5 Ways To Fill Va Form 20-0995

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The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Form 20-0995, also known as the "Supplemental Claim" form, is an essential document for veterans seeking to reopen or re-file a previously denied claim for disability compensation. Filling out this form accurately and thoroughly is crucial to ensuring that your claim is processed correctly and efficiently.

Understanding the VA Form 20-0995

The VA Form 20-0995 is used to request a re-evaluation of a previously denied claim. This form allows veterans to provide new and relevant evidence that may have been missing from their initial claim, increasing the chances of approval. However, filling out the form can be a daunting task, especially for those who are not familiar with the process.

5 Ways to Fill Out the VA Form 20-0995

Here are five ways to fill out the VA Form 20-0995 correctly and effectively:

1. Gather all necessary documents and information

Before starting to fill out the form, make sure you have all the necessary documents and information at hand. This includes:

• Your original claim denial letter
• Any new medical evidence or treatment records
• Supporting statements from family members, friends, or fellow service members
• Any relevant military personnel records

Filling Out Section 1: Claimant Information

Section 1 of the VA Form 20-0995 requires you to provide your personal and contact information. This includes:

• Your name and Social Security number
• Date of birth and branch of service
• Mailing address and phone number
• Email address (optional)

2. Clearly state the basis for your supplemental claim

In Section 2, you need to clearly state the basis for your supplemental claim. This means explaining why you believe your claim was denied in error and what new evidence you are submitting to support your claim. Be concise and specific, and make sure to reference the specific denial reason(s) listed in your original denial letter.

What to Include in Your Statement

When writing your statement, include the following:

• A clear explanation of the condition(s) you are claiming
• A detailed description of the symptoms and limitations caused by your condition(s)
• Any relevant medical treatment or diagnoses
• Any supporting statements from family members, friends, or fellow service members

Filling Out Section 3: Evidence Submission

Section 3 of the VA Form 20-0995 requires you to list and describe the new evidence you are submitting to support your claim. This includes:

• Medical records and treatment notes
• Supporting statements from family members, friends, or fellow service members
• Military personnel records
• Any other relevant documents or evidence

3. Make sure to sign and date the form

Once you have completed the form, make sure to sign and date it. This is a critical step, as an unsigned or undated form may be considered invalid.

Filing Your Supplemental Claim

After completing and signing the VA Form 20-0995, you can submit it to the VA by mail or online through the VA's electronic claims submission system. Make sure to keep a copy of the form and any supporting evidence for your records.

4. Seek assistance if needed

If you are unsure about how to fill out the VA Form 20-0995 or need help gathering evidence, consider seeking assistance from a:

• VA-accredited representative
• Veterans service organization (VSO)
• Attorney specializing in veterans law

What to Expect After Filing Your Supplemental Claim

After filing your supplemental claim, you can expect the VA to:

• Review your claim and new evidence
• Make a determination on your claim
• Notify you of their decision in writing

5. Follow up on your claim

It is essential to follow up on your claim to ensure it is being processed correctly and efficiently. You can:

• Check the status of your claim online through the VA's website
• Contact the VA by phone or email to inquire about your claim
• Seek assistance from a VA-accredited representative or VSO if you have questions or concerns

By following these five steps, you can ensure that your VA Form 20-0995 is filled out correctly and effectively, increasing the chances of approval for your supplemental claim.

Conclusion

Filling out the VA Form 20-0995 can be a complex and time-consuming process. However, by gathering all necessary documents and information, clearly stating the basis for your supplemental claim, and seeking assistance if needed, you can ensure that your claim is processed correctly and efficiently. Remember to follow up on your claim and seek help if you have questions or concerns.

We encourage you to share your experiences and tips for filling out the VA Form 20-0995 in the comments section below. Additionally, if you have any questions or concerns about the process, feel free to ask, and we will do our best to provide guidance and support.