One of the most frustrating parts of the VA disability process is the waiting. Veterans who have filed an appeal after a denial often find themselves in limbo, unsure of how long the process will take—or if it’s even moving forward at all. While the VA has made improvements to speed up certain parts of the system, delays remain, especially as more appeals are being filed.
In 2025, the estimated processing times for VA appeals can vary depending on the appeal type. Here’s what Veterans need to know about how long it might take—and what can be done to avoid unnecessary delays.
Average Appeal Timelines in 2025
Higher-Level Review (HLR):
This type of appeal is typically the fastest. Most Higher-Level Reviews are completed in 4 to 6 months, although some may take longer if there’s a backlog or if you’ve requested an informal conference.
Supplemental Claim:
Supplemental Claims are taking around 4 to 8 months, depending on how quickly new evidence can be evaluated and how busy your regional office is.
Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA):
This is the longest route. If you appeal to the Board, the wait time depends on the docket you select:
Direct Review: Around 12 to 18 months.
Evidence Submission: 18 to 24 months.
Hearing Request: Often takes 24 months or more due to scheduling delays.
Why the Waits Can Be So Long
The VA is processing a large volume of claims, and many of them require careful review. Additionally, recent changes to how sleep apnea and tinnitus are rated have increased the number of appeals. A lack of trained adjudicators and regional disparities can also extend wait times.
Even though these timelines are estimates, some Veterans experience faster results—while others wait even longer due to errors, missing documents, or case complexity.
Tips to Help Avoid Delays
Submit fully developed appeals. Make sure all supporting documents and evidence are included before filing.
Don’t miss deadlines. Late submissions can reset your place in the queue.
Track your appeal. Use your VA.gov account or work with a representative to keep tabs on your case.
Request updates. If your claim is delayed significantly, you or your representative can submit a congressional inquiry or request a status update directly from the VA.
Be strategic. Sometimes it’s faster and more effective to file a Supplemental Claim with strong new evidence instead of going straight to the BVA.
How Veterans Valor Can Help
Veterans Valor supports Veterans by not only submitting appeals, but also managing the entire strategy behind them. We’ll help you decide which appeal lane makes the most sense, ensure your evidence is strong and timely, and advocate on your behalf if delays arise.
Waiting is difficult, especially when you’re dealing with a condition that affects your daily life. Let us help take the pressure off by doing the legwork for you—so you can focus on your health and your future.
