For many veterans, the VA disability claim process can feel like navigating a maze—especially when the outcome isn’t what they expected. If you’ve received a decision you believe is incorrect, one powerful option available to you is the Higher-Level Review (HLR). As of 2025, the HLR process remains a key part of the modernized VA appeals system, offering veterans a streamlined, no-new-evidence path to seek justice.
This blog will walk you through the entire HLR process: what it is, when to use it, how to request it, and how to strengthen your chances for a successful outcome.
Understanding the HLR: A Second Look Without New Evidence
The Higher-Level Review is a formal appeal option available when you disagree with a VA decision on your claim. Unlike the supplemental claim route, HLR does not allow you to submit new evidence. Instead, your existing claim file is reviewed by a more senior claims adjudicator, typically with more experience and training.
What makes HLR unique?
It’s faster than the traditional Board of Veterans’ Appeals route.
It’s handled entirely at the regional VA level.
It focuses on potential errors or misapplications of the law or facts.
When Should You Consider an HLR?
HLR is ideal when:
You believe the VA misinterpreted the evidence already in your file.
You think the VA made a clear and unmistakable error (CUE).
You have no new medical records or lay statements to add.
You want a second, fresh look from someone with more authority.
Example: Let’s say your claim was denied for PTSD even though you submitted a clear diagnosis and service connection evidence. If no new documentation is needed, an HLR might be the fastest way to fix a mistake.
How to Request a Higher-Level Review
To request an HLR, you’ll need to submit VA Form 20-0996. This can be done online via VA.gov, by mail, or in person at your local VA office.
Key steps:
Identify the decision you’re appealing. You must do this within one year of the VA decision date.
Complete VA Form 20-0996.
Choose whether you want an informal conference with the reviewer.
What’s an Informal Conference?
An informal conference is a phone call with the higher-level reviewer. You or your representative can explain your position and highlight errors in the original decision. While not required, many veterans choose this option to advocate for themselves directly.
✅ Tip: Be prepared. Keep it focused and professional—this is your opportunity to make your case heard.
What Happens During the HLR Process?
Once your request is submitted, here’s what typically happens:
Claim File Review: A senior reviewer looks over your entire claim record.
Legal & Factual Review: They assess whether the law or regulations were properly applied.
Decision Issued: You’ll receive a new decision, which could be:
A grant of benefits
A continued denial
Or a remand (rare in HLRs but possible in complex cases)
The VA strives to process HLRs in 125 days or less in 2025, though actual timelines can vary.
What to Expect in Terms of Outcomes
Let’s break down what a successful HLR can look like:
Correction of a rating error. Maybe the VA gave you 10% for a condition that clearly meets the 30% criteria.
Recognition of overlooked evidence. A prior decision might have missed or misinterpreted a doctor’s report.
Grant of service connection. If your evidence was strong but the VA misapplied criteria, a grant is possible.
That said, HLRs aren’t for every situation. If you’ve gathered new evidence (e.g., updated medical diagnosis, buddy statements), you’ll want to file a Supplemental Claim instead.
Real-World Example: HLR in Action
Take the case of Marcus, a Marine Corps veteran who was denied for tinnitus in his initial claim. He didn’t have new evidence, but the denial clearly overlooked his military occupational specialty, which was in a high-noise environment. Through an HLR—and an informal conference—he was able to clarify this oversight. The new reviewer granted him a 10% rating, backdated to his original claim.
HLR vs Other Appeal Options: Which One Is Right?
| Option | Allows New Evidence? | Timeframe | Who Reviews? |
|---|---|---|---|
| HLR | ❌ No | ~125 days | Senior VA Reviewer |
| Supplemental Claim | ✅ Yes | ~4-6 months | Same regional office |
| Board Appeal | ✅ Yes | 1–2 years | Veterans Law Judge |
If your case hinges on evidence the VA already has—but was poorly interpreted—HLR is often the fastest route to a correction.
Strategic Tips for a Strong HLR
Even without new evidence, you can still strengthen your HLR submission by focusing on how the original decision erred:
Reference specific regulation errors (e.g., failure to apply §4.130 for mental health).
Point out contradictions between evidence and decision language.
Be concise. Make it easy for the reviewer to spot the error.
📌 Example phrasing: “The denial states there is no diagnosis of anxiety, yet the C&P exam dated 03/2025 clearly states ‘Generalized Anxiety Disorder—chronic, moderate.’”
What If the HLR Is Denied?
If the HLR doesn’t result in a favorable decision, don’t worry—you still have options. You can:
File a Supplemental Claim with new evidence.
Appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, either through a direct docket or hearing docket.
There’s no penalty for going through HLR first, and in many cases, it helps clarify your record and correct early mistakes before escalation.
Conclusion: When You Need a Second, Smarter Look
The Higher-Level Review process is a powerful tool for veterans seeking justice. It provides a fast-track, no-frills approach to correcting VA errors when you’re confident the evidence is already strong. With a smart strategy and clear communication, you can turn an unfair denial into a well-earned benefit.
Quick Recap: Is HLR Right for You?
✅ You already submitted all the relevant evidence
✅ You believe the VA made a legal or factual mistake
✅ You want a faster decision without going to the Board
If you check these boxes, HLR could be your best next step.
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