Denied VR&E. Should I appeal or apply again?

You should appeal the decision, not simply reapply, as an appeal formally challenges the VA's finding of no Employment Handicap (EH) and preserves your earlier effective date if successful. The core legal standard for VR&E (Chapter 31) under 38 CFR 3.340(a)(1) is not merely a service-connected disability, but that the disability "materially contributes to" an employment handicap. The denial letter must specify why an EH was not found; common errors include the counselor failing to properly assess how your service-connected conditions limit your ability to prepare for, obtain, or maintain suitable employment as defined in 38 CFR 21.50. Your appeal should directly counter the VA's reasoning with new or existing evidence, such as a vocational expert's opinion or a personal statement detailing your job limitations, to demonstrate this material contribution. The appropriate appeal path is a Supplemental Claim (with new/relevant evidence) or a Higher-Level Review, per the Appeals Modernization Act. Cite the denial's rationale and, if applicable, reference case law like *Geib v. Shinseki*, which emphasizes the VA's duty to assist in fully developing VR&E claims. Your actionable next step is to obtain your claims file via a Privacy Act Request, meticulously review the counselor's rationale, gather countervailing evidence, and submit a VA Form 20-0995 (Supplemental Claim) or 20-0996 (Higher-Level Review) within one year of the denial notice.

*Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes based on general VA procedures and is not legal, medical, or official claims advice. You should consider consulting an accredited VA attorney or agent for guidance specific to your case.*