How Long Do VA Appeals Take
The VA appeals process can feel overwhelming and frustrating. With rules changing from Legacy to AMA and so much conflicting information out there, many veterans are left confused about what to expect.
I’ve learned this process the hard way, and my mission is simple: give you the essential information you need to navigate VA appeals efficiently—no fluff, just what actually works.
On average, a VA claim can take anywhere from 9–15 months to process, while an appeal may stretch closer to 18–24 months, depending on the complexity of your case and the evidence available.
While some cases move faster, many veterans wait over a year for a decision. This article breaks down everything you need to know: how long you have to file, how long different appeal paths typically take, and practical tips to help you get the benefits you’ve earned.
Types of VA Appeals
In this article, we’ll focus mainly on appeals filed on or after February 19, 2019. These fall under the AMA system, which is the process the VA uses today.
If your appeal was filed before that date, it’s part of the older legacy system, which I’ll cover later.
Today, veterans are given three different appeal paths to choose from, depending on what you think gives your case the best chance.
Supplemental Claim: This option lets you submit new evidence that supports your case. It’s the right choice if you’ve since gathered medical records, service records, or other documents that weren’t reviewed before.
Higher-Level Review (HLR): A senior VA reviewer will re-examine your case without looking at any new evidence. You’d usually pick this if you believe the VA simply made a mistake or overlooked information that was already in your file.
Board Appeal: With this route, a Veterans Law Judge at the Board of Veterans’ Appeals reviews your case. Many veterans choose this if they feel their situation deserves a fresh look by a judge instead of a VA employee.
How Long Do You Have to Appeal a VA Decision?
For most VA appeals, you usually have one year from the date on your decision letter to submit your appeal. So if your letter is dated March 1, 2025, your deadline would be March 1, 2026.
Exceptions to know
Submitting new evidence to the Board (BVA): If you want them to look at new evidence, you typically have about 90 days from when they get your appeal to send it in.
Appealing to the Court (CAVC): If the Board denies your appeal, you have 120 days to take it to court, though that almost never happens.
Missed deadlines
If you miss the deadline, the VA usually won’t accept your appeal. In rare cases—like if new evidence shows up after the deadline—you’d need to contact the VA to see if they’ll make an exception.
Pro tip
Don’t wait until the last day. Mark your deadline on your calendar and send your appeal early so paperwork or mail issues don’t cause problems
How Long Are VA Appeals Taking?
The time it takes to appeal a VA decision depends on which appeal lane you choose under the Appeals Modernization Act (AMA). Each option has its own average timeline and factors that can speed up or slow down the process.
Timeline for Supplemental Claims
A supplemental claim is usually the fastest appeal option. As of August, the average processing time is around 79 days. This path works best if you have new and relevant evidence, such as:
Updated medical records
Private doctor opinions
Service documents not considered before
Supplemental claims tied to disability compensation or pension benefits often move faster than complex claims, but the strength and completeness of your evidence package still matter.
Timeline for Higher-Level Review (HLR)
The higher-level review is for veterans who believe the VA made a mistake but don’t have new evidence. The VA’s goal is to finish these within about 125 days.
There are two ways this review can happen:
Written review only: Quicker, since the reviewer just re-examines your file.
Informal conference: Lets you speak directly with the reviewer about errors, but it can add weeks or months.
Timeline for Board Appeals
Board appeals almost always take the longest. Average timelines look like this:
Direct Review: ~365 days (no new evidence or hearing, just a straight review).
Evidence Submission: ~550 days (you can submit new evidence within 90 days of filing).
Hearing: Often 2 years or more (waiting for a hearing date + decision).
Also, it’s important to note that you are allowed to switch Board appeal types as long as you are within one year of your initial decision or within 60 days of submitting your current Board appeal. This can give you extra time to submit evidence or request a hearing.
These cases take longer because the Board handles complex appeals with multiple issues, new evidence, or hearings.
Still, many veterans choose this path because it offers the most room to present new arguments and evidence.
