VA Form 20-0996 — Decision Review Request: Higher-Level Review — asks a more experienced VA claims adjudicator to review the exact same evidence in your file and look for errors.
What Is a Higher-Level Review?
A Higher-Level Review (HLR) is an AMA appeal lane where a senior VA claims adjudicator looks at your file from scratch for clear errors — wrong diagnostic codes, math mistakes, or evidence in the file that was not considered. The key rule: you cannot submit any new evidence with an HLR.
If you have new evidence to add — such as a nexus letter or new medical records — use a Supplemental Claim (VA Form 20-0995) instead.
When Should You Choose an HLR?
- Wrong diagnostic code — the VA rated your condition under the wrong section of the rating schedule
- Math error — the combined rating calculation was done incorrectly
- Evidence ignored — treatment records or a C&P exam were already in the file but not discussed in the decision
- Wrong effective date — the VA used the wrong date to start your benefits
- Severity mismatched to symptoms — your C&P exam showed symptoms warranting a higher level, but the rater assigned a lower one
The Informal Conference: Your Best Tool
The informal conference is a scheduled phone call between you (or your VSO/attorney) and the HLR reviewer. You walk them through exactly where the error was made — specific page numbers, C&P findings, or rating criteria misapplied. This is not a debate — it is a focused conversation about clear factual errors.
How to Request One
- On VA Form 20-0996, check "Yes" on item 16A to request an informal conference.
- Select a preferred contact time — morning or afternoon.
- Provide a phone number. The reviewer will make up to two attempts during your window.
- If they cannot reach you after two attempts, they proceed with the review based on the file alone.
You are allowed only one informal conference per HLR. Prepare your talking points — write down exact page numbers and dates before the call.
HLR vs. Supplemental Claim: Quick Comparison
| Factor | HLR (20-0996) | Supplemental Claim (20-0995) |
|---|---|---|
| New evidence allowed? | No | Yes — required |
| Informal conference? | Yes — optional | No |
| Best for | Clear VA error on existing evidence | New records, nexus letter, DBQ |
| Can repeat? | Only once per issue | Yes, with new evidence each time |
How to Complete VA Form 20-0996
- Download the current form from va.gov/find-forms/about-form-20-0996/.
- Complete Section I — veteran name, SSN, date of birth, contact information.
- Complete Section II — list each specific condition and the date of the decision you are appealing.
- Select benefit type — "Disability Compensation" for most veterans.
- Mark item 16A if you want an informal conference and your preferred time window.
- Sign and date — unsigned forms are returned without processing.
- Submit online at VA.gov for fastest processing.
What Happens After the HLR Decision?
If granted, the VA issues a new rating decision. If your rating goes up, you may be owed back pay — see our VA back pay explainer. If denied, your options are a Supplemental Claim with new evidence or a Board appeal. You cannot file another HLR on the same issue.
Next Steps
- VA appeals process guide — understand all three AMA lanes
- VA Form 20-0995 guide — if you have new evidence
- VA back pay explainer
- VA disability rating calculator