Board Appeal (Notice of Disagreement)

1. 1

   Do now · 01

   Before you start

   Estimated time

   30-45 minutes

   Deadline

   Follow the deadline in the decision letter. Many Board appeals use a 1-year deadline, but the eligible route and timing depend on the decision type.

   Use this form when: When you want a Veterans Law Judge to review an eligible decision. Choose Direct Review, Evidence Submission, or a Hearing based on whether you need to add evidence or speak with a judge.

2. Gather · 02

   Gather your documents

   Helpful when available

   • +Copy of your VA decision letter — Shows the specific issues you are appealing.
   • +New evidence (Evidence Submission lane only) — Only if you choose the Evidence Submission or Hearing lane. Direct Review does not accept new evidence.
   • +Representative documentation (VA Form 21-22 or 21-22a) — If you want a VSO or attorney to represent you at the Board.
3. 3

   Waypoint · 03

   Complete the form

   • ✓The issue(s) you are appealing
   • ✓Which review lane you want (Direct Review, Evidence Submission, or Hearing)
   • ✓Your representative information
4. 4

   Waypoint · 04

   Avoid common mistakes

   • ×Choosing Direct Review when you have new evidence to submit
   • ×Not preparing for the hearing if you request one
   • ×Missing the deadline stated in the decision letter
   • ×Choosing a lane before checking its evidence rules and expected wait information
5. Go next · 05

   Submit the form

   Available methods

   • Online
   • Mail
   • Fax
   • In person

   Mail to

   Board of Veterans' Appeals, PO Box 27063, Washington, DC 20038

   Fax to

   844-678-8979

   Submission note

   Use the official Board Appeal page for the current online, mail, fax, and in-person instructions. Each review option has different evidence rules and wait times.

   Start on VA.gov↗ (opens in a new tab)View or download official form↗ (opens in a new tab)

Continue the route

Forms are just one piece. Make sure your full claim is solid.