Adding a New Condition to Your Existing Benefits

A Supplemental Claim allows veterans to reopen their VA disability claims if they need to add new evidence or request a review due to changes in the law. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

What is a Supplemental Claim?

A Supplemental Claim is a process that enables veterans to reopen a previously decided VA disability claim. Veterans can request this if new and relevant evidence has emerged or if there are changes in the law, like those introduced by the PACT Act.

Eligibility for Supplemental Claims

To file a Supplemental Claim, the following conditions must be met:

• The claim must have been previously decided by the VA.
• It cannot be a contested claim.
• At least one of the following must apply:
  • New and relevant evidence supports the claim.
  • You are requesting a review based on a recent law change.

What Counts as New or Relevant Evidence?

• New Evidence: Information that was not available or reviewed during the original claim process.
• Relevant Evidence: Information that directly supports or challenges the original claim.

Also Read – CalFresh December 2024 Payment Schedule: When Will Your Benefits Arrive?

Steps to File a Supplemental Claim

1. Gather Supporting Documents: Collect new medical reports, buddy statements, or any other relevant evidence. If private medical records are involved, complete VA Form 21-4142 to authorize their release.
2. Complete VA Form 20-0995: Submit the form online, with the help of a VA-accredited attorney or Veterans Service Organization (VSO), or in person at a VA regional office.
3. Submit the Claim: File the claim online or at your nearest VA office.
4. Respond to VA Requests: The VA may request additional information or schedule exams to evaluate the claim.

Processing Time

The average processing time for a Supplemental Claim is about 141 days.

What if Your Claim is Denied?

If the outcome of your Supplemental Claim is unsatisfactory, you have several options:

• Higher-Level Review: Request a senior reviewer to reassess the claim without submitting new evidence.
• Board Appeal: Have a Veterans Law Judge review the case.
• File Another Supplemental Claim: Submit new evidence to reopen the claim.

Why File a Supplemental Claim?

Filing a Supplemental Claim is crucial if you have new evidence or if recent law changes could affect your case. It’s an opportunity to strengthen your claim and maximize your chances of receiving the benefits you deserve.

Also Read – SSDI Back Pay: How to Track Payments and What to Expect

FAQs

• What is a Supplemental Claim?
  It’s a process to reopen VA claims with new evidence or changes in law.
• What is considered new evidence?
  Information that was not previously reviewed by the VA.
• How do I file a Supplemental Claim?
  Use VA Form 20-0995, available online or at a VA office.
• How long does processing take?
  Processing generally takes about 141 days.
• What if my claim is denied?
  You can request a Higher-Level Review, appeal to a Veterans Law Judge, or submit another Supplemental Claim with new evidence.