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Online Filing for Veterans’ Supplemental Claims Now Available at VA.gov
Washington, D.C. – In line with the VA’s relentless pursuit of modernization, Veterans can now file supplemental claims online through VA.gov. This feature caters to Veterans who want to contest previously denied decisions concerning their VA disability compensation or pension benefits.
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- Understanding the Veterans Disability Appeals Process: A Comprehensive Guide
- How to Apply for Disability Compensation as a Veteran: A Step-by-Step Guide
- What’s the PACT Act and How Will It Affect My VA Benefits and Care?
- More Survivors of Veterans Eligible for PACT Act Benefits
The newly introduced functionality enhances the digital experience for Veterans and ensures prompt and accurate notifications regarding their claim decisions. VA.gov’s online filing tool accelerates claim decisions for Veterans through:
- Efficient time-saving with direct supplemental claims submission on VA.gov, featuring interactive, step-by-step questions.
- Swift and secure upload provision for supplementary evidence and records.
- Progress-saving feature, allowing Veterans to pause and resume their submission at any point.
Moreover, Veterans can leverage their smartphones or other mobile devices to apply online. Alternatively, they can opt to submit their supplemental claims via mail if that suits their needs better.
Who qualifies to file a supplemental claim?
Veterans who possess new and pertinent evidence relating to a previously denied claim for VA disability compensation or pension benefits may file a supplemental claim. The evidence, not available during the prior claim decision, could potentially sway the VA’s decision about a claim. Veterans can also file a supplemental claim if they seek VA to reconsider their claim following new legislation, like the recently introduced PACT Act.
Veterans can use the Supplemental Claim form (VA 20-0995) if they disagree with the VA decision on their claim and meet at least 1 of these requirements:
- You have new and relevant evidence to submit, or
- You would like VA to review your claim based on a new law (such as the PACT Act).
For new presumptive conditions owing to legislation such as the PACT Act, Veterans may not be required to submit new and relevant evidence, although it is strongly advised. Veterans should provide or identify medical evidence detailing the diagnosis and severity of the claimed condition, alongside proof of qualifying military service. Alternatively, Veterans can request the VA to obtain certain documentation, such as medical records from a VA Medical Center or a private insurance provider.
The Enhanced Experience of Online Filing
While developing the online application, the VA collected invaluable feedback from Veterans, Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs), and VA employees. This collaborative effort has optimized the Veterans’ digital experience and guaranteed a streamlined, logical, and secure process for online submission of supplemental claims.
Compared to traditional mailed claims, online filing dramatically reduces wait times as applications are received instantly, bypassing the delay associated with physical mail. Furthermore, the use of a secure network to send records ensures the safety of Veterans’ personal information. This online submission of supplemental claims helps the VA promptly deliver earned benefits and services to Veterans, while safeguarding their confidential data.
Veterans wishing to file a supplemental claim online can visit the ‘File a Supplemental Claim’ webpage on VA.gov and complete the form.
Source: Dept. of Veteran Affairs
