🪖 How to File a VA Appeal for a Denied Claim

If your VA claim for mesothelioma or asbestos exposure was denied, you still have options.
The VA appeal process allows you to challenge denials, submit new evidence, and get the compensation you deserve.

📞 Need help filing your VA appeal? Call 800.291.0963 today for free assistance.

🎖️ Step 1: Review Your VA Decision Letter

Your VA decision letter explains why your claim was denied and what evidence was missing.

Look for:

📄 The official date of decision (this starts your appeal deadline clock).
⚖️ The specific reason for denial — such as missing documents or lack of service connection.
📁 Which medical and service records the VA reviewed.

💡 Understanding the reason for denial helps you choose the right appeal path.

🗂️ Step 2: Know Your Three Appeal Options

The VA offers three clear appeal routes under the modernized Appeals Improvement and Modernization Act (AMA) system.

🔁 Option 1: Supplemental Claim

Submit new or relevant evidence that strengthens your original claim.

🧬 Updated medical reports or pathology results.
🧾 New nexus letter connecting your asbestos exposure to your illness.
📸 Additional exposure proof or buddy statements.
📝 Use VA Form 20-0995 (Decision Review Request — Supplemental Claim).

⚖️ Option 2: Higher-Level Review

Request a senior VA reviewer to re-examine your claim for errors.
No new evidence is submitted—this option focuses on correcting mistakes in the original decision.
📝 Use VA Form 20-0996 (Decision Review Request — Higher-Level Review).

🪪 Option 3: Board Appeal

Ask for a formal review by the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA).
You may:

Submit new evidence,
Request a direct review, or
Schedule a virtual or in-person hearing before a Veterans Law Judge.
📝 Use VA Form 10182 (Decision Review Request — Board Appeal).

💡 Veterans can choose one or more paths depending on their situation.

📅 Step 3: Understand Appeal Deadlines

Timing is crucial for keeping your rights active:

⏳ You have 1 year from the decision letter date to file any appeal option.
⌛ If you miss the deadline, you must file a new claim and restart the process.
🕐 Keep copies of all forms and confirmations (mail receipts or online submissions).

📈 Filing on time preserves your original claim date and back-pay eligibility.

🩺 Step 4: Strengthen Your Appeal with New Evidence

Before filing, review your evidence and fill any gaps.

Add supporting documents such as:

🧫 Pathology reports proving a mesothelioma diagnosis.
🩻 CT scans or X-rays showing asbestos damage.
⚓ Service records identifying asbestos exposure (ships, bases, or jobs).
🩺 A nexus statement from a medical expert linking your illness to military service.

💬 The VA must reconsider your claim if you provide credible new medical or exposure evidence.

🧑‍💼 Step 5: Get Representation

Working with a VA-accredited attorney, Veterans Service Officer (VSO), or claims agent increases your chances of success.
These professionals can:

Review your denial reasons.
Collect missing documentation.
File the correct appeal forms.
Represent you before the Board of Veterans’ Appeals.

🪖 Accredited advocates know exactly how to strengthen asbestos and mesothelioma claims.

⚖️ Step 6: Track and Respond Promptly

Once your appeal is submitted:

🔗 Track status online at VA.gov/track-claims/.
📨 Respond immediately to any VA evidence requests.
🧾 Keep all correspondence in one file for future reference.

💡 Active follow-up ensures your appeal moves forward without unnecessary delays.

📞 Where to Get Help

If your VA claim was denied, don’t give up.
Our advocates can review your decision, identify missing evidence, and help you file a precise appeal to get the compensation you earned through service.

👉 Call 800.291.0963 now for step-by-step guidance on filing your VA asbestos claim appeal.

🧾 Summary

VA claim denials can often be overturned with the right appeal and supporting evidence.
Whether you choose a Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or Board Appeal, accuracy and documentation make all the difference.

You defended your country—now defend your benefits.
📞 Call 800.291.0963 today for free help filing your VA appeal.