What is a VA Higher Level Review and how does it work?

Last Updated: 5/12/2026

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A Higher Level Review is one of the ways a VA disability decision can be reviewed again.

In this review, a VA Decision Review Officer (DRO) looks at your case again. They don't look at anything new, instead, they review the same evidence that was already in your file when the original decision was made to see if there were any errors.

This is called a "closed record" review. It simply means the reviewer is checking to see if the VA made the right decision based on the information they already had.

When should I use a VA Higher Level Review?

You can choose a Higher Level Review after you receive a decision on your claim, such as a denial or an unsatisfactory disability rating.

A Higher Level Review, along with the other VA appeal options, must be requested within 12 months of the date on your VA decision letter.

A Higher Level Review only looks at the evidence that was already in the claim file at the time the original decision was made. This includes medical records, service records, prior examinations, lay statements and any other documentation previously submitted and reviewed by the VA.

This option makes sense if you believe the VA made an incorrect decision based on the evidence you have already submitted.

Why is new evidence not considered in a Higher Level Review?

New evidence is not part of a Higher Level Review because the focus is on whether the VA correctly understood and applied the information that was already in your file. It's meant to catch mistakes, not to build on your case.

If you have new evidence you would like to add, there are other appeal options, such as a Supplemental Claim. A Higher Level Review stays focused on whether the VA made the right decision with the information you submitted.

How does a VA Higher Level Review work?

During a Higher Level Review, the reviewer is looking for any errors or mistakes in how your claim was handled. This can include:

• Misunderstanding or overlooking facts in your record.
• Applying VA rules or rating criteria incorrectly.
• Procedural mistakes that could have affected the outcome.

The goal is to determine whether the original decision was accurate.

What is an informal conference?

You can request an optional informal conference as part of a VA Higher Level Review.

This is a chance for you or your representative, like Allsup Veterans Appeals (AVA), to speak directly with the reviewer and point out where you believe the VA made a mistake. It's not a formal hearing, just a focused conversation about specific issues in your case.

What are the possible outcomes of a VA Higher Level Review?

After re-reviewing your case, the VA may:

• Change the decision (for example, increase your rating or approve benefits).
• Keep the decision the same if no errors are found.
• Return the issue to the Supplemental Claim lane for further development.

Because no new evidence is involved, any changes are based entirely on the existing record.

How does a Higher Level Review compare to other VA appeal options?

The main differences among a VA Higher Level Review, Supplemental Claim and Board Appeal come down to evidence and procedure:

• Higher Level Review: No new evidence allowed. The VA reviews your existing records for any errors or mistakes.
• Supplemental Claim: You can submit new and relevant evidence to support your case and the VA determines if there is a change in the decision.
• Board Appeal: You appeal directly to the Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA) and choose from three options – Direct Review, Evidence Submission or Hearing.

Going to the BVA can include hearings and a more formal review process. A Higher Level Review is typically simpler and more focused. Each option serves a different purpose depending on your situation.

How can VA-accredited representation help?

VA-accredited representatives, like Allsup Veterans Appeals (AVA), can help you take a closer look at your prior decision and spot anything that may have been handled incorrectly.

At AVA, our VA-accredited Claims Agents, some of whom are veterans, understand the VA process and know how to develop a well-documented appeal that is likely to succeed. We will take you through all your appeal options and help you choose which works best for your unique situation.

When we take command of your VA disability appeal, you can expect these things to happen:

• We guide you through the entire appeal process so you know what to expect.
• We handle getting the VA all the accurate evidence it needs to make an informed decision in your case.
• We gather and update medical information to prove your service-connected claim.
• We communicate with the VA throughout your whole appeal process – no matter how long it takes.

Veterans who use a paid disability representative like us generally see their annual average benefits nearly double compared to those who appeal on their own.