Effective Strategies for VA Form 20-0996 Higher-Level Reviews

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Learn how to navigate the process of submitting VA Form 20-0996 for Higher-Level Reviews effectively. Understand the key sections to complete, including requesting an informal conference and providing written arguments. Ensure a smooth submission process to maximize your chances of success in appealing VA decisions.

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Uploaded on Sep 19, 2024 | 0 Views

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Higher-Level Reviews

Can you submit any paperwork or any evidence with an 0996?? Can you check both Contact Veteran, and Contact Representative "and have an informal conference with Both Parties?

VA Form 20-0996 You must file the form within 1 year from the decision letter. Note: you cannot request a Higher-Level Review after a previous Higher-Level Review or a Board of Veterans Appeal Decision. Must complete Sections I, III, IV, and V for Veterans only, if surviving spouse is the substitute then they go in block 2. Section IV-block 16A must be check if an informal conference is requested to be done by Veteran or VSO/DSO. 16B to be marked appropriately for who the DRO is to call. 17 Section V-issues that you are appealing or requesting a review on, please only one issue per block or line, use another 20-0996 for additional issues due to VA s tendency to miss the 21-4138 for additional matters.

Effective Higher-Level Reviews Complete form with all blocks filled out and marked accordingly. All issues noted on the proper form or forms if more than 13 issues. Provide written arguments for the issues on VA Form 20-0996. Do not provide new evidence! Do not provide new evidence! Be ready for the call on time, VA calls within 5 minutes of scheduled time if not on time. Estimated time of completion? We are seeing about 160 days to have them completed. Submit the form via Quick Submit via the VA s side or VeteraSpec Direct Submit. Please put in confirmation information from Quick Submit in communications and upload the same in documents.

Last minute Points Last minute Points If the Veteran wishes to have a Higher Level Review there are 2 choices. Either they can represent himself/ herself at the Informal Conference, or if they are represented by the American Legion then the assigned Department Service Officer will represent/ speak on their behalf. With this process when submitting an 0996 form please attach a 4138 stating what the error of fact or law is that you have found. This will aid us in arguing on the veteran s behalf.