Many veterans across the country are noticing a troubling trend in 2025—VA claims are taking longer, and more are being denied for avoidable or minor reasons. While the VA has expanded its digital tools and outreach efforts, the increased number of claims combined with rating schedule updates has led to more confusion, backlogs, and appeals than ever before. For veterans, this means navigating the system is becoming even more difficult.
What’s Causing the Delays?
Several factors are contributing to the slower processing of claims in 2025:
Increased volume of claims, especially following expanded eligibility under PACT Act-related conditions
Rating schedule updates for common conditions like tinnitus and sleep apnea, leading to more scrutiny of evidence
A growing number of incomplete or misfiled claims due to veterans filing without proper representation or documentation
Staffing shortages or backlog at regional offices, particularly for complex or multi-condition claims
Even with new technology like the VA’s online filing system and automated tools, the sheer volume of cases means veterans are waiting longer for decisions.
Why Are So Many Claims Being Denied?
The rise in denials is partly due to stricter evidence requirements and more aggressive interpretation of medical connections. Veterans are seeing their claims denied because of:
Incomplete medical evidence or lack of nexus (connection to service)
Conditions being viewed as not “severe enough” under the updated criteria
Claims that are missing service treatment records or consistent private physician documentation
The VA asserting that a condition is preexisting or unrelated to military service
In many cases, these denials are based on technicalities that can be corrected with better documentation or stronger representation.
What Veterans Can Do to Fight Back
If your claim is delayed or denied, you’re not out of options. In fact, 2025 has also seen an increase in successful appeals and Higher-Level Reviews (HLRs) when veterans take the right steps.
Here’s what you can do:
Don’t accept the denial without a fight. File a Higher-Level Review within the required timeframe (typically 1 year). These reviews allow a more experienced VA reviewer to reexamine the case without needing new evidence.
Submit a Supplemental Claim if you can gather additional evidence such as doctor’s statements, buddy letters, or service records.
Use a VA-accredited representative who understands the current system and can help you build a stronger case from the start.
Track your claim closely via VA.gov or with help from your representative to avoid missed deadlines or overlooked communications.
Final Thoughts
The VA system is under pressure in 2025, and unfortunately, veterans are bearing the brunt of it through longer waits and more denials. But knowledge is power. If your claim has been delayed or denied, don’t give up—there are legal, strategic ways to challenge that decision. With persistence and the right support, you can still get the benefits you’ve earned through your service.
