VA denied my service connection. Worth appealing?
CAanon_vet1 month ago
Filed for service connection on my back injury. Denied. Worth the appeal?
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✓ Verified answer from a licensed attorney — shown first
VA disability attorney in San Antonio — and yes, appeal. The VA grant rate at initial decision is much lower than at the appeals level. Three appeal lanes under the Appeals Modernization Act: (1) Higher-Level Review (same evidence, fresh-eyes review) — good if you think the rater made an error on the evidence already filed. (2) Supplemental Claim (add new and relevant evidence) — good if you didn't include a buddy statement, a nexus letter, or current medical evidence. (3) Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA) — direct to a judge, can request a hearing. Filing deadline is one year from the denial. Most veterans benefit from a Supplemental Claim with a nexus letter from a treating provider explicitly linking the current condition to the in-service event. Free representation from VSOs (DAV, VFW, AMVETS, county VSO) — get a free accredited rep before paying anyone.
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Please readThis is a community space for sharing personal experience — it is not legal advice, and posts here are not from Lawma or your attorney. We strongly encourage you to post under an anonymous handle, keep questions general, and avoid posting private details of your active case. For advice about your own situation, message your attorney.