Question 1

Can I switch lanes after I've filed?

Accepted Answer

Yes — with one rule: one lane at a time per issue. You can’t run a Supplemental Claim and a Higher-Level Review on the same condition simultaneously, but after each new decision you can choose again. Denied after a Higher-Level Review? File a Supplemental Claim with new evidence. Denied after a Supplemental Claim? Try HLR or a Board Appeal.

Read more on VA.gov →

Question 2

What if I missed the one-year deadline?

Accepted Answer

The old decision is final, but you are not out of options: a Supplemental Claim can be filed at any time with new and relevant evidence — just know the effective date restarts from the new filing. The one narrow exception is a Clear and Unmistakable Error (CUE) in the original decision, which is rare and hard to prove — ask an accredited VSO whether it applies before chasing it.

Question 3

How long will a review take?

Accepted Answer

The VA's stated goal is about 125 days for both Supplemental Claims and Higher-Level Reviews. Board Appeals are measured in months to years — Direct Review is the fastest Board docket, a hearing the slowest. New C&P exams, informal conferences, and evidence rounds all add time. Whatever lane you choose, you can track the status on VA.gov.

VA Decision Support

VA Decision Support

Did you receive a decision from the VA?

Did you receive a decision from the VA?

The three review lanes at a glance

Common questions