Where do I send my VA disability appeal?

Military Law Discussions
1

I’m trying to appeal my service-connected disability claim with the VA, but I’m not sure where to send my materials. Do I send it to the VA office that decided my claim or to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals? I already got a decision, so this is my next step. Anyone know for sure?

2

I think you send it directly to the VA. If you’re filing a Notice of Disagreement (NOD), you can do it online at VA.gov too.

3

Kai said:
I think you send it directly to the VA. If you’re filing a Notice of Disagreement (NOD), you can do it online at VA.gov too.

Oh, I didn’t realize I could do it online. Thanks for the heads-up! Is it faster that way?

4

Kai said:
I think you send it directly to the VA. If you’re filing a Notice of Disagreement (NOD), you can do it online at VA.gov too.

Yeah, probably faster and easier to track. Just make sure you’ve got all your supporting documents ready to upload!

5

If you’re mailing it, send it to the VA appeals office in DC. Use certified mail so you can track it.

6

Ari said:
If you’re mailing it, send it to the VA appeals office in DC. Use certified mail so you can track it.

Good idea about the certified mail. Do you know if I still need to send it to the office that ruled on my claim?

7

Ari said:
If you’re mailing it, send it to the VA appeals office in DC. Use certified mail so you can track it.

No, just send it to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals or the centralized appeals office. They’ll take it from there.

8

Make sure you’re within the time frame to file your NOD. I think it’s a year from the date of the decision?

9

Shai said:
Make sure you’re within the time frame to file your NOD. I think it’s a year from the date of the decision?

Yup, I’m still good on the timing. Thanks for pointing that out though!

10

Don’t forget to include all your medical records and any extra evidence. That stuff makes a big difference.

11

Jensen said:
Don’t forget to include all your medical records and any extra evidence. That stuff makes a big difference.

Good call. I’ve got everything ready to go. Fingers crossed this works!

12

FYI, if you’ve already sent it, make sure to check the tracking. That way, you’ll know when they get it.

13

Archer said:
FYI, if you’ve already sent it, make sure to check the tracking. That way, you’ll know when they get it.

I sent it certified mail today. Thanks for the reminder!