When the VA denies your claim or gives you a lower rating than expected, one of the most powerful tools at your disposal is the Supplemental Claim. In 2025, with changing rating schedules and tighter evidence standards, submitting a strong Supplemental Claim can be your best path to securing the benefits you deserve.
What Is a Supplemental Claim?
A Supplemental Claim allows you to reopen your case by providing new and relevant evidence that the VA didn’t consider in its original decision. Unlike Higher-Level Reviews (HLRs), which look only at the evidence already in your file, Supplemental Claims give you the opportunity to strengthen your case with updated medical records, new diagnoses, or expert opinions.
Why Use a Supplemental Claim in 2025?
The VA’s evolving criteria for conditions like sleep apnea, tinnitus, and mental health disorders have increased the importance of submitting comprehensive, up-to-date evidence. Many claims are being denied due to missing links between a condition and service—or because the veteran’s situation doesn’t meet the VA’s new definitions.
A Supplemental Claim gives you a way to:
Respond to recent VA rule changes
Present fresh medical documentation or diagnosis reports
Include new nexus letters from medical professionals
Add buddy statements that describe how the condition affects your life
What Qualifies as “New and Relevant” Evidence?
To succeed with a Supplemental Claim, the evidence must be:
New – It was not included in the original claim or decision.
Relevant – It directly supports a fact that could change the outcome of your case.
Examples include:
A recent private doctor’s letter connecting your condition to service
Results of a new medical test or diagnosis
A newly released VA ruling or policy change that supports your condition
Military records or buddy statements not previously submitted
When Should You File a Supplemental Claim?
You can file a Supplemental Claim:
After a claim denial
Following an unfavorable rating decision
As part of an appeal strategy, after an HLR or Board denial
When you have new documentation or support to present
You must submit your Supplemental Claim within one year of the VA decision if you want to preserve your effective date for back pay.
Steps to File an Effective Supplemental Claim
Collect new evidence – Make sure it’s relevant and wasn’t considered before.
Fill out VA Form 20-0995 – The official form used for Supplemental Claims.
Attach all new evidence – Don’t wait for the VA to request it.
Send to the correct VA processing center – Or submit it online through VA.gov.
Track your claim – Keep an eye on the status, and follow up if needed.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, the VA is placing more responsibility on veterans to submit clear and compelling documentation. A well-prepared Supplemental Claim can overturn a denial or lead to a higher rating—if it includes the right evidence. Don’t let an initial denial discourage you. With a strong supplemental submission, many veterans win the benefits they’ve rightfully earned through service.
