Supplemental Claim

1. 1

   Do now · 01

   Before you start

   Estimated time

   30 minutes plus evidence gathering

   Deadline

   You can file later, but filing within 1 year of the decision generally preserves continuous pursuit and may protect the earliest possible effective date.

   Use this form when: When you have new and relevant evidence that VA did not consider in the decision, or when a change in law may affect the outcome.

2. Gather · 02

   Gather your documents

   Required

   • ✓New evidence the VA has not previously reviewed — This is the core requirement. Could be a nexus letter, new medical records, buddy statements, or updated diagnoses.

   Helpful when available

   • +Nexus letter from a qualified physician — May be relevant if the decision identified a missing medical connection to service.
   • +Copy of your prior VA decision letter — Helps identify exactly what evidence was missing.
3. 3

   Waypoint · 03

   Complete the form

   • ✓The condition and prior decision you are supplementing
   • ✓Description of the new evidence being submitted
   • ✓All new evidence uploads
4. 4

   Waypoint · 04

   Avoid common mistakes

   • ×Resubmitting the same evidence the VA already reviewed
   • ×Filing without new and relevant evidence; compare HLR and eligible Board options when relying on the existing record
   • ×Not clearly identifying what is 'new and relevant'
5. Go next · 05

   Submit the form

   Available methods

   • Online
   • Mail
   • In person

   Submission note

   The VA.gov online tool currently covers disability compensation Supplemental Claims. For other benefit types, use the destination in the official instructions or your decision notice.

   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.