What Is This Form?
VA Form 20-0995 is the Decision Review Request for a Supplemental Claim — one of three appeal pathways under the Appeals Modernization Act (AMA). It gives veterans a chance to reopen a denied or underrated claim by submitting new and relevant evidence that the VA didn't have when it made its original decision.
The Supplemental Claim is often the best first step after a denial because it's faster than going to the Board of Veterans' Appeals, and it allows you to introduce the strongest possible evidence to support your case.
💡 Key advantage: Unlike the Higher-Level Review lane, you can submit new evidence on a Supplemental Claim. New medical records, a private doctor's nexus letter, a DBQ, or buddy statements can all reopen and win a previously denied claim.
Who Needs to File This Form?
- Veterans whose disability claim was denied or rated lower than expected
- Veterans who now have new medical records, diagnoses, or treatment records to submit
- Veterans who obtained a private nexus letter or DBQ (Disability Benefits Questionnaire)
- Veterans who have buddy statements or lay statements not previously submitted
- Veterans who believe the VA missed or didn't request records they needed
- Veterans whose condition has worsened and they have updated medical evidence
What You Need to Fill It Out
- Copy of your original VA rating decision (denial letter)
- List of issues you're appealing (condition names exactly as denied)
- New and relevant evidence: private medical records, nexus letters, DBQs, buddy statements
- Veteran identification: name, Social Security Number, date of birth, VA file number
- Evidence list identifying what you're submitting with the form
📌 What is "new and relevant" evidence? New = the VA didn't have it before. Relevant = it relates to the denied condition. A private doctor's nexus letter linking your condition to service is the single most powerful piece of new evidence you can submit.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Identify the issues. List every condition that was denied or underrated. Use the exact condition names from your rating decision. You can add multiple issues on one form.
- Gather your new evidence. Obtain private medical records, a nexus letter from a physician, a DBQ, or buddy statements. These are the evidence types most likely to result in a favorable decision.
- Complete Section I. Enter veteran identification information: name, date of birth, Social Security Number, and VA file number.
- Complete Section II. List each issue you're appealing and indicate whether you're requesting a VA physical exam (C&P exam). Check yes if you believe a new exam could help establish service connection or document current severity.
- Attach your new evidence. Include a cover sheet listing all documents submitted. Label each exhibit clearly. The VA must acknowledge and consider all submitted evidence.
- Sign and date. The veteran or authorized representative must sign certifying accuracy of the submission.
- Submit with evidence. Submit online at VA.gov, in person, or by mail. Online submissions with digital evidence attachments are the fastest option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting without new evidence. A Supplemental Claim without new and relevant evidence will be denied again for the same reasons. Get a nexus letter or new records before filing.
- Missing the 1-year deadline. If you wait more than a year after your rating decision, you lose effective date continuity. File within 12 months to preserve your original claim date for back pay purposes.
- Not listing all denied issues. Each denied condition must be specifically listed. Conditions you don't list won't be reconsidered.
- Confusing this with Higher-Level Review. Supplemental Claim = new evidence allowed. Higher-Level Review (20-0996) = same evidence, different reviewer. Choose based on what you have.
- Not requesting a new C&P exam when needed. If your condition has worsened or the original exam was inadequate, check the box requesting a new VA examination. This can significantly change your rating.
Where to Submit
Online (Fastest)
File at VA.gov or use claim.vet's AI-assisted supplemental claim tool. Upload your new evidence directly to the online portal.
By Mail
Mail to: Department of Veterans Affairs, Claims Intake Center, PO Box 4444, Janesville, WI 53547-4444. Include a cover page listing all enclosed evidence.
In Person
Deliver to your nearest VA Regional Office. Request a date-stamped copy of everything you submit.
Through a VSO
A free Veterans Service Organization representative can help you identify the right evidence, complete the form correctly, and submit on your behalf.
Ready to Reopen Your Denied Claim?
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