What happens if a Veteran files a timely Notice of Disagreement (NOD)?

When a Veteran files a timely Notice of Disagreement (NOD), it initiates the appeals process regarding the decision made by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). A de novo review is a fresh examination of the case, allowing for a reassessment rather than relying solely on the previous decision. This means that the claims file is looked at anew, providing the Veteran another opportunity to have their case evaluated.

The importance of this process is that it places the burden on the VA to reconsider the evidence and make a determination based on all available data, rather than simply accepting the prior decision. This process provides Veterans with a fair chance to contest decisions they believe to be incorrect or unjust based on the merits of their claim. As a result, the de novo review enhances the likelihood of achieving a more favorable outcome if the original decision was indeed flawed or based on incomplete information.