What does RO stand for in relation to the BVA and HLR processing steps?

The term RO stands for Regional Office in the context of the Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA) and Higher-Level Review (HLR) processing steps. The Regional Office plays a critical role in administering veterans' benefits and case management. Each Regional Office handles claims made by veterans in its geographical area, including the initial processing of claims, appeals, and any required reviews.

When a veteran files an appeal, the case typically moves through various stages, beginning at the Regional Office, which evaluates the initial claim and decides whether it should be approved or denied. If a claim is denied, veterans may seek a Higher-Level Review or ultimately pursue an appeal to the BVA. Understanding the function of a Regional Office is essential for veterans and their representatives as it directly impacts the timeline and management of their benefits claims.