail and may reverse your decision.

Allsup Veterans Appeals (AVA) will take you through all your options and help you choose which works best for your unique situation.

What are the timelines and deadlines for appeals?

Appeals are time sensitive. In most cases, you have one year from the date on your denial letter to file an appeal. Meeting this deadline protects your rights and avoids having to start over with a new claim.

If a deadline is missed, the VA may treat the request as a brand-new claim, which restarts the process and can delay benefits even more. Filing on time ensures your appeal continues from where it left off and keeps your original case active.

What types of evidence strengthen a VA disability appeal?

Appeals are usually more successful when supported by strong, clear evidence. This can include:

• Medical records and updated professional diagnoses.
• Nexus letters from doctors that directly link the condition to military service.
• “Buddy statements” from fellow service members, family or others who can describe the effects of the condition.
• Service records or other documents that were not considered in the original decision.

The key is to focus on the reasons listed in the decision letter. For example, if the VA denied a claim due to lack of proof of service connection, evidence that directly ties the condition to your service is most likely to make a difference.

How can representation and support make a difference?

Working with VA-accredited representatives, such as attorneys, Claims Agents or Veteran Service Organizations, can improve the appeal process.

Representation often helps with:

• Ensuring paperwork is correct.
• Meeting deadlines.
• Correctly organizing evidence.
• Spotting errors in VA decisions.
• Focusing on the strongest points of your case.

At AVA, our VA-accredited Claims Agents, some of whom are veterans, understand the VA process and know how to develop a well-documented appeal that is likely to succeed. We can also help veterans coordinate appeals for multiple disabilities.

Veterans who use a paid disability representative like us generally see their annual average benefits nearly double compared to those who appeal on their own.

Tracking and following up on appeals

After you file an appeal, it can be helpful to keep track of its progress. The VA provides ways to check the status of your claim, including online portals and updates by mail.

Each type of appeal moves at a different pace. Supplemental Claims are usually resolved faster than Board Appeals, which may include detailed review or hearings. Checking on your appeal lets you see if the VA needs more information or if your case is moving forward.

At AVA, we communicate with the VA throughout your whole appeal process—no matter how long it takes.