The VA Appeals Process allows Veterans to challenge or request further review of a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) decision regarding disability compensation or other VA benefits. Two of the most common appeal options are Supplemental Claims and Higher-Level Reviews.

A Supplemental Claim allows a Veteran to request reconsideration of a previously denied or unfavorable VA decision by submitting new and relevant evidence related to the claim. This may include updated medical records, nexus letters, DBQs, service records, or additional supporting documentation that was not previously reviewed by the VA.

A Higher-Level Review (HLR) allows a Veteran to request that a more senior VA adjudicator review a prior decision for possible errors based only on the evidence already in the Veteran’s file at the time of the original decision. No new evidence may be submitted during a Higher-Level Review.

The Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County (VACCC) Veteran Service Officer (VSO) Program provides free assistance to eligible Veterans seeking to navigate the VA appeals process. VACCC VSOs help Veterans review prior VA decisions, determine the most appropriate appeal pathway, organize supporting documentation, prepare and submit appeal paperwork, and better understand the VA review process and possible outcomes.

Common Required Documentation

Veterans seeking assistance with a Supplemental Claim or Higher-Level Review should be prepared to provide:

• DD214 or qualifying military discharge paperwork
• Current government-issued photo ID
• Previous VA Rating Decisions, denial letters, or appeal paperwork
• Any VA correspondence related to the disputed claim or decision
• Relevant medical and service-related documentation, such as:
  • VA medical records
  • Civilian medical records
  • Nexus letters
  • DBQs (Disability Benefits Questionnaires)
  • Service treatment records
  • Buddy statements or lay statements
• Any additional new and relevant evidence for Supplemental Claims

Important Notes

• Supplemental Claims require new and relevant evidence to reopen or reconsider a claim
• Higher-Level Reviews do not allow the submission of new evidence
• Veterans may request an informal conference during certain Higher-Level Reviews
• Additional documentation may be required depending on the claim or appeal type
• VACCC VSOs provide assistance free of charge

Veterans interested in this service must either complete the intake form online using the QR code located on the VACCC home page, or contact the VACCC office directly at 312.433.6010 and press Menu Option 2 to speak with a Veteran Service Officer.