How to Submit a VA Appeal
While this guide focuses on what to expect during the appeal process, here’s a quick overview of the initial filing steps. For a full step-by-step guide, check out VA.gov’s decision reviews page.
Confirm your claim was denied
If your claim was deferred, don’t appeal yet—the VA is still gathering evidence.
Choose your appeal option
Supplemental Claim → VA Form 20-0995
Higher-Level Review → VA Form 20-0996
Board Appeal → VA Form 10182
Compare your options on VA.gov.
Submit your appeal
Online via the VA Decision Reviews Portal
By mail (address on the form instructions)
In person at your local VA regional office
Track your case
Use your VA.gov account to monitor progress.
Processing times vary by appeal type.
Pro Tip: Double-check your form before submitting—errors are the most common cause of delays.
Tips for Faster VA Appeals
The VA does its best to review appeals fairly, but the process can still be slow if paperwork or evidence isn’t handled properly. Here are a few ways to help keep your appeal moving:
Include a cover letter: A brief note explaining your claim and what each document shows can help VA reviewers understand your case faster.
Keep copies of everything: Always save a personal copy of every form and document you submit. This protects you if anything gets lost or questions come up later.
Respond quickly to VA requests: If the VA asks for additional information, reply promptly. Delays in providing requested documents can stall your entire appeal.
Ask about special programs: Certain veterans may qualify for expedited processing, such as older veterans, those with severe disabilities, or claims for specific conditions. Always check if you’re eligible.
Ask about special programs: Certain veterans may qualify for expedited processing, such as older veterans, those with severe disabilities, or claims for specific conditions. Always check if you’re eligible
Legacy Appeal Timeline
Legacy appeals apply to cases filed before February 2019. This process has more steps than the modern system, which is why it generally takes longer from start to finish.
Part 1: Filing the NOD
After receiving an unfavorable VA decision, veterans have 1 year to submit a Notice of Disagreement. Once filed, the VA usually takes 3–6 months to issue a Statement of the Case.
Part 2: Filing Form 9
To continue the appeal, you must submit Form 9 within 60 days of the SOC (or within 1 year of the original decision, whichever is later). After this, it can take 2–4 months for your case to be certified to the Board.
Part 3: Board Docket Wait
Once at the Board, your case enters a long queue. This is the slowest part of the process, often lasting 1–5 years, depending on whether you request a hearing.
Part 4: Board Decision
When the Board finally reviews your case, a Veterans Law Judge will issue a decision. This stage is relatively quick, usually taking a few months once your case reaches the front of the docket.
Part 5: Post-Decision Options
If you disagree with the Board’s decision, you have 120 days to file an appeal with the CAVC. Alternatively, you can file motions such as reconsideration or alleging a Clear and Unmistakable Error, which can be done at any time. Appeals to the CAVC often take 1–2 years.
What to Do After Winning Your Appeal
Winning your VA appeal is a huge step forward, but there are still a few things to keep in mind after the decision.
Be patient with benefits processing.
Even after a favorable decision, it may take several months for the VA to update your records and begin paying your benefits.Expect back pay quickly.
If you are awarded retroactive benefits, back pay is usually released within 10–15 days once the funds are processed. This often arrives before your monthly benefits begin.Sign up for direct deposit.
The fastest way to receive your payments is through direct deposit. Not only does it save time, but it also ensures funds are deposited securely.
Final Thoughts on VA Appeals
Appealing a VA decision is rarely quick, but knowing the process and timelines can help you manage expectations. Under the modern AMA system, appeals generally move faster than the older legacy system, though hearings and Board review still take the longest.
Legacy appeals, while still active for older cases, often stretch over several years due to additional procedural steps.
The best way to speed up your case is to stay organized—submit clear, directly relevant evidence, file forms correctly, and use online submission whenever possible. Even after winning, patience is key, as benefits may take months to process.
Whether you are just starting an appeal or waiting for a Board decision, understanding the path ahead will make the process less stressful and help you focus on what matters most—securing the benefits you’ve earned.
