r/VeteransBenefits

All claims denied but the info was in my medical records-How to format Supplemental Claim?

To properly format a Supplemental Claim (VA Form 20-0995) after a denial for lack of service connection, you must submit "new and relevant" evidence that directly addresses the VA's stated reason for denial, which is establishing a nexus between your current diagnosis and your military service per 38 CFR 3.303. Your key is obtaining a strong, independent medical nexus opinion that explicitly reviews your service records (showing your flying duties and onset of symptoms) and your post-service treatment records, then states it is "at least as likely as not" (a 50% or greater probability per 38 CFR 4.3) that your current migraines were caused or aggravated by your service. For migraines, cite Diagnostic Code 8100 and reference the criteria in 38 CFR 4.124a; while a diagnosis is necessary, the rating is based on frequency, severity, and economic impact. The principle from *Buchanan v. Nicholson* supports that a veteran’s lay testimony about symptom onset can be competent evidence, but you need a medical opinion to corroborate it. Your actionable next steps are: 1) Obtain your complete C-file via a FOIA request to understand the exact rationale; 2) Secure a nexus letter from a treating specialist or independent medical examiner who details the link between your flying duties and migraine onset; 3) Clearly submit this new evidence with a completed Form 20-0995, selecting the "Supplemental Claim" lane and explicitly pointing the VA to the specific service records and medical evidence that establish the nexus, ensuring you file within one year of your denial notice to preserve the earliest possible effective date for back pay. **Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice; for assistance with your specific claim, consult an accredited VA attorney or claims agent.**

Need a deeper analysis?

What would this rating pay you? (2026 rates)

Official 2026 VA monthly compensation, including the 2.8% COLA increase.

per month ·  per year, tax-free

Dependent add-ons start at a 30% rating. Child-only and dependent-parent rates: see the full 2026 pay chart.

2026 base rates, all ratings (veteran alone)
RatingMonthly (2026, incl. 2.8% COLA)
10%$180.42
20%$356.66
30%$552.47
40%$795.84
50%$1,132.90
60%$1,435.02
70%$1,808.45
80%$2,102.15
90%$2,362.30
100%$3,938.58
See your full claim picture — free
Free VetAid tool

Does your rating decision hold up under a real audit?

Upload your decision letter and C&P exams — VetAid's analyzer reads the full file, checks every examiner statement word-for-word against your records, and shows which arguments for a higher rating actually hold. Free, and we never take a cut of your back pay.

Analyze my claim free →

Our AI checks your situation against outcome data from 1,300,000+ Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA) decisions (2009–2025).

Analyze Your Claim Free
← Back to all questions
Disclaimer: VetAid is not a law firm, medical practice, or Veterans Service Organization. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, or professional advice. Consult with a qualified VA-accredited attorney or your VSO representative. Veterans Crisis Line: 988 (press 1).