VA Supplemental Claims: New and Relevant Evidence After a Decision
Quick answer
A Supplemental Claim asks VA to look at a decision again because you have new and relevant evidence, meaning information VA has not considered before that tends to prove or disprove something in your claim. You file with VA Form 20-0995 (or online for disability claims). You can file at any time, but filing within one year of the decision letter helps keep your original effective date.
What counts as new and relevant evidence
VA defines it in two parts:
- New: information VA has not considered before.
- Relevant: information that proves or disproves something in your claim.
Examples can include a medical opinion addressing the reason VA gave for denial, treatment records VA did not have, or lay and buddy statements about in-service events. A Supplemental Claim can also be based on a change in law, such as the PACT Act.
When a Supplemental Claim fits
- The decision letter says evidence was missing (no diagnosis, no link to service, no evidence of severity).
- You have obtained records or an opinion VA never reviewed.
- A law change, such as new presumptive conditions, may now apply.
It does not fit a condition that has simply gotten worse; that is an increased rating claim. Supplemental Claims are also not available for contested claims.
Supplemental Claim vs Higher-Level Review
| Supplemental Claim | Higher-Level Review | |
|---|---|---|
| New evidence | Required | Not allowed |
| Who reviews | A VA reviewer considers the new evidence | A more senior reviewer looks for error or a difference of opinion |
| Form | 20-0995 | 20-0996 |
| Deadline | Any time (within 1 year to keep effective date) | Within 1 year of the decision |
| VA help gathering evidence | Yes, VA can help get records you identify | No new evidence; optional informal conference |
Read the full Higher-Level Review guide or compare all three options on the VA appeals page.
How to file
- Identify exactly why VA denied or underrated the issue from your decision letter.
- Gather the evidence that answers that reason, or list records VA should request for you.
- File online (disability compensation), by mail or in person with VA Form 20-0995, or through an accredited representative.
- Attend any exam VA schedules.
Common mistakes
- Resubmitting evidence VA already had. It is not “new” and won’t change the result.
- Submitting evidence that doesn’t address the reason for denial.
- Waiting more than a year and losing the earlier effective date.
Working with someone on your claim? Learn what a VA-accredited representative is and how to verify one before you sign anything.
Common questions
Is there a deadline for a Supplemental Claim?
You can file at any time. VA recommends filing within one year of the date on your decision letter to keep your effective date.
What form is used for a Supplemental Claim?
VA Form 20-0995, Decision Review Request: Supplemental Claim. Disability compensation Supplemental Claims can also be filed online.
Can VA help me get evidence for a Supplemental Claim?
Yes. VA says it can help gather records from a VA medical center, another federal facility or your private provider if you identify them.
Can I file a Supplemental Claim after a Higher-Level Review?
Yes. If an HLR doesn’t change the outcome and you then obtain new and relevant evidence, a Supplemental Claim is an option.
How long does a Supplemental Claim take?
VA’s stated goal is an average of 125 days. Actual times vary, and VA publishes current averages on VA.gov.