VA Form 20-0996 Decision Review Request: Higher-Level Review

What Is VA Form 20-0996?

This is a legal form that was released by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on February 1, 2019 and used country-wide. As of today, no separate filing guidelines for the form are provided by the issuing department.

FAQ

Q: What is VA Form 20-0996?
A: VA Form 20-0996 is a Decision Review Request: Higher-Level Review form.

Q: What is a Decision Review Request?
A: A Decision Review Request is a request to review a previous decision made by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) regarding a veteran's benefits.

Q: What is a Higher-Level Review?
A: A Higher-Level Review is a review of a previous decision by a more senior VA reviewer who was not involved in the original decision.

Q: When should I use VA Form 20-0996?
A: You should use VA Form 20-0996 if you disagree with a decision made by the VA and want a higher-level review.

Q: What information do I need to provide on VA Form 20-0996?
A: You will need to provide your personal information, the decision you disagree with, and why you disagree with it.

Q: How long does the Higher-Level Review process take?
A: The Higher-Level Review process can take up to 125 days, but the VA aims to complete reviews within an average of 60 days.

Q: Can I appeal a Higher-Level Review decision?
A: Yes, if you disagree with the decision made during the Higher-Level Review, you can appeal it to the Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA).

Q: Is there a deadline for submitting a Decision Review Request?
A: Yes, you generally have one year from the date of the decision you are seeking to review to submit a Decision Review Request.

Q: Can I get help filling out VA Form 20-0996?
A: Yes, you can contact a Veterans Service Organization or a VA representative to help you fill out VA Form 20-0996.