Appealing A VA Decision

You may appeal the VA's decision to the Board of Veterans Appeals at any time within one year from the date of the notification letter of the VA's decision if you believe the decision is not in accordance with the law and the facts on record. The appeal process is started by filing a Notice of Disagreement. This is done by writing a letter to the VA stating that an appeal is desired. If more than one type of benefit is involved, the benefit or benefits for which you are appealing should be identified. If you decide to appeal, the VA will advise you as to your procedural rights as your claim progresses through the appeal process.

 

Personal Hearing
If a VA student desires a personal hearing to present evidence or argument on any point of importance in the claim, the VA should be notified in writing and they will arrange a time and place for the hearing. Witnesses may be brought to the hearing and their testimony will be entered in the record. The VA will furnish the hearing room, provide hearing officials, and prepare the transcript of the proceedings. The VA cannot bear the costs of any other expenses of the hearing, since a personal hearing is not required.

 

New Evidence
A VA student may submit additional evidence to strengthen the claim. It is in her or his interest to send the VA any new evidence as promptly as possible. The VA will carefully consider new evidence and let her or him know whether it changes its decision.

 

Representation
You may be represented, without charge, by an accredited representative of a veteran's organization or other service organization recognized by the Administrator of Veterans Affairs. If you desire representation, let the VA know and they will send the necessary forms. If you have already designated a representative, no further action on your part is required to secure representation.

 

Department of Veterans Affairs
Regional Office
Post Office Box 54346
Atlanta, GA 30308-0346
1-888-442-4551 (1-888-GIBILL-1)

 

Or you may consult the following website for Veterans Service Organizations:
http://www.va.gov/vso/view.asp