A Supplemental Claim is not the usual route when an already service-connected condition simply became worse. That generally requires an increased-rating claim. A Higher-Level Review may fit better when you believe VA made an error and you have no new evidence.
Read the decision letter issue by issue
Identify the exact condition, rating, effective date, or other issue you disagree with. Record the date on the decision letter and the evidence VA listed. A decision containing several issues may require different next steps for different issues.
Confirm that the evidence is new and relevant
VA describes evidence as new when it was not considered before and relevant when it tends to prove or disprove something in the claim. Examples may include a new medical opinion, newly obtained treatment records, a service record, or a lay statement addressing the reason VA denied the issue.
Do not resend the same record without explaining its value
Review the reasons for the prior decision and connect the new evidence to the missing element. Unless the request is based on a change in law, VA requires new and relevant supporting evidence for a complete Supplemental Claim. You can also identify records that you want VA to obtain.
Use the current filing method
- Online: VA currently accepts the online Supplemental Claim tool for disability compensation claims.
- Paper: Download the current VA Form 20-0995 from VA.gov. The official form page lists a May 2024 revision.
- Mail or in person: Use the destination that matches the benefit type on the current VA instructions or decision letter.
- Accredited help: A VA-accredited attorney, claims agent, or Veterans Service Organization representative can assist.
Handle private medical records correctly
If you want VA to request records from a private health care provider, the official instructions may require VA Form 21-4142 or another current authorization. You may also submit the records yourself through an approved channel.
Pay attention to timing
A Supplemental Claim can be available after the ordinary one-year period, but filing within one year of the decision may be important to preserve the earliest possible effective date under VA's continuous-pursuit rules. Use the deadline and instructions in the decision letter and check the current official guidance.
After filing
Save the confirmation and a complete copy. Monitor the claim, respond to VA requests, and attend any scheduled examination. If VA denies the Supplemental Claim, possible next routes can include a Higher-Level Review, Board Appeal, or another Supplemental Claim with additional new and relevant evidence.
Official sources
- VA Supplemental Claims
- VA Form 20-0995 and current revision
- Choosing a VA decision review option
- After requesting a decision review