My claim got denied. Now what?
A denial is not necessarily the end. Your decision letter explains the reason and the review paths available. Here's how to choose a next step.
Your practical route
Your next three waypoints
A denial becomes easier to act on when you separate the stated reason, the evidence that addresses it, and the review lane that fits your record.
Do now · 01
Read the reasons, not only the result
For each issue, write down what the decision letter says was missing or unproven. Use that explanation to define the problem you need to solve.
Gather · 02
Match evidence to the stated problem
Set aside the decision letter, relevant medical and service records, any new medical opinion or lay statement, and notes about errors in the C&P exam.
Go next · 03
Choose the review lane that fits
A Supplemental Claim uses new and relevant evidence. Higher-Level Review uses the existing record. A Board Appeal sends the case to a Veterans Law Judge.
Use the dates and instructions in your decision letter
The right next step can depend on what VA decided and when. Check the notice before selecting a review lane, and use an accredited representative if you need help choosing.
Your route
Follow these waypoints in order.
Do now · 01
Read your decision letter carefully
Review each issue, the favorable findings, the reasons for decision, and the listed evidence. The letter may identify a missing fact, an evidence conflict, or a legal requirement VA found unmet. Use that explanation to compare the available review options.
Waypoint · 02
Know your three decision-review options
A Supplemental Claim uses new and relevant evidence or an eligible change-in-law basis. Higher-Level Review uses the existing record. A Board Appeal goes to a Veterans Law Judge and offers three dockets. The right lane depends on the stated problem, the evidence, and the deadline in your letter.
Waypoint · 03
Get the evidence you were missing
If VA identified an evidence gap, gather material that addresses that specific issue. A well-supported medical opinion may help explain a service connection, and updated records may document current severity. VA weighs each item with the rest of the record.
Waypoint · 04
Document concerns about a C&P exam
If an exam report contains factual errors or appears to omit required testing, document the specifics. After the decision, choose the review lane that fits and submit any evidence that lane permits. VA decides whether another exam is needed.
Go next · 05
Get help from a VSO or accredited attorney
If you've been denied and the process feels impossible, consider accredited help. VSO claim services are free. Accredited attorneys and claims agents may charge after VA issues an initial decision; fee structures and agreements vary. Verify anyone you use in VA's accreditation directory.
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Tell Wayfinder what's going on. It returns a focused route: what to do now, what to gather, and where to go next.
- Do now
- Gather
- Go next
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Call, visit, or work with an accredited representative.
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