In this post, we’ll break down exactly what happens during Step 7 of the VA claim process, how long it typically takes, and what you should (and shouldn’t) do while you wait.
What is Step 7: Final Review of the VA claim process?
According to the VA, Step 7 is when: “A senior reviewer is doing a final review of your claim and the decision letter.”
By this stage, the rating decision on your claimed conditions has already been made (in Step 5), and the decision letter has been written (in Step 6). Now, a second, more senior VA employee is double-checking all the work to ensure it is accurate and follows all necessary laws and regulations before it is sent to you.
This is a standard and important part of the process designed to prevent errors.
How long does Step 7: Final Review usually take?
Step 7 is one of the shorter stages in the 8-step VA claim process. While the VA does not publish official timelines for this specific step, the typical timeframe for the “Final Review” is between seven and 14 days.
For most claims, this stage moves relatively quickly because the heavy lifting of evidence gathering and decision-making is already complete.
What factors can influence the timeframe?
Although usually brief, a few factors can affect how long your claim stays in Step 7:
- Complexity of the decision: If your claim involves numerous medical conditions, complex legal issues (like establishing a secondary service connection), or a very high disability rating, the senior reviewer may take more time to ensure every detail is correct.
- Discovery of an error: This is the most significant reason for a delay. If the senior reviewer finds a mistake in the rating decision or the letter, they will send the claim back to a previous step (often Step 5, “Rating”) to be corrected. This is ultimately a good thing (it’s better to catch an error now), but it will add time to your claim.
- VA Regional Office (VARO) workload: As with every other stage, the specific caseload and staffing levels at the VA office handling your claim can influence the timeline.
What can I do while my claim is in Step 7?
This is a “hands-off” stage for the veteran. The VA has all the information it needs, and the internal review process is underway. Here’s what you should do:
- Monitor your claim status: Keep an eye on your claim status through your VA.gov account. A change from Step 7 to Step 8 is the final update you’re looking for.
- You may want to avoid submitting evidence: The VA is required to review all evidence provided, so submitting new information at this late stage may cause your claim to return to Step 3 (“Evidence Gathering”) for a full review, which could significantly delay the final decision. While there may be rare strategic reasons to do this, you’ll need to weigh the potential benefit of the new evidence against the possibility of this delay. In many cases, it is more efficient to wait for the current decision and then file a supplemental claim if necessary.
- Prepare for a decision: Use this time to prepare for the outcome. Make sure your direct deposit information with the VA is up to date in case you are awarded back pay, and be ready to review the decision letter carefully once it arrives.
What is the final step after Step 7?
Once the senior reviewer approves the decision and the letter, your claim moves to the final stage:
- Step 8: Claim decided: The VA will mail your official decision packet, and the decision letter will become available to view and download online through your VA.gov account.
The Bottom Line
Step 7, “Final Review,” is the last quality check before your VA claim is complete. It’s typically a quick stage, lasting about one to two weeks. The best thing you can do during this time is to be patient and avoid submitting any new information that could send your claim back to an earlier step in the process.
If the VA decision isn’t what you hoped for, we can help.
Receiving a VA decision can be a relief, but sometimes the outcome is a denial or a lower rating than you deserve. If you disagree with the VA’s final decision, you have the right to appeal. The team at Cameron Firm, PC, is dedicated to helping veterans through the appeals process. Contact us today for a free consultation to understand your options.
