VA Form 20-0996

Higher-Level Review

Ask a senior reviewer to reconsider an eligible decision using the existing record; follow the deadline in your decision letter.

20-0996

Appeals & Decision Reviews

What this form does

Ask a senior reviewer to reconsider an eligible decision using the existing record; follow the deadline in your decision letter.

Requests a senior VA reviewer to re-examine your existing claim based on the same evidence.

Official VA title: Decision Review Request: Higher-Level Review

VA revision March 18, 2024 · Links verified against VA.gov August 10, 2026

Use it when: When you believe the VA made an error in applying the law or policy to your evidence. No new evidence can be submitted with this form.

Start on VA.gov View or download official form Back to all form routes

Preparation route

How to use 20-0996

Every preparation step stays open so you can scan the whole job before starting.

Do now · 01
Before you start
Estimated time
20-30 minutes
Deadline
Follow the deadline in the decision letter. Many HLR requests use a 1-year deadline, but the eligible options and timing depend on the decision type.
Use this form when: When you believe the VA made an error in applying the law or policy to your evidence. No new evidence can be submitted with this form.
Gather · 02
Gather your documents
Helpful when available
Copy of your VA decision letter — Identifies the specific decision you are contesting.
3
Waypoint · 03
Complete the form
- The decision you are contesting
- Whether you want an informal conference (phone call with the reviewer)
- Your representative information (if using a VSO or attorney)
4
Waypoint · 04
Avoid common mistakes
- Submitting new evidence — HLR only reviews existing evidence
- Missing the deadline stated in the decision letter
- Requesting an informal conference without understanding that it is optional and may add time
- Choosing HLR without comparing Supplemental Claim or eligible Board options and their evidence rules
Go next · 05
Submit the form
Available methods
Online
Mail
In person
Submission note
The VA.gov online tool currently covers disability compensation Higher-Level Reviews. For other benefit types, use the destination in the official instructions or your decision notice. Do not submit new evidence.
Start on VA.gov (opens in a new tab)View or download official form (opens in a new tab)

Field note

An informal conference is optional. It lets you identify an error in the existing record, but it is not a place to submit new evidence and may make the review take longer.

Which form fits?

Both challenge a VA decision. Which appeal path do I choose?

20-0995

Supplemental Claim

Use this when

You have new and relevant evidence the VA hasn't considered (such as a nexus letter, new diagnosis, or buddy statement)
You can file at any time, but filing within 1 year of the decision may preserve your effective date through continuous pursuit

Open 20-0995 guide →

20-0996