Field Manual · 005
Denied? Choose the
Right Appeal Lane.
Under the Appeals Modernization Act you have three lanes — pick the wrong one and you waste 6+ months. Here's how to choose.
⚠ You have 1 year from the decision date to act and keep your effective date.
| Lane | Form | New evidence? | Hearing? | Avg timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplemental Claim | VA Form 20-0995 | Required | No hearing | About 4–5 months on average |
| Higher-Level Review | VA Form 20-0996 | Not allowed | Informal conference by phone (15–30 min, you or your rep) | About 4–5 months on average |
| Board Appeal | VA Form 10182 | Allowed in limited circumstances | Direct (no hearing), Evidence (90 days to add evidence), or Hearing docket | Direct: ~1 year. Evidence: ~1.5 years. Hearing: 2+ years. |
VA Form 20-0995
Supplemental Claim
You have new and relevant evidence the VA hasn't seen.
Read the guide →VA Form 20-0996
Higher-Level Review
Same evidence, but a senior reviewer takes a fresh look.
Read the guide →VA Form 10182
Board Appeal
A Veterans Law Judge at the Board of Veterans' Appeals decides.
Read the guide →