Reviews & Appeals

Got a VA decision you disagree with? This plain-language guide shows you how to read your VA decision letter page by page, with a labeled example. It explains how to choose between a Supplemental Claim, a Higher-Level Review (HLR) and a Board Appeal, and how to prepare for the HLR informal conference. You'll also learn how Clear and Unmistakable Error (CUE) works, what to do when records turn up in your claims file years later, and how both can affect your effective date and back pay. Download our free VA Decision Reviews and Appeals Guide (PDF) for printable deadlines, back pay examples, a checklist, and links to the official VA rules.