Kevin Bigelow - Veteran Coach

How to File a Supplemental Claim

Filing a Supplemental Claim is not starting over. It is submitting new
and relevant evidence for the VA to review a prior decision.

Many veterans think resubmitting the same information will change the
outcome, but the VA only reconsiders a claim when the new evidence
adds something not previously reviewed.

Simple breakdown:
📄 Complete VA Form 20-0995.
📁 Gather new and relevant evidence.
📝 Submit documents that address the reason for denial.
📬 File through VA.gov, mail, or approved assistance channels.

A strong Supplemental Claim connects new evidence directly to the denial reason.

United States Army Birthday

251 years of service, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment. The U.S. Army has stood as a cornerstone of national defense, built on discipline, resilience, and the soldiers who answered the call across generations.

From training grounds to global missions, every era carries the same responsibility, protecting and serving with honor. Many veterans carry those experiences long after service ends, shaping how they navigate civilian life and future challenges.

To all who have served, and those serving today, your commitment is recognized and respected.

Get Your Free 30-Minute VA Disability Consultation

Struggling with your VA disability claim can feel frustrating and overwhelming. The process is often confusing, with many steps, forms, and requirements that are not always clearly explained.

That is why I am offering a free 30-minute consultation to review your claim and help you understand your next steps. During the consultation, your situation will be reviewed, potential gaps will be identified, and clear guidance will be provided on the best path forward based on your goals.

Do not wait to get the support you deserve. Take the next step toward strengthening your claim so you can pursue the benefits you have earned with confidence. 💪

📞 Book your FREE 30-MIN Call with me! 👇
https://calendly.com/kevinbigelow-increase-va-rating/30min
☎️ Call/Text: (813) 547-4799

What a Supplemental Claim Really Requires

A Supplemental Claim is not just a second attempt. It is a structured VA review process that depends on one key factor: new and relevant evidence.

Many veterans resubmit the same documents after a denial and expect a different result. Without updated medical records, statements, or other new evidence, the VA often has nothing new to evaluate.

A Supplemental Claim works when the evidence directly addresses the reason for the denial and adds something the VA has not already considered.

Understanding this process helps veterans make more informed decisions after a denial.

MYTH BUSTING: “Once a rating is assigned, it never changes.”

VA disability ratings are not permanent in most cases. They can increase, decrease, or remain stable depending on updated medical evidence, treatment records, and future VA reexaminations.

Your rating is based on how your condition affects your daily functioning at a specific point in time. If your condition worsens over time, you may be eligible to file for an increase. If medical evidence shows improvement and sustained recovery, the VA may propose a reduction after proper review and notification.

It is also important to understand that some ratings can become more stable over time, especially when they have been in place for several years or meet certain protection rules. However, most conditions can still be reviewed if the VA schedules a reexamination or receives new medical information.

The Supplemental Claim Decision

A denied VA decision does not always mean the process is over. ⚠️

Many veterans do not realize a Supplemental Claim gives them the opportunity to submit new and relevant evidence that the VA did not consider the first time.

That could include:
📄 New medical records
📝 Buddy statements
🏥 Independent medical opinions
📁 Service records that were previously missing

One mistake veterans make is resubmitting the same information without adding evidence that strengthens the claim. A Supplemental Claim works best when the new evidence directly addresses why the VA denied the decision in the first place.

Understanding the difference between a Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, and Board Appeal can help veterans make more informed decisions about their next step.

Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a time to remember and honor those who gave their lives in service to our country.

Behind every name is a story, a family, and a life that carried meaning far beyond the uniform. This day is not just about reflection, but about recognition of that sacrifice.

Many people see Memorial Day as a long weekend, but for families and fellow service members, it carries a much deeper weight.

True remembrance is about taking a moment to understand the cost behind freedom.

To the fallen and their families, your sacrifice is never forgotten.

How Migraine Severity Is Evaluated by the VA

Severity matters more than just having migraines. 👇

I’ve worked with Veterans who had frequent migraines but were still underrated because the severity wasn’t clearly proven in their records.

The VA evaluates migraine severity by looking at:
• Whether you must stop activity during attacks
• How often those severe episodes happen
• Duration and recovery time
• Work disruption or missed time

👉 “Prostrating attacks” are the turning point in every migraine claim.

Breaking Down Migraine and Headache Disorders

Understanding your symptoms correctly can change how your condition is viewed. ⚠️

Many Veterans live with migraines but only report “headaches,” which can lead to incomplete medical records. Knowing the difference helps you communicate more effectively with providers.

👉 Accurate descriptions lead to better treatment and clearer claims support.

Swipe through to understand the key differences between migraines and headaches.

Turning VA Claim Confusion Into Clarity✅

Many Veterans struggle with VA claims not because they lack eligibility, but because they do not fully understand the process.

The steps are often spread across different requirements, forms, and timelines that are not always explained in a simple way. That can make it difficult to know what to do first or what matters most.

When the process is unclear, small mistakes or missing details can slow everything down.

Understanding each step is what helps turn confusion into progress.

Book a call now! I’m here to educate you on the process and make each step clear and manageable.

📞 Book your FREE 30-MIN Call with me! 👇
https://calendly.com/kevinbigelow-increase-va-rating/30min
☎️ Call/Text: (813) 547-4799