Get Heard: Request a Higher-Level Review Informal Conference Today

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Give VA a second chance to get it right: request an HLR informal conference now. If your recent decision got facts wrong or ignored evidence, submit VA Form 20-0996 within one year and select the optional phone conference. Prepare a one-page script citing exact document titles and dates in your file, and the specific error you want corrected; no new evidence here. When they call, hit your points, ask them to read the overlooked record while on the line, and confirm notes were added.

Disclaimer and Official Resources

VA Claim Helper is an independent, veteran-run resource. We’re not affiliated with the VA and don’t provide legal representation. This information is educational only.

For official claim assistance, please find an accredited representative (VSO, attorney, or claims agent) .

About VA Claim Helper

VA Claim Helper is led by a U.S. Navy submariner (ET2/SS, USS Pittsburgh 1995–2005) translating VA law into plain-English claim strategy so veterans can document service connection, prep for C&P exams, and win ratings without guesswork.

We publish daily VA disability tips, evidence checklists, and field manuals that walk you from Intent to File through appeals. Every guide is battle-tested with the veteran community and refreshed when VA policy shifts so the intel stays mission ready.

Service: U.S. Navy • 1995–2005 • USS Pittsburgh (SSN 720), ET2/SS

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  • Templates Hub — ready-to-copy letters, logs, and worksheets to support your claim.
  • Start Here — pick your path and follow the step-by-step game plan.
  • FAQ — clear answers to the most frequent VA claim questions.

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