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Click ‘Get Form’ to open VA Form 20-0996 in the editor.
In Part I, enter the claimant's identifying information. This includes the veteran's name, Social Security number, and contact details. Ensure all fields are filled out accurately to avoid processing delays.
Move to Part II and select your preferred review option. You can choose whether you want the same office that issued your prior decision to conduct the review or a different one.
In Part III, identify each issue for higher-level review by listing them in item 15A along with the corresponding date of VA's decision notice. Only issues listed will be considered.
Finally, complete Part IV by signing and dating the form. This certifies that all information provided is true and correct.
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What is the success rate of a VA higher-level review?
For example, as of 2025, Higher-Level Reviews (HLRs) and Supplemental Claims are estimated to have around a 50% success rate, while BVA appeals average a 38% success rate.
Can a VA higher level review make a new decision?
If you disagree with a VA decision, you or your representative can request a new review of your case by a higher-level reviewer. The reviewer will determine whether an error or a difference of opinion changes the decision. You cant submit new evidence with a Higher-Level Review.
What is a VA form 20 0996 used for?
Use this form to request a Higher-Level review of the decision you received by the Department of Veterans Affairs based on the evidence of record at the time VA issued of the prior decision.
What is the hardest VA claim to get?
Minor hardships are insufficient; the VA needs to find that the financial hardship is extreme. Getting collection notices from credits, facing eviction or foreclosure, needing to file bankruptcy, or having your utilities cut off these extreme conditions may be sufficient for expedited treatment of your disability
How long does a VA claim higher level review take?
Ultimately, you may want to ask the VA for a rating increase. The process for making this request isnt difficult. However, the outcome of this request may not be exactly what you expect or intend. Its possible that making a request for this change can actually lower your disability rating.
va form 20 0996 pdf
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What is the Higher Level Review Success Rate? While there is no published success rate for Higher Level Reviews, in my experience, Id estimate a 50% success rate. That means one in two veterans will get a successful VA higher level review decision.
20 0996
VA Form 20-0996 - Veterans Benefits Administration
USE THIS FORM TO REQUEST A HIGHER-LEVEL REVIEW OF A DECISION YOU RECEIVED. A Higher-Level Review is a new review of an issue(s) previously decided by the
Board of Veterans Appeals (BVA) | Legal Information Institute
Filing a supplemental claim via VA form 20-0995; Filing for higher level review via VA form 20-0996; Appealing to the Board of Veteran Appeals via VA Form 10182.
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