How to Appeal VA Disability Claims
Millions of veterans depend on VA disability compensation benefits after being injured during their service to this country. When a disability claim is denied, veterans can experience crushing disappointment, and anger at a system that is refusing to compensate them for their injuries.
If you have been denied disability compensation, don’t lose hope! There are still plenty of options to pursue that can help you receive disability benefits. Call Vets National Advocates at 1 877-777-4021 to see how we can help you.
You Have The Right To Appeal
If your claim has been denied, your first step is to file a request for reconsideration with your regional VA office. Tell the VA officer in your request why you disagree with the claims decision, and submit any additional evidence you may have to support your claim. Your claim will be reviewed again by the supervisor of the VA officer who made the decision.
If your claim is reconsidered, and you still disagree with the decision, you can appeal to the Board of Veterans Appeals. This board is made up of several VA officers in Washington, D.C., who review the decisions of regional VA offices. You can hire an attorney to represent you in front of the BVA, like the experienced veterans benefits attorneys at Vets National Advocates. You will have a hearing in front of a BVA officer, and will have the opportunity to argue for your claim in a structured setting.
If your BVA claim is still denied, you may be able to appeal to the U.S. Court of Veterans Appeals. This Court hearing is very formal, and will require your attorney to file legal briefs on your behalf.
During the initial stages of the appeals process, you are able to supplement your claim with additional information that supports your claim. If you find information later on which makes your claim stronger, you may be able to re-file your claim and start the process over. While this may be time-consuming, it is often better to re-file than waste years pursuing the appeal of a weak benefits claim.
How To Get Started
Once you find out your claim has been denied, make a note of the date the claim decision was issued. You will have one year from that date to file a request for reconsideration. Also, keep track of all important paperwork, and continue to document evidence of your medical condition.
Next, consult an expert in veterans disability claims. He or she may be able to tell from your initial application what the VA is looking for or what type of evidence would make your claim stronger. Before you file a request for reconsideration, make sure that you have everything you need to change the VAs decision.
Contact Vets National Advocates After A Claim Denial
Receiving disability compensation from the VA can be a long and challenging process. The experienced veterans benefits attorneys at Vets National Advocates can help guide you through these steps, and make sure you understand your options. Contact us today, or call 1 877-777-4021 to speak with a disability attorney. You fought for us, now let us fight for you!